VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• AFC Fylde P-P Southend United (Southend's train broke down en route to the game)
• Aldershot Town 4-3 Maidenhead United
• Altrincham 1-1 Oldham Athletic
• Barnet 7-0 Tamworth
• Boston United 1-3 Yeovil Town
• Dagenham & Redbridge 0-2 York City
• Ebbsfleet United 0-1 FC Halifax
• Gateshead 2-1 Eastleigh
• Hartlepool United 0-0 Braintree Town
• Rochdale 3-0 Woking
• Solihull Moors 1-1 Wealdstone
• Sutton United 1-2 Forest Green Rovers

ALTY SIGN WREXHAM STRIKER ON LOAN

The 22 year-old Liverpool-born front-runner arrives... with a reputation as a clinical finisher and has signed in time for Alty's blockbuster derby at home to Oldham Athletic"...

Phil Parkinson stated, "I'm delighted to finally get Jake over the line... I was chasing him last season and then again over the summer"...

Jake started out as a junior at Wrexham but then had a couple of years in Liverpool's Academy before returning to The Racecourse in 2017... and then had loan spells at Caernarfon Town and Nantwich Town..

After returning from Nantwich, he began to make his mark at a higher leve[l]... filling in for the injured Paul Mullin on Wrexham's return to the Football League...

[He had] a loan spell with Accrington Stanley towards the end of last season".

Footnote: Bickerstaff has played at Altrincham previously, notably in January 2023 when he scored twice as his Wrexham side drew with Altrincham in the FA Trophy.

The match went to a shoot-out in which Bickerstaff had his spot-kick saved by Ollie Byrne, and Altrincham went on to win the tie.

TODAY: OLDHAM ATHLETIC

In their most recent game, Oldham included three ex-Altrincham players in Reagan Ogle, Josh Lundstram and, on the bench, Callum Dolan.

The corresponding fixture last season took place on Easter Monday and ended in a 1-0 win for Altrincham.

The breakthrough arrived after 40 minutes when a great ball forward up the right by Osborne set Newby running into the box. Though his pass inside to Conn-Clarke was poor, Sutton got his feet in a tangle and the ball ran for Conn-Clarke to score from close range at the back post.

The second half saw Oldham putting in an improved performance but their build ups were often slow and they lacked a cutting edge. Altrincham, watched by a bumper crowd of 4,578, defended well to move up to fourth in the table, albeit others have a game or two in hand.

Oldham had made four changes in the hope of turning round their form which had yielded one win in nine games and six matches without a win.

ALTRINCHAM: 29. Ethan Ross, 2. Lewis Banks, 5. Jake Cooper, 4. Lewis Baines (c), 3. Eddy Jones, 8. Elliot Osborne, 19. George Wilson, 10. Chris Conn-Clarke 17. Justin Donawa, 30. Alex Newby, 9. Regan Linney Subs: 7. Matty Kosylo, 14. Dior Angus, 16. Sam Roscoe, 26. Mitch Hancox, 44. Dan Mooney.

OLDHAM ATHLETIC: 13. Mathew Hudson, 3. Mark Kitching, 4. Liam Hogan (c), 5. Shaun Hobson, 14. Nathan Sheron, 17. Harrison McGahey, 19. Dan Gardner, 24. Joe Garner, 26. Oli Hammond, 30. James Norwood, 32. Tom Conlon. Subs: 1. Magnus Norman, 21. Will Sutton, 9. Mike Fondop-Talum, 20. Hallam Hope, 29. Andrew Dallas

ALTY OLD BOYS

The 27-year-old defender has played for the likes of Livingston, Dunfermline Athletic, Altrincham, Harrogate Town, Colchester United and Macclesfield Town amongst others and will offer Alan Devonshire experience in defence".

Footnote: Right-back Miles (d.o.b. 25 October 1996) arrived at Altrincham on a season-long loan from EFL club Harrogate Town, which was announced on 23 January 2023. He made his debut the next day at Chesterfield.

Miles started out at his local club, Oxford United, from where he moved to Bath City in National South. Whilst at Bath he spent a month on loan at Oxford City. He went on to enjoy a good spell with Macclesfield Town, then in the EFL, before signing for Colchester United.

After fifty league appearances for the "U"s he moved to Harrogate Town where he had made ten appearances before joining Altrincham. His debut came at Chesterfield on 24 January 2023 but injury sidelined him in late February.

He made 15 appearances in 2022-23 season for Altrincham and scored once.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 30-year-old has played for nine different clubs, made over 250 appearances...

'Life is good at the moment. There’s nothing going on in my life that’s majorly bad'" he said.

McDonnell has worked under the reign of four different managers during his time at Eastleigh, including the current boss and former goalkeeper himself, Kelvin Davis...

'I’ve loved working under Kelvin. It’s definitely a different style than what I’ve been used to in recent years... We are trying to play out from the back more and trying to keep the ball more...

'After the start to the season that we’ve had, it’s no surprise that there’s a positive mood amongst the team at the moment'"

He "sits on 193 appearances for the club, the longest-serving player that’s still at the club... 'We’ve had a good start to the season... We have shown in the opening five games what we do have, and I think if we carry on playing the way we have done, I believe that we’ll end up somewhere near where we want to be.'”

News of two major forward signings comes form Forest Green Rovers, the first being "Joe Quigley from Chesterfield on a permanent deal...

The 27-year-old has significant National League experience with 252 appearances to his name scoring 53 goals in total.

Quigley had previously spent 18 months with Yeovil Town where he scored 19 goals in 58 appearances for The Glovers.

The 6ft 4in forward represents a towering presence up front".

Hours later, we learn that Forest Green Rovers "welcome Harry Cardwell to the club, signing from fellow National League side Southend United for an undisclosed fee after meeting his release clause.

The 27-year-old forward joins the club following two-and-a-half years at the Shrimpers scoring 27 goals in 80 appearances...

He has also been an ever-present in their 2024-25 season so far...

Cardwell adds further presence to the forward unit and bolsters the department with Joe Quigley having signed from Chesterfield as well as Christian Doidge and Tyrese Omotoye already at the club".

Friday was an even busier day at Southend United where two players are depating and three have joined. As well as Cardwell (see above) "Jason Demetriou has announced he is leaving Southend United" reports the Echo-News.

"The 36-year-old has been with the Shrimpers since 2016".

The player said, "It’s been a huge rollercoaster but after seeing the club through to the other side I feel the timing to move is right".

The Echo adds that "Demetriou made 260 appearances while with Blues and combined playing with a coaching role last season... 'Kev (Maher) was as good as gold with me and tried to convince me but I just couldn’t. I knew I couldn’t last the whole season like I did last year'" the player concluded..

However, two new faces have arrived at Roots Hall, starting with Southend United announcing "the loan signing of 21-year-old striker Aribim Pepple.

6ft 1 frontman Pepple joins on a season-long loan from Luton Town... Born in Kettering before moving to Canada at the age of five, he played his first senior football for Canadian Premier League outfit Cavalry FC...

That earned him a deal with Luton Town, and while at Kenilworth Road, the forward has had loans at Grimsby Town, Bromley and Inverness Caledonian Thistle".

Next, Southend United confirmed "the signing of 22-year-old midfielder Keenan Appiah-Forson.

The energetic box-to-box player, who left West Ham United earlier in the summer after eight years at the Premier League club, joins on a two-year deal...

[He spent] last season with Dagenham & Redbridge. He played 27 league games for the Daggers, scoring once".

30 August 2024

NEXT: OLDHAM ATHLETIC

The 28-year-old joins Latics with plenty of EFL experience after spending time at Yeovil, Tranmere, Grimsby and Mansfield.

A midfielder with an attacking outlook... Otis said... 'I've been training with the group for three/four weeks now, getting to know how the manager operates and how the players are, and it's been nothing but positive. I like to go forward, contribute with goals and assists having an effect on the game and getting fans out of their seats'...

