31 July 2024

CURZON ASHTON 1-2 ALTRINCHAM

Right: Elliot Osborne and Justin Amaluzor share a humorous moment before the game.

The first half continued a trend of pre-season with Altrincham enjoying plenty of possession but lacking anything resembling a cutting edge. However, after the break, an improved tempo produced three excellent goals with two of them coming from the Robins.

Alty took the lead barely two minutes into the second half when, out of nothing, Max Haygarth who played well tonight, whipped in a curling cross from the right wing which Joe Nuttall headed home.

Midway through the half Curzon levelled with a superb shot into the top corner from 25 yards by Isaac Buckley-Ricketts (67 mins). An excellent Alty move was then finished off with a fine shot into the bottom of the net by Haygarth (71 mins). Alty went close to adding to their lead but, in the closing stages, Ross had to beat out shots from Afuye and then also from the lively Spencer.

Match report here.

ANTHONY TAYLOR VISITS ALTY IN TRAINING

The object of the exercise, apart from underlining the affection he has for the club, was to provide a timely run-through of the laws of the game, how they are implemented and how a better understanding can have a beneficial impact on performance levels..

Long established and acknowledged as one of our very best referees, it was a fantastic gesture by Anthony to call in and spend time with the squad and staff".

FOYLE CUP EXPERIENCE FOR ALTY YOUNGSTERS

Alty's two age groups, under-12 and under-14 [participated]...

Reflecting on how the under-12s finished 22nd out of 72 teams, Alty's Sara Newton said 'It was always going to be a big ask for the under-12s to compete against teams who have been playing 11v11 for a whole season. But the players performed brilliantly and gave a good account of themselves...

The under-14s finished 37th out of 56 teams, and Alty Academy's Paul Fay said... 'Tough it was a mixed bag of results in terms of points, I was extremely impressed with the resilience and character the players showed as they faced very physical sides'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

The highly-rated 26-year-old has most recently been at Macclesfield, and has previously plied his trade at Blackburn Rovers, Cardiff City and Altrincham...

Men's first team manager Neil Reynolds said 'We've been in discussions with Ollie for a number of weeks now and it's great to get the deal signed. Ollie is a big character and he'll bring extra quality and experience to the team'".

Phil Jordan informs us that in the Australia Cup, Sydney FC are described by Wikipedia as "the most successful professional soccer club in Australia", and as the holders of the trophy would have been expected to despatch Oakleigh Cannons in their last-32 tie played on a neutral ground at the "Home of the Matildas" in Bundoora. However, by the time CONNOR HAMPSON came off the bench in the 71st minute, Cannons were already 2-1 up and, within 3 minutes, they struck again to earn a superb 3-1 win.

And Phil adds that on Tuesday night, Oldham Athletic, with REAGAN OGLE starting, and JOSH LUNDSTRAM on the bench visited Cantilever Park, where hosts Warrington Town included ANDY WHITE in their lineup. Josh joined the action after 64 minutes with Reagan among the nine players taken off.

At that point Latics had built up a three goal lead, but Warrington earned a 3-3 draw thanks to a hat trick in just eight minutes by 17 year-old Blackpool loanee Ben Miles.

One of the familiar faces at the J. Davidson Stadium was COLIN LITTLE (pictured, right) who at the age of 51 still showed his class with a well-taken goal for the 2005 team playing against their younger counterparts from 2014 in Stuart Coburn's testimonial last Sunday.

Colin started out at Hyde United in 1994 before enjoying seven years with Crewe Alexandra from 1996-2003. He made more than 200 appearances for the Railwaymen and scored 45 goals.

A loan to Macclesfield Town turned into a permanent deal in 2003-04 and, after a brief spell at Halifax Town, he joined Altrincham where he stayed from 2004 to 2010.

For Alty he made 245(+33) appearances and scored 114 goals. He was the club's top scorer for five successive seasons, four of which were campaigns in a struggling side at the national level of non-League. His record in all competitions was...

• 2004-05 Conference North and cups: 38 goals
• 2005-06 Conference and cups: 17
• 2006-07 Conference and cups: 13
• 2007-08 Conference and cups: 24
• 2008-09 Conference and cups: 18
• 2009-10 Conference and cups: 4

Colin moved to take up a coaching post with Manchester United at the end of 2009-10 season. He re-signed for Alty in September 2010, but did not appear for the club before joining New Mills and Witton Albion briefly.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 24-year-old is currently a free agent after his departure from Rochdale, where he made 55 appearances during his two seasons at the club.

He has turned out at left-back and centre-back for the Minstermen during pre-season games... City boss Adam Hinshelwood confirmed... that the club were in talks for his signature...

'Let’s hope that we can get it agreed and get him in because we’re a bit light in that position'...

With injuries to Adam Crookes and Levi Andoh, and Thierry Latty-Fairweather not a part of the club's plans for the season, City are a little light at left-back, despite Joe Felix impressing in the role on Saturday...

'I think in all the other areas of the pitch... there's numerous options for each position, maybe not just quite at left-back'".

Rochdale "announce the signing of Jake Burger from Luton Town. The midfielder joins Dale on a permanent transfer and has penned an initial two-year deal.

The 19-year-old says... 'I’ve been at Luton my whole life so coming here is a big change. But as soon as I spoke to Jimmy [McNulty] I was sold'...

Burger joined Luton Town at the age of six... before becoming a key member of the Under-21 side last season. In February, he joined National League South side St Albans City on loan, where he made 14 appearances".

Solihull Moors "announce the permanent signing of John Bostock... The highly experienced midfielder... began his career with Crystal Palace before signing for Tottenham Hotspur in 2008.

The 32-year-old who has been capped 40 times at England youth level bolsters Andy Whing’s options in midfield... The combative midfielder was most recently at Notts County under Luke Williams...

Bostock made 37 appearances in League Two last season with the Magpies... Bostock said... 'It’s been a process coming to this decision but one I’m very grateful for... It was really important where the club was situated as a family man they’re my priority'".

Forest Green Rovers announce a "Fan Engagement Day on Thursday, August 8... The event will be designed in a relaxed drop-in style event taking place in the Black and White Lounge. There will be no need to book in, simply turn up on the day!

The benefits will include meeting Cotterill & the players in a nice casual format, free food samples available for supporters to try out, as well as being able to collect or maybe purchasing your ticket for the new season.

There will also be opportunity to see the how the new pitch is growing, even going pitchside and having a front row seat of the stitching machine on-site!

Our bar will be open with hot drinks and cold drinks available to purchase and Food will be available including items from our hospitality menu - a new Balti Pie included... The Club shop will be open on the day.

Our CEO, Dane Vince, will be available on the day to talk through the opening of the Candriam Training Centre at J13, stadium improvements that are in progress, and future projects on the horizon".

At Eastleigh "first-year scholar, Jahiem Dotse, has joined Wycombe Wanderers on a permanent deal following a successful trial period with their development squad.

Jahiem, 17, becomes the youngest player to join the Blues since the closure of their former academy in 2012.

He spent the last three years developing at Eastleigh since joining the Spitfires at U15’s level.

The striker played a key part in the first-years’ league winning campaign last season... Due to football regulations, Wycombe were not required to pay Eastleigh any compensation.

We must stress that our relationship with Wycombe remains a really positive one. We appreciate their need to adhere to the EFL ruling".

30 July 2024

NEXT: CURZON ASHTON

With only three goals coming in their last three friendlies, (two of which were opposition gifts and the other goal came from the penalty spot), and with Regan Linney seemingly sidelined until the appropriate treatment for his leg injury is determined, Alty will be looking for the likes of Joe Nuttall, Matty Kosylo, Luke Weaver and Justin Amaluzor to boost the goalscoring rate.

This pre-season Craig Mahon's Curzon team have had mixed fortunes with four wins and three degeats. The results for The Nash have been:

• 9 July: Hanley Town 2-0 Curzon Ashton
li>13 July: Curzon Ashton 2-1 Wythenshawe Town /li>
• 14 July: Curzon Ashton 5-0 Arthurian League
• 17 July: Ossett United 0-1 Curzon Ashton
• 20 July: Prestwich Heys 1-4 Curzon Ashton
• 23 July: Curzon Ashton 0-2 AFC Fylde
• 27 July: Avro 3-1 Curzon Ashton

It was Boxing Day 2019 when Alty last travelled to the Tameside Stadium for a league match, Alty winning 1-0 in a National North fixture.

However, the sides met more recently at Altrincham, in December 2022, in Round Four of the FA Trophy, with Alty again winning by the only goal of the game.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Eddie was the no-nonsense captain of the Altrincham team which beat Eastbourne Borough in the one and only North v South Conference play-off final, played at Stoke City's Britannia Stadium in 2005.

Eddie (d.o.b. 13 December 1977, height 5ft 10in) was a tough-tackling central-midfielder, who was born in Liverpool. He was a junior at Everton, who released him in May 1997, after he had played for their Reserves and had been included in their Premiership squad, as no.34, during 1996-97 season. Following spells with Winsford United, Northwich Victoria and Chorley, Eddie joined Altrincham from Marine in mid-June 2004.

After a minor knee operation in the summer of 2004, Eddie made his debut in a friendly on 4 August 2004 and then started all of the early 2004-05 league games. By October, after regaining fitness, he was playing impressively and, following the departure of Peter Band, he was named team captain.

He ended the season carrying an injury and after playing a major part against Eastbourne was subbed late in the game by KIERAN LUGSDEN.

In 2004-05 season he made 38(+1) league appearances and had a further 13 starts in cup matches. He scored five goals but was booked on 12 occasions, eight of which were in the league.

A cartilage operation was carried out in summer 2005 but a cruciate ligament operation was then needed, which kept him sidelined. By November 2005 he was back in training but was unable to play again before the end of that 2005-06 campaign.

He was assigned a squad number at the start of the 2006-07 season but continued his recuperation with some games for the Reserves before making his Conference debut as a late substitute at Forest Green on 19 September 2006. He went on to make two further appearances from the bench in the Conference and one substitute appearance in a cup match, bringing his tally to 51(+5) appearances in his Alty career

Eddie's brother, Ian Hussin, is a regular Assistant Referee in Premiership matches.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The ‘keeper, who is originally from the North-West, joins the Coasters for the season after recently being promoted to Thomas Frank’s first team...

He said 'I’m excited. Just walking around the place, the stadium especially, I’m just looking forward to the season ahead. It’s been brilliant at Brentford, the learning aspect of being around international players and it’s been a great base to grow and learn... but the next step for me now is playing football'...

Born in Preston, Winterbottom had... come through the ranks at Blackburn and Liverpool before moving onto Brentford B in 2021.

A loan move to Welling United followed before Winterbottom was given a promotion to Brentford’s first team ...

Head Coach Chris Beech added... 'He’s been third-choice goalkeeper and warmed up at every Premier League ground last season... We were keen to add to our depth in that position'".

News of another goalkeeper comes from Gateshead where Harrison Bond, who made five first-team appearances last season has move to Blyth Spartans on loan.

Also leaving the International Stadium on loan is newly arrived defender Jamie Bramwell who is going out on loan to South Shields.

Braintree Town Football Club "is grateful for the motion carried unanimously at Tuesday evening's Full Council Meeting of Braintree District Council and thanks the Councillors that took time to speak for their kind words about our club's success and promotion into the professional game...

Football Club chairman Lee Harding said 'The Football Club is proud to represent the town and district of Braintree, our home. But, despite continued investment over recent years, the Football Club has worrying problems with the maintenance of such an old football stadium and, if the Club are to continue and flourish, we urgently need either a complete re-build of existing facilities or relocation to new'.

He added 'The Football Club is undoubtedly a Braintree success story. We have been in discussion with The Council about relocation from our existing 102 year old stadium for the past twenty-two years. The past decades have shown us that Braintree Council is the Football Club's friend and we look forward to further positive dialogue with our local authority in the months and years ahead'".

Hartlepool United "manager Darren Sarll has provided an injury update following Saturday’s friendly against Sunderland U21s, with Greg Sloggett going off early... following a late contact in a challenge...

'He’s got a big ankle,' the Pools boss explained... 'He was really dynamic and combative today. I very much enjoyed his 30 minutes on the pitch, he’s going to be a good player for us'...

Anthony Mancini and Joe Grey also missed the fixture after dropping out of training late in the week... 'Joe had an earlier diagnosis on Thursday with a strain, and it wasn’t great again this morning so we decided to keep him out of the game'.

Luke Charman meanwhile made his first appearance of pre-season, playing the first half after recovering from a back injury".

At York City "midfielder Olly Dyson has joined Spennymoor Town on a short-term loan deal until January 1st, 2025.

The 24-year-old will link up with the National League North side for just over five months. Spennymoor are guided by manager Graeme Lee, who took over in January earlier this year.

Our 2022/23 Clubman of the Year featured 25 times across all competitions for the Minstermen in 2023/24 before heading out on loan to Scarborough Athletic".

News of Alty's first opponents of the coming league season, Woking is that the club "is delighted to announce the signing of Jamie Andrews.

The 21-year-old midfielder joins following the expiry of his contract at West Bromwich Albion.

A Baggies academy graduate, Andrews signed a professional contract at the club in July 2021, penning a two-year deal. He was loaned to National League North side Leamington in December 2021...

A successful loan at National League side Yeovil Town followed after joining in October 2022, as Andrews would make eight appearances, starting every game...

However, he was recalled by West Brom in January 2023 as he made his first-team debut, starting and playing an hour against Chesterfield in the FA Cup...

Last season, Andrews was loaned to League Two side Grimsby Town, making 37 appearances for the club, including 17 starts in the league...

'It's a massive signing for the club', said Woking manager Michael Doyle. 'Jamie's a player I was aware of from West Brom... It took a long time to get him but we feel it's worth the wait and it's a coup with his age and profile. Jamie's six foot and a left-footed midfielder'".

29 July 2024

STUART HONOURED

The majority of those players played in the testimonial game whilst others were in attendance but did not take part in the game.

Match report here

ALTY NOW "A BETTER ALL-ROUND UNIT"

The Alty boss added, 'We've always had players like Chris at Altrincham. Before him we had Ryan Colclough. Before that we had Jordan Hulme. All of them had that X-factor, that bit of brilliance'".

When signing Chris to Altrincham, Phil said that "He was still developing, it could have gone either way but he showed enough for me to be able to build a team around him.

'The reason he did so well is obviously his undeniable quality but also because he had team-mates who made up for a lot of his deficiencies...

'The way that I'd set the team up was all geared towards him scoring and creating. We evolved into a transitional team, a counter-attacking team who took more risks. I still want to keep an element of that but everything we've ever done has been built on being strong in possession and we want to get back to being more consistent and controlled...

'We'll be a better all-round team... But the fact is Altrincham over-achieved last year... We haven't got a big squad like some teams in this division but, if we can get that little bit of continuity and stay injury-free, then we've got a chance'" of reaching the play-offs again.

NEXT: CURZON ASHTON

In this case the venue is Curzon Ashton and the manager in question is Craig Mahon.

Last Saturday, Alty lost their first game of pre-season at Mark Beesley's Warrington Town where, coincidentally, the home keeper was Cameron Mason, who was the Nash's keeper when Alty last visited Curzon for a league match.

That was on Boxing Day 2019 when the Robins won 1-0 in Tameside in a National North game.

Craig Mahon joined the Nash as a player in September 2020 after leaving Altrincham that summer. After becoming a player/coach at the Tameside Stadium, he was appointed as interim manager, following the departure of Adam Lakeland to King's Lynn Town.

Craig became the full manager of the club in September 2023.

In a successful 2023-24 he guided Curzon to the National North play-offs by securing a seventh-placed finish, but the Nash were unsuccessful in their bid for promotion.

Ex-Alty keeper Josh Ollerenshaw is an Alty "old boy" who is on the books of Curzon Ashton. Now 33, he spent part of last season dually registered with Clitheroe.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Continuing his cricketing career, OLLIE BYRNE scored one run as Timperley CC won a low-scoring game against Bowdon on Saturday.

28 July 2024

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL SUCCESS

Stuart played for the 2005 squad who were beaten 5-2 by the younger 2014 players. As well as those who played on a very warm afternoon, many others former Alty players were in attendance.

Arguably the highlight of the afternoon was when Stuart's son Jack beat his father from the penalty spot late in the match, though Stuart gained some revenge when he saved a second spot-kick from his son. His elder brother Finn also played against his father whilst the families of both Mark Maddox and George Melling were in attendance.

Both those Alty centre-backs succumbed to Motor Neurone Disease and the match itself was set to raise funds for the Darby Rimmer MND charity.#

Also providing some entertaining moments was the ample frame of Kyle Perry who scored twice, including an excellently headed goal from a James Lawrie cross.

Above: The two squads posed for a post-match photo.

More on the match to follow

NEW NATIONAL LEAGUE BROADCAST DEAL

The seven-year agreement will begin in August, showcasing the competition across more than 200 countries globally and bringing with it a whole new audience.

The arrangement with the British company will include both broadcast and streaming rights across the DAZN network around the world for the benefit of all 72 member clubs.

The agreement with DAZN will run until 2031 and will enable National League matches to be accessed across all platforms including desktop, smart TVs, IOS, Android, SKY Q, Virgin Media, Apple.tv, Amazon Firestick and even games consoles.

General Manager Mark Ives says 'We are incredibly excited about this groundbreaking long-term joint venture with DAZN, one of the biggest players in sports broadcasting and the deal demonstrates the continuing growth and reach of the National League.

'The global exposure DAZN will bring the League and our clubs cannot be overstated. DAZN will be using their vast expertise in sports broadcasting and streaming to allow fans in both the UK and internationally to access live matches across all connected devices like never before.

'We look forward to working very closely with them to enhances the viewing experience for all fans that can’t be at the stadium, which we believe is to the full benefit of our clubs and their supporters'...

DAZN Group CEO Shay Segev... said 'DAZN’s technology makes us uniquely placed to create destinations for sports fans, and this multi-year partnership will allow us to create a global home for the National League, helping fans better access the teams they are so passionate about, while creating engagement opportunities to access new audiences'".

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

Alty TV has a superb feature-length interview of well over an hour's duration with Stuart, conducted by Brian Flynn.

A further quartet of former team-mates of Stuart have been named as participants in the goalkeeper's testimonial match on 28 July (3.30pm).

Altrincham FC names them as Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young.

Above: Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young in their Alty days.

ALTY LOSE AT CHESTER

After a first half-hour in which neither goalkeeper was seriously worked, Nuttall rattled the bar with a thunderous shot from distance (35 mins) and Ross pulled off a double save from Chester's Caton but that was about it in terms of goalmouth excitement (38 mins).

Chester netted the only goal of the afternoon midway through the second half.

The goal arrived just five minutes before Alty made a planned six-player substitution which introduced Academy and trial players into the game.

The goal was well constructed by the hosts but it took three shots in succession to breach the Alty defence as Ross saved the first shot, a second effort was also blocked before the net was found at the third attempt by Woodthorpe.

The introduction of trialist Reddin after 72 minutes gave Alty more forward momentum up the right wing but Chester held out without too much trouble.

Match report here.

As well as Regan Linney, centre-back Lewis Baines was also missing from the squad.

ALTRINCHAM (Red & white striped shirts, black shorts, white socks): 1. Ethan ROSS, 2. Lewis BANKS, 5. Jake COOPER, 4. James JONES (c), 3. Eddy JONES, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 8. George WILSON, 10. Tom CRAWFORD, 7. Alex NEWBY, 11. Justin AMALUZOR, 23. Joe NUTTALL. Subs: 12. Tylor GOLDEN, 14. Max HAYGARTH, 15. Joel BAILEY, 17. Matty KOSYLO, 18. Owen GERMAN, 19. Luke WEAVER, 20. Kharel REDDIN, 20[GK]. Louie FALLON, 22. Ben KERSHAW.

CHESTER FC (Blue shirts and socks and black shorts): 1. Cameron Mason, 2. Jordan Hunter, 3. Matty Williams, ?. Ben Pollock, 14. Nathan Woodthorpe, 18. Jack Bainbridge, 20. Iwan Murray, 7. Mitch Hancox, 10. Charlie Caton, 11. Dan Turner, 9. Kurt Willoughby. Subs: 13. Alex Brown, 4. Declan Weeks, 8. George Glendon, 12. Kevin Roberts, 19. Reece Daly, 22. Ollie Heywood, 23. Oskar Rosenblatt.

Match report here.

AFTER THE MATCH AT CHESTER

He felt that "We should be dictating play more" but he was "disappointed with the result".

Despite his disappointment he felt that the game produced "a lot of learning for me .. we've got to really ramp it up with attacking play... and want to excite our fans and we didn't do that today".

Asked about trialist Kharel Reddin (right) from Stoke City who had an impressive twenty minutes at the end of the game, Phil declared that "he was superb, really positive".