Otis began his career at Manchester United at youth level before joining Sheffield United... In his three years at the Blades, Otis gained valuable experience out on loan playing for Buxton, Matlock and Barrow...

He joined Yeovil in 2016 where he spent two seasons, before joining Mansfield... Otis had spells at Newport, Tranmere, Walsall, Leyton Orient before joining Grimsby Town in 2022...

In November 2023, he was deemed eligible to represent Pakistan and captained the side for the first time in their World Cup Qualifier against Saudi Arabia...

Manager Micky Mellon [said]... 'He's been with us all pre-season and he's exactly the type of player we want to have in that midfield area'".

BILL EXPLAINS MATCH ARRANGEMENTS

The number of tickets given to away fans is first and foremost driven by the expected number of HOME supporters... The number of tickets we looked to give Oldham for Saturday’s game was dependent on the number of home tickets we anticipated selling... But we flagged from the very beginning that if tickets were not selling in desired volumes, we would have to consider giving our visitors further tickets.

Unfortunately, this has proven to be the case, with home ticket sales still at a level lower than being close to selling out"

PHIL: "WE ARE NOT A MILLION MILES AWAY"

'We’ve had a really tough start to the season, but we definitely did enough to take a point from the Forest Green game and could count ourselves desperately unlucky to be undone by a penalty against Eastleigh,' said the Alty boss..

'I was really pleased with the way we dictated the play and dominated possession in the first half, and we showed tons of energy to get back on terms. Tired minds and tired legs prevented us from making the right decision at the end, and that cost us. <> 'It was a lack of concentration or know-how... But this is a young group of players who are learning some hard lessons on what this division is all about. We are not a million miles away, I’ve no doubt about that'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 22-year-old keeper started his career at West Ham’s academy before moving on to, Charlton and most recently Gillingham.

Nathan will join up with the emerging talent group, becoming the fourth member".

And later Dagenham & Redbridge announced "that Tim Akinola has become our fifteenth signing of the summer after the midfielder agreed a long-term loan deal with the club.

Akinola was born in Lokoja, Nigeria. He played youth football with Lincoln City and Huddersfield Town, before signing for Arsenal in the summer of 2020. After playing for Arsenal under-23s, he moved on loan to Scottish club Dundee United in January 2022.

In August 2022, he joined Chesterfield in the National League on a season-long loan... He permanently switched to Qatari side Al Bidda in September 2023.

On 16 May 2024, it was confirmed he would return to Chesterfield on a one-year deal with an option.

at Hartlepool United "manager Darren Sarll has ruled new signing Gary Madine available for selection on Saturday, having completed three weeks on the training pitch at Maiden Castle.

Meanwhile, Dan Dodds and Luke Charman will continue to sit Saturday’s game out.

Central defender Tom Parkes, who suffered a reoccurrence of a shoulder injury from last season... 'will be a flip of a coin on Saturday – it’ll be a 50/50,' explained Sarll.

'Dan Dodds should be okay for the following weekend... Luke [Chapman] will be looking towards the end of September or the start of October ... Kieran Wallace has had another week of full training, so he’s on week two of his own pre-season. He’s getting there and progressing well...

'Joe Aungiers is continuing to complete his rehabilitation from a broken wrist suffered at the start of August. Max Storey has also endured a horrific injury, dislocating his elbow and suffering two fractures to his arm while in action for Blyth Spartans over the Bank Holiday weekend'".

Rochdale are "looking forward to welcoming Sir Peter Ogden to the Crown Oil Arena for this Saturday’s match against Woking. Sir Peter will be accompanied by his two sons, Cameron and Edward, as well as his Grandson.

It will be the first match he has attended since the Ogden Family purchased a majority share in the Club.

Before kick-off, Sir Peter and the family will be introduced to supporters. We are sure that everyone will give them the warmest of welcomes".

At Gateshead< "The Heed have signed D'Mani Mellow on a short-term deal... [he] most recently appeared Rochdale in the 2023/24 season, following spells with Sutton United and Wycombe Wanderers...

Said Rob Elliot 'With the circumstances of the injuries and the fact that we've got games in quick succession, we just said would he be interested insigning a short-term deal so that if he was needed then that option is there...

'D,Mani is happy with it, we're happy with it, and we'll just take it day by day'".

Wealdstone explain that "The Stones have faced a challenging start to the season, with the squad enduring a spate of injuries to key players that have significantly impacted the team's early campaign.

The most recent blow came on Friday when defender Deon Woodman suffered a broken nose and serious facial injuries during a training session. The unfortunate accident means Woodman will be sidelined for the foreseeable future.

Meanwhile, Craig Eastmond continues his rehabilitation process. The midfielder.. is recovering well but does not have a confirmed return date...

However, Jaydn Mundle-Smith is making good progress in his recovery and is expected to return to full training within the next two weeks.

Mason Barrett, another key defensive player, is currently recovering from a hamstring injury... Sean Adarkwa, who is also dealing with a hamstring issue, continues his rehabilitation process...

Forward Sam Ashford is recovering from a fractured cheekbone, an injury that has kept him out of action since his league debut away at Dagenham".

Sutton United "confirm that Jay Williams has joined Southern League Premier Division South side Merthyr Town on a loan deal until 7th January.

The former Newport County man arrived from Fulham back in January, having previously helped the Whites’ Under-18 side win their league championship in 2021, and would go on to play 42 times in the youth team during his time at Craven Cottage prior to his move to SM1.

Williams would subsequently appear a handful of times on the bench during the second half of the U’s 2023/24 League Two campaign, before making his non-competitive debut against Tonbridge Angels at the start of pre-season.

The Wales youth international now returns to his home country on a temporary deal".

At Southend United "The Shrimpers need to add to their squad further, said Kevin Maher..

'We’ve got the injuries we’ve got at the minute, which doesn’t help when we’re a relatively small squad. We know we need to add in areas and make the squad better...

'Looking at the injury that Oli Coker picked up from a tackle from behind and Cav coming off, you add that to Waldron and Josh Walker, it’s a list that we struggle to cope with...

'We’re waiting on the results of scans for a few of them to tell us where they are. Coker, Waldron and Walker are definitely out for Saturday.'”

29 August 2024

ALTY APPOINT DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL

John Edwards writes that "Marc fills a position that has been vacant since Rob Esteva stepped down due to work and family commitments...

During his time at Oldham... he was farmed out to Carlisle United on loan in what was then the Conference that he learned a few home truths he feels will stand him in good stead for the role he now fills with Alty...

He said, "Initially, I had some time away from the game, because the broken leg that ended my career took a bit of getting over...

"When I decided I wanted to get involved again, I came back into it with a fresh pair of eyes. I called on a few contacts and arranged to shadow scouts, sporting directors and others working in recruitment to get an idea of how that side of the game worked.

"In addition, I spent 18 months doing a masters in sporting directorship... which gave me a real insight into how clubs are run at so many different levels.

"Having done all that and gained first-hand experience of the role, I feel I am in great shape to work alongside the management team at Altrincham".

Footnote: Back in 2007 the Sale and Altrincham Messenger reported that "Alty have already missed out on Adam Yates and Marc Tierney this season after they joined Morecambe and Shrewsbury respectively and midfielder Warren Peyton has had to fill in at left back. Tierney was a 21 year-old Oldham Athletic player who also had a spell on loan at Carlisle United, before joining Shrewsbury last week".

The Eastern Daily Press reports that "Tierney joined Norwich from Colchester United in January 2011, having previously worked with then-boss Paul Lambert in Essex. He played a key role in their charge to the top-flight, remembered fondly for his celebratory cartwheels upon promotion being secured.

He was a big personality in the City dressing room and went on to play a total of 39 matches for the Canaries, including 17 in the Premier League."

Whilst Marc never played for Alty, his elder brother Paul (above, right) made four appearances for the club in a 24-day spell in September 2008 which followed a loan spell at Stockport County from Blackpool.

Altrincham was Paul's last senior club as a player.

RESERVES REMAIN BOTTOM

Alty have gained just one point so far this season in the Cheshire League Premier Division and remain at the foot of the table.

The Altrincham line-up comprised (in a/z order) Samuel Bonney-Phillips, Sekouba Camara, Jack Alexander Chandler, Kian Gonzalez-Moghaddam, Harrison Howells, Alfred Igbinake, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Muhammed Suwareh, Ben Taylor, Thomas Whyte. Subs: Blyth Emile Bywater, Charlie Hough, Charley Jarrald, Henry Watts, Nathan Wood.

AO, LET'S GO TO YEOVIL

The generous gesture will allow up to 57 Alty fans to make the 440-mile round trip to Huish Park, on Saturday 14th September, free of charge...

The coach will depart from outside Station House on Stamford New Road at 8:30am, on Saturday 14th September".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Oakleigh had won the corresponding league fixture in May 3-0 (Connor scored the third) and had drawn the reverse fixture 1-1 back in February. Things started badly for Oakleigh when Joe Guest, once of Curzon Ashton, missed a penalty.

It was goalless at the break, but Oakleigh went ahead 10 minutes after the restart. Unfortunately, Heidelberg equalised in the 88th minute from the penalty spot, and extra time resolved nothing.

However, in the shootout, Heidelberg missed their first and third kicks, and Oakleigh converted all theirs to win 4-1.

They meet A-League Macarthur FC in Sydney in the last 8. Macarthur lost to Sydney FC in the A-League championship playoffs - so having already beaten Sydney in the last 32 of this tournament, Oakleigh will feel they have a good chance of another giant killing.

WEAVER LEAVES ON LOAN

'Lucas came to us as a development player, and he is certainly someone we have high hopes for', said Alty's manager [Phil Parkinson] 'We looking at the Bamber Bridge loan as a real developmental one where he can experience playing at NPL level and hopefully shine as he did for Colne and then progress his Alty career from there'".

Footnote: The signing of Lucas from Colne was announced on 15 May 2024. He started out with Preston North End before signing for Preston club Fulwood Amateurs with whom he won the West Lancashire League and the Lancashire Amateur Cup.

He joined Colne in summer 2022. A winger, Lucas was prolific goalscorer for the Lancashire club, netting 42 goals in 2023-24 season.

PHIL PARKINSON ON FGR DEFEAT

NEXT: OLDHAM ATHLETIC

Oldham arrive after two wins, two draws and a single defeat in their season so far. They lie eighth, just outside the play-offs on goal difference.

Alty have dropped to sixteenth after three losses in five outings.

The Latics drew on Monday and the Oldham Times reports that manager "Micky Mellon was mystified as to how Oldham Athletic came away from their Bank Holiday Monday game with Gateshead with only a point...

Latics were particularly dominant in the second half, after going into the break 1-0 down...

Manny Monthe cancelled out Tyrelle Newton's 10th minute opener early in the second half...

But Mellon, who named James Norwood in the side for the first time this season after injury, was encouraged by their endeavour and attacking impetus....

'We had so many chances, so many opportunities, we were the team in the ascendency, they were struggling to get out of their own half'" he judged.

And The Nation claims that "Pakistani footballer Otis Khan is on the brink of joining Oldham Athletic Football Club, though the deal has hit a temporary delay as the club reopens negotiations with the player.

Khan, 28, is expected to sign with the club... His potential move to Oldham Athletic represents a significant opportunity for the versatile left-winger to regain form and stability after a challenging period in his career.

Last season, Khan was loaned from Grimsby Town to Hartlepool United but struggled to make a notable impact. Since representing Pakistan in their international friendly against Saudi Arabia on June 6, he has been without a club".

ALTY OLD BOYS

TOBY MULLARKEY picked up a yellow card for Crawley Town at Brighton, and although he and JUNIOR QUITIRNA put in a full shift, the Premier League club's below strength lineup won comfortably enough 4-0.

After missing 6 matches through injury, OWEN DALE who played just 7 minutes at Blackburn on Saturday, started for Oxford United at Coventry City. He was substituted 4 minutes after the hosts scored the only goal in the 57th minute.

Both CONNOR JENNINGS and CHRIS MERRIE put in full shifts for Tranmere Rovers, but Premier League hosts Leicester City fielded a strong side and had 24 goal attempts to Rovers' 3 (none on target), winning 4-0.

A 73 minute stint from DUNCAN WATMORE couldn't prevent Millwall bowing out to the only goal of the game to lower division neighbours Leyton Orient, who are based just 5 miles from the New Den. That goal was the only shot on target mustered by either side.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

From Somerset, Gloverscast report that "Manager Mark Cooper is looking to bring some experience in to his Yeovil Town side after they were beaten by an injury time goal from Rochdale on Bank Holiday Monday.

A strike from winger Connor McBride in the first minute of second half stoppage time meant the Glovers finished the long weekend with no points from their two National League Premier Division fixtures".

Following the match, manager Mark Cooper said "'We need to do a bit of work in the transfer market. I have had a good look at things now and we need to bring a couple in with a little bit of experience and we need to move a couple along, the lads who have not been playing much. We need to bring some real characters in'.

The Glovers, who were already without left-back Alex Whittle, saw defenders Morgan Williams and Michael Smith both go off in the second half on Monday."

From Transfer Market comes an analysis of the average age of National League teams this season.

This shows that Altrincham have the joint 17th youngest of the 24 teams, with an average age of 24.9 years.

Alty's next visitors, Oldham Athletic, have the second oldest team, averaging 27.3 years of age.

The oldest team is that of Ebbsfleet United at 27.6 years. The youngest team is FC Halifax Town's, at just 22.7 years of age.

27 August 2024

FOREST GREEN ROVERS 2-1 ALTRINCHAM

Despite their possession, Alty failed to land a shot on target before the break. Amaluzor's early low ball across the goalmouth, James Jones's nod across goal from a Newby cross, when keeper Ward failed to get to the ball, and a Newby shot which flew comfortably over the bar were the visitors' best efforts before the break.

Alty made no impression at all early in the second half as they made five seperate substitutions by the 68th minute. But when one of those subs, George Wilson (left), shot from just outside the box from a Kosylo feed, his effort took a deflection, possibly off Linney's heel, to make it 1-1 (83 mins).

After that Altrincham were largely on top but, in the fifth added minute (a minimum of four had been decreed), McCann fed Long on the right. His looping cross was cleared by Crawford's header to McCann who sidestepped Haygarth and his shot from the edge of the box went into the net, off the post and Lewis Baines on the line, to clinch the points.

Overall Alty's performance was not good today but, having got themselves level, it was hugely disappointing to concede in such a manner at the death. The Robins dropped to sixteenth in the league.

Match report here.

• League table
• Alty statistics
• Alty line-ups

NEXT: OLDHAM ATHLETIC

On Monday, Oldham Athletic reported that "The spoils were shared at Boundary Park, as Latics were held to a 1-1 draw by Gateshead... Latics couldn’t grab a winner following Manny Monthe’s second-half equalizer.

Micky Mellon’s men were looking to bounce back after suffering their first defeat of the season just 48 hours earlier against Aldershot. However, it was the visitors that took the lead ten minutes into the game, when Tyrelle Newton... fired the ball into the bottom left corner to give the Heed the lead...

Latics came close to levelling in the 27th minute... [but] it was Gateshead who came closest to finding the second goal of the half...

Latics started the second half on top and had numerous crosses into the box that almost found a way through... The equalizer was eventually found in the 55th minute, when Gardner sent in a freekick from the right. Monthe was johnny-on-the-spot at the back post to turn the ball home for his second goal in the space of a week.

The momentum was with Latics as the hosts pushed for a second... There were even more opportunities for Oldham... Latics will feel like they could have taken all three points with the chances they created, but could only come away with one point with the score finishing 1-1.