And he also felt that another substitute, Max Haygarth "is really ready to stake a claim for a starting position" in the team.

ALTY RE-LAUNCH LOYALTY SCHEME FOR 2024-25

"We have four levels to choose from, all of which offer fans a unique experience when it comes to giving added support to the Robins for the new campaign.

• Patron Member - £50

  Our most affordable and longstanding membership where fans are acknowledged for their support of the football club by having their name printed in all issues of the matchday programme and on the official website.

• Premium LoyALTY - £75

  As with the Patron membership, but with added priority access. Receive priority access to Cup, Playoff and away tickets, priority access to the VP Lounge on home matchdays (complete with private cash bar), 10 percent retail discount AND discounts with select club partners.

• VIP LoyALTY - £125

  Everything on offer in Patron & Premium with included 10 percent off home match day hospitality in the John King Lounge, entrance to The J.Davidson Stadium via the player door on home matchdays AND a quarterly Zoom call with Phil Parkinson and members of the board.

• Elite LoyALTY - £500

  All the exceptional access offered by the VIP membership PLUS match day hospitality for six in the John King Lounge, two complimentary tickets to a home Cup game in 2024/25 AND a signed 2024/25 home or away shirt.

Don't delay - renew, re-join or sign up today".

ALTY OLD BOYS

An ASHLEY HEMMINGS penalty gave Kidderminster Harriers, who had KOBE HALL on the bench, the lead against visitors Newport County.

They eventually won 2-0, but not before a moment of pure comedy late in the second half. As the Welsh side prepared to make the customary mass substitutions, the fourth official advanced with his board - and then promptly retreated on realising that Newport had played the whole game with no numbered shirts!

Curzon Ashton, led by CRAIG MAHON (left), and with JOSH OLLERENSHAW between the sticks, made the short journey to Oldham to play Avro. The North West Counties League side play at the Vestacare Stadium, and Curzon were no "match" for them, subsiding to a 0-3 reversal.

SAM ROSCOE was at the heart of Linfield's defence as they cruised to a 0-4 victory at Dundela.

HARRISON HOLGATE played a full 90 minutes, with CALLUM DOLAN joining him in play after 75 minutes, as Fleetwood Town gained a fine 3-0 win against visitors Hearts, who fielded practically a full first choice lineup.

JONNY MARGETTS opened the scoring for King's Lynn Town as they won 0-2 at Leiston.

While JOSH LUNDSTRAM and REAGAN OGLE were in Oldham Athletic's starting XI for their visit to Radcliffe, the hosts fielded JORDAN HULME, JOSH HANCOCK, BRAD JACKSON, and JUDE OYIBO, while JAMIE MORGAN came off the bench later on. Radcliffe won 1-0 thanks to an own goal.

JACK REDSHAW scored Hyde United's third goal in a 1-4 victory at Bower Fold over neighbours Stalybridge Celtic.

And in Australia, CONNOR HAMPSON returned to the Oakleigh Cannons starting XI as they scored twice in the last 8 minutes to clinch a 3-1 home victory over Melbourne Knights.

With just 2 games remaining Cannons' place in the playoff quarter finals is guaranteed, though their chance of an automatic semi final spot looks highly unlikely. On Tuesday they will entertain A-League Sydney FC in the last 32 of the Australia Cup.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The highly experienced midfielder becomes our latest summer signing at Damson Park, arriving on a two-year deal at the club following his departure from Notts County.

Bostock began his career with Crystal Palace before signing for Tottenham Hotspur in 2008.

The 32-year-old... bolsters Andy Whing’s options in midfield for the upcoming campaign.

The combative midfielder was most recently at Notts County under Luke Williams... Bostock made 37 appearances in League Two last season with the Magpies...

Bostock said... 'It was really important where the club was situated as a family man they’re my priority. It came down to speaking to the gaffer, Wardy and the project about how they wanted to play and the plans for the club'".

27 July 2024

TODAY: CHESTER FC

With three wins and two draws so far, Altrincham remain unbeaten this pre-season. In a recent interview manager Phil Parkinson indicated that what has been this summer's customary mass change of players during the game would probably take place at the seventy-minute mark a Chester, the substitutions having taken place after sixty minutes last Tuesday against Salford City.

With the manager having earlier indicated that he was wanting to recruit a defender and a back-up goalkeeper to Ethan Ross for the new season, a number of trialist defenders have been on view this summer but, as yet, the only alternative goalkeeper has been Academy product Louie Fallon, who has acquitted himself well in his appearances so far.

Phil did also include a trialist winger and midfielder last Tuesday against The Ammies so there could also be strengthening of the squad in those areas.

Striker Regan Linney (pictured left, at Warrington), sat out the midweek game against Salford with a "niggle" so it remains to be seen if he will be given game time today.

ALTRINCHAM SIGN GOLDEN

His arrival... has been hailed as a coup by Alty boss Phil Parkinson...

'Tylor is someone who will genuinely push Lewis Banks and Eddy Jones, because he is equally adept at playing right-back or left-back'" stated the Altrincham manager...

The manager continued, "He had a lot of other offers from clubs at our level and the one above for more money than we could pay him"...

"I’ve been a local of Altrincham most of my life, so I’ve seen how much the club have grown" he said....

TYLOR GOLDEN'S BACKGROUND

Tylor made 87 appearances across two seasons and was a key player in both our 2023 FA Trophy win and our playoff campaign last season". He made 36(+10) league appearances for the Shaymen last season and picked up nine yellow cards.

Golden had joined the Shaymen after being released by Salford City in 2022. Earlier, he had started out at Wigan Athletic from where Golden spent time on loan at Droylsden and Nantwich Town before being released in June 2020 and joining the Ammies in summer 2020.

In February 2021 Golden joined Notts County on loan but that move was curtailed by injury in his debut game.

Phil Parkinson has indicated that, at Alty, Golden will be competing with right-back Lewis Banks and left-back Eddy Jones for a place in the starting eleven. Banks and Jones have been two of the most reliable players in the squad, having both featured in 42 of last season's league fixtures

As Golden played at right-back against Warrington Town and Salford City in recent friendlies, it suggests that Banks is the player most directly challengd by the new signing.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Having been injured on March 15th in a goalless draw at Dundalk, and missing the next 18 matches, BARRY BAGGLEY was on the Waterford bench this evening at Drogheda. He came into the action after 65 minutes, but his side were already behind and conceded again in the 90th minute to lose 2-0.

'My word, what a goal THAT is! CHRIS CONN-CLARKE from distance with an absolute beauty. Leaves Lakin witn no chance as his effort crashes against the underside of the crossbar and into the back of the net' (from Peterborough United X). The goal was the third of five without reply for Posh at Stamford, all scored in the first half - Chris later had a shot cleared off the line".

THREE MORE NAMED FOR STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

They are central defender Luca Havern, midfielder Paddy Lacey and striker Ryan Brooke. They are pictured (left to right) below in their Altrincham days.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Peterborough Today reports that "​Teenage Peterborough United striker Pemi Aderoju has joined National League side Boston United on a youth loan deal until the end of March...

He impressed at under 21 level and made two substitute appearances for the first-team, at Wycombe Wanderers and Cheltenham Town".

Posh boss Darren Ferguson hinted he would loan Aderoju out to complete his adult football education... Posh have inserted a 28-day recall clause".

According to the Oxford Mail, "Oxford United keeper Jacob Knightbridge has joined Vanarama National League newcomers Braintree Town on loan until January.

Oxford United snapped up the 20-year-old goalkeeper on a free transfer last month, following his exit from West Ham United.

Knightbridge is one of three keepers signed by the U’s this summer... He played 90 minutes as the U’s beat Oxford City last week...

Knightbridge signed his first professional contract in May 2022, but left West Ham without making a senior appearance, although he did play for the Under-21s...

He was also on the bench for West Ham’s Europa League last 16 second leg against SC Freiburg, plus for both legs of their quarter final clash with Bayer Leverkusen".

He replaces Jack Sims who opted to leave Braintree this summer to join rivals Sutton United for the 2024-25 season.

Dagenham & Redbridge "are delighted to confirm that Junior Morias has become our tenth signing of the summer after the striker agreed a six-month loan deal with the club.

Junior previously joined the Daggers in November 2021. Whilst with us, Morias won the National League Player of the Month Award for April 2022 having scored six goals in six matches, including a twelve-minute hat-trick against Barnet.

On 15 March 2023, Morias signed for Notts County".

Notts County confirmed that "Junior Morias has rejoined Dagenham and Redbridge on loan until 1 January.

The forward arrived at Meadow Lane from the Daggers in March 2023 and has since made 14 appearances, scoring twice".

Wealdstone "announce the signing of 27 year old defender Anthony Georgiou.

Having trialled, and impressed in all of our pre-season games so far this summer, the Cypriot international joins Matt Taylor’s side on a permanent deal, taking the number 3 shirt...

Georgiou began his career in Watford’s academy before making the switch to Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, making his first team debut in a 3-0 win over APOEL Nicosia in the UEFA Champions League. He was also an unused substitute in a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu Stadium in the Champions League...

After spending time on loan at Levante B, Ipswich Town and Bolton Wanderers, making a dozen appearances in League One, Georgiou made the move to AEL Limassol in Cyprus...

The left-back would return to England in 2022, joining Leyton Orient. After a brief spell on loan with Yeovil Town in the National League, Georgiou would sign for Enosis Neon Paralimmi in Cyprus.

He made his international debut in 2018 in a friendly against Montenegro and has gone on to earn 8 caps".

26 July 2024

NEXT: CHESTER FC

So far they have recorded three wins and two draws.

For their part, it will also be a sixth summer game for Chester. Their previous results have been:

• 24 July: Chester FC 1-3 Manchester United XI
• 21 July: Chester FC 4-1 Lancaster City
• 26 July: FC Isle of Man 2-5 Chester FC
• 11 July: Chester FC 0-3 Stoke City XI
• 6 July: Chester FC 2-3 Stockport County

ALTY ACADEMY GRADUATES SHINE

After including keeper Louie Fallon, centre-back Joel Bailey and midfielder Owen German (right) from the start in Saturday’s comfortable 2-0 win at Warrington, Parkinson involved all three of them as second-half substitute... on Tuesday night... against League One...

Parkinson said... "I thought the young players who have come through the Academy really shone.

“Louie in goal was superb, particularly with his distribution, which was spot-on, and Joel was the pick of the whole lot of them, absolutely out of this world for 15-20 minutes after going on. He’s fresh out of the Academy, and we are wondering about the level that would be best for him, maybe a loan, but he will be thinking he is ready for the National League now on that showing.

"Owen as well, just as impressive. He’s a second year pro, but you watch him, and he looks like he’s in his 10th season of full-time football. They have been up against top players from the Football League tonight, but they have all really stood out.'"

ALTY OLD BOYS

First to be announced by Wigan Athletic was the news that "GRAHAM BARROW steps down as Wigan Athletic Assistant Manager...

Barrow (left), who celebrated his 70th birthday last month, has stepped away from his Assistant Manager position to improve his work-life balance and spend more precious quality time with his family.

A former player, manager, and coach throughout his two decades of dedicated service to Wigan Athletic, Barrow [said]... 'I’m not in the mood to retire but I need to step back from the role as Assistant Manager... and I just wanted to speak to people and make it clear that there are no issues with the Club...

'I feel fit and I’m not in the mood to give up on football completely. It’s more now about job satisfaction if I do take up a role, whether that’s here or elsewhere. In an ideal world, it would be here, and negotiations are ongoing. It’s been a pleasure'".

Details of Barrow's Altrincham career are to be found in Terry Rowley's "Legends" profile, here.

Wigan Athletic then revealed "the loan signing of exciting forward JOE HUGILL from Manchester United...

Hugill, 20, arrives at the Brick Community Stadium as the Club’s new number nine... The young forward spent his formative years in the North East with both Newcastle United and Sunderland, before joining Manchester United in the summer of 2020...

Hugill was part of the FA Youth Cup-winning squad in 2022... After signing a new long-term deal at Old Trafford, Hugill headed to Burton Albion for his first taste of EFL football... He made 20 appearances for the Brewers...

Joe Hugill said... 'To get the number nine shirt is a massive honour, and I will wear it with pride'".

Footnote: Hugill scored a single goal in 8(+2) appearances for Altrincham during a loan spell which started on 1 February 2023. His National League debut came away at York City before, in late April, it was announced that he had returned to Manchester United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Chris (27), is the son of former Arsenal star Christopher Wreh and his uncle George Weah won the Ballon d'Or!

The six foot striker has developed a reputation for scoring goals, notably for Banbury United where he hit 21 goals in their Championship winning season...

His prowess captured the attention of National League outfit Southend United, before securing a move to Hartlepool United at the start of last season.

Chirs started his career in the Northampton Town Academy...

Andy Peaks managed Chris when he was under his charge at AFC Rushden and Diamonds and... said...

'I know all about him and he played a big part for us last season. He looked at his other options and ideally he would have liked to have stayed full time, but having enjoyed it with us last season, he has committed to Tamworth'".

In Essex's Daily Gazette we learn that "Former Colchester United striker John Akinde has signed for National League new boys Braintree Town.

The experienced forward, who was released by the U's at the end of last season... had been on the hunt for a new club after leaving Colchester, following the expiry of his contract.

The 35-year-old former Barnet and Lincoln City man spent two-and-a-half years at the U's... Akinde, who has made more than 600 league and cup appearances in his career to date..has played for the likes of Barnet, Lincoln City and Gillingham during his long career.

He links up with fellow former Colchester players Ryan Clampin, Chay Cooper and Marley Marshall Miranda at the Iron, along with former U's players and Braintree management duo, Angelo Harrop and John White".

Gateshead have signed "Blyth Town defender Ben Fell. The 20 year-old pens a one-year deal...

The 6ft 5inch central defender played an integral role in Blyth Town's Northern League Division Two title winning campaign last season...

'I'm delighted, it's a big club and comes with ig expectations' said Fell... 'I think there's no expectations of me being a forst-team established player yet. Whatever I do, wherever I go, I ust need to do well at it'".

The Fans Newtwork reports the news of a ninth summer signing at Rochdale, saying "Another signing out of nowhere as Jim McNulty adds another winger to his squad.

Ody Alfa has joined Rochdale on a one-year deal from National League South side Chelmsford City.

The 25-year-old winger has scored 4 goals in 45 games for Chelmsford along with spells at Billericay, Aldershot, Dartford, Maidenhead and QPR".

Earlier on X Alfa's arrival on a one-year deal, was announced by Rochdale.

NEXT: CHESTER FC

This summer Alty have signed striker Joe Nuttall on a season-long loan from Oldham Athletic and now the hosts have made a similar signing as Chester FC "announce the return of Kurt Willoughby on a season-long loan from Oldham Athletic!

The 27-year-old fan favourite comes back for a second spell at the Deva Stadium to bolster Calum McIntyre’s forward line...

‘King Kurt’ first arrived down CH1 in the summer of 2022 and was a huge hit in his solo season with the Blues.

Willoughby scored 27 goals in 52 appearances...

Kurt joined National League side Oldham 13 months ago and made 17 appearances for the Latics last term.

He ended the season on loan at Scottish Championship side Ayr United...

Manager Calum McIntyre said... 'His record during his time with us was formidable and he has a terrific relationship with our fans'".

LAST GAME: SALFORD CITY

During the interview, which was recorded by Alty TV, the Alty boss described it as a "tough friendly".

He explained that Justin Amaluzor has a "few little niggles" which accounted for his planned withdrawal around the half-hour mark.

As for Regan Linney, he had missed the game due to "niggles" too.

Phil praised his young Academy graduates who came on as substitutes after an hour of the game had been completed. Of keeper Louie Fallon (above, left) the manager said he was "superb", whilst Joel Bailey (above right) was "the pick of the whole game".

Owen German too was praised, stating that he looked like an experienced rather than young player.

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL PLAYERS

The first names to be revealed are Tom Marshall, Damian Reeves, Nicky Clee and Scott Leather who are pictured, in left to right order, below.

Tickets are only £5 for adults and £2 for under-18s, and they can be purchased here.

TONY RECOGNISED BY "THE TIMES"

The Times writes that "Collier, from Altrincham, has contributed to the new guidance that aims to overhaul NHS procedures in the hope of saving the lives of men in his position.

He said, "I was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in 2017... after what I thought was just a runner's groin strain.

"Unfortunately it turned out to be far more serious and the pain was caused by cancer which had spread extensively to my bones. I was originally given just two years to live...

"New treatments mean that I've been able to keep the cancer at bay and have now far outlived my original prognosis.

"That's why I'm so determined to give back and have worked hard over the years to raise awareness and hopefully save lives by getting more men diagnosed earlier".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Dyche came through the Cobblers’ academy, making his debut in December 2020... Max would join National League North sides Kettering Town and Brackley Town on loan in 2021-22... He would return to Northampton and play a part in their promotion campaign of 2022/23, making 18 appearances in League Two...

This earned Dyche a new two-year contract at Northampton, which he signed in the summer. A short loan spell at Aldershot Town from September to October 2023 followed...

His initial loan spell with the Cards was quite successful... Max would start all nine games he was available for and played every minute.... He was recalled in early March following an injury crisis at Northampton Town...

Said Woking Manager Michael Doyle 'Max can play right, central or left in the back three, making him even more valuable to the Club. He has the character of an experienced player at just 21'".

ALTRINCHAM 1-1 SALFORD CITY

Alty started with a strong eleven (seen above) but The Ammies took a 25th minute lead when a neat move up the middle involving McAleny and Taylor led to Nmai being presented with a close range opening which he exploited.

Right: George Wilson pictured during the match against Salford City.

Alty equalised just five minutes later in bizarre circumstances when Salford keeper Jones attempted to dribble the ball when some 35 yards out of his goal. Possession was lost and Justin Amaluzor, with his back to goal, turned smartly and rolled the ball, low, into the unguarded net from that distance.

Salford had the better of the second half but even when deploying a defence of trialists and Academy graduates, Altrincham kept out the opposition impressively to secure a deserved draw.

Alty made 10 personnel changes after 63 minutes, having already substituted Amaluzor straight after his goal in the first half.

Although Altrincham remain unbeaten after five pre-season games, one concern is the lack of potency in front of goal. All of Alty's last three goals have been presents from the opposition, with the brace scored at Warrington on Saturday being, first, a defensive mix-up and then a penalty, before tonight's further gift from the opposition.

ALTRINCHAM, FIRST HALF: 1. Ethan ROSS, 2. Lewis BANKS, 5. Jake COOPER, 4. Lewis BAINES (c), 3. Eddy JONES, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 8. George WILSON, 10. Tom CRAWFORD, 7. Matty KOSYLO, 17. Alex NEWBY, 11. Justin AMALUZOR (sub. 23 Joe NUTTALL 33")

LAST 27 Mins: 20. Louie FALLON, 12. Trialist (Tylor Golden), 16. James JONES (capt), 15. Joel BAILEY, 21 Trialist (Damola Sotona), 14. Trialist (Ben Kershaw), 18. Owen GERMAN, No Number. Max HAYGARTH, 19. Luke WEAVER, 23. Joe NUTTALL and 20*. Trialist (Kharel Reddin).

Match report here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

DUNCAN WATMORE played 71 minutes for Millwall as they lost 1-2 to Nottingham Forest in Murcia.

REAGAN OGLE started for a weakened Oldham Athletic side, who lost 2-0 at Southport.

JORDAN HULME scored the only goal as Radcliffe beat visitors Halifax".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 21-year old joined the Magpies last summer having captained Luton Town’s various age-group teams. The midfielder was a mainstay in Dev’s side which enjoyed a marvellous run at the end of the season, clinching fourteenth place...

Casey became a real fans favourite at York Road and was voted supporters' player of the season for 2023/24".

Solihull Moors "will don the colours of Solihull Borough, offering a dose of nostalgia for the 2024/24 campaign. The Borough were one half of the historic merger in 2007 which saw them and Moor Green unite forces to become Solihull Moors.

Each year, we change our away kit colours to display our proud heritage... The red and white of the Boro has witnessed plenty of history...

Additionally, our graffiti warm-up top... will be available for supporters to purchase".

Southend United "confirm an additional date has been added to the pre-season schedule with a fixture against Ballyfermot United in Dublin on Tuesday 30th July...

Kevin Maher and the squad will spend several days in Ireland on a pre-season camp leading up to the start of the 2024/25 Vanarama National League season...

Bellyfermot play in the Leinster Senior League, and have this year reached the last 16 of the FA Ireland Cup.

The stadium is around six miles from the centre of Dublin...

CEO Tom Lawrence said 'We are all very grateful to the Shrimpers' Trust for their support which has part funded the first-team training camp to Ireland".

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of forward Zak Emmerson from League One side Blackpool.