Oldham Athletic: Hudson, Hobson, Raglan, Monthe; Ogle (Caprice 77), Lundstram, Conlon ©, Gardner (Dolan 68), Uchegbulam; Charsley, Norwood (Fondop 61). Subs: Moloney (GK), Kitching, Hogan, Fondop (Norwood 61), Dolan (Gardner 68), Caprice (Ogle 77), Hammond."

ALTY OLD BOYS

National League: JOSH LUNDSTRAM (right) was booked just before the interval with his Oldham Athletic side trailing to visitors Gateshead. CALLUM DOLAN, on loan from Fleetwood Town, joined the action in the 68th minute, by which time Latics had levelled. 10 minutes later they withdrew REAGAN OGLE, and the match ended 1-1.

Hartlepool United were two goals up after only 9 minutes at Woking, but two yellow cards in the space of a minute deprived then of the services of Jack Hunter after only 25 minutes. The score hadn't changed when BILLY SASS-DAVIES was booked just before the hour, but Woking staged a recovery in the final quarter and won 3-2. LUKE WATERFALL missed the game through injury.

KYLE FERGUSON was forced to join the action for Rochdale only 10 minutes into the game at Yeovil Town, and was booked in the 95th minute, just four minutes after his team had scored the only goal of the game

There was no score when York City withdrew TYRESE SINCLAIR after 57 minutes, but visitors Boston United went on to an unexpected 0-2 win.

National North: JAMIE MORGAN (right) gave Radcliffe an early lead at Hereford, but although they scored again after 15 minutes they went in at the break level at 2-2. JOSH HANCOCK restored their lead just before the hour, but they couldn't hold on to it, the game ending 3-3.

ASHLEY HEMMINGS scored the second goal for Kidderminster Harriers as they comprehensively beat visitors Oxford City, who were reduced to 10 men early in the second half, 4-0.

King's Lynn were already two goals down to visitors Peterborough Sports by the time JONNY MARGETTS scored - final score 1-2.

Southern Central: A DIOR ANGUS penalty gave AFC Telford the half time lead, and, despite visitors Stratford Town reducing the arrears, they went on to win 2-1.

NPL Premier: FC United were without the injured OLLIE BYRNE for the visit of Ashton United, and they lost 1-2. DONTAI GABIDON was bizarrely booked for handling the ball BEFORE coming on as a 77th minute substitute.

JACK REDSHAW put Hyde United ahead at the Moss Rose, but Macclesfield came back to draw 1-1.

ADAM PORTER scored the winner as Leek Town came from behind for a 1-2 victory at Matlock Town.

NPL Div.1 East : He's 38 now, but RYAN TOULSON (above, right) was among the scorers for Liversedge, as they won 1-4 at another of his old clubs Bradford PA.

NPL Div.1 West: Even at 38, Ryan is a youngster compared to KEVIN ELLISON who was among the scorers as Vauxhall Motors made an astonishing comeback at Bootle. After 15 minutes they trailed 3-0, but pulled two back before the break before going on to win 3-6. Bootle were without the injured TONY THOMPSON, and it can't have helped. AIDY ROXBURGH played, but SEAN WILLIAMS was also absent.

ELLIOTT ROKKA scored for the third game in succession as Witton Albion comfortably dealt with Runcorn Linnets 4-0.

26 August 2024

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• Braintree Town 0-0 Ebbsfleet United
• Eastleigh 1-1 Sutton United
• FC Halifax 0-1 Solihull Moors
• Forest Green Rovers 2-1 Altrincham
• Maidenhead United 3-1 Barnet
• Oldham Athletic 1-1 Gateshead
• Southend United 2-2 Dagenham & Redbridge
• Tamworth 3-2 Aldershot Town
• Wealdstone 1-0 AFC Fylde
• Woking 3-2 Hartlepool United
• Yeovil Town 0-1 Rochdale
• York City 0-2 Boston United

TODAY: FOREST GREEN ROVERS

Following a 5-0 trouncing at the other relegated club, Sutton United, Altrincham will be looking for a better outcome in Gloucestershire. FGR lie a point behind Altrincham currently, having taken five points from their four fixtures played so far.

FGR have an online matchday programme.

A year after Altrincham had lost their National League status in 2016, FGR were promoted to the EFL in 2017 via the play-offs and went on to spend seven seasons at that level before their relegation in 2024.

In fact, that was a second successive relegation, having enjoyed promotion to EFL1 in 2022.

So, the last time that Alty went to the New Lawn was on Saturday, 28 November, 2015, when the hosts won 2-0, having also won the opening fixture of that season at Moss Lane by the only goal of the game.

Left: With an appropriate advertisment in the background, Altrincham lost at a very wet Forest Green in Gloucestershire in November 2015, ending the game with nine men/.

A disastrous start saw FGR take the lead after just 43 seconds when the burly Parkin took advantage of a Moult slip to score with a low shot across Deasy from left of goal. Parkin was then left unmarked to convert a corner to make it 2-0 in the 19th minute.

Altrincham hardly threatened at this stage as FGR dominated in a match played in dreadful conditions; a gusty wind and rain which was, at times, torrential. But when FGR's Bennett was sent off for retaliation against Richman just before half time, Altrincham were given hope.

But despite seeing more of the ball in the second half, Altrincham only seriously tested keeper Arnold with a Reeves effort.

Then, Alty who were the only National League club not to have suffered a red card that season, picked up two in five minutes.

O'Keefe harshly saw red when his tackle on a slippery surface led to him sliding into Guthrie (78 mins) before Havern picked up a second yellow for holding Frear (83 mins).

ALTRINCHAM: 17. Tim DEASY, 5. Luca HAVERN (capt), 6. Scott LEATHER, 3. Adam GRIFFIN, 4. Jake MOULT, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 14. Josh O'KEEFE, 10. Damian REEVES 19. Ryan CROWTHER, 20. Jordan SINNOTT, 7. James LAWRIE, Subs: 9. Michael RANKINE, 11. Nicky CLEE, 23. Callum WILLIAMS, 12. Sam HEATHCOTE, 18. George BOWERMAN.

The late Mike Garnett's updated history of games between the two clubs reveals the following statistics of all previous encounters:

• At Altrincham: P9-W3-D4-L2-F14-A15
• At FGR: P9-W1-D3-L5-F11-A20
• All: P18-W4-D7-L7-F25-A35

EASTLEIGH MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

ALTY OLD BOYS

Alty youngster SHARIF DEANS hit the bar for Widnes at Trafford on Saturday. The hosts won 1-0 thanks to three goal-line clearances from SEAN HIGGINS.

Now a veteran, AARON CHALMERS played for Stalybridge Celtic against Kidsgrove Athletic.

Atherton Collieries, with EDEN BAILEY in their team, lost 0-3 to Witton Albion.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The visitors reported that "Rovers settled for a point in a 0-0 draw away at the Crown Oil Arena ...

Rovers forward Christian Doidge came the closest for the away side as his second half effort was poked goalwards into the arms of Luke McNicholas, the Rochdale goalkeeper.

The first half was a cagey affair...

Both sides came close to an opener at times but neither could find the goal in order to steal all three points away from the other.

Liam Sercombe almost found a late winner after Ben Tozer's long throw caused problems in Dale's defence...

Forest Green Rovers: Ward; Jenks, Tozer (C), Inniss, Robson; McCann, May, Sercombe; McAllister, Doidge, Knowles (Osadebe 90’). Unused subs: Searle, Bunker, Omotoye, Moore-Taylor".

Next Saturday, Oldham Athletic visit the J. Davidson Stadium, their last away game having been a 4-1 humbling at Aldershot Town.

The Latics report that they "suffered their first defeat of the new season as they conceded four times...

The home side opened the scoring late in the first half through James Henry and although [ex-Alty defender] Reagan Ogle had reduced the deficit after they added a second, Micky Mellon’s side were unable to find a way back.