Emmerson began his career in the Oldham Athletic academy and made his senior debut against Walsall in October 2019, making him the second youngest player to play in the EFL behind former Shayman Reuben Noble-Lazarus. In July 2020, the forward signed for Brighton & Hove Albion’s development squad for an undisclosed fee...

In his final season with Brighton, Emmerson netted 20 goals in 26 appearances for the development squad, before then Championship side Blackpool brought him to Bloomfield Road for an undisclosed fee.

Last season, the forward spent time on loan at National League South side Eastbourne Borough where he netted five times in 11 league appearances".

23 July 2024

NEXT: SALFORD CITY

Right: Matty Kosylo scored twice when Salford City last visited Altrincham and he has scored in Alty's two most recent friendlies of this summer. Here he is seen (no.18), last Saturday, hitting a well-struck shot which the Warrington keeper did well to save with an excellent dive to his left.

It proved to be an easy night for Alty who ran out 5-1 victors against a Salford team that failed to trouble Matt Gould and his defence.

Matt Kosylo played in Tom Peers for a smart finish by the striker to put Alty ahead in the ninth minute.

An excellent long ball up the middle from Tom Hannigan set Kosylo in on goal and he finished well from left of goal, his low shot going in off the base of the far post to make it 2-0 on the half-hour.

Seven minutes later it was 3-0 as an incursion up the right by Joel Senior ended with the ball falling to Max Clayton who scored from six yards or so.

Salford were gifted a penalty shortly before half time after Alty had lost possession by their own right corner-flag. With the linesman flagging that the ball had gone out for a goalkick, play was allowed to continue and a Salford man was upended.

From the resulting spot-kick Humbles, or whoever was wearing no.6 on a night when many of the visitors wore different numbers from those given on their teamsheet, slotted home the penalty to make it 3-1 at the interval.

Straight after the break, the visitors' keeper dropped the ball and Kosylo made it 4-1. And in the 55th minute Kosylo rounded the keeper and, from right of goal, laid on a tap-in for Peers to record the fifth goal for Altrincham.

Alty continued to dominate after the final four subs came on just after the hour mark.

Altrincham fielded a team with several starters who were likely to be deployed in secondary roles when the season started.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Matthew GOULD, 2. Joel SENIOR, 3. Andy WHITE, 4. Toby MULLARKEY, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Sean WILLIAMS (c), 7. Matty KOSYLO, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Tom PEERS, 10. Max CLAYTON, 11. Yusifu CEESAY. Subs: 12. Shaun DENSMORE, 14. Connor HAMPSON, 15. Ritchie SUTTON, 16. Jake MOULT, 17. Curtis MILLER, 18. Jordan HULME, 20. Tony THOMPSON

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL: THE EARLY YEARS

The players concerned are Kieran and Kelvin Lugsden, Anthony Danylyk, Sean Smith, Danny Murphy, Ryan Brown and Stuart Wright.

L to R Kieran Lugsden, Anthony Danylyk, Sean Smith, Danny Murphy, Ryan Brown, Stuart Wright and Kelvin Lugsden.

The full list comprises the above seven plus Rod Thornley, Gary Talbot, Gary Scott, Val Owen, Warren Peyton, Eddie Hussin, Chris Adams, Ged Kielty, Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young.

ALTY WOMEN'S MANAGER INTERVIEWED

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Offrande, 27 [was]... born in Congo [and] has made over 130 appearances in the EFL during his career to date. Turning professional at Derby County in 2015, Zanzala spent early loans at Stevenage, Chester and Accrington Stanley before moving permanently to the latter in August 2018...

Moving onto Crewe Alexandra in July 2020 prior to being recruited by Beech at Carlisle in January 2021, he represented the Cumbrians 22 times... [before] penning a deal at Barrow in June 2021. Zanzala spent time on loan in Exeter City colours... and was most recently at Newport County...

[The player said] 'I’ve got loads of experience in the leagues which is something I want to bring to the team... I like to speed in play with quick passing and movements in behind. I like to link up with my teammates a lot, I’m direct and hungry and I have a desire to score goals...

Head coach Chris Beech added... 'With next season’s rules seeing it possible to make five substitutions from seven named, we need the strongest squad possible and have depth in all positions'".

Also at AFC FYlde "Jesse Hailwood has penned a one-year deal at Mill Farm after impressing for the Coasters during their pre-season friendlies. Midfielder Hailwood is the second AFC Fylde academy graduate to sign professional terms this summer, following on from Jack Morris."

Meanwhile at Wealdstone the club announce that Jaydn Mundle-Smith has signed to play another year at Grosvenor Vale.

The defender played all but two League games last season and was a crucial part of the defence... A stellar campaign for our no.23 saw him named player of the season, and we are delighted to announce that he'll be part of Matt Taylor's squad for the 2024/25 season.

Deployed mainly as a left-sided centre-back, but occasionally as a traditional full-back, Jaydn's performances earned him... a call up to the England C provisional squad...

Said Mundle-Smith.. 'I'm really pleased with my achievements last season. I've spoken to him [Matt Taylor] and he thinks I'm a good player and good person as well so I'm looking forward to working under him. There's a lot of new faces in the squad so it'll be good to see everyone working under Matt'"

15 July 2024

DUO STILL SIDELINED

Marriott missed the last ten league games of last season through an ankle injury which required an operation, whilst Crankshaw played just one full league match last season before an ACL injury ended his season in just his second appearance.

However, both attended as non-participants last Saturday at Warrington. Apart from Justin Donawa, who was invited back for pre-season but has yet to be seen in action, all the rest of the named first-team squad have played a part this summer.

Here (right) we see Ollie Crankshaw with Justin Amaluzor at Warrington on Saturday. Justin's own summer appearances have been limited so far.

NEXT: SALFORD CITY

The Ammies seem to enjoy playing friendlies on consecutive days as last Friday a Salford team won 2-1 at Bamber Bridge and, the following day, (another) Salford squad drew 2-2 at FC United of Manchester.

Prior to that Salford had an away game in Northern Ireland where they beat Crusaders 3-1.

Their most recent summer signing was 32 year-old winger Jon Taylor who the Ammies report "has made over 400 senior appearances across all three EFL divisions... during spells at Shrewsbury Town, Rotherham United, Peterborough United, and more recently at Doncaster Rovers.

His time at the Eco-Power Stadium was hampered by injury and illness but, despite this, Jon is now back to full fitness".

Another recent signing by experienced EFL boss Karl Robinson is goalkeeper Jamie Jones, "the 35-year-old shot stopper makes the switch from Teesside to Salford.

Prior to his season at Middlesbrough in the Championship, Jones came through the Everton Academy and went on to make 407 senior appearances for seven clubs". Last season he was third-choice keeper at Middlesbrough so did not play much football.

A more familiar face in Salford's squad is former Robins' defender, Kevin Berkoe (above, left), whilst striker Marcus Dackers is another player who has worn the Alty shirt and is now on the Ammies' books.

Berkoe's brief stay at Alty came in January 2022 when he was on loan from Salford. The loan was ended prematurely by a red card in only his second start for the club.

NEW FACES

Three of them were named by Phil Parkinson in his post-match interview. The fourth was a left-back (no.3 against Warrington on Saturday).

L. to R.: Tylor Golden, Ben Kershaw, Kharel Reddin

• Tylor Golden (dob 8.11.99): He left FC Halifax Town this summer after 70 appearances. He was previously with Wigan Athletic (2017-20 and Salford City (2020-22). He joined the Shaymen after being released by The Ammies in 2022.

  He has had loan spells in his career at Droylsden, Nantwich Town and Notts County.

  Phil Parkinson thinks it unlikely that he will join Alty as he is seeking a contract in the EFL.

  At Warrington last Saturday, he played for Alty at right-back.

• Ben Kershaw (dob 23.10.2003): A midfielder, born in 2003, who joined Stoke City from Rochdale in 2022, he has been on the first-team bench for City. For Altrincham, he played in centre midfield as no.6 against Warrington.

• Kharel Reddin (dob 13.1.2004): Another Stoke City under-21 regular who joined The Potters in July 2022 after a spell at Aston Villa, where he was in their FA Youth Cup winning side in 2021. On Saturday he played as a pacy winger on the right flank.

ALTY OLD BOYS

A Warrington man who did get on the pitch was former Alty loanee from Bolton Wanderers, JEZ SITHOLE.

Phil Jordan reports that JOE HUGILL, who was among a totally changed Manchester United second half lineup, sealed his side's 0-2 victory over Rangers at Murrayfield with "a stinging finish" after MAXI OYEDELE gave him "an inviting through ball". He "lashed his shot passed Jack Butland off the crossbar" according to the Sunday Times. SONNY ALJOFREE was also in the second half team.

In Sunday's friendly match at the Isle of Man Bowl, TOM PEERS (left) scored Chester's third goal against Lancaster City, before being one of eight changes for the second half - MITCH HANCOX was among those replacements. Lancaster used no less than TWELVE trialists, which may have contributed to their 4-1 defeat.

And our unofficial "cricket correspondent" Ian Wilkinson advises us of OLLIE BYRNE's continuing cricket career for Timperley CC's first eleven. Sadly, Saturdaywas not a good day for the recently prolific goalkeeper-cum-batsman. He batted lower down the order, at number seven, and was out for a duck after facing eight balls. However, he did take a catch as Timperley lost by 69 runs to Nantwich CC in the Cheshire County Cricket League.

On Sunday in the Cheshire Cup Quarter Final against Hyde CC, the Tameside club beat Timperley by 8 wickets, with Ollie coming in at number 6 and hitting 13 runs off 13 balls. He also bowled an over, which cost five runs and two wides.

AND THEN THERE WERE 16

Above, in their Alty days, left to right, are forwards Colin Little, Colin Potts and Dale Johnson.

Right: Danny Adams (foreground) in action for Alty at Hednesford in 2000..

With the announcement by Altrincham FC of four more former players who will be turning out in Stuart Coburn's testimonial game on Sunday, 28 July, the total has risen to sixteen.

The latest four to be revealed are: Colin Little, Colin Potts, Danny Adams and Dale Johnson.

The other participants announced so far are:

• Rod Thornley, Gary Talbot, Gary Scott, Val Owen, Warren Peyton, Eddie Hussin, Chris Adams, Ged Kielty, Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young.

ALTY'S NEW LEAD ANALYST

Jack has been involved with Alty since last season, in a voluntary capacity at that time, prior to his appointment to this new role.. He is a graduate of Gary Neville's UCFB, where he completed an MA in Performance Analysis.

He has been working alongside Alty's longstanding Sports Analyst, Mark Bushell. Jack also works part-time for Manchester United at their Carrington complex.

21 July 2024

WARRINGTON TOWN 0-2 ALTRINCHAM

In a competitive match Alty may well have been down to ten men for virtually the whole game after Joel Bailey's error led to his prolonged rugby tackle on the hosts' striker. But being a friendly there was no sanction beyond a freekick.

Town dominated the early stages winning five corners before Alty's unaccustomed mixture of players settled and reached half-time with the game goalless.

The only change at the break saw young keeper Louie Fallon replace Ross but, around the hour mark, Alty introduced ten first-team substitutes and the performance unsurprisingly went up a few notches. It took just seven minutes for Matty Kosylo to put Alty ahead from forty yards out on the right wing, scoring into an unguarded net, after a defensive mix-up between the Town keeper and a defender.

Above: Regan Linney's penalty hits the back of the net. Regan is off the picture to the left.

Alty played some good football in the closing stages, with Tom Crawford again impressing, but they did not score their second goal until added time when a foul on Alex Newby led to Regan Linney converting from the penalty spot.

Match report here.

AFTER THE MATCH AT WARRINGTON TOWN

In the interview, Phil confirmed the names of some of the trialists as:

• Tylor Golden: He has left FC Halifax this summer, seeking EFL experience but is having some games. with Altrincham in the interim. He played at right-back (no.12) against Warrington Town.
• Ben Kershaw: A Stoke City under-21 who played at no.6 against Warrington Town.
• Kharel Reddin: A Stoke City under-21 who was presumably the un-numbered player on the right-wing against Warrington.

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

Altrincham FC names them as Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young.

Above: Richard Acton, Chris Denham, Chris Senior and Greg Young in their Alty days.

ALTY OLD BOYS

In a friendly played behind closed doors at their training ground, Poolfoot Farm in Cleveleys, Fleetwood Town withdrew HARRISON HOLGATE from the action at half time, and the same befell CALLUM DOLAN and JUNIOR QUITIRNA after an hour. At that point visitors Rochdale introduced KYLE FERGUSON. The game finished 1-1.

Radcliffe and Lancaster City met a little further afield at the Isle of Man bowl. Radcliffe ran out 4-1 winners with all the goals scored by ex-Robins.

JOSH HANCOCK (left) scored twice - one of them from the spot- and won the Man of the Match award, setting up the other goals for JUDE OYIBO and BRAD JACKSON. JORDAN HULME was also in the Radcliffe starting lineup.

Chesterfield didn't bring RYAN COLCLOUGH into the action until the 68th minute, while JAMES BERRY had to wait until the 81st minute to get a kick - neither could help their side to avoid a 0-3 lesson from a strong Sheffield United squad.

KEVIN BERKOE, despite having started at Bamber Bridge last night, was in Salford City's starting lineup at FC United, while MARCUS DACKERS was on the bench, as was DONTAI GABIDON for the hosts. The game ended 2-2.

Both JOSH LUNDSTRAM and REAGAN OGLE started for Oldham Athletic in a 0-0 draw against visitors Lincoln City.

Curzon Ashton won 1-4 at Prestwich Heys, with CRAIG MAHON converting a penalty.

JONNY MARGETTS was on target as King's Lynn, having trailed at the interval, recovered to win 2-3 at Stamford.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A consortium led by Australian IT millionaire Justin Rees exchanged contracts with former owner Ron Martin in December, but issues surrounding housing plans stalled the deal.

The group said it was 'delighted' to announce the Essex-based club had been successfully purchased on Friday'...

Labour MP David Burton-Sampson said those associated with the club [now] had 'certainty' about its future".

AFC Fylde "announce that midfielder Jon Ustabasi has signed a new two-year deal at Mill Farm, extending his stay until at least 2026...

Ustabasi, 30... has been at Mill Farm for just over a year after joining from local side Chorley in 2023. A pacey, exciting and attacking player, Ustabasi spent several years in Turkey, the birthplace of his father... before making a return to England to sign for Stalybridge Celtic, where he spent two seasons ahead of a loan and then a permanent move to Chorley.

Now finding a new home at AFC Fylde, Ustabasi... said... 'We want to do a lot better than last season. We had a difficult first half of the season and if we can eradicate that and live up to our second half of the season then we can have a right go this year...

Head Coach Chris Beech added... 'He has been a superb asset and was no doubt a huge part of us retaining National League status. His fast, tricky and skilful style of play aligns with how we want to play and how we want to attack teams'".

Aldershot Town are "delighted to confirm the signing of Australian defender Lachlan Byrd!

The centre-back has signed a one-year deal with the Shots. The 22-year-old spent last season at Welling United in the Vanarama National League South, playing 50 games... and picking up their Player of the Season award.

Starting his playing career in Australia, Byrd moved to Scotland in 2023 and spent half a season with Airdrieonians...

First-Team Manager Tommy Widdrington said 'Lachlan (Byrd) is a lad we looked at last pre-season and were very close to taking him on board. For one reason or another it didn’t happen and he went off and played around 50 games at Step Two... I’m delighted to have him join the group on a permanent basis.”

It was felt we needed improvement in important areas defensively and with firstly, Luke Jenkins, and now Lachie, we have two lads who can both play and are intrinsically good defenders first and foremost... I feel more confident with what we will have behind the ball this campaign'".

20 July 2024

TODAY: WARRINGTON TOWN

Warrington are managed by former Alty striker Mark Beesley (right, in his Alty days in 2011).

In the last few days the club has just announced that "Striker Joe Rodwell-Grant has become Warrington Town’s third new signing of the summer.

Rodwell-Grant, 21, arrives at the Cal.Delivery Stadium from Wigan Athletic, having previously been in the academy setup at Preston North End.

He has had loan spells at Bamber Bridge, Lancaster City and FC United of Manchester...

Manager Mark Beesley said... 'We tried to sign him a couple of times when he was at Wigan, and so it’s third time lucky!'...

The forward follows the arrival of defender Ollie Southern and the return of fans’ favourite Bohan Dixon...

Rodwell-Grant found the back of the net in the 3-0 win over Rochdale and paid tribute to the fans for their response to his performances.

He added 'It was class coming off and the fans telling me to sign, I loved it!'".

Still listed on the club's books on their website are former Robins Josh Amis, Tom Hannigan, Andy White and Sean Williams. However Sean was signed by Bootle some time ago so the information is not uptodate.

Tickets for the match can be bought online or bought on the day at the stadium.

THREE MORE NAMED FOR STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

They are James Olsen (left), Barry Crowe and Michael Welch (right), whose portraits from their time at Moss Lane are reproduced below.

For more details seee the Altrincham FC website.

The testimonial will feature players from the Altrincham play-off successes of 2005 and 2014.

The other names announced so far are:

• Rod Thornley, Gary Talbot, Gary Scott, Val Owen, Warren Peyton, Eddie Hussin, Chris Adams and Ged Kielty,

ALTY OLD BOYS

Salford City visit the J.Davidson Stadium on Tuesday evening, but on Friday night they were in action at Bamber Bridge. KEVIN BERKOE started for the Ammies, and had a hand in the opening goal as they won 1-2.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

It means that the ground will host both Latics and Roughyeds games for at least the next 10 years, as well as other community events such as matches between schools and local clubs....

Luke Rothwell, director at Oldham Athletic, said 'We want people to have a positive image of this site, and this is the start".

Southend United have issued a statement stating that "The Consortium is delighted to announce that the purchase of Southend United Football Club has been successfully completed...

The process, which began in July 2023, was complex and as a result has taken longer than any of us anticipated...

We would like to extend our thanks to Ron and Jack Martin, who have acted with integrity and professionalism throughout our dealings... We also thank the Councillors and Officers of Southend-on-Sea City Council. The three parties have been united in finding a resolution.

We now turn our attention to the start of the new season and hope that the Southend community will unite behind Kevin Maher and the Blues squad".

Ebbsfleet United reveal that "Striker Kwame Thomas is the Fleet’s newest announced signing after he left Aldershot Town...

A physically strong forward with excellent aerial attributes, the 28-year-old is another new arrival at the club who adds plenty of know-how and experience of the National League and higher...

He fired nine goals for Wrexham in the National League in 2020/21 before spells with Sutton United and Dundee, where he helped the latter win the Scottish Championship title in 2022/23.

Thomas... was a big part of Aldershot Town’s rejuvenation last season as he featured 42 times for them... He was offered a new deal at the Hampshire club but instead will be wearing Fleet red for the 2024/25 campaign".

19 July 2024

ALTY "IN GOOD SHAPE" SAYS PHIL

Right: Ollie Crankshaw.

Summer signing Joe Nuttall underlined the scoring prowess that earned him spells with Blackburn Rovers and Blackpool by marking his Robins debut with a first-half headed goal in a 1-1 draw at Lancaster City on Saturday.

Three days later, strike partner Regan Linney got in on the act with a second-half double, as the Robins followed up with a convincing 3-0 win at Cheadle Heath Nomads".

After the game, manager Phil Parkinson concluded that "Overall there has been a really pleasing work ethic from all the players... I’m not expecting too much more in the way of signings, but don’t forget we’ve got Olly Crankshaw (right) and Isaac Marriott hopefully back in the fold in September, so we look in good shape".

CAN ALTY REPEAT LAST SEASON'S SUCCESS?

Altrincham [have] said goodbye to nine players... [but] the club have also made three summer signings so far...

Hartlepool’s Tom Crawford and Oldham’s Joe Nuttall have arrived to add further experience to the Altrincham side, whilst Non-League goalscoring sensation Lucas Weaver (right) has been snapped up from Colne...

Crawford has struggled with injuries and Nuttall has failed to hit the heights he showed in the Premier League 2 with Blackburn Rovers although he did manage to score goals in League One last season.

Although Weaver is unproven at National League level, Altrincham have proven to be a great side when it comes to developing talented young players....

Despite having several strong players like Jake Cooper and Alex Newby, the name that stands out the most to me is forward Regan Linney...

I think Altrincham will once again be pushing for a top-half finish – possibly even top ten".

ALTY OLD BOYS

He tells us that in the Europa Conference League, having won their away leg in Slovakia, Connah's Quay Nomads were forced to switch the home leg of their tie against Bravo to Bangor.

After JOHN DISNEY became one of five Welsh players booked, the visitors scored in the 88th minute to take the tie to extra time and, with 5 minutes of that period left, they struck again to end Nomads' participation in the competition.