Ogle was one of two changes made by Mellon from the side that drew against AFC Fylde in midweek. He replaced Jake Caprice at right wing-back whilst captain Tom Conlon also returned having missed the previous match due to illness...

Oldham Athletic: Hudson, Ogle, Hobson, Monthe, Charsley (Hammond 57) Lundstram, Fondop, (Reid 61), Conlon, Kay, (Gardner 83), Raglan, Uchegbulam (Caprice 61). Subs not used: Moloney, Kitching, Hogan.

25 August 2024

"SCORING IS A PROBLEM" SAYS SORVEL

"We 've created chances in the second half and, on another day, we get one...

"Scoring is definitely a problem at present and that's not something we've ever experienced since we've been at the club. Everyone knows two goals in four games is nowhere near enough.

"We're lucky to have six points on the board".

Eastleigh manager Kelvin Davis opined that "Every team in the country is happy with a 1-0 away from home. To put in another performance like that at this level is fantastic".

ALTRINCHAM 0-1 EASTLEIGH

The penalty materialised after a rehearsed Eastleigh freekick seemed to have gone wrong but after four or five passes ended with the foul on Quigley.

The match itself lacked goalmouth excitement until after the goal when Altrincham went hard for an equaliser but they squandered a couple of chances and were denied two penalty appeals.

Alty have scored just twice in four games this season. Their best chance today came from a fierce low cross from the left by Amaluzor which Banks instinctively diverted towards goal only for keeper McDonnell to make an important block (62 mins).

Right: Quigley and Lewis Baines contest an aerial ball during the second half.

Match report here.

OPPOSITION VIEW

Neither side could really test each other too much, up until Scott Quigley was taken down to give the Spitfires a penalty in the 72nd minute...

Early on in the game, neither side could really to manage to create any real chances... The game was mainly played out in the middle of the park...

Joe McDonnell was called into action for the first time in the 41st minute. Max Haygarth thumped a low-driven effort towards goal but saw his shot get denied impressively by the Eastleigh ‘keeper...

McDonnell made an impressive stop in the 62nd minute. Lewis Banks hit towards goal and looked set to score, but was left disappointed after McDonnell matched his effort well...

Maguire gave the Spitfires the lead from the spot in the 72nd minute...

The hosts piled on the pressure in the last 20 minutes, but couldn’t find an equaliser meaning Maguire goal would go on to be enough to get the Spitfires over the line to secure their four consecutive win.

SUPPORTERS' AWAY TRAVEL

Details are here

ALTY'S NEW KEEPER

Harvey, who is 21 next month, did not figure in the summer warm-up friendlies, where Academy keeper Louie Fallon was the second goalkeeper.

In fact, Randle has recently left Alvechurch, from where he had been on loan at Coventry United, who announced at the end of July that "Harvey is looking to pursue a full time career in football and is currently in advanced talks with West Bromwich Albion".

He started out with Derby County under-18s before going on loan to Alvechurch, in the Southern League Premier Division Central, from where he was loaned to Coventry United in the United Counties League before returning to Alvechurch.

A BUSY DIRECTORS' BOX

In addition to the suspended Eddy Jones and the injured Isaac Marriott and Ollie Crankshaw (who encouragingly took part in the warm-up), there were seats for Lucas Weaver and Remi Thompson, for whom there was no place in the matchday squad.

More unexpected occupants of directors' box seats were Justin Donawa with his wife and young baby. Justin was invited back to prove his fitness this summer but did not appear in any of the pre-season fixtures. However, it appears that he still has aspirations to rejoin the club.

ALTY OLD BOYS

The 23-year-old former Manchester United and Blackburn youth team player arrives from Fleetwood, where he has played since January 2023.

Dolan earned his move to Fleetwood on the back of an impressive two seasons at Warrington Rylands, also playing for Radcliffe and Matlock having signed a professional contract with Latics in August 2019...

Dolan said... 'Last time I was here, I made some mistakes but I feel the character I’ve shown to get back to playing at a good level displays the desire I’ve got to play... I could easily have given up on a lot of things but as soon as I got my head straight, I knew that I wanted to prove myself again as a footballer and my determination has always been to come back to a big club like Oldham and do well'...

He made his senior debut for Stockport Town before featuring for an Altrincham side which reached the National League North play-offs in 2019, joining Latics that summer as a 19-year-old.

He spent time on loan at Ashton United, then joining Radcliffe... his second season at Rylands earned him a move back to the EFL with Fleetwood...

Manager Micky Mellon said... 'What really impresses me about Callum is how he has turned his life around. He has paid quite rightly for what he has done previously but he has shown a great attitude in going back into lower non-league which has earned him his move to Fleetwood.

'I have done a lot of work in an industry with young people who maybe need some guidance in life and make poor decisions if they don’t have that. It’s then the responsibility of people in roles like mine to help them make better decisions. Callum is definitely making better decisions in life'".

Phil Jordan's comprehensive round-up of Saturday's action informs us that in the:

Championship : DUNCAN WATMORE was withdrawn by Millwall after 72 minutes of their goalless draw at Hull City.

League One : CARL PIERGIANNI captained Stevenage to a goalless draw at Burton Albion.

Bristol Rovers brought JOEL SENIOR (right) off the bench after 69 minutes at Edgeley Park, but Stockport County had already wrapped up their 2-0 win by then. However Peterborough United had no need to bring CHRIS CONN-CLARKE into the action at Exeter City where they won 1-2, while JOE HUGILL started for Wigan Athletic at home to Crawley Town but was withdrawn after 77 minutes of their 1-0 win - both TOBY MULLARKEY and JUNIOR QUITIRNA put in full shifts for the visitors.

League Two : There was no score when Barrow withdrew ELLIOT NEWBY in their home game against Port Vale after 52 minutes - but within two minutes they scored, eventually going on to win 4-0.

MARCUS DINANGA entered the action for Bromley after 27 minutes at Bradford City, but his side were already behind and down to 10 men. The Bantams went on to win 3-1.

JAMES BERRY put Chesterfield ahead against visitors Salford City after 69 minutes, and Salford's seventh yellow card just two minutes later was Curtis Tilt's second one. The ten men brought MARCUS DACKERS on after 78 minutes, while James Berry left the action six minutes later. There was a late twist when Salford equalised late on to force a 1-1 draw.

HARRISON HOLGATE was booked in Fleetwood's goalless draw against visitors Gillingham.

National League : REAGAN OGLE (right) scored and was later booked, as he and JOSH LUNDSTRAM put in a full shift for Oldham Athletic in their 4-1 humbling at Aldershot.

DAN MOONEY was withdrawn by Boston United after 82 minutes of their 1-1 draw at home to Tamworth.

TYRESE SINCLAIR came on as a substitute after 61 minutes of York City's 2-2 draw at Sutton United.

National North : JOSH HANCOCK put Radcliffe ahead but visitors Needham Market fought back to draw 1-1.

KOLE HALL, on loan from Chester, scored Chorley's equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Scunthorpe United.

NPL Premier : OLLIE BYRNE had to go off injured after 70 minutes at Guiseley with the score at 2-2, and FC United went on to lose 3-2.

JACK REDSHAW scored Hyde United's second in a 4-1 home win over newly promoted Stockton Town.

NPL Division 1 West : ELLIOT ROKKA rounded off the scoring as Witton Albion won 0-3 at Atherton Collieries.

Northern Ireland Premiership : SAM ROSCOE scored twice as Linfield easily saw off visitors Loughgall 5-1.

FA Trophy Qualifying Round : Bootle were without both TONY THOMPSON and SEAN WILLIAMS for their tie at City of Liverpool, although AIDY ROXBURGH started the game, and played throughout, while DANNY MITCHLEY (right) was in the home lineup. The match reached the end of normal time tied at 3-3, and went to penalties. Both sides had missed once when Aidy stepped up to give Bootle the edge at 4-3, but it was City of Liverpool who went through when his team mate missed and Danny made no mistake to clinch it 5-4.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 19-year-old has been recruited to provide cover for Cameron Gregory during the Pilgrims' next eight National League fixtures, with current understudy Jake Lovelace ruled out indefinitely through a groin injury.