Another ex Robin booked was Bala Town goalkeeper JOEL TORRANCE (seen, left, in his Alty days), just before the interval away to Estonian side Paide. The Welsh team had lost the home leg 1-2, but tonight they led from the 12th minute, and this tie also went into an extra half hour.

Unfortunately, it was much the same story - Bala had a man sent off after 110 minutes, and in the last minute Paide scored to win the tie.

Linfield had started 0-2 behind in Belfast against the Icelandic team Stjarnan, but SAM ROSCOE and his colleagues went ahead early, and, although the visitors equalised, two goals in six minutes gave the Ulstermen a fighting chance. Alas, Stjarnan scored after 88 minutes and, although losing on the night, went through 4-3 on aggregate.

And so the involvement of Alty Old Boys in Europe is over for this season.

SPRUCE UP THE STADIUM

We'd love for as many volunteers as possible to head to the ground from 9am on Saturday, July 20th, as we gear up for our friendly with Salford City on Tuesday, July 23rd.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided and the start time is set so anyone wishing to attend our friendly at Warrington Town in the afternoon will be able to do so, although we will be continuing with the ground work through to 3pm, for those who want to join us later on in the day.

Anyone interested in lending a hand can confirm attendance by emailing here".

MORE PLAYERS NAMED FOR STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

They are Warren Peyton, Eddie Hussin, Chris Adams and Ged Kielty, who are pictured in their playing days at Alty, left to right, below.

NATIONAL LEAGUE STADIUM SPONSORS: PART 4

TAMWORTH, CR MOT Centre Community Stadium at The Lamb:

Tamworth's stadium was historically known as The Lamb; it was named after the Lamb Inn that stood on the site.

However, Tamworth state that "The ground is now sponsored by local company CR MOT Centre and the ground is currently referred to as the CR MOT Centre Community Stadium at The Lamb".

CR MOT Centre state that they "are your local independent tyre fitting business, dedicated to putting your needs first. With access to a huge range of premium, mid-range and economy tyres, we are sure to have the right tyre for you. Whether you drive in or order online our staff will conduct a full inspection of your vehicle and explain in detail before any work is carried out. Our high-quality services and products are the reason customers have put their trust in us.

We supply tyres from world-renowned manufacturers such as Bridgestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli, Continental, and Dunlop. We can cater for all weathers with a range of summer, winter and all-season tyres.

In addition to supplying and fitting new Car and Van Tyres we also offer the following services: Air-Con Re-gas and Repairs, Brakes, Clutches and Timing Belts, Diagnostics, MOTs and Servicing.

We are based in Tamworth".

WOKING: The Laithwaite Community Stadium:

In 2023 Woking announced that "Laithwaite Financial Services Ltd has signed a further three-year deal as the Club’s main sponsor. The renewed and extended agreement will see the continuation of naming rights for the Laithwaite Community Stadium.

Laithwaite Financial Services Ltd first sponsored the Club in 2014, with the latest renewal seeing the partnership through for more than a decade".

Laithwaite Financial Services "is a firm of Independent Financial Advisers based just outside the town of Woking in Surrey. We have been providing impartial, holistic financial planning for people from all walks of life since the early 1990’s...

We are not trying to grow our business at the expense of giving our clients the best advice and recommending the best products available".

YORK CITY LNER Stadium:

"Planned since 2006 and opened in 2021, the LNER Community Stadium is a state of the art, 8,500 capacity facility built to Championship standards. Owned by the City of York Council, the stadium is home to York City FC and York RLFC Knights" says the club website.

LNER's site says that the organisation "is the rail company that operates on the East Coast mainline. We took over after Virgin Trains East Coast in June 2018 and we have ambitious plans to change the face of train travel. We want to create a service everybody loves, that our people are proud to work for and that helps the communities that we’re part of to flourish".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A £600,000 loan from owner Drew Volpe's parents has given the Cards a lifeline to begin the new season next month. [Their first fixture is at Altrincham!]

Speaking to BBC Radio Surrey, Volpe revealed he had invested 'over £3.425m' in the club since taking over in 2021.

When asked if the club would now be in administration without the loan from his parents, Volpe said: 'Yep, 100%"'...

But Volpe said he was now more confident a deal could be reached for new owners to rescue the club after making "great progress" with takeover talks...

'The reality of it, is that the club's going to be sold for probably £1 - based on the liabilities that we have, the money I sent over will be able to pay off almost all of that and then we'll have games and money will be coming in'..

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire said Woking lost £25,000 a week in their fourth-placed season, and 2023-24 was 'substantially worse'".

Footie on TV claims that "Non-League football’s top division looks likely to start the new season without live TV coverage for the first time in years with its deal with TNT Sports seemingly at an end.

The National League’s four-year deal with TNT Sports for live rights and highlights expired at the end of the season and all the indications are that the two sides have failed to reach an agreement to extend it...

The clearest indication yet that the partnership is now at an end has come with the National League removing TNT Sports’ logo from its images of partners and sponsors on the foot of its official website".

Continuing the trend this summer towards season-long loans from National League clubs, York City announce that Maz Kouhyar has joined National League North side Kidderminster Harriers on a season-long loan.

The 26-year-old joins the recently relegated side...

Kouhyar spent spells of last campaign out on loan too with former side Hereford, making five appearances.

When at the LNER Community Stadium, the winger featured 27 times across all competitions and scored four.

And the York Press adds that manager "Adam Hinshelwood criticised the first-half performance of his York City side after a 2-1 victory over Whitby Town on Wednesday evening.

York failed to manage a shot on target in their first-half performance and headed into the half-time break 1-0 down after Jake Charles’s opener, before goals from Ollie Pearce and Marvin Armstrong helped City to victory at the seaside.

Hinshelwood wasn’t overly satisfied...

'You want it to be the perfect display and it certainly wasn’t that,' Hinshelwood admitted. 'That first-half was pretty poor to be honest, I thought that we were laboured in our possession, our intensity that we played at was nowhere near what we needed it to be...

'Dipo Akinyemi in particular looked the fittest he’s looked since I came to the club really... I’m a bit disappointed that Ty [ex-Alty loanee Tyrese Sinclair] couldn’t finish off some of the chances... Billy Chadwick and Joe [Felix] showed signs of a good little partnership on the right hand side'" he concluded.

There will be an innovation at the London Hive stadium this season, which players will have to get used to, as Barnet announce their "purchase of LED perimeter boards for all four sides of The Hive Stadium.

We expect delivery and installation to be in the next few weeks and would love to invite businesses to apply for our newest LED sponsorship package.

Our exclusive two-season deal includes the following:

• Full coverage on all 4 sides of our stadium, across 321 metres of pitchside LED boards
• One minute of content per home league game split into 3 x 20 second slots
• 23 home league games per season
• £2,300/season = £100/game

Pricing is exclusive of VAT".

PARKY'S SQUAD PLANS

Phil said the "main highlight" was that there were no injuries. Other benefits were having a further look at the trialists and getting time into the squad players' legs

As for the trialists, the manager said he would not make quick decisions but that we have "a couple of slots [in the squad that] we need covering". He went on to indicate that Alty need a second keeper and cover at full back.

He hoped to have a better insight into the trialists when Alty play higher ranked teams than they met on Tuesday.

Regarding Owen German (above, right), the plan is likely to be to send him on a loan to a club in the National League or upper end of the NPL. There are similar plans in mind for Joel Bailey and Luke Weaver too.

As for Ollie Crankshaw and Isaac Marriott, who ended last season injured, Phil suggested that it would be around September before they are in contention for the first team again. No mention was made of Justin Donowa who was invited back to prove his fitness in pre-season.

LAST GAME: CHEADLE HEATH NOMADS

On the Altrincham FC site, John Edwards writes that "It was a highly satisfactory third pre-season outing for Phil Parkinson's squad".

He added, "On Saturday, at Lancaster City, new signing Joe Nuttall (left) underlined his scoring prowess by marking his debut with a first-half headed goal in the Robins' 1-1 draw.

Three days later, away to Cheadle Heath Nomads, it was the turn of Regan Linney to take centre stage as he rifled home an Alty opener and followed up with a coolly-taken penalty in an emphatic 3-0 win.

With Matty Kosylo contributing an eye-catching solo effort in between, it was a highly satisfactory third pre-season outing for Phil Parkinson's squad."

NEXT: WARRINGTON TOWN

Right: Jordan Hulme and Josh Hancock in action at a sodden Cantilever Park in October 2017.

The sides last met in league action at Cantilever Park on 21 October 2017 on an afternoon when the squally wind and heavy rain were the only winners in a goalless draw.

That match was actually Altrincham's first competitive match at Cantilever Park; all five of the previous encounters between the two clubs had been at Moss Lane, in the Cheshire Senior Cup.

For Altrincham, Disney, Taylor, Hannigan and Amis were all injured and Miller and Sheridan were also not in the squad. Mason Walsh was included in the squad after his midweek debut.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Joel BEMBO-LETA, 3. Lewis SHORT, 4. James JONES, 5. Ben HARRISON, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. James POOLE, 11. Josh HANCOCK. Subs: 12. Max HARROP, 14. Tom PEERS, 15 Shaun DENSMORE, 16. Mason WALSH, 20. Tim DEASY

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL PLAYERS

The two play-off squads, of 2005 and 2024, will face each other both in honour of Alty's leading appearance maker and to raise funds for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

Participating players are being announced piecemeal and the first batch to be named comprises Rod Thornley, Gary Talbot, Gary Scott and Val Owen.

Above, left to right in 2004/05: Rod Thornley, Gary Talbot, Gary Scott and Val Owen.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boss Harrop is pleased with the progress his side are making.. 'It shows that we were much sharper and more clinical in front of goal than in our first pre-season game last week. Nobody's getting carried away with the result because it's how we perform, competing against another good side, but we are improving'...

Harrop used two completely different sides in each half against Leiston, with four trialists lining up in the first half... In the second half, Braintree had eight trialists on show alongside three signed players, Reggie Lambe, Ryan Clampin and Louie Annesley.

Harrop said... 'We've still have other potential signings coming in on trial but overall I'm pleased with the progress we are making. I think training three days a week is beginning to show in our improving fitness levels...

Leiston also hit the bar late on but Harrop's side deservedly held on well to make it two straight wins, in their first pre-season friendlies".

AFC Fylde "announce the signing of left-back Lincoln McFayden, following a spell at Championship side Swansea City, on a one-year deal.

The 22-year-old joins the Coasters following a successful trial period... McFayden, who is from Chorley, has signed a one-year deal at Mill Farm, becoming Chris Beech’s fifth summer signing...

McFayden said... 'It’s local for me and... I’ve seen the stadium, the place, the fans and the support... and it’s a great place for my family to come and watch...

McFayden was part of a Preston academy side which has gone on to have great success in recent years...

He continued... 'The fans can expect an attacking and defensive full-back, I’m very quick, I love to get forward and help the team with goals and assists, but to keep goals out the net as well'".

Meanwhile Ebbsfleet United report that "Defender Tom Dallison becomes the Fleet’s latest summer recruit as the former Colchester United man joins...

The towering 6ft 4in left-sided defender has played most of his football in League Two after... the Premier League academies of West Ham and Arsenal before he signed his first contract at Brighton & Hove Albion...

[He had] loan spells with Dartford and Braintree Town in the National League before he moved up to the EFL with Crawley Town, Cambridge United and Accrington Stanley in further loan deals.

The Dagenham-born defender moved to... Falkirk in 2018 following his departure from Brighton before he rejoined Crawley in League Two on a permanent basis in 2019. Dallison made more than 80 appearances for the Red Devils... He has spent the past two and a half years with the U’s, playing 64 times...

Dallison... told FleetTV 'My relationship with the gaffer goes back a long way to when I was a young boy at West Ham'".

CHEADLE HEATH NOMADS 0-3 ALTRINCHAM

However, Paul was away in Northern Ireland with another Altrincham team competing in the Foyle Cup.

After a largely uneventful and goalless first half, Altrincham, with eleven new starters for the second half, took the lead just after the hour-mark when Tom Crawford set Linney in on goal. The striker beat goalkeeper Ford with a low shot.

A Nomads error near halfway allowed Kosylo to run towards goal and finish smartly past the keeper to make it 2-0 (72 mins).

With Alty well on top, a foul on O'Hara on Sotona gave Linney (right) the opportunity to convert a penalty which he duly did to make it three-nil for the Robins (76 mins).

Match report here.

On Saturday, Altrincham's fourth pre-season game will be at Warrington Town (3pm).

ALTY OLD BOYS

JOEL SENIOR played the first hour for Bristol Rovers as they hit three goals without reply at Yeovil Town.

JONNY MARGETTS was among the scorers as King's Lynn won by the odd goal in seven at Bury Town of the Isthmian League North.

After they had trailed 1-0 at half time at Alfreton Town, JAMES BERRY equalised in the 51st minute. That was the signal for the Spireites to make 10 changes, including the introduction of RYAN COLCLOUGH and they went on to win 1-2.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE started for Peterborough United at Spalding United. He set up the opening goal in the 8th minute, and his new team were 0-2 ahead at the break. A different lineup emerged for the second half and romped home 0-7.

MICHAEL GYASI started for Peterborough Sports at St.Ives Town, but the only available information is the score - a 1-5 win.

NATIONAL LEAGUE STADIUM SPONSORS: PART THREE

HARTLEPOOL UNITED The Suit Direct Stadium:

Historically known as the Victoria Stadium, Suit Direct describe themselves as the home of "your favourite menswear designers and bespoke styling services all under one roof".

"Suit Direct, part of the Baird Group based in Leeds, has been expanding rapidly for several years and is home to many iconic designers such as Ben Sherman, Marc Darcy and Limehaus... Suit Direct’s CFO Nick Scott said "We are thrilled to Baird Group has had a presence in Hartlepool since 1945 and we are pleased that we can continue building relationships in this community".

With thirty branches, the company offers "free one-to-one personal styling appointments... plus free delivery and click & collect". You can even "step into the role of designer at Suit Direct’s Studio and create your very own suit. Allow expert advice to guide you along or take full control choosing your own fabrics, linings and lapels".

ROCHDALE The Crown Oil Arena:

Formerly known by its neighbourhood name, Spotland is now branded The Crown Oil Arena.

Based in Bury, Crown Oil is a "family-owned and family-run business, specialising in supplying oils, alternative fuels, lubricants & environmental services for over 75 years".

SOLIHULL MOORS The ARMCO Arena:

Solihull Moors explain that "Situated in the heart of Birmingham, ARMCO is a collection of 11 consultancy businesses - they specialise in a range of sectors including finance and property.

The ARMCO Group of Companies is composed of dedicated teams driven by highly motivated and passionate individuals, leading them to deliver fully integrated and agile solutions... ARMCO’s motto, ‘Smarter Together’, aligns perfectly with Moors, they are forever looking to create long-term partnerships with those who offer their support".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

'I am working as a coach at Chesterfield with their U18 and U23 set up, but it is great to be here at Tamworth... I was at Notts County for 7 years and loved my time there...

'The Manager left County and took me to Forest Green Rovers with him. It was probably a little too far from home, so I linked up with Chesterfield on loan and then joined them on a full time basis and remained there for 4 seasons... Being there in a full time coaching role, it is a perfect combination to be able to play at Tamworth.

'After leaving Chesterfield I went to Ebbsfleet where we won the National League South and I finished last season at Dorking Wanderers. It is a great set up at Dorking...

'It is very new to me playing part time football, but I can’t wait to get going... For Tamworth to stay in this league will be a massive achievement and will be marked as success. We probably have one of the smallest budgets in the league and are one of perhaps just 2 part time teams'".

Meanwhile at Rochdale comes news of "the signing of goalkeeper Luke McNicholas. The 24-year-old joins on a season-long loan from League One side Wrexham.

He commented... 'The way the gaffer wants to play I think will suit me down the ground... I feel like I’m comfortable on the ball and playing out from the back. I like to make big saves, come for crosses and dominate my box. I think my style of play will suit the team...

Head Coach Jimmy McNulty said... 'He is very highly thought of at Wrexham and comes with great character references. Luke is a good goalkeeper with good shot-stopping ability and distribution, which is why Wrexham paid a fee to sign him'...

Born in County Mayo, Ireland, McNicholas began his career with local side Manulla before joining Sligo Rovers... The stopper spent time on loan at Finn Harps and then Cliftonville, where he made 32 appearances in 2021/22.

He returned to Sligo in the summer of 2022 and became a regular... before joining Wrexham on loan in August".

16 July 2024

TONIGHT'S GAME

Altrincham are again expected to field two separate starting elevens in each half of the game, which will be covered by Radio Robins on Radio Alty.

SQUAD TAKES SHAPE

So, what have we learnt so far about the formation of the squad for the forthcoming Vanarama National League season?

With two pre-season games played, all of Altrincham's declared first-team squad for 2024-25 have so far made an appearance except for Justin Amaluzor, Ollie Crankshaw, Max Haygarth and Isaac Marriott. Max Haygarth was certainly at the Giant Axe last Saturday but did not play.

The four players pictured above, all of whom have been named in Alty's 2024/25 squad, have yet to take to the pitch in the current pre-season. Left to right, they are Justin Amaluzor, Ollie Crankshaw, Max Haygarth and Isaac Marriott.

Of last season's squad, three players were not immediately re-contracted in May but invited to return for pre-season to prove themselves. Since then, two of those players (James Jones and Max Haygarth) have already been rewarded with contracts for next season. But the third such player, Justin Donawa (left), who had an injured interrupted campaign in 2023-24 has yet to make an appearance this pre-season.

Whether he, Ollie Crankshaw, Justin Amaluzor and Isaac Marriott are simply on holiday or carrying injuries is unclear. Both Crankshaw and Marriott ended last season on the injured list, whilst Donawa only started nine National League games last season through injury or international call-ups.

Two young Altrincham players, Sean Lawton and Amaar Hussain, were also invited back for the current pre-season with a view to joining the first-team squad. Neither featured in a league squad last season but did appear in the CSC. Neither has been involved so far this summer.

STAN RILEY'S FUNERAL

Parking for the golf club is at the Holy Angels Church opposite.

For the funeral it will be family flowers only. However donations, if desired, may be made to the Alzheimer's Society and should be sent c/o Kenneth Dewey & Sons, Funeral Directors, 2 Grove Lane, Hale, WA15 8JE.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The former Birmingham City youngster, who made one senior appearance for the Blues, spent part of last season in the National League with Oxford City – having enjoyed previous loan spells in the division with Oldham Athletic and Solihull Moors.

The 23-year-old has made 35 National League appearances in total – alongside another 10 across loan spells in League Two with Harrogate Town and Carlisle United.

Roberts, who can operate at centre-half or left-back, becomes Ian Culverhouse's eighth signing of the summer.

Braintree Town who return for a third spell at national non-League level in August, won their opening summer friendly "with a single goal victory at Vanarama North side Needham Market on Tuesday evening. Iron put out two separate sides in each half and the match provided valuable minutes for Angelo Harrop's new look squad.

Braintree had to wait until the 87th minute for the winner to finally come with Inih Effiong steering the ball home from close range from a Chay Cooper cross. Iron continue their pre-season build-up with a trip to Leiston next Tuesday, 16th July".

Ebbsfleet United, who won their recent pre-season football game at Punjab United, 6-1, confirm that their ground will again give their supporters the chance to watch Super League rugby on the club's pitch.

They announce that "The London Broncos will renew ties with the Kuflink Stadium for a third season when they make their return on Friday, 12th July.

The BetFred Super League rugby side will take on Castleford Tigers under the lights. It’s a third summer of rugby league action at the Fleet!

The Broncos continue to host at least one match at the Kuflink Stadium each season following two very successful years hosting previous matches. Last season, a double-header saw the Broncos host Newcastle Thunder and Toulouse – and this season sees a first ever Super League clash at the Fleet".

Solihull Moors announce that "Richard Stearman has joined the coaching ranks at Solihull Moors, working alongside Andy Whing, Craig Pead and Kevin Poole in the dugout at Damson Park...

Stearman said 'I’m really excited to be taking on this role! I got some great experience last year as a player/coach'...

Prior to his retirement from the sport, the 36-year-old turned out 27 times competitively in yellow & blue whilst also being a rock at the back during our 14-game unbeaten run at the start of the 2023/24 campaign".

Hartlepool United "announce our fifth addition of the summer as Irish midfielder Greg Sloggett has penned terms at Victoria Park.

The 28-year-old arrives at Hartlepool having spent the latter portion of last season in League One with Cheltenham Town.

The physical box-to-box midfielder has spent most of his career in his homeland, having come through UCD’s system...

Sloggett stated... 'I’ve had some great years in Ireland but I’m really looking forward to a new challenge. Hartlepool feels like the right fit... The Gaffer wants to play a high-pressing, aggressive game which suits me well...

Pools manager Darren Sarll added 'Greg represents another critical piece in what has been a summer-long pursuit to change our central midfield department... His stature and physical composition also gives the squad some great flexibility; he has previously been used in central defence as well.'”

Traditionally wearers of blue and white stripes, FC Halifax Town will again have an all blue shirt for this coming 2024-25 season.

Again, as last season, it will bear the logo of their sponsors, a bathroom firm, Nuie. Shorts and socks are also blue.

York City "reveal the signing of midfielder Ricky Aguiar on a permanent transfer from EFL League Two side Swindon Town, for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old arrives at the LNER Community Stadium following a near three-year spell down in Wiltshire.

Aguiar broke through into senior football down on the south coast with Worthing under [current York] manager Adam Hinshelwood... The midfielder turned out over 90 times for Worthing... Swindon Town snapped up the midfielder... in 2021.

In his maiden Football League season, Aguiar featured 19 times... Across the 2022/23 season, another 13 appearances in the Football League were added... The midfielder also briefly spent time on loan in the National League with Torquay.

Last season, Aguiar began the season by securing a season-long loan back at Worthing... Swindon activated a clause to recall the midfielder in January 2024".

15 July 2024

NEXT: CHEADLE HEATH NOMADS

On Paul's appointment in June 2023, Andy Gray, Director of Football at Nomads, said, "Paul was undoubtedly the right choice for us and we are excited to have him and his team on board”.

Altrincham FC said on their website that "Paul’s role as Altrincham FC Academy Manager remains in place... Paul’s coaching and person-to-person skills have played an integral part in the Academy’s enviable success story and have been recognised with his appointment as the new manager of North West Counties League club Cheadle Heath Nomads".

The Nomads "have been central to community life in the Cheadle Heath area of Stockport for more than 100 years. They have also helped to launch the careers of some of the game’s famous names, including Everton legend and local boy, Harry Catterick.

The club was formed immediately after World War 1 in 1919... to acquire a piece of land in Cheadle Heath, in order to establish a sports club for local people.

In 1921, this club opened its doors for the very first time with Cheadle Heath Nomads FC at its core... changing to our present claret and blue strip shortly after the Second World War...

Today we remain a trusteeship owning our own land and remaining the community focal point they envisaged more than a century ago".

NEW FACES

There were many unfamiliar faces in the Altrincham first-half line up at Lancaster on Saturday. Above, we see those eleven players before kick-off.

From left to right they were Lewis BAINES (captain), Ethan ROSS, Ben MIDGLEY, Regan GRIFFITHS, Owen GERMAN, Joe NUTTALL, Jake COOPER, Matty KOSYLO, Joe STARBUCK, Damola SOTONA and Lucas WEAVER.

The new faces are pictured below...

They were, from left to right, trialists Ben Midgley, Regan Griffiths, Joe Starbuck and Dammy Sotona together with two of the club's summer signings in Lucas Weaver and Joe Nuttall.

In the second half more new faces appeared in a completely different eleven. They were, as pictured below (left to right), Academy goalkeeper Lewis FALLON, trialist Dequane WILSON-BRAITHWAITE, new signing Tom CRAWFORD and Academy player Afernee DENISE.

For more on the trialists and Academy players, see yesterday's notes which are reproduced below:

• Joe STARBUCK played at right-back and was formerly at Grimsby Town, Sheffield United and Tranmere Rovers.
• Damola SOTONA listed on team sheet as Dammy SOTANA played at left-back, he was formerly with Bury and Trafford. He is aged 24.
• Regan GRIFFITHS, 24, a midfielder who started at Crewe Alexandra and was later at Tranmere Rovers. With former Alty loanee Billy Sass-Davies he was on loan at Boreham Wood last season. Released by the Alex in January 2024, he join Kidderminster Harriers
• Dequane WILSON-BRAITHWAITE played as a centre-back for Alty. He was at Welling Town last season and before that with Enfield Town and as a youngster at Tottenham Hotspur
• Afernee DENISE is a speedy Altrincham Academy winger, deployed on the right at Lancaster.
• Ben MIDGLEY, aged 21, a central midfielder who was at Huddersfield Town
• Lewis FALLON, a goalkeeper, believed to be with Alty's Academy

STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

The match features the two play-off winning sides in which Stuart played, those of 2005 and 2014, playing each other at the J. Davidson Stadium.

Stuart, Alty's record appearance maker of all time, told the Paper "I played until I was 40. At first I missed it because I got injured and I wasn't ready to stop when I did".

An injury at Dover Athletic ended Stuart's career in the 2015/16 season.

The match will not only mark Stuart's achievements but will raise funds for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation. Two of Stuart's team-mates in the 2005 play-offs, Mark Maddox and George Melling both sadly died of Motor Neurone Disease.

Stuart added that "It was always on my mind to do something like this and to generate money for that [charity] will be brilliant.

Admission to the game is only £5 for those over 18, with younger supporters from 5 to 17 years old paying just £2. Under-5s will be admitted free of charge.

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 28-year-old was brought on in the second half against old club Stockport County, and brought in from the cold along with Kurt Willoughby, who last pulled on a Latics shirt on January 6 and ended the season with the Scottish championship at Ayr... With front men James Norwood and Joe Garner currently sidelined... the slate appears to have been wiped clean.

It is up to them if they seize this second chance...

And Mellon said he had seen better attitudes in that regard, having penalised Reid last season for his social media post about training on Christmas Day...

Left back Mark Kitching's first minute goal was enough to beat League Two champions Stockport County, as Latics gave debuts to four of their five summer signings.

Tom Conlon, with the captain's armband and positive pre-season so far, looked like a new signing... while JOSH LUNDSTRAM [was] the only player to complete 90 minutes... [and] played his part in helping to showcase the passing game that manager Mellon is encouraging."

14 July 2024

LANCASTER CITY 1-1 ALTRINCHAM

Alty fielded two separate elevens in each half, kicking off with Ross, Baines, Kosylo and Cooper as the only starters of this game who also played in last year's National League games. New signings Nuttall and Weaver also started, along with four trialists and Academy graduate Owen German making up the remaining numbers.

The second half began with Banks, Eddy and James Jones, Osborne, Linney, Wilson and Newby from last year's league players plus new signing Crawford and three trialist/Academy players.

Alty took an 18th minute lead through a Joe Nuttall header from a left-wing cross.

Above: Joe Nuttall, far right, heads home Altrincham's goal.

The lead was held for just six minutes before a Lancaster trialist equalised with a low shot past Ross.

Alty hit the woodwork twice in the second half but there was to be no more scoring.

The only members of the Alty squad for next season who did not play a part today were Max Haygarth, who was in the stands, Justin Amaluzor, Ollie Crankshaw and Isaac Marriott.

Match report here.

AFTER THE MATCH

"There was a bit of ring rust, which is to be expected, but we've come through injury free...

"I was also pleased with the performance of Afernee Denise (right); he's got a really bright future in the game."

UNFAMILIAR FACES IN ALTY SHIRTS

Right: Trialist right-back Joe Starbuck in Alty's new home shirt for the coming season.

So, who were the ones who had not been in last season's squad?

The line up as shown on the team-sheet was as follows but the numbers have been amended to reflect the actual shirt numbers worn:

FIRST HALF 1. Ethan ROSS, 2. Joe STARBUCK, 3. Dammy SOTANA {i.e. Damola SOTONA], 4. Lewis BAINES (c), 5. Jake COOPER, 17. Owen GERMAN, 7. Matty KOSYLO, 8. Regan GRIFFITHS, 9. Joe NUTTALL, 10. Ben MIDGLEY, 11. Lucas WEAVER.

SECOND HALF 20. Lewis FALLON, 21. Lewis BANKS, 14. Eddy JONES, 15. James JONES, 16. Dequane WILSON-BRAITHWAITE, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 20* George WILSON, 12. Tom CRAWFORD, 18. Alex NEWBY, 22. Afernee DENISE, 19. Regan LINNEY

Those who did not have a squad number last season included three new signings Joe NUTTALL, Lucas WEAVER and Tom CRAWFORD:

The remaining players were...

• Joe STARBUCK played at right-back and was formerly at Grimsby Town, Sheffield United and Tranmere Rovers. He is pictured, right.
• Damola SOTONA listed on team sheet as Dammy SOTANA played at left-back, formerly with Bury and Trafford. Aged 24.
• Regan GRIFFITHS, 24, a midfielder who started at Crewe Alexandra and was later at Tranmere Rovers. With former Alty loanee Billy Sass-Davies he was on loan at Boreham Wood last season. Released by the Alex in January 2024, he join Kidderminster Harriers
• Dequane WILSON-BRAITHWAITE played as a centre-back for Alty. He was at Welling Town last season and before that with Enfield Town and as a youngster at Tottenham Hotspur
• Afernee DENISE is a speedy Altrincham Academy winger, deployed on the right at Lancaster.
• Ben MIDGLEY, aged 21, a central midfielder who was at Huddersfield Town
• Lewis FALLON, a goalkeeper, believed to be with Alty's Academy

ALTY OLD BOYS

CLoser to home he provides highlights of Alty Old Boys in today's pre-season friendlies:

Bromley travelled to Hornchurch, and MARCUS DINANGA featured in their first half lineup. The hosts were a goal up at the break, but the totally changed Bromley side were soon in control afterwards, running out 1-5 winners.

Fleetwood Town led early at St.Mirren but, after the hosts equalised, they made a raft of changes in the 62nd minute. JUNIOR QUITIRNA restored their lead inside 7 minutes and with HARRISON HOLGATE and CALLUM DOLAN also involved they hung on to it until the 87th minute before settling for a 2-2 draw.

KYLE FERGUSON featured in Rochdale's first half XI at Warrington Town, but was on the wrong end of 3 goals. TOM HANNIGAN for the hosts would have been happier with proceedings. The second half was less eventful, and the game ended 3-0.

DAN MOONEY was in Boston United's first half lineup at Spalding Town, where they lost 2-1.

With their game against visitors Nottingham Forest goalless after an hour, Chesterfield brought on RYAN COLCLOUGH and JAMES BERRY, but eventually went down 0-3.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the full 90 minutes as his Oldham Athletic side beat visitors Stockport County 1-0.

13 July 2024

TODAY: LANCASTER CITY

The match will feature the debut of Altrincham's new home kit, replete with the logo of new shirt sponsors, AO. For more on this, see below...

ALTY'S NEW HOME KIT

This season the remainder of the home attire comprises black short and white socks.

The change of sock colour to white is reminiscent of 2021-22 and, earlier, of Lee Sinnott's choice of white socks in 2015-16.

ALTY OLD BOYS

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was in the Peterborough United first-half team in baking heat. There was no score at the break The second-half team of opponents, AFC Wimbledon, included ALISTAIR SMITH, and the Lincoln City loanee scored the only goal of the game in the 51st minute.

Elsewhere, King's Lynn Town, with JONNY MARGETTS (left) in their line-up, fell to a 2-0 defeat at Mildenhall Town, who won the Eastern Counties League last season, and will play this term in the Isthmian League North".

NATIONAL LEAGUE STADIUM SPONSORS

DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE Chigwell Construction Stadium:

Historically known as Victoria Road, Dagenham & Redbridge explain that "Chigwell Construction became stadium sponsors in September 2015.

212 of their 287 staff reside in the borough of Barking and Dagenham, with the firm priding themselves on strong links within the local community.

Long-term supporters of the Daggers, Chigwell Construction have seen substantial growth over the past five years and work in almost every single London Borough.

The construction company actively support local labour, local business and are focused on Corporate Social Responsibility".

EASTLEIGH Silverlake Stadium:

Eastleigh's ground is sponsored by Silverlake who are a firm of "automotive recyclers" based in Shedfield, Hampshire. Amongst other things they will buy any car and sell recycled parts, as well as trading in new and used tyres.

EBBSFLEET UNITED Kuflink Stadium:

The Fleet's sponsors are Kuflink, based in Gravesend, who offer "peer to peer lending" services. They are "authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority" but advise customers at the top of their webpage "Don't invest unless you're prepared to lose money. This is high-risk investment. You may not be able to access your money easily and are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The midfielder departs after a 20-month spell in Blyth, initially joining.. from South Shields in November 2022...

McGowan featured 76 times for the Spartans across two campaigns". AFC Fylde can confirm that Danny Philliskirk has left the Football Club by mutual consent.

Attacking midfielder Philliskirk has been at the Coasters for the last six-years after signing in July 2018.

In total, Danny made over 200 AFC Fylde appearances in all competitions...

AFC Fylde Head Coach Chris Beech said... 'Dan had an invitation to come across to the dark side of “Coaching” but on reflection, Dan wants to continue playing for as long as possible. Therefore, with our team evolving, the best fit for him was to move on with our best wishes.'”

Amongst the players leaving promoted Braintree Town this summer are Freddie Sears, Jayden Smith and Leon Davies.

Peterborough Sports report that "The club are delighted to announce the signing of exciting striker, Michael Gyasi (pictured below) for the 2024/25 season.

A great addition to our squad".

The former Alty loanee was previously at Boston United.

Footnote: Left-winger Gyasi joined Alty in January 2023 on a season-long loan from Chesterfield...

He made his debut against Boreham Wood on 28 January 2023.

Michael made just two starts and two further appearances from the bench for Altrincham and was an unused sub in a fifth matchday squad. In total, his playing time added up to less than the equivalent to two full ninety-minute games.

On his premature return to Chesterfield, which was announced on twitter on 18 March 2023, The Spireites immediately sent him out on another loan, to Gloucester City.

12 July 2024

NEXT: LANCASTER CITY

SPRUCE UP THE STADIUM

We'd love for as many volunteers as possible to head to the ground from 9am on Saturday, July 20th, as we gear up for our friendly with Salford City on Tuesday, July 23rd.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided and the start time is set so anyone wishing to attend our friendly at Warrington Town in the afternoon will be able to do so, although we will be continuing with the ground work through to 3pm, for those who want to join us later on in the day.

Anyone interested in lending a hand can confirm attendance by emailing here".

ALTY OLD BOYS

He reports today that "While Altrincham's pre-season continues with relatively gentle outings to Lancaster City and Cheadle Heath Nomads over the next few days, three former Robins were playing in European competition on Thursday evening, as the Europa Conference League got under way

SAM ROSCOE was at the heart of the Linfield defence, as the Belfast club lost their first leg 2-0 in Iceland against Stjarnan.

Connah's Quay Nomads, captained by JOHN DISNEY (left), had a more productive trip, winning 0-1 in Ljubljana against the Slovenian club Bravo.

Bala Town were "at home" against Paide of Estonia, but the game was played at Park Hall, the home of TNS, near Oswestry across the English border. Although they notched a 95th minute penalty, former Robins youth team keeper JOEL TORRANCE, a summer signing from Salford City, had already been beaten twice.

LUKE WALL is no longer at Bala, having moved to Runcorn Linnets.

In a friendly match, Chester, with MITCH HANCOX starting, and. TOM PEERS on the bench, went down 0-3 at home to what was effectively a Stoke City second string".

Phil also advises that Matlock Town report that "Gladiators captain JOHN JOHNSTON has left the club after announcing he is unable to commit to Matlock Town for the coming season.

Increased work commitments for Johnston and his partner mean that he will be finding a club closer to his North Staffordshire home and he is expected to join NW Counties League outfit Irlam.

Johnston (right) was Matlock's top scorer (discounting JONATHAN MARGETTS'S goals) and fans' player of the season last year, a hugely popular figure at the Proctor Cars Stadium who as captain, led by example.

Johnston joined the Gladiators from Guiseley in September 2022...

He said 'Unfortunately since agreeing to sign, work commitments for me and Charl have changed and with having two small kids I've been unable to train for the past few weeks. I've made the decision it's not right to coommit.

I'll be unable to travel to training going forward. The club and me have tried everything possible to make it work but it's just not going to work and it wouldn't be right to half commit to something...

He added 'For now I'll be going back and playing local football for a season...

'I can't thank you enough for the last two seasons. Me and my family have loved every minute of it. Being made club captain will always be a privilege for me.'" Matlock boss Nicky Law... said, 'I had a call from him... stating that... he'd be unable to commit to us because of the travelling from his home in Stoke to training and to games'"

NATIONAL LEAGUE STADIUM SPONSORS

ALTRINCHAM J. Davidson Stadium:

J. Davidson Scrap Metal Processors explain that they are "Based in Altrincham, Cheshire; J Davidson are one of the North West’s largest & longest established scrap metal dealers, servicing industrial, commercial, & the general public sectors.

Established in 1970 in Broadheath by the late Jack Davidson, the company has grown and developed over the years and now operates from a new 2 acre state of the art, purpose built scrap metal processing site in Altrincham, Cheshire.

The site is now managed by Jack’s son Jamie with the help of his two sons Luke and Lee

Our core business is the recycling of all types of metal products arising from, end of life vehicles, industrial and construction demolition or general commercial and domestic metal waste. We recycle around 40,000 tonnes of metal each year using the most up-to-date equipment available to the Scrap Metal Processing Industry".

ALDERSHOT TOWN EBB Stadium:

The Shots play at the EBB Stadium, which was historically called the Recreation Ground. EBB stands for Elliott Baxter & Company Ltd.

The EBB Group was formed in 1922. This family-owned, local company is now into its fourth generation of Elliott ownership and management. The UK and Ireland’s leading independent paper and board supplier, their aim is to combine service excellence with a people friendly approach, setting the standard for best practice in their industry. They are comprised of three divisions stocking and supplying paper, board and office products across the UK and Ireland from eleven state-of-the-art distributions depots using their own fleet of vehicles.

EBB is proud to have sponsored Aldershot Town FC as both Stadium Sponsor and as a Shirt Sponsor for many years".

BOSTON UNITED The Jakemans Community Stadium:

The Pilgrims' stadium sponsor, Jakemans, is a local company which, as its website tells us, "specialise in quality menthol-based confectionery. Established in 1907 in Boston, England where we remain to this day.

Thanks to our dedication to using quality natural ingredients, we joined the Lanes Health family in 2007. Lanes Health are leaders in providing alternative natural remedies to many common ailments.

We think the reason for our success is simple: we use the finest ingredients to create a great taste and a product that really works".

BRAINTREE TOWN Rare Breeds Meat Co Stadium:

Whilst one club returning to the National League in 2024 is Forest Green Rovers, who are well known for their vegan stance, another team, arriving at this level from the opposite direction, is Braintree Town whose stadium sponsor is a champion of ethically produced meat.

Based in Coggeshall, near Colchester, and established in 2005, the Rare Breeds Meat Company tells us that it "is owned and run by father and son Howard and George Blackwell who wanted to see the very best meat from rare and traditional breeds back on the consumers' table.

'We fervently believe in the quality of the meat produced from these animals that have been reared in totally free range environments and fed only on natural foods' say Howard & George Blackwell"

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The former Ireland U21 international [has] played in 34 matches in all competitions for the Cards since rejoining ahead of the 2022/23 season – finding the back of the net 15 times.

Under the terms of the Loan Agreement, Grego-Cox will not play against Woking in any competitive fixture during his loan".

As with Alty's signing of Joe Nuttall, season-long loans between clubs in the Vanarama National League seem to be becoming a regular occurrence.

CO-CHAIRMAN BILL LOOKS FORWARD

There is so much to look forward to in the coming campaign... Yes, pick out your favourites, but do make sure you get your tickets. Season Tickets are still on sale and are heading, once again for a new record for this season. And tickets for individual games will be going on sale over the coming days. And watch out for the ten-match ticket heading our way soon.

Last season saw us attract an average of 2,340 to The J. Davidson Stadium in league games, a new National League record for the club. And your support made a huge difference for us - Alty notched 14 wins...

Get your Season Tickets and Matchday tickets and get ready to raise the roof once again!"

WOKING AGAIN ON OPENING DAY

Above: Alty go to their supporters at the end of the game in 2008.

Goals at the end of each half secured the three points for Altrincham on that occasion. Alty took the lead after 45 minutes when Dale Johnson's shot was beaten out by the Woking keeper, Worner, only for Alex Meechan to hook the rebound into the net. Meechan was one of six debutants in Alty's starting line-up and two more came on from the bench.

In the second half Woking made a double switch and attacked Alty for sustained periods before levelling through Ledgister (66 mins) but, in the first of the three added minutes at the end of the game, Chris Lane found Colin Little in the Woking box. He expertly jinked past Tom Hutchinson before shooting the ball past Worner.

Alty's six debutants in their starting line-up were Doughty, McGregor, Street, Denham, Johnson and Meechan, with Coburn, Lane, Young, Lawton and Little the only survivors from the previous season. Three more of that summer's signings (Ralph, Danylyk and Elam) were on the bench.

NEXT: LANCASTER CITY

In the game last summer it was The Dolly Blues who emerged with a 1-0 victory, the goal ironically being scored by ex-Robin Aaron Bennett in the 28th minute.