Craven, wearing squad number 25, [was] registered and eligible to feature against Forest Green Rovers on Saturday afternoon".

At Gateshead, Jean Belehouan has signed a one-yearcontract following his release by Tranmere Rovers.

A French centre-back, Belehouan was at the Manchester United Academy as a youngster before moving on to Sheffield United in 2017. He went on loan to FC Halifax Townin January 2021.

More loan spells followed with Farsley Celtic and Boston United in 2022 before The Blades released him in summer 2023.

He then joined Tranmere Rovers but was released this summer and joining The Heed.

Another goalkeeper signing has taken place at Braintree Town who briefly announced on social media that there had been "Another new signing for the Iron this week, as Lucas Covolan joins from Maidstone United in the sticks". Presumably they mean Covolan is playing between the sticks in his goalkeeping role rather than that Maidstone United is in the back of beyond.

Hartlepool United confirm that they have signed, on loan, Darren Robinson, a "central midfielder, who captains Derby County’s U21 side, has played four times for County’s first team and is also a Northern Ireland U21 international.

Robinson won Derby’s Scholar of the Year award in 2022 and 2023, and signed a two-year contract extension at Pride Park in May.

He linked up with Pools in August 2024, on loan until January 1st".

Yeovil Town "welcome Jahmari Clarke on loan from Reading until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old striker has been with Reading for several years, rising through the youth ranks before making his professional debut for the Royals in August 2021...

Jahmari has also spent time away from the Madejski Stadium with loan spells at Forest Green, Woking, and more recently, Boreham Wood.

In May 2022, Clarke was called up to the Jamaican Under-20 team.

24 August 2024

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Dagenham & Redbridge 1-1 FC Halifax Town

Saturday, 24 August 2024

• AFC Fylde 0-0 Maidenhead United
• Aldershot Town 4-1 Oldham Athletic
• Altrincham 0-1 Eastleigh
• Barnet 2-1 Southend United
• Boston United 1-1 Tamworth
• Ebbsfleet United 0-3 Woking
• Gateshead 3-1 Yeovil Town
• Hartlepool United 1-1 Wealdstone
• Rochdale 0-0 Forest Green Rovers
• Solihull Moors 1-1 Braintree Town
• Sutton United 2-2 York City

TODAY: EASTLEIGH

Hampshire's Daily Echo reports that "Eastleigh have signed Noa Boutin on loan from AFC Bournemouth until January.

Born in Paris, Boutin played for ACBB Youth in the French capital before being offered a place in the Under 18s at AFC Bournemouth in 2020.

Whilst at The Cherries, the left-back spent time on loan at Poole Town... The 2022/23 season saw Boutin spend time on loan at... Weymouth FC, before Gosport Borough snapped him up for the second half of the season.

EASTLEIGH LAST TIME

And it could have been a bigger winning margin as Altrincham totally dominated an Eastleigh side which, in mitigation, suffered an early blow when Clampin was injured and had to be subbed by Nwabuokei in only the tenth minute.

Right: Lewis Banks celebrates his goal against Eastleigh in January 2024.

But Altrincham were already setting the pace, with Matt Gould virtually unemployed at the other end.

However, the hosts did not take the lead till the 32nd minute when a low through-ball tempted McDonnell to rush out of his goal only for Regan Linney to beat him to it and feed Banks. The right-back netted smartly from the centre of the box.

Linney fired in a low shot which made it 2-0 (45+2 mins).

A superb turn past a defender by Conn-Clarke saw him advance up the left from where he shot at goal and the ball was parried to Newby who powered home Alty's third (52 mins).

Altrincham continued to dominate possession whilst the league's top scorer Eastleigh's McCallum was deprived of service at the other end.

Alty wrapped up the win with a fourth goal in the 87th minute when Osborne's fine ball put Conn-Clarke in on goal and he made no mistake in completing the scoring.

The sides were:

ALTRINCHAM: 21. Matt Gould, 2. Lewis Banks, 15. Jake Cooper, 4. Lewis Baines, 3. Eddie Jones, 8. Isaac Marriott (c), 6. Elliot Osborne, 10. Chris Conn-Clarke, 30. Alex Newby, 11. Justin Amaluzor, 9. Regan Linney. Subs: 16. Sam Roscoe, 7. Matty Kosylo, 14. Dior Angus, 19. George Wilson, 44. Dan Mooney.

EASTLEIGH: 1. Joe McDonnell, 3. Ryan Clampin, 4. Nigel Atangana, 8. Jake Taylor (c), 9. Paul McCallum, 11. Enzio Boldewijn, 12. George Langston, 14. Lee Hodson, 15. Luke Croll, 17. Chris Maguire, 21. Oscar Rutherford. Subs: 13. Tommy Scott (gk), 5. Aaron Martin, 10. Aidan Barlow, 16. Solomon Nwabuokei, 29. Malachi Dotse.

The squads have changed greatly since that January clash. For Alty, only six players who started against Eastleigh then were also starters last Tuesday against Maidenhead. They were Banks, Baines, Osborne, Newby, Linney and Amaluzor.

For the Spitfires just three players who were in the first eleven against Alty that day were also starters this midweek; they were Joe McDonnell, Jake Taylor and Paul McCallum.

ALTY OLD BOYS

In Ireland, it was a less happy night for BARRY BAGGLEY, as Waterford went down to the only goal of the game scored by visitors Derry City.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Due to unfortunate health issues, Harry has agreed a mutual termination of his contract...

Harry signed for the club in 2022 and has been a loyal servant ever since. Featuring 102 times for the Bees scoring 26 goals...

Manager Dean Brennan said 'He’s in my top three signings I’ve ever made at our football club. Harry has been an absolute joy to manage, he is a managers dream. Low maintenance and a real leader on and off the pitch'...

Harry added, 'I’d like to say how gutted I am to have had to end my time at Barnet this way. Unfortunately for health reasons this is the right choice to make at this time in my career'".

Happier news from Barnet is "the signing of Rohat Matyar. The 19-year-old defender joins the Bees after leaving Dagenham and Redbridge...

Dean Brennan said 'Matyar, joins us as a development player, he will go out on loan to gain more experience of men’s football... We believe in young players'".

Also at Barnet comes "the signing of Richard Nartey on a free transfer. The 25-year-old... began his career through the youth setup at Chelsea... until his departure in 2020 to fellow Premier League side Burnley.

The versatile centre back enjoyed a loan spell at Burton Albion in his final year at Chelsea where he went on to make 29 appearances for Albion that season... Whilst at Burnley he made a brief loan move to Mansfield Town before signing permanently at Salford City in 2022. He made 11 appearances for the Ammies before taking a break from the professional game for one season...

Dean Brennan said, 'Nartey is a player we have been tracking for several years. He has been in training with us for several weeks, he has impressed us with his natural ability, his athleticism and reading of the game'".

23 August 2024

NEXT: EASTLEIGH

So far as is known Altrincham have no injuries other than those of the long-term absenttees Ollie Crankshaw and Isaac Marriott.

The Spitfires will be without winger Deji Sotano (ACL injury) and there are doubts about last season's top scorer in the National League, Paul McCallum, who failed to complete the first half on Tuesday night with what appeared to be a hamstring problem. McCallum has already scored three times this season.

SPITFIRES FLYING HIGH

They report that "A rapid start for the Spitfires, with two goals within the first ten minutes [saw] them take down Solihull Moors at the Silverlake Stadium.

Jake Taylor and Paul McCallum both got their names on the scoresheet for the second game in a row. A late goal from Bradley Stevenson gave the visitors hope, but it was not enough...