Alty fielded a new starting eleven after the break and the new eleven showed a marked improvement after the interval but could not break down a solid home defence.

Of the 22 Altrincham players deployed for this match, just eight had been on the club's books in 2022-23 season. Four trialists were given opportunities.

They included left-back Sean Lawton, who was previously on the books of Crewe Alexandra. Another Robins trialist was right-back Kwame Boateng had also been an Altrincham trialist in the previous summer.

Second-half trialist centre-back Mark Ellis had been released by Barrow over that summer, whilst Kelan Swales was previously at Frickley Athletic.

ALTRINCHAM First Half: 20. Matt Gould; Lewis Banks, Jake Cooper, Sam Roscoe, Sean Lawton (trialist); 4. Joey Jones (c), Elliot Osborne; Justin Amaluzor, Matty Kosylo, Loui Williams; Dior Angus.

Second Half: Ollie Byrne, Kwame Boateng (trialist), Joel Bailey (academy), Mark Ellis (trialist), Eddy Jones; Owen German, Isaac Marriott (c); Tom Jones, George Wilson, Kelan Swales (trialist), Regan Linney.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Fleet have signed five new faces and kept 13 of the squad that retained their National League status last season...

Searle has already stated he wants to work with a smaller squad than the one he inherited when he took charge in February...

'We’re not desperate,' stated Searle... 'We don’t need anybody... We’re in a fortunate position that we can go and get the ones that we want, as opposed to just panicking and thinking we need to get some bodies in. Obviously, we’ve got a few lads [on trial] that will feature on Thursday [against Punjab United]...

Searle added... 'I’d say it’s a buyers’ market at the minute. At the start we’re chasing agents, players or clubs about availability of certain individuals and now it’s the opposite. We’ve got a depth chart of probably eight to 10 players per position that are available if we wanted to go and get them. I understand they’re available to everybody as they’re getting to the stage where they need a job but in the same respect we’re not going to rush, there’s no need to rush'...

The Fleet will also appoint a new first-team coach to replace Chris Solly, who departed to rejoin his former club Charlton recently, along with a goalkeeping coach".

On the same day as Searle spoke, Ebbsfleet United "added Wes Fonguck to the ranks for 2024/25 as the 26-year-old central midfielder makes the move across the Thames after leaving Southend United...

He was scouted by Barnet and joined their youth academy in 2014... After loan spells with Hendon and Hampton & Richmond, he broke into the Barnet first-team with the club in League Two.

Fonguck made more than 150 appearances in his time at The Hive... He switched the Bees for the Blues in the summer of 2022, signing for Southend United. Across two seasons with Kevin Maher’s side, he played 73 games".

Ebbsfleet United also reported that "Attacking pacy wide man Jephte Tanga is the second new face announced today as the Fleet can confirm the former Leyton Orient youngster’s signature.

The sought-after 20-year-old... spent half a season each with Welling United and Maidstone United – all but ever-present for both clubs, playing 48 games in all competitions...

The versatile Tanga... is usually deployed wide. He came through Orient’s youth ranks".

Relegated Forest Green Rovers "confirm that Amadou Bakayoko has left the club.

The 28-year-old joined the club in January 2023 and made 19 appearances.

He then spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Dundee FC in Scotland".

Solihull Moors "confirm the season-long loan signing of James Gale from Mansfield Town...

The 22-year-old recently signed a new two-year deal with the Stags following their promotion to Sky Bet League One...

The forward was at Derby County’s academy... which subsequently led to his move to Mansfield in 2021".

Also in action and using a large cast off players were Boston United who report that "Sam Osborne scored the only goal of the game as Boston United kicked off their pre-season preparations with victory on Tuesday evening... over Boston Town - in a match where United fielded 22 different players.

United were kept largely at bay by excellent goalkeeping from Town stopper Travis Portas, with DAN MOONEY and Frankie Maguire both striking the woodwork in the second half too.

United (first half): Cameron Gregory, Cameron Green, Michael Bostwick, Keaton Ward, Martin Woods, Adam Marriott, Tony Weston, Jacob Scott, Ed Daffern, Trialist A, Trialist B.

United (second half): Jake Lovelace, Tom Leak, Jacob Hazel, Dan Mooney, Jordan Richards, Sam Osborne, Frankie Maguire, Zak Mills, Dylan Hill, Ellis Perry-Burdett, Trialist A (Oliver Wilson 62)".

Barnet tell us that "First-half goals from Anthony Hartigan, Finley Wilkinson, and Rhys Browne secured an opening pre-season victory against Hitchin Town at Top Field...

Ex-Bees James Callan was called into action in the Hitchin goal with three big saves to keep the score level in the space of 10 minutes.

The Bees took the lead after 34 minutes when Anthony Hartigan’s free-kick slipped through the hands of the keeper and fell into the back of the net.

Just four minutes later, Barnet doubled the lead after... Finley Wilkinson... curled his strike into the bottom corner...

Rhys Browne added a third goal for The Bees".

HT: Hitchin Town 1-3 Barnet FC

11 changes were made at the break, with the likes of Nicke Kabamba, Zak Brunt, and Jerome Okimo coming on.

The second half saw very few chances... FT: Hitchin Town 1-3 Barnet FC

Barnet FC First-Half XI: Gillmore, Oluwo, Grimwood, Kenlock, Tavares, Hartigan, Clifford, Trialist, Wilkinson, Matejko, Browne

Barnet FC Second-Half XI: Hayes, Kizzi, Rye, Okimo, Cropper, Shelton, Blower, Stead, Brunt, Kabamba".

ALTY KICK OFF AGAINST WOKING

The Christmas season sees FC Halifax Town visit Alty on Boxing Day with New Year's Day involving a trip to Rochdale.

There are eight evening matches. They are away at Maidenhead United, Barnet, Hartlepool United and York City, with four home matches under the floodlights against Dagenham & Redbridge, Hartlepool United, York City and Maidenhead United.

During the season there are seven instances of two consecutive away trips and six cases of two home fixtures in succession.

The full list of league fixtures is HERE.

FIXTURES OUT TODAY

Eight of the previous nine first fixtures of the season have been at home and Altrincham have failed to win any of them!

In fact, despite 12 of their last 18 first-day games having been at home, they last won a home fixture on the opening day 18 years ago in 2006, winning 2-1 against Stevenage!

Whilst the home record on opening day is dreadful, away from home, perversely, Alty have won 50% of their opening day fixtures in the same period.

The overall record is:

• Home:P12 W1 D6 L5
• Away: P6 W3 D0 L3
• All: P18 W4 D6 L8

The details are as follow:

• 5.8.23 H DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE 3pm 1-1 att.1,779 DRAW
• 6.8.22 H MAIDSTONE UNITED 3pm 1-1 1,717 DRAW
• 21.8.21 A Torquay United 3pm 3-1 2,599 WIN
• 3.10.20 H WEYMOUTH 3pm 0-0 BCD DRAW
• 3.8.19 H YORK CITY 3pm 1-3 1,879 LOSS
• 4.8.18 H LEAMINGTON 3pm 2-2 1,047 DRAW
• 12.8.17 H STAFFORD RANGERS 3pm 0-3 811 LOSS
• 6.8.16 H DARLINGTON FC 1883 3pm 2-2 1,506 DRAW
• 8.8.15 H FOREST GREEN ROVERS 3pm 0-1 975 LOSS
• 9.8.14 A Aldershot Town 3pm 1-3 1,964 LOSS
• 17.8.13 A Worcester City 3pm 3-1 714 WIN
• 18.8.12 H BRACKLEY TOWN 3pm 1-4 716 LOSS
• 13.8.11 A Harrogate Town 3pm 2-3 587 LOSS
• 14.8.10 A Luton Town 3pm 1-2 6,665 LOSS
• 8.8.09 H EBBSFLEET UNITED 3pm 1-1 914 DRAW
• 9.8.08 A Woking 3pm 2-1 1,645 WIN
• 11.8.07 H EXETER CITY 3pm 1-4 1,318 LOSS
• 12.8.06 H STEVENAGE BOROUGH 3pm 2-1 1,035 WIN

JAMES RE-SIGNS FOR ALTY

Following an earlier announcement that one of the five, Max Haygarth, has already been offered a contract comes news that another of the five, "James Jones (right) has marked his welcome return to full fitness by signing a new contract at The J.Davidson Stadium".

Altrincham FC press and media officer John Edwards goes on to say that over the summer, Jones "soon set about proving he had recovered fully from the shoulder problem that required surgery as he threw himself into pre-season training with his Robins team-mates

After taking part in last Saturday's pre-season game at Colne, Jones said, 'I'm really pleased to have signed a new contract. I love playing for Alty, and it was great to get some minutes under my belt against Colne'...

Alty boss Phil said... 'His previous season was disappointing for him through injuries, but he's come back more determined than ever and he's in the best condition I've seen him in..

James raise[s] standards both on and off the pitch and it was imperative we were able to retain a player of his experience and affinity with the football club'".

Footnote: As well as James, the other four invited to prove themselves over the summer were Haygarth, Justin Donawa, and youngsters Amaar Hussain and Sean Lawton.

As for James Jones, now 27, he rejoined Alty in July 2022 after he had rejected a contract renewal at Barrow, who he had joined from Alty in summer 2020.

But he had originally arrived at Moss Lane in July 2017, making his competitive debut on 23 August 2017.

Last season, an injury necessitated a shoulder operation in the Christmas period of 2023 and he missed the rest of the season.

To date he has made 166(+10) appearances and has scored 17 goals. He is thus the club's senior professional.

ALTY OLD BOYS

The 28-year-old has enjoyed an upward trajectory in recent years after his career began in the youth setup at Crewe Alexandra. Spells with Leek Town, Nantwich Town and Altrincham all followed before Mullarkey made the jump into the EFL to join Rochdale.

Toby made over 100 appearances for Altrincham before he joined the Dale. His stint at the Crown Oil Arena didn’t last long as the defender soon found himself at Grimsby, where he impressed during the 2023/24 season".

The player stated "It is another step up for me in my career, so I am delighted to get the deal done".

The BBC tells us that "AFC Wimbledon have signed midfielder ALISTAIR SMITH on a season-long loan from Lincoln City.

The 25-year-old joined Lincoln from Sutton at the start of last season, making 32 appearances... before joining Colchester United on loan in January.

Smith scored twice in his 15 appearances in League Two for the U's.

'He’s a player that we’ve been looking at for a long time,' Wimbledon manager Jonnie Jackson told the club website.

'He’s an energetic attacking midfielder, box to box, dynamic and he’s very experienced at this level'".

Off the field, former Altrincham FC Club Secretary PAUL CARTER is now performing the same role at AFC Telford United.

From Phil Jordan we learn that over last weekend CALLUM DOLAN scored the clincher as Fleetwood won their friendly at Bamber Bridge 0-2.

In Scotland, MILES WELCH-HAYES was not in a Livingston squad which was packed with trialists for their friendly at Motherwell.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Martin has taken up a role in the goalkeeping department...

Alongside his position as goalkeeper coach to Collin Andeng Ndi, the former MK Dons and West Ham shot-stopper also featured nine times between the sticks for us last season.

Head Coach Kevin Maher said... 'He’s going to be tough to replace'"

Solihull Moors "confirm the permanent signing of Bradley Stevenson... from Billericay Town.

Stevenson recorded 46 goal involvements as his former side just missed out on the play-offs. The 25-year-old netted 26 times whist setting up his teammates a further 20 times...

The attack minded midfielder picked up the Manager's Player of the Season award alongside the Golden Boot... Stevenson started his career at Gillingham... Since then, the midfielder has played for the likes of Chelmsford City and Welling United in the Vanarama National League South before find form at Billericay...

Stevenson said... 'First and foremost, I’m an attacking midfielder. I like to chip in with both goals and assists as much as I can. I’m someone that’s also a good passer of the ball as well.” “The direction that the Club is going in, with some of the signings that the Club have made, hopefully we can push on and get that promotion this season'".

FC Halifax Town "announce the signing of 6’5″ centre back Adam Alimi-Adetoro, following his release from Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, on a two-year deal.

From the Republic of Ireland, Adetoro came through the Leixlip United academy before making the switch to Athlone Town... In the Summer of 2022... the centre back made the move to England with Sheffield Wednesday Under 21s... Adetoro made his first senior appearance in February 2023 ... in the FA Cup 4th round".

Rochdale "announce the loan signing of Aaron Henry.

The midfielder joins from Charlton Athletic until the end of the season. Henry... has League One experience with The Addicks...

[He sadi], 'It was a no-brainer really to come here... I think it will be a perfect fit for me. I like to be in a team that plays the right way, the way I think it should be played'...

Henry joined Charlton at the age of ten, rising through their Academy ranks before making his first team debut in January 2020, aged just 16. He spent the second half of the 2021/22 campaign at Wealdstone, making 20 National League appearances and scoring twice.

The now 20-year-old made 14 League One appearances for Charlton the following season... Last season saw Henry make 13 League Two appearances on loan at eventual promotion winners Crawley Town, before rejoining Wealdstone for the second half of their National League campaign, playing 17 times"

9 July 2024

SATURDAY'S OPPONENTS: LANCASTER CITY

Their manager is the experienced Chris Willcock who was appointed in January 2024. As a player he started out in Trafford at Flixton and reportedly played at Altrincham (TBC) as well as Warrington Town, Kendal Town, Leigh RMI, Mossley and Ramsbottom.

His managerial career started as player-manager at Salford City in 2005, then he became manager at Winsford United from 2006-08. After a spells at Mossley and Woodley Sports, he returned to Winsford in 2010 and then to Woodley later that year.

Next came a stint across the Pennines at Stocksbridge Park Steels followed by an appointment at Glossop North End, a team he got to Wembley in the FA Vase in 2015. A return to Yorkshire saw him manage Shaw Lane before managing Ramsbottom United.

He took Workington to second place in NPL West in 2021 but the Reds lost out in the play-offs.

In 2022-23 season he managed Stalybridge Celtic, his local club, but that ended in the only relegation on his CV.

Lancaster City's first summer recruit was "Marcus Cusani. The forward joins after departing fellow Northern Premier League Premier Division side Ashton United.

Above: The characterful Giant Axe has distractions from the football which include the nearby West Coast railway line and the Priory Church of Saint Mary. Here we see Alty in action there in 2018.

Cusani, 29, arrives at The Giant Axe following a season with the Robins, for whom he made 37 appearances and scored four goals.

Previous to that, he had been at Atherton Collieries for three seasons....

Our new man has also had spells at Warrington Town and Ashton Athletic earlier in his career.

Cusani is a versatile forward and can be deployed centrally or on the wings.

He told LCFC Media... 'As an outsider I’ve always been impressed with the togetherness they have and this has no doubt contributed to consistent top half finishes@'.

Then Lancaster City announced that "Chris Willcock’s second summer signing brings a wealth of experience to the Giant Axe.

One of the key areas for Chris Willcock to address during the offseason was experience and leadership, he certainly has secured that in the form of 38-year-old Chris Dagnall.

Having made over 600 senior appearances and scoring over 150 goals since starting his career at Tranmere Rovers in 2003, Chris is exactly the type of player Dolly Blues fans will enjoy seeing".

Dagnall counts Tranmere Rovers, Scunthorpe United (then) in the Championship... He returned to the Championship with Barnsley...

In 2013, he joined Leyton Orient... before a trip abroad to Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League. A brief spell north of the border at Hibernian followed where Chris won the 2015/16 Scottish Cup, the Hibees overcoming Rangers at Hampden Park...

He returned to England and scored 21 goals for Crewe before spells with Bury and Yeovil Town, with a return to Tranmere coming in 2018. After departing Yeovil in the summer of 2021, he helped Hanley Town win the 2021/22 Midland League... and then spent time with Stalybridge Celtic in the NPL.

Traditionally a forward during his career, he will fulfil a midfield role at the Giant Axe as Chris Willcock builds a strong spine to his side with Dagnall expected to [play]... in the centre of the park".

Footnote: Dagnall faced Alty as long ago as 2016 when he played for Crewe Alexandra in a pre-season game at Moss Lane which ended one apiece.

More recently, as a late substitute, he headed home the second goal in Yeovil Town's 2-0 win over Alty in February 2021, a match played behind closed doors.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Meanwhile, the newcomers have selected their numbers: Ollie Wright will wear number 1, Jordan Thomas takes number 2, Finn Cousin-Dawson is number 5, Aaron Jarvis chooses number 9, Brett McGavin goes with number 14, Matt Gould takes number 22, and Harvey Greenslade is number 27.

A significant change this season is the return of the number 4 jersey, previously worn by Lee Collins, who sadly passed away in 2021. Morgan Williams, a former teammate of Collins, wanted to wear the number as a tribute after surpassing his 100-appearance milestone for the Glovers".

Southend United "are delighted to announce the signing of 26-year-old striker Josh Walker on a two-year deal.

Walker, who joins for an undisclosed fee, has signed from League One side Burton Albion, where he made 35 appearances, scoring three goals for the Brewers.

Walker has plenty of experience in the National League, making a total of 106 National League appearances for clubs including Dagenham & Redbridge and Barnet... The 5ft 9 frontman spent the early stages of his career playing for Fulham and Tottenham’s youth teams before joining Isthmian League side Hendon... [He is] Kevin Maher’s first summer signing".

Walker said "I don’t mind going direct, but I like the ball on the floor. I like running in behind, I don’t mind coming to feet, but I’m more of an off-the-shoulder player making runs in behind".

Manager Kevin Maher said, “We all know Josh very well from his time at Dagenham and before with Barnet. He got a great move into League One that hasn’t quite worked out for whatever reason...

"We’ve been short of players for a while and it’s been frustrating watching everyone else bring players in".

The player added "I want to bring some leadership qualities from the back. I want to put my mark on the team" whilst "Head Coach Kevin Maher added 'He did ever so well for us on loan in the period he was with us, so he was someone I kept in touch with... He’s gone and played over 30 games for Accrington, which will do him the world of good'".

Also at Roots Hall, Southend United "confirm the permanent signing of centre-back Joe Gubbins. Gubbins returns to Roots Hall as a free agent after being released from Championship side Queens Park Rangers. He has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with Blues...

Gubbins joined QPR in 2017. He has previously featured in the National League with Aldershot, and was also on loan with Blues in the 2021/22 season. He was on the books of QPR for four years...

Gubbins featured 37 times in League Two last season for Accrington Stanley... The 22-year-old... helped guide the club to 10 clean sheets in the league".

Extra Time confirms that "Harrogate Town have announced the signing of right back Zico Asare from Maidenhead United...

The 23-year-old defender joins on a permanent deal following an impressive 2023/24 season...

Starting his career at Fulham... before moving to Oxford City in 2021. He joined Maidenhead in 2022, where his performances caught the attention of Harrogate Town...

Asare himself expressed enthusiasm about joining Harrogate Town.... 'I like playing for possession-based teams who enjoy being in control of the ball and that are solid defensively.'"

Eastleigh "announce the signing of Richard Brindley following his departure from Notts County!

31-year-old Brindley has been with Notts County since 2019 and was part of their side that earned promotion to the football league... The right back made 147 appearances.

Norwich born Brindley began his career playing for Norwich City’s academy... He moved to Chelmsford City in 2012... before moving to Chesterfield... Following a brief stint with the Derbyshire club, Brindley made another move. This time, to Rotherham United where he spent two years... [and] Brindley made appearances in the Championship as well as League One.

After a successful loan spell at Colchester United during the 2014/15 season, Brindley made a permanent move to the club... He then spent a season at Barnet, followed by a season with Bromley before moving to Notts County".

LANCASTER, NEXT TIME AND LAST TIME

The last time that the clubs met in the league was on 7 April 2018 in an Evostik Premier match which Alty won 2-1 as they extended their lead to eight points at the top of the table. But after cruising to an early 2-0 lead, Lancaster got a goal back and kept the game tight till the end.

Alty took a tenth minute lead when Jordan Hulme's shot was fumbled over the line by former Alty goalkeeper Wynne, who was later named Man of the Match. Seven minutes later it was 2-0 as Hannigan powered a header into the net from Johnston's corner.

Above: Tom Hannigan nets the second goal, (his legs can just be seen, far right!), as he wheels away after heading home.

However the Dolly Blues pulled back a goal in the 24th minute when Simpson headed home an Akrigg cross from the right after a corner. Hulme missed a sitter before half-time and Altrincham were unable to convert a lot of second half pressure into a third goal.

Just 313 spectators attended.

James Jones is the only Altrincham player who took part in the game who could possibly take to the field at The Giant Axe in 2024.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Shaun DENSMORE, 3. Andrew WHITE, 4. Tom HANNIGAN, 5. James JONES, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. Max HARROP, 11. Josh HANCOCK. Subs: 12. Rhain DAVIS, 14. Chris MERRIE, 16.Theo BAILEY-JONES, 20. Andrew JONES, 15. Sam HEATHCOTE

COLNE REPORT

"In a narrow game, Trialist 8 was the match winner, finding the net off an assist from Trialist 12, who twisted and turned to find the goal-scorer just after the break.