It did not take long for the Spitfires to open the scoring, a mistake from the Moors defence meant McCallum would find himself through on goal. He unselfishly squared the ball into the path of Taylor who stayed cool and slotted the ball home...

The dominance continued from the Spitfires, with them finding the back of the net for a second time just seven minutes later. Scott Quigley picked up the ball on the edge of the box before curling a cross straight onto the head of McCallum who did was he does best, he directed the ball into the back of the net...

McCallum was forced off through injury just before the break, after registering a goal and an assist within the first 38 minutes...

The visitors did go on to pull a goal back during injury time through Bradley Stevenson...

Eastleigh: McDonnell (GK), Brindley, Vokins, Humphries (Semenyo, 69′), Fernandez, Taylor (C), McCallum (Maguire, 38′), Shade (Waruih, 75′), Nwabuokei, Panter, Quigley. Unused subs: Scott (GK), Hodson, Webber, Dotse".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Maxi finished last season on loan at Forest Green Rovers on loan, where he made four appearances as the club was relegated to the National League.

EV CHARGING AT J. DAVIDSON STADIUM

UK-based electric vehicle (EV) charge point operator Zapgo has announced a landmark agreement with Fair Game, bringing reliable EV charging to 33 football clubs across England.

This list includes Altrincham FC... Zapgo [is] the exclusive EV charge point provider for the member clubs of Fair Game, an organisation dedicated to positively transforming football from the grassroots up.

The installation of Zapgo's EV charging hubs... offers a constant source of revenue for the clubs...

The 33 clubs represented by Fair Game are: Accrington Stanley, AFC Wimbledon, Altrincham FC, Ashford United, Basingstoke Town, Bath City, Bristol Rovers, Bury AFC, Cambridge United, Carlisle United, Chester FC, City of Liverpool, Curzon Ashton, Darlington FC, Doncaster Rovers, Dorking Wanderers, Eastbourne Borough, Ebbsfleet United, FC United Women, Gateshead FC, Grimsby Town, Hungerford Town, Leyton Orient, Lincoln City, Luton Town, Maidstone United, Newport County AFC, Salisbury, Shrewsbury Town, Swindon Town, Tonbridge Angels, Tranmere Rovers, Worcester City".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The central midfielder ... spent the beginning of the 2023/24 season with Crewe Alexandra before joining Notts County on loan in February 2024.

The former Chelsea youngster has appeared over 50 times in the Football League across spells with Bristol Rovers, Cheltenham Town, Crewe Alexandra, Notts County, Shrewsbury Town and Swindon Town as well as playing 87 times for Swedish side Ostersund.

Sutton United "confirm the signing of Finley Barbrook on a loan deal until the end of the season.

The highly rated midfielder joins from Ipswich Town...

Barbrook was named Academy Player of the Year back in May, and also featured 30 times whilst on loan at Chelmsford City during the 2023/24 season...

Head coach Steve Morison claimed... 'He’s been a player we’ve been after all summer; as soon as the season finished last year he’s been on our radar and we’ve been talking to the guys at Ipswich for a while now and now I can’t wait to see him in action...

It’s a great coup for us. He’s a well-rounded midfielder'".

Aldershot Town "confirm the return of defender, Rollin Menayese, on a permanent basis!

Menayese joined the Shots on loan from Walsall in January 2024 and made six appearances before being recalled by his parent club in March.

The defender only made one appearance following his return to Walsall...

This will be the 26-year-old’s third spell at the EBB Stadium, having played 16 times on loan from Bristol Rovers in the 18/19 season...

Tommy Widdrington is pleased... saying 'Whilst we showed real interest in Rollin at the end of last season, it’s taken a little longer than I’d have hoped'".

22 August 2024

NEXT: EASTLEIGH

The Hampshire club has the only unblemished record in the National League, topping the nascent table with nine points and eight goals from three matches. In contrast Alty have scored just twice this season with both the scorers being defenders.

Alty will be without the suspended Eddy Jones and the long-term injured duo of Isaac Marriott and Ollie Crankshaw but the visitors, too, have had an injury blow as winger Deji Sotano has been ruled out for the season with an ACL injury acquired in their first fixture of this season, at Maidenhead.

Last season Altrincham coasted to a 4-0 win in January 2024. But this time around it promises to be a much tougher proposition for the Robins.

PARKY'S PERCEPTIONS

The manager said "Last night at Maidenhead, we got exactly what was asked for and the players delivered. James Jones comes back into the team and scores the winning goal and keeps a clean sheet. What a return...

Last Saturday’s very heavy defeat at Sutton was a hard one to take. Neil Sorvel and I were very happy with the first twenty-five minutes where we more than matched them and got into some really dangerous areas.

What followed was sixteen minutes of madness where three individual errors cost us the game, which you just can’t do much about from the sidelines...

We are still a work in progress and maybe still nursing a play-off hangover subconsciously; not that you can tell around the camp...

I know when we click we’ll be the team every one associates with Altrincham. I can see signs of it already... When we get everyone back we’ll look a different animal".

OLDHAM MATCH ARRANGEMENTS

It states that "As is now normal practice for games where we are expecting a bumper crowd, tickets are on sale for home fans by section of the ground.

Therefore, when buying a ticket for this game you will have to specify whether you will watch the game from:

• The Main Stand
• The Golf Road Terrace
• The Popular Side
• The Community Sports Hall terrace

Season Tickets and Altrincham Juniors Season Tickets are valid for this game, and we will also ask all ticket holders for their preferred viewing point within the J.Davidson Stadium....

Season Ticket holders and members of the Business Club will be contacted by email for you to confirm your choice of section of the ground in the coming days".

ALTY OLD BOYS

DANNY MITCHLEY scored City of Liverpool's third in a 1-4 victory over Wythenshawe at Hollyhedge Park.

In their FA Cup replay at home to South Liverpool, ELLIOTT ROKKA scored to give Witton Albion a 2-1 half time lead, and they scored again late in the game to clinch their place in the next round. Robins loanee JOEL BAILEY played the whole game for Albion. At Ericstan Park, Wythenshawe Town progressed by beating Runcorn Linnets 3-1. SAM SHERIDAN played the full game, while KIUS METZ came off the bench after 78 minutes.

In North West Counties League First Division South: Another Alty loanee in action on Tuesday night was AFERNEE DENISE, who scored the third goal for Cheadle Heath Nomads in a 2-5 win at Sandbach United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Ward came through the Wroxham academy... In March 2021, Ward agreed a deal with then-League One side Ipswich to sign a professional contract the following season, making his first team debut in November 2022...

In February 2023, Ward joined League of Ireland Premier Division side Derry City on loan, making four appearances for the club... before being loaned to National League South outfit Braintree Town in November 2023... until he was recalled by Ipswich in February 2024.

A right-sided midfielder/winger, Ward was a trialist for the Cards several times in pre-season, impressing with his pace and control".

The Times Series reports hat "Barnet recorded successive National League wins this week, after defeat on the opening day of the season, with a 1-0 victory over Forest Green Rovers at The Hive on Tuesday.

After a 2-1 win at Ebbsfleet United on Saturday, Zak Brunt’s injury time winner sealed the points for the Bees...

'I’m delighted with our patience [against FGR]. They’re a really tough team to play against. Super well organised, especially defensively,' Dean Brennan told the club’s website.

'Their front two work extremely hard, and their organisation was outstanding. Obviously, they’re coming here trying to frustrate us, but we were brilliant. Our aim was not to give them any corners or any entries because they’re a very big side. They’ve got a lot of experience with their manager as well...

'it’s important our supporters understand the way we play, we’re building dominance. So they can’t get frustrated when we don’t shoot or we don’t shoot in certain scenarios because we don’t want teams to counter attack on us.

'We’re going to look to control most games... We’ve been dominant in the first three games of the season... To not give up a corner, I'm sure they didn’t have a corner! That’s impressive'" the manager concluded.