The first half saw Phil Parkinson’s side mostly made up of trialists...

In the first 45 minutes, Altrincham looked to play out of the back and effectively use the press. Throughout the half, Owen German impressed with a range of passes and dribbles...

Altrincham’s goal came in the 49th minute from Trialist 8 after a crucial contribution from Trialist 12. He would continue to be a threat as he hit the post from a direct dribble to break the opposition's defence...

A penalty would be given against the run of play. However, it would be saved by Trialist 20, with a rebound also prevented.

Youngsters Joel Bailey, Max Whittle, Jack Chandler, Vlad Shtyhlian & Afernee Denise would eventually enter the frame just after the hour mark.

First year pro Bailey was assured at the back, Denise looked a threat down the left, Chandler performed confidently off the right wing, Shtyhlian held the ball up well and proved a handful for Colne's defenders and Whittle provided a creative option with his turns to unlock the home defence".

ALTY OLD BOYS

On Monday his Timperley side lost by 63 runs to Alderley Edge. Ollie has been making a name for himself with some big hitting at the crease but, sadly on this occasion, Alty's former number one had a less welcome number one to his name in the Timperley innings being dismissed for a single.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"The Coasters were in front at half-time through a late trialist goal in the first-half, however Chris Dagnall levelled seven minutes after the interval.

Fylde restored their advantage through Nick Haughton’s free-kick on the hour, and it proved decisive at The Giant Axe.

Head Coach Chris Beech named two line-ups for each half as the Coasters returned to action.

There were also starts for Emeka Obi, Adam Long, Bryce Hosannah, Taelor O’Kane, Jack Morris and Danny Ormerod.

New signing Corey Whelan captained Beech’s first-half team whilst Harry Davis took the armband for the second-half...

The second-half saw Davis, Owen Evans, Theo Richardson, Ethan Mitchell, Jessie Halewood, Joe Riley, and Charlie Jolley enter the action as Beech named 10 changes".

7 July 2024

COLNE 0-1 ALTRINCHAM

James Jones, Altrincham's current leading appearance maker, is proving his fitness to be retained at the club this season, following an injury affected end to the last campaign and he was named as captain today.

Right: James Jones captained the side.

On the bench were five young Alty players in Joel Bailey, Max Whittle, Jack Chandler, Vlad Shtyhlian, and Afernee Denise whilst eight trialists were also in the squad.

Of the above-named five, Joel Bailey, Jack Chandler and Vlad Shtyhlian played in the Cheshire Senior Cup last season. Whittle and Denise are also Academy players at Altrincham.

After a goalless first half, a trialist put Alty ahead soon after the interval. Against his former club, Weaver played the first half-hour of the match before being subbed.

Cole won a penalty just after the hour mark but the trialist keeper saved it and also the ensuing rebound to keep Alty ahead.

All five Academy players got on to the pitch for the final half-hour or so.

Next up is a trip to Lancaster City next Saturday (2pm).

AFTER THE MATCH

Following the game manager Phil Parkinson gave his thoughts...

Left: Owen German.

'It allowed us to have a look at the trialists who've been with us in week one, and you could see the calibre of the player on display. It'll give us a headache going into week two, which you don't necessarily expect to have.

'Lucas Weaver only played a small part today due to illness, but he was desperate to say fair well [farewell] to the Colne faithful who'd shown him fantastic support last season. He came through his 30 minutes unscathed and James Jones was another real positive, and it was great to see him come through after a lengthy layoff.

'Our young pros looked really good. Joel Bailey, who would have played longer today but for a little knock, showed his class, and Owen German strolled through the game like a Rolls Royce; I've got really high hopes for him this season.

'As for our academy players - Max, Afernee, JC and Vlad - they look like the best crop of young players we've had, and I feel like I've been able to say that year-on-year. So, I was delighted with the game, delighted with the outcomes and it sets us up nicely for week two'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Cannons scored from another penalty, and, despite conceding late on, held out to win 1-2. They remain 3rd, but pulled level on points with 2nd placed Avondale who surprisingly lost 0-1 at lowly Altona Magic.

The sides meet at Avondale next weekend.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"I would like to congratulate former Maidenhead United player, Max Kilman, on completing his transfer from Wolves to West Ham and wish him every success...

It is no great secret that when we sold Max to Wolves in 2018 a sell on clause was included within the transfer agreement which the club will now benefit from over the coming few years. ..

As you would expect commercial confidentially prohibits me from providing specific details about the sell on clause, however, we were engaged with various parties during the negotiation process for Max’s transfer. We reached a mutually agreeable position that all parties are satisfied with and importantly it is in the best interest of the club.

Ultimately this is a fantastic outcome for club which will benefit from one of the largest, if not the largest, transfer payments an English non-league club has ever received, which is something to celebrate. This is testament to the hard work of Alan Devonshire and his coaching team past and present, as well our Academy programme which every year is developing players which move into our first team squad".

Earlier, Football in Berkshire reported that "The fee Wolverhampton Wanderers will receive for their captain is reportedly £40 million...

Kilman made his York Road debut and first senior appearance in 2017/18... He went on to make 39 appearances in black and white before making the move to Wolves. Aged 21, Kilman signed... for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2018, reported to be around £40,000.

It is widely understood Maidenhead have a sell on clause for Kilman which, depending on who you ask could be 10-20%... The Magpies could, in a best case scenario, be in line for an £8 million boost".

Likewise, at Woking, The Cards "reveal the Adidas home shirt for the 2024/25 season.

The shirt features the famous red and white halves, with black trimmings, shorts and socks. The back of the shirt is predominantly white".

The club's main shirt sponsor is "Boz's Wholesale & Retail Fruit & Veg".

Yeovil Town "are delighted to unveil the home and away kits for the 2024/25 season.

As the first kit of a new era featuring our new badge (left), we are thrilled to present such a sleek design by Errea.

Sponsored by Bradfords on the front, Bamfords on the sleeve, and Dorset Vehicle Rentals on the back, the Glovers have chosen a green shirt with a subtle glove pattern, which has been teased through our graphics for several months. The away shirt also features a similar glove pattern in the form of a white short.

The reaction from supporters has been overwhelming since the unveiling, especially with the return of Bradfords to our main sponsor".

Following yesterday's news that "Gateshead have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks", from Notts County, The Deck also confirms the "double retainment [sic] of defenders Joe Grayson and Kenton Richardson..

The trio will all continue to strengthen Rob Elliott’s side, even despite the double departure of Ed Francis to Exeter City and Marcus Dinanga to League Two new-boys Bromley yesterday (4th July)...

Tiernan Brooks, he began the 2023/24 campaign on loan with League Of Ireland side Cork City, making four appearances before returning to the Magpies in January... Brooks joined fellow National League side Rochdale for the remainder of the season, making 12 appearances...

Grayson made 28 league appearances for Gateshead... whilst Richardson played 39 times in the National League, also providing two goals....

Since the close season, Gateshead have lost several key players such as Ed Francis, Marcus Dinanga and loanee Dajaune Brown, but have [made]... four new signings".

6 July 2024

PRE-SEASON STARTS

• Colne v Altrincham (NB This is a 1pm kick off)

Altrincham FC reports that "Our opponents Colne FC are gearing up for the start of the North West Counties League Premier Division campaign, which for the Reds begins on Saturday, July 27 against AFC Liverpool.

Their pre-season schedule got underway on Thursday evening with a 3-2 win over West Lancashire League side CMB FC in Lostock."

Alty boss Phil Parkinson added that "For Colne on Saturday the squad will be a mixed bag of trialists we've had in for training this week, alongside some younger players and first teamers."

PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY TICKETS

Our opening home game of the summer sees Salford City visit on Tuesday, July 23rd for a 7:45pm kick-off...

We then round off our summer home schedule on Saturday, August 3rd with a game against Bradford City - kick-off 3pm...

General admission for the friendlies has been set at £12 over-18s and £5 under-18s.

• Tickets for the Salford City game are available here.
• Tickets for the Bradford City game are available here.

*A gentle reminder that season ticket holders no longer receive free entry to friendly games at the J.Davidson Stadium.

We are also offering a hospitality option in the John King Lounge (formerly the Sponsors' Lounge) priced at £30 - including a match ticket, delicious pre-match food, a private cash bar, reserved seating and exclusive post-match player reaction".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Jolley, 23, become Chris Beech’s fourth new permanent addition following Joe Riley, Ethan Mitchell and Corey Whelan, having most recently spent three-and-a-half years at Tranmere Rovers.

Charlie came through the youth system of Wigan Athletic... before going onto feature for Wigan’s first-team... as spending time on loan at Curzon Ashton...

On signing his contract at AFC Fylde, Jolley said... 'I need to play games, and this hopefully is going to be the right time for me...

AFC Fylde Head Coach Beech added... 'He will add high energy to the squad and his style of play suits the type of football we are aiming to achieve'">

Woking have confirmed that Harry Beautyman "the 32-year-old central midfielder, joins after his contract expires at Sutton United.

A Leyton Orient academy product, Beautyman never made an appearance for the club, leaving in 2011 to join Sutton United... After two seasons... Beautyman joined Welling United in the National League... He was subsequently loaned to Peterborough United...

Spells at Northampton Town and Stevenage followed before Beautyman rejoined the U’s in 2017. Seven years at the club saw the midfielder play a key role in Sutton’s promotion to the Football League".

Also at Woking comes news of "the signing of Cian Harries. The 27-year-old central defender joins after his contract expires at Aldershot Town.

A left-sided centre half with a cultured left foot, Harries came through the Coventry City academy... before being snapped up by then-Premier League side Swansea City in 2017. A loan move to Eredivisie side Fortuna Sittard was followed by a permanent move to Bristol Rovers in 2019... Harries made 56 appearances, departing in 2022 to join Swindon Town...

Harries then joined Aldershot last summer, making 48 appearances... Despite being offered new terms, he chose to depart and Michael Doyle is delighted to get his man...

Said Woking Manager Michael Doyle, 'We’ve known him for a long time dating back to our [Doyle and Assistant Manager Ben Turner] time at Coventry'"

In addition Woking also confirm that Timi Odusina, "the 24-year-old defender, joins for an undisclosed fee from Bradford City following a successful loan spell last season.

Odusina came through the ranks at Norwich City and featured on loan for AFC Fylde in 2019... In 2020, Timi made a move to Hartlepool United... and moved on to Mark Hughes’ Bantams in 2022.

He made 19 appearances for the Cards following his arrival in September 2023... Michael Doyle [said] 'At the end of the season, he was a massive part in us staying in the division. I’m pleased we were able to secure a permanent transfer and to have him as one of our own'".

Dagenham & Redbridge "confirm that Christian N’Guessan has become our eighth signing of the summer after the Midfielder agreed a two-year deal.

The 25-year-old is the eighth addition to Ben Strevens’s squad, agreeing a deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.

N'Guessan began his career with Blackpool... On 9 December 2016, he signed for Bamber Bridge on a work experience loan.

In July 2017, he signed for Burnley on a two-year deal with the option of a further year... On 2 January 2020, he signed for EFL League Two side Oldham Athletic on loan for the remainder of the season.

In May 2021, N'Guessan joined National League South side Ebbsfleet United... On 16 June 2023, it was confirmed that he would be leaving Ebbsfleet to join a Football League club.

On 16 June 2023, N'Guessan signed for League Two club Sutton United. He departed the club following relegation at the end of the 2023–24 season".

FC Halifax Town have signed centre-back Will Smith, 25, who left Harrogate Town this summer after five seasons at Wetherby Road.

York Press adds that "Centre-half Smith spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan with York... becoming an integral member of the first-team squad under both Neal Ardley and then Adam Hinshelwood.

Smith made the move to City in late-September from neighbours Harrogate Town, [and] he would go on to make 27 league appearances for the Minstermen...

Injuries did hamper Smith's progress with City...

The Shaymen have lost eight of their first-team players following the 2023/24 season, with centre-backs Tom Wilson, Jamie Stott and Jordan Keane all exiting".

At ">Gateshead have re-signed goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks on a two-year contract.

He made four appearances for the Heed last season, on loan from Notts County, before finishing the season at Rochdale on another loan, his eighth in five years.

Rochdale "announce the signing of Sam Beckwith. The left-sided defender has penned a two-year deal with the club.

Beckwith, who has made nearly 100 National League appearances at the age of just 22, says... 'I spoke to the gaffer about a week ago and as soon as I spoke to him, it felt like the right move for me. He told me where he sees me in the team. He’s been watching me for a while'...

Head Coach Jimmy McNulty commented... 'Sam is a player we identified as being able to help our team immediately, after what was a very impressive season for him last year in the National League, whilst also having the potential to progress to the EFL. His signature was sought after by clubs higher up the pyramid than ourselves and within the division'...

Beckwith joined Luton Town at the age of just seven... He saw a loan spell at Biggleswade Town cut short due to COVID-19... He made his senior debut in 2021 during an EFL Cup first round tie.

Shortly afterwards, he was loaned out to Maidenhead United for the 2021/22 season, who he joined permanently at the end of the campaign.

Last season, he made 43 league appearances... He was named in the Vanarama National League Team of the Season".

5 July 2024

ALTY OLD BOY: DINANGA JOINS BROMLEY

The 27-year-old arrives at Hayes Lane following a hugely successful season for The Heed, boasting an impressive record of 20 goals in 42 league appearances...

The striker began his career at Burton Albion... going out on loan, first to Matlock Town, where he only featured three times, before he hit the ground running at Telford in the 2017/18 campaign, netting 18 goals in 42 games. A short stint at Hartlepool United followed, before the frontman returned permanently to Telford for another two seasons.

Dinanga received his first EFL move in 2020, signing for Stevenage in League Two...

Chesterfield, in the National League, was the next destination for Dinanga’s career, followed by Altrincham in 2021, where he went out on loan to Dartford and Kidderminster... He played 24 times in the National League in the 2022/23 campaign, bagging five goals.

Dinanga put pen to paper for Gateshead in February 2023, playing 68 times and scoring 32 goals across two seasons".

SPONSORS FOR STUART'S TESTIMONIAL

The testimonial match is between two Altrincham teams, comprising players from 2005 against those from 2014, both years when Altrincham won promotion back to the national level of non-League through play-off campaigns in which Stuart played an important role.

Now Altrincham FC has announced that "Jones Contracts have come on board as main sponsors of the event...

Above: Gavin Rathbone's photomontage shows Alty celebrating victory over Eastbourne Borough in the 2005 play-off at Stoke's Britannia Stadium.

The game is a celebration of Stuart's career with the Robins, as well as acting as a fundraiser for Darby Rimmer MND [Motor Neurone Disease] Foundation...

'A big thanks to Jones Contracts for coming on board as the main sponsor for Stuart Coburn’s Testimonial. Anthony approached us to offer their support for the event which we are delighted to accept. This will also assist us raising funds for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation,' said Alty Director Neil Faulkner.

'I have personally worked as a contractor and supplier for Jones Contracts since 1977 and they are a great company to work alongside'

Along with Jones Contracts, the afternoon has also received extra support from club sponsors Robinsons Preservation Ltd and EBS, for which we are extremely grateful.

Tickets for the game are on sale now and cost just £5 [for] over-18s, £2 [for] under-18s and FREE [for]under-5s. Buy them right here.

BIG DAY ON SATURDAY

The match was arranged as part of the deal which brought striker Luke Weaver to Altrincham earlier this summer.

JOE NUTTALL INTERVIEW

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Born in Milwaukee in the USA, Phillips played College football there before joining QPR from FC Barrington in 2017. A regular in the QPR U23 side... the centre-back’s debut in English football came in a loan period with Wycombe Wanderers. He made 11 League One appearances in the Chairboys’ promotion season...

His first link-up with Danny Searle came in a loan move to Aldershot Town...in 2021. Phillips spent the next two years at the EBB Stadium... and he featured more than 70 times in total, scoring four goals.

Phillips reunited with the current Fleet boss again at Waterford in January 2023... He returned to England and played the final three months of last season with Oxford City....

The new signing said... 'I’m an aggressive defender, but composed at the same time and bring some pace too.'”

Confirmation comes from Forest Green Rovers that they have added "Rob Edwards to the coaching staff as a first-team coach.

The 51-year-old had an enjoyable playing career spanning 21 years between 1990-2011... Edwards was also capped four times by his national side Wales.

He had his first taste at first-team management at Tranmere Rovers in 2014 before becoming assistant manager at Cheltenham Town in the same year... Edwards’s most recent job role was as manager of Wales U19s".

And on the playing side, Forest Green Rovers "announce the signing of Adam May on a free transfer.

The 26-year-old made 146 appearances at Cambridge United over four years at the club... May came through the ranks at Portsmouth but spent much of his five years on loan at the likes of Sutton United, Aldershot Town and Swindon Town.

The commanding midfielder moved to the U’s in 2020 on a free transfer... He made 38 league appearances in League One the following season but suffered a long-term injury... May returned to action in September 2023 but found his playing time limited".

There has been plenty of activity at Gateshead which includes the signing on a one-year deal of Fenton John from the Middlesborugh Academy. He is escribed as a "creative midfielder" who "spent three loan spells with... Morpeth Town" last season.

John said, "I saw what Gateshead want to do, and it suits me"

Signing earlier on a two-year deal is Owen Oseni, aged 21, who spent the latter part of last season on loan at Rushall Olympic from Derby County. He was manager Rob Elliot's first signing since his own role was confirmed.

A third signing by The Heed is Jamie Bramwell who joins on a two-year contract after four years at Grimsby Town' Academy, where he made his National League debut in 2022. He latter made three League Two and cup appearances for Grimsby.

Signing number four at the International Stadium is nineteen year-old centre-back from their own Academy.

There has also been an exit from Gateshead as a club at the other end of the country Exeter City "announce the signing of midfielder Ed Francis for an undisclosed fee from National League side Gateshead.

Signing on a two-year deal – with a club option of a third - Ed... linked up with his new side on Thursday...

The 24-year-old was signed by Wolves in January 2019, loaned to Grasshoppers Zurich, then joined League Two side Harrogate Town in the 2020/21 season...

Ed then joined Notts County... He played a total of 53 games in two seasons for the Magpies."

Maidenhead United "announce our fifth signing of the summer with defender Zac Bell putting pen to paper.

The 21-year-old progressed through the Bristol City Academy... Bell has spent the last two campaigns on loan in the National League South playing for Bath City, Yeovil Town and most recently Taunton Town".

From the Midlands we learn that Solihull Moors "confirm the signing of Oliver Tipton from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a permanent deal! The 20-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a two-year deal...

Tipton made his debut in senior football... in the EFL Trophy for Notts County, whilst also playing a number of times in Notts’ return to England’s fourth division...

Upon his arrival, Tipton said... 'I’ve met Stephen (Ward), we had a lot of conversations, it’s gone well... the style of football and it suits me'..

Director of Football, Stephen Ward, added 'Olly is a player we have monitored for quite some time now'".

At Sutton United yesterday it was "A busy day of transfer news... with the signing of 24-year-old centre back Harry Ransom, whose contract at Crawley Town was not renewed at the end of the season.

Harry made over 70 appearances for Eastbourne Borough before being signed by Millwall... as well as having a four month loan spell with Dover Athletic.

He joined Crawley three years ago and spent much of his first season back on loan with Dover before returning to Crawley, where he made over twenty senior appearances last season".

Barnet "announce that midfielder Patrick Matejko has signed his first professional contract with the Club.

Matejko, who just turned 17, put pen to paper and committed himself to Barnet FC, where he will link up with the first team...

Having made two appearances in the National League last season, Matejko impressed the coaching staff...

Matejko said, 'This is a dream come true for me'...

Barnet FC Manager Dean Brennan added... 'As a football club, we seriously believe in young players; it’s a department we want to progress in. Pat has all to tools to become a proper footballer. He has the right attitude, high fitness levels and also the ability to play higher up the pyramid.

'His first priority is to get into our squad week in week out'".

Aldershot Town are "excited to confirm the signing of talented attacker Kai Corbett for an undisclosed fee from Peterborough United...

The 21-year-old has signed a one-year deal with the Shots and has already trained with his new teammates earlier today.

Born in Barcelona, Corbett came through the youth ranks at West Ham before joining Peterborough in 2021 and has spent time with Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea and Southampton at youth level...

[He] spent a short period on loan at Scunthorpe United at the end of last season.

Tommy Widdrington said 'From fairly early on; after January, we were aware of the possibility of losing Josh (Stokes) and Lorent (Tolaj). But, with the way we structured both deals, we knew we could get through to the summer with them both...