MAIDENHEAD UNITED 0-1 ALTRINCHAM

Right: James Jones

After an uneventful opening period of the game, during which neither side threatened to score, Altrincham got the upper hand.

Their pressure told after Lokko had earned a yellow card for a foul on Baines. From the resulting freekick on the right, Osborne's cross was met by James Jones's downward header, from beyond the back post, which put Altrincham ahead (36 mins).

Earlier Linney had been booked after being fouled by Lokko, the Alty man seemingly having asked for a yellow card for the offender.

The second half saw Maidenhead enjoying more of the game but apart from a Smith effort which he dragged wide, they never looked like scoring. For their part Altrincham scarcely tested the home keeper apart from a Haygarth shot which Craig Ross saved with his legs.

Following their chastening 5-0 defeat at Sutton last Saturday, Altrincham were again without left-back Eddy Jones, after his dismisal against Woking on the opening day of the campaign.

Jake Cooper, who was adversely involved in three of Sutton's goals on Saturday, dropped to the bench and was replaced by James Jones. Up front, Regan Linney started for the first time this season as Nuttall moved to the bench

Match report here.

MAGPIES' VIEW OF ALTY GAME

The Magpies continued to grow into the game with some lively play which resulted in a corner...

Following a lengthy spell of possession Altrincham took the lead after thirty-six minutes when a free-kick found the head of James Jones who guided his header into the bottom corner.

Altrincham continued to control things after the goal...

Alan Devonshire would’ve been pleased with the reaction of the Magpies following the interval with Maidenhead starting well...

The Magpies continued to control the second half in terms of possession but were struggling to test Ethan Ross.

Haygarth had a fantastic opportunity to double the visitors lead but his strike was well stopped by Craig Ross who parried and eventually cleared.

As the game progressed into the latter stages, the Magpies continued to look bright and almost scored at the death after Smith’s effort beat Ross but also skimmed past the post".

NEXT: EASTLEIGH

They are the only Vanarama National League team to have maximum points from their three fixtures to date, having won away at Maidenhead United (0-2) on the opening day, followed by two home wins against AFC Fylde (4-2) as Solihull Moors (2-1).

ALTY OLD BOYS

"National League: It's already looking grim for Boston United, and DAN MOONEY was substituted after 74 minutes of their 2-0 defeat at Southend United.

York City racked up six yellow cards in their 1-0 home win over Rochdale. TYRESE SINCLAIR (right) was not one of them, though he was withdrawn just before the hour.

National North : Hereford led at half time in their home game against Peterborough Sports, thanks to a MONTEL GIBSON goal, but the visitors hit back to force a 1-1 draw.

An ASHLEY HEMMINGS goal was sufficient for Kidderminster Harriers to take the points against visitors Brackley Town.

JONNY MARGETTS scored the winner as King's Lynn beat visitors Rushall Olympic 2-1.

NPL Premier: After BRENDON DANIELS had put Leek Town ahead after just 8 minutes, visitors Mickleover equalised through ANDY DALES (left), and went on to win 1-3.

Although FC United apparently had much of the best of the game at Whitby Town, they had to settle for a goalless draw, and a clean sheet for OLLIE BYRNE.

SAM WEDGBURY was on the bench for Worksop Town as they ran in eight goals without reply against Matlock Town, who were not helped by a 53rd minute red card when it was only 3-0.

EFL Trophy : SONNY ALJOFREE was a second half substitute for Manchester United U21 at Barnsley. Trailing 2-0 with only nine minutes left, they fought back to win 2-3.

MARCUS DACKERS played the full match for Salford City, but they were beaten 0-2 by Port Vale".

Aside from Tuesday's activity on the pitch, Leek Town "announce the signing of ADAM PORTER. Adam was at Stoke City for many years, before playing for Altrincham, Salford, Ashton & NLS Truro City last season

He also had a short but successful loan period for the Blues in 2020".

Meanwhile, Lancaster City "announce that midfielder AARON BENNETT has joined the club from FC United of Manchester.

The 20-year old who started his career at Preston North End's Academy... also spent time on loan at National League side Altrincham.

Following on from his release from PNE in 2023, Aaron joined National League North Side Warrington Town before heading to Broadhurst Park where he made 21 League appearances, scoring 5 goals, 1 goals in 26 in all competitions).

Tuesday's games are the subject of Phil Jordan's report.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Moncur has played well over 300 games in the EFL and joins the Club following two strong seasons at Orient...

The 31-year-old also has a significant amount of experience in the Championship, where he’s represented Barnsley, Luton and Hull City.

Moncur progressed through West Ham United’s academy, with his first senior experience coming at AFC Wimbledon... He also made 86 league appearances for Colchester United in the 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons... That earned him the move to the second tier with Barnsley...

Head Coach Kevin Maher says Moncur will be a great fit".

Hartlepool United report that "With an impressive career to his name including five promotions, Hartlepool United are thrilled to confirm the signing of towering striker Gary Madine, subject to FA ratification.

Madine holds an illustrious record having spent 16 seasons exclusively in the top three divisions of English football with nearly 500 appearances and scoring over 100 goals.

The forward, born in the North East, shone for Carlisle United in League One as a youngster before gaining a move to Sheffield Wednesday... Madine then spent three years with Bolton Wanders...

Subsequently he earned a move to Championship side Cardiff City... After appearances with Cardiff in the top-flight, he joined Sheffield United on loan...

Madine spent his last four seasons at Blackpool,... The striker missed most of last season with an injury...

Pools Manager Darren Sarll commented... 'His goals, technical ability, physicality and his location made this an important acquisition'".

20 August 2024

MIDWEEK GAMES

• Barnet 1-0 Forest Green Rovers
• Braintree Town 2-1 Aldershot Town
• Eastleigh 2-1 Solihull Moors
• FC Halifax Town 1-1 Gateshead
• Maidenhead United 0-1 Altrincham
• Oldham Athletic 1-1 AFC Fylde
• Southend United 2-0 Boston United
• Tamworth 0-1 Hartlepool United
• Wealdstone 0-1 Sutton United
• Woking 1-0 Dagenham & Redbridge
• Yeovil Town 3-2 Ebbsfleet United
• York City 1-0 Rochdale

NEXT: MAIDENHEAD UNITED

The result terminated a wretched week for The Robins, being their third defeat in eight days and the outcome was all the more surprising as Maidenhead had lost their previous four league matches.

Alty started without Ethan Ross, Lewis Baines, Isaac Marriott and Justin Amaluzor but back into the starting side came Linney, Conn-Clarke and Newby replacing Angus, Marriott and Kosylo. In Marriott's absence, Osborne assumed the captaincy.

On a heavily sanded pitch, Altrincham started reasonably well when Banks netted from close range in the 13th minute before Lokko scored a deserved equaliser (30 mins).

Maidenhead went ahead just before the interval when Smith got across the front of the Alty back line to slide home an equaliser.

Above: With Alty 1-3 down, Phil Parkinson attempted to rally his players (Lewis Baines, Matty Kosylo and Chris Conn-Clarke) during a break in play against Maidenhead United.

And little more than sixty seconds after the start of the second half, Maidenhead's veteran defender Remy Clerima headed home a third, unchallenged, from a right-wing corner.

Altrincham never looked like recovering the deficit

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Matt Gould, 2. Lewis Banks, 15. Jake Cooper, 3. Eddie Jones, 6. Elliot Osborne (c), 16. Sam Roscoe, 9. Regan Linney, 10. Chris Conn-Clarke, 30. Alex Newby, 19. George Wilson, 44. Dan Mooney. Subs: 1. Ollie Byrne, 4. Lewis Baines, 7. Matty Kosylo, 8. Isaac Marriott, 14. Dior Angus.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

IT specialist Ian Dorricott's hands are usually tapping away at a computer screen during working hours, but it's wielding a paint brush to spruce up all areas of our ground that has made him a worthy recipient of a £30 Blanchflower voucher.

Gates, doors, barriers, even