'Kai is a lad I’ve known about for quite some time and feel whilst neither a direct replacement for either Josh (Stokes) or Lorent (Tolaj), will bring real quality to our attacking options'".

ALTY'S NEW AWAY SHIRT

Drawing inspiration from the shirt that proved so popular a decade ago, club bosses got their heads together with kit suppliers Puma to start work on colours and designs...

Right: Alty's new away kit draws "inspiration from the shirt that proved so popular a decade ago". Here we see Scott Leather and Matt Doughty in that kit in October 2013.

It replaces the away kit that has served Alty for the past two seasons, and with technological advances in design and material being made all the time, Puma have been able to create a shirt that offers the players ultimate comfort, with the club badge woven seamlessly into the shirt to prevent any risk of skin abrasions.

The club are pleased to say that the full kit is available exclusively in-store this week, from 10am on Wednesday, with online sales starting on Sunday. Sizes available range from age five through to 3XL. The new home kit will follow and will be released around mid-July".

ALTY'S AO DEAL

The sponsorship comes after a group of 20 investors injected £1.5 million into the club last summer...

Altrincham FC joins AO’s series of North West sponsorships, which also includes the AO Arena, Manchester Thunder, Lancashire County Cricket Club and BLGC.

'“We’re delighted to join forces with Altrincham at such an exciting time in their history,' said AO Group marketing director, Vicky Monk...

'This sponsorship underpins our commitment to supporting local sports and connecting with people across the region. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this partnership will have, both on the pitch and within the community'...

Altrincham Football Club chief executive Sam Mackenzie said ... 'The AO partnership is a significant development for the club, particularly in terms of the activation and outreach it will bring,” [s]he continued. 'As a national brand with a strong presence, AO will help us grow.'”

BRIAN TAYLOR R.I.P.

He made nearly 300 appearances for Altrincham between 1968 and 1974. Signed, aged 26, from Rochdale, he was converted into a centre-half by Altrincham boss Freddie Pye and made 50 or more appearance in each season from 1968 to 1973.

Terry Rowley's biography, in his Playing Legends series, provides details of his career at Moss Lane.

VACANCY AT ALTY

"As the Commercial Manager at Altrincham FC, you will play a pivotal role in driving the commercial strategy and revenue growth. Your work will directly impact our ability to compete on and off the pitch, helping us secure the financial resources necessary for team development, infrastructure improvements and community engagement initiatives...

The successful candidate will be a driven, energetic individual with a passion for football and a deep understanding of the sports industry's commercial dynamics...

Essentials [include] a bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, or a related field A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a commercial role within the sports industry, preferably in football".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Iron promotion-winning captain has spent the last two seasons at Cressing Road...

The 23-year-old defender played a big part in helping Braintree win promotion... last season...

He said 'After captaining the side to promotion I'm leaving on a real high... I've had a really good opportunity come up and it's hard not to take'...

Altintop had been in contract talks with Braintree but the former Bury Town player has opted to join reigning Sports Direct Premiership champions Larne...

Braintree boss Angelo Harrop said: 'Cannot speak highly enough of my skipper from last season'...

In a statement, Braintree Town said 'We would like to announce that we were not able to agree terms with Baris Altintop to remain at the club for the 24/25 season after he received an offer from a full-time club in another league.'"

We reported the arrival at Boundary Park of Harry Charsley, but the Oldham Chronicle confirms that, in fact, "Latics signed three new players yesterday (Tuesday)...

Midfielder Harry Charsley has signed on the dotted line.. after spending the last four seasons in the EFL with Mansfield, Port Vale and Newport".

In addition, "A real eye-catching move saw experienced central defender Manny Monthe join Latics. The 29-year-old arrives at Boundary Park after... he spent the last season in League One with Northampton Town, following successful spells at Forest Green Rovers and Tranmere... He arrives at Boundary Park on a two-year contract.

Monthe said... 'I’ve worked with the manager and a number of players before and it’s a move that really excites me'...

Born in Cameroon, Monthe made 34 appearances in League One last season for Northampton...

A former with player with Queens Park Rangers, he had spent the previous two seasons with Walsall...

Monthe’s 108 appearances [for Tranmere] on the Wirral included two further promotions, playing a central role under Latics manager Mellon...

Boss Mellon said... 'I’ve worked with him for a long time before and he’ll be a huge signing for us'...

Another midfielder, Josh Kay, joined Latics on a two-year contract. Operating primarily in wide areas, the 27-year-old also has an eye for goal...

Kay joins Latics from AFC Fylde, where he scored four times last season, making 26 starts and seven substitute appearances...

Kay has spent three separate spells at Fylde in total... The promise he displayed earned him a move to Barnsley, then of the EFL Championship, where he spent two seasons.

His time at Oakwell included loans back to Fylde and to Tranmere, where he worked briefly with Latics manager Micky Mellon...

Meanwhile, midfielder Dan Ward has left Latics to sign for South Shields on the permanent basis".

And there was yet another signing on Wednesday as Oldham Athletic that "Winger Jesurun Uchegbulam has completed a move to Latics on a one-year contract... from Rochdale, where he made 19 league starts and 11 substitute appearances last season.

Uchegbulam has also spent a season at Chesterfield and becomes Micky Mellon’s fifth signing of the summer.

The winger said 'It’s a very exciting move for me... I’m a pacey winger who likes a trick or two and I want to try to get the fans out of their seats...

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Uchegbulam grew up in Milan before moving to the north west of England... with Mossley and Matlock Town... He attracted the attention of Chesterfield, making the move into the National League at the age of 21...

Manager Micky Mellon said... 'We’ve added four players this week... but there’s still work to be done. I still want to improve the group'".

Boston United have completed the loan signing of highly-rated Derby County striker Tony Weston.

The 20-year-old has joined the Pilgrims on loan until January, initially, having played most of his football north of the border for the likes of Rangers, Partick Thistle and Cove Rangers.

His long-term loan move is subject to final National League, EFL and FA ratification, with Weston granted permission to feature in all of the cup competitions for the Pilgrims.

Weston becomes Ian Culverhouse's seventh signing of the summer".

Dagenham & Redbridge "confirm that Harrison Day... the young striker, signed a one-year deal with a one-year option with the club.

The 18-year-old is the ninth addition to Ben Strevens’s squad.

The striker scored 25 goals last season at Concord in the Isthmian Premier.

The local Essex boy will be the first addition to our emerging talent group". York City "reveal the signing of defender Darragh O’Connor on a free transfer, following the expiration of his contract at former side Scottish Championship side Greenock Morton.

The central defender departed... having featured 68 times across all competitions...

Born in Croydon, England, O’Connor moved to Ireland in 2005... In 2019, O’Connor made 20 appearances for Wexford in the First Division of Irish football.

Performances at Wexford earnt him his first professional contract at Leicester City... in August 2019... [before] signing for Scottish Premiership side Motherwell in 2021.

Queen of the South acquired the defender’s service on loan in January 2022, making 17 appearances in total... O’Connor has picked up a significant amount of his senior appearances with Greenock Morton, signing for the team in May 2022".

Also at York City "midfielder Alex Woodyard has had his contract mutually terminated with immediate effect.

The 31-year-old joined the Minstermen in late July 2023 after departing AFC Wimbledon... the midfielder made 35 appearances for York".

ALTY'S PREVIOUS SHIRT SPONSORS

Right: Steve Aspinall sports the Go Goodwins shirt sponsorship logo in summer 2003.

Alty's previous shirt sponsors, since 1986, have been:

• 1986/87: Vantage Garages (car dealers)
• 1987/88: Nissan Brockbank (car dealers)
• 1988/89 to 1994/95: Maunders (builders)
• 1995/96: Holts (builders' merchants)
• 1996/97 to 1997/98: Carole Nash (motorcycle insurance)
• 1998/99 to 1999/2000: Kinetic (recruitment company)
• 2000/01: Heyrod (builders and civil engineers)
• 2001/02: Hillcrest Homes (builders)
• 2002/03 to 2010/11: Go Goodwins (coach operators)
• 2011/12 to 2023/24: J. Davidson (scrap metal processors)
• 2023/24: ao.com (electrical goods retailers)

COLNE TIME CHANGE

The Robins head to NORI Stadium at Holt House for the first of eight friendlies in the lead up to Vanarama National League opening day on Saturday, August 10th.

Admission to Saturday's game is by cash or card payments at the turnstiles - £5 Adults, £3 65+/12-16s and £1 under-12s".

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW WINNERS

• £500 cash | #8 | Philip James
• £75 cash | #557 | Mr Mead
• £25 cash | #154 | Pete Scotson
• Hospitality for Two | #455 | A. Bull
• Bottle of Alty Gin | #269 | Alex Cauchi
• Scarf & Pin Badge | #44 | Neil Faulkner

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 27-year-old Everton academy graduate joins Latics after spending the last four seasons in the EFL with Mansfield, Port Vale and Newport.

A midfielder with strong attacking instincts and the ability to create, he made 48 appearances for Newport over the last 18 months...

Charsley said... 'I had other offers from clubs from higher divisions during the summer but the ambitions here were clear from my conversations with Micky Mellon and I’m delighted to be part of it...

'Harry is a really clever player and we’ve worked really hard to get him,' manager Micky Mellon said. 'He had opportunities to stay in the EFL'".

At nearby Rochdale, "Jim McNulty confirmed in his latest video interview that the last of the out of contract players has now left the club" reports the Fans Network".

"Following Jimmy Keohane's departure last week, Cameron John was the last remaining Dale player offered a new deal whose future hadn't been decided but Jim McNulty has now confirmed that the left back has left the club."

He made 55 appearances for Rochdale.

The Hartlepool Mail reports that "Hartlepool United manager Darren Sarll has issued a rallying cry to Pools fans ...

It has been a frustrating few years for the embattled supporters as relegation back to the National League was followed by an underwhelming 12th placed finish last season...

However, a hint of optimism has returned to the North East in recent weeks following a quartet of exciting signings, including League Two promotion-winner Adam Campbell...

'Whether our supporters believe we will have a successful season, the proof will be in the eating, like it always is'" concluded Sarll.

Further south, Wealdstone have signed "Craig Eastmond, the highly experienced captain of Sutton United, in a move that bolsters the squad's leadership and midfield ahead of the new season.

Eastmond, 33, who has signed a 1 year deal with an option for a further year, brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the Stones. A product of the Arsenal youth academy, he made his senior debut for the Gunners in 2009, featuring in Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

Despite a bright start at Arsenal, he eventually moved on to secure more regular first-team football, joining Colchester United and later Sutton United... He was appointed captain midway through the 2019-20 season and led the side to the National League title the following campaign...

He has been voted Sutton United’s Player of the Season on three occasions, most recently for the 2022/23 season and was inducted into the club's Hall of Fame. He leaves Sutton United seven games short of 400 appearances, having scored 29 goals.

Wealdstone Manager, Matt Taylor [said]... 'He is a natural leader both on the pitch with his performances and off of it with his behaviours'".

2 July 2024

NATIONAL BRAND ON ALTY'S SHIRTS

AO, Bolton-based but nationally renowned... are taking over from J.Davidson as main shirt sponsors...

Alty's latest backers are now an instantly recognisable and highly visible presence up and down the country, with their bright green vans bearing the logo "AO Let's go!".

Vicky Monk, Group Marketing Director at AO, said 'The club have gone from strength to strength in recent years, moving up two divisions and becoming a full-time professional club, and we’re proud to support the next steps of their journey'...

The club's chief executive Sam Mackenzie said: "We are delighted to be forming a new relationship with such a vibrant, thriving company as AO, who are very much aligned with us in terms of values and outlook...

'We are earmarking three games where AO will have a big presence in the stadium and will add value to our match day experience...

'We are talking about a national brand with a great presence throughout the country, and that is definitely something we will benefit from as we grow and develop our own brand'".

MATT'S CURIOUS ALTY CAREER

He arrived at Altrincham in a move from Spennymoor Town which was revealed on 16 August 2020. By chance he had been in goal for The Moors in what was the last Alty home game of the 2019-20 league season before the Covid lockdown and the suspension of fixtures in March 2020.

Gould had been at Spennymoor since the start of 2018-19 season.

The general expectation was that, as one of the best keepers in the National North, he would challenge Tony Thompson for the first-team gloves.

But it did not turn out that way.

He made his debut for Altrincham in the CSC at Barnton on 4 November 2020 and the only other appearance he made that season was in game 38 of the league season when he finally made his National League debut. It was a baptism of fire, behind closed doors, as the Moors won 4-0.

2021-22 got off to a bad start in the first pre-season friendly of 2021 as, first of all, a mix-up with Kennedy Digie produced an own goal for the centre-half debutant. And then Matt suffered an injury which enforced his substitution.

His pre-season injury was a factor in his exclusion from the first four matchday squads of 2021-22 before, on 24 September 2021, it was announced that he was going to Nantwich Town, on dual registration, to regain match fitness.

However, owing to an injury to Tony Thompson, Matt was recalled from Nantwich on 13 October 2021 and he enjoyed a three-game run in the first team in October/November 2021.

His only other league game that season was the penultimate match at Bromley when Phil Parkinson made multiple changes which included resting players such as Tony Thompson who were about to leave the club because of the change to a full-time training regime.

So he made just four league starts in 21/22 and made three cup appearances. In 22/23 he made five league and four cup starts.

Having started the 2022-23 season in goal for the first-team, Matty suffered a bad facial injury in the second fixture, at Bromley. Having not played any National League after that, it was announced on Boxing Day 2022 that he would go on loan for a month to Ashton United but by 10 January 2023 he had been recalled.

On 7 February 2023 it was announced that Matt was going on loan to Chorley. However, he returned before the end of the campaign to cover for the injured Ollie Byrne.

But last season (23/24), Matt had his busiest season to date, making ten league and two cup starts to cover for the mid-season injury to Ethan Ross.

So his four seasons at Altrincham included just thirty appearances in all, of which only twenty were in the National League. Nevertheless he proved an able deputy despite his lack of match practice and was brought into the New Zealand international squad.

In addition to his role at Altrincham, Matt initially also coached the under-18s and under-23s at Wigan Athletic before becoming Alty's goalkeeping coach, aiding Ethan Ross greatly.

TOM CRAWFORD INTERVIEW

Tom reviews his career, from his early days with Stoke City and Chester to his recent four-year spell at Hartlepool United.

STAN RILEY'S FUNERAL

Parking for the golf club is at the Holy Angels' Church opposite.

For the funeral it will be family flowers only. However donations, if desired, may be made to the Alzheimer's Society and should be sent c/o Kenneth Dewey & Sons, Funeral Directors, 2 Grove Lane, Hale, WA15 8JE.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Ian has now pointed us towards a report on Ollie's 77-minute century for Timperley during which his boundaries comprised 7 fours and 8 sixes.

The Sale and Altrincham Messenger reported that Timperley CC's "first team’s new boy, OLLIE BYRNE, the ex-Altrincham keeper, hit a glorious century from just 52 balls to keep alive Timperley’s forlorn hopes against impressive Didsbury, who posted 323-7 off their 55 overs.

And that was despite him breaking his £500 bat literally in half having lost two balls he hit out of the ground. One witness, who has been watching Timperley matches for 40 years, said one six was the longest he’s seen, going more than 100 yards beyond the clubhouse - and into the hockey pitches.

Timperley ended up with a respectable, but losing, total of 238, but it will be a match long-remembered for in-form larger-than-life Byrne’s exploits which he celebrated in traditional manner that gave a morning hangover! It was the third fastest century in club history".

Since then Ollie has played a 20-over game against Didsbury but this time, despite scoring again at more than a run a ball, he was out for seven runs, struck from six balls and including a six.

He then played, away at Neston on The Wirral where he hit 14 off 5 balls, including 2 fours a six and single

So if you happen to be passing Timperley CC's ground on Stockport Round and Ollie is at the crease, do make sure you are wearing a hard hat!

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The forward enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Northamptonshire outfit last term, helping them reach the Promotion Final for a place in the National League.

The 26-year-old made 21 appearances for the Saints, scoring nine goals during that time as they reached the play-offs for a fifth season".

The Slough Observer reports that "Maidenhead United Football Club could get more than 500 new seats for fans after plans... to build a new north stand and extend the south stand... were granted planning permission on Monday... It comes after the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead council blocked the club’s plans to relocate to a new ground...

A club statement accompanying the application said 'As a National League Club Maidenhead United is required to ensure that our facilities are maintained within the minimum requirements of the league’s ground grading criteria which include a ground capacity of 4,000, including 500 covered seats.

'We are also required to demonstrate annually that the club can meet the ground grading requirements of the English Football League.'

When the club first applied for planning permission it still hoped to move to a new, purpose-built stadium at Braywick Park. The plans to extend York Road were intended as a fallback option.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, then led by the Conservatives, formally agreed in 2022 to release the land at Braywick Park to the club for a sum of £460,000....

Some 2,000 fans signed a petition in favour of the deal, and around 1,000 people signed a petition against it. The council also received 22 objections against the plans to sell off the land.

The Conservatives were replaced by a coalition of Liberal Democrats and Borough First Independents in May 2023. And the new leadership decided in July that year not to dispose of the land after all...

Cub chairman Peter Griffin said... in the short term the club had no option but to continue its redevelopment on York Road... Under the approved plans a new stand seating 304 people will be built at the north end of the ground, while the south stand will be extended to provide 224 additional seats.

There will also be a seating area for wheelchair users and disabled people, disabled toilets, a changing block and improved floodlighting".

1 July 2024

GOULD BECOMES A GLOVER

A call came out of the blue from Yeovil boss Mark Cooper, offering him the chance to bolster the Glovers' defence for their return to the National League.

With the proposition having the extra pull of moving to an area his family are so familiar with, it was too good to turn down...

'It’s time for a new chapter and to say a massive thank you to everyone Altrincham,' said Matt, who joined Alty from Spennymoor Town in August, 2020'"....

Footnote: With under six weeks to the start of the season Altrincham unexpectedly find themselves without a back-up keeper and a goalkeeping coach so we can presumably expect some action on that front shortly.

CRAWFORD'S A CRACKER!

Press and media officer John Edwards continues, "The 25-year old 6ft 1in England C cap was the surprise omission from Hartlepool's retained list after he consistently stood out for them last season and scored five goals in a total of 39 appearances, despite an often difficult campaign for the club that ended with a 12th place finish".

Alty boss Phil Parkinson said "He was a top performer last season, topping all the statistics charts, so we have got a top player on our hands".

Crawford himself stated "After sitting down with the manager and hearing his intent to bring me here, I knew this was the club for me".

TOM CRAWFORD'S CAREER

The tall central midfielder started off with Stoke City before joining his hometown club, Chester's academy as a teenager, competing against George Heslop's Altrincham Youth side in 2015.

His spell at Chester included loans at Runcorn Town and Leek Town in 2017-18.

In summer 2018 Tom moved to Notts County, then a League team, where he made 12 appearances between 2018 and 2020. A three-month loan at Dave Challinor's AFC Fylde completed his season in 2019.

101 appearances at Hartlepool United, where Challinor was then the manager, followed his release by the Magpies in summer 2020. He remained there till the end of last season at which point he was released by the Pools.

He missed much of 2022-23 season with an ankle injury but made 39 appearances for Hartlepool last season, scoring five times but picking up twelve yellow cards in the process!

He has faced Altrincham several times in his career.

After being an unused sub for the visit of Alty in October 2020, Crawford started against the Robins for Hartlepool United on three occasions, all of them night matches, firstly in 2021 and then in both fixtures last season.

He joins Lucas Weaver, Joe Nuttall and Max Haygarth as Alty's new faces this summer.

PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE

1. Sat.6.7.24 3pm A Colne
2. Sat.13.7.24 NB 2pm A Lancaster City
3. Tue.16.7.24 7.45pm A Cheadle Heath Nomads
4. Sat.20.7.24 3pm A Warrington Town
5. Tue.23.7.24 7.45pm H SALFORD CITY
6. Sat.27.7.24 3pm A Chester FC
7. Tue.30.7.24 7.45pm A Curzon Ashton
8. Sat.3.8.24 3pm H BRADFORD CITY

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Alfie for his contributions as a Woking player. He is a great professional and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours".

Eastleigh "are delighted to announce the signing of Tyrese Shade following his departure from Swindon Town!*

The winger began his career at Solihull Moors in 2016 before signing for Leicester City just a year later where he spent five years.

In 2018, Shade made five appearances for Saint Kitts and Nevis in the CONCACAF U-20 Championship, scoring three goals in those games.

Shade spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Walsall where he made 39 appearances for the Saddlers...

The next chapter of his career saw him make the move to Swindon Town...

March 2023 would see him be called up to the Saint Kitts and Nevis senior team and he made his full international debut...

In February 2024, the 24-year-old returned to Solihull Moors on loan for the remainder of the season. Shade featured 15 times on his return to the West Midlands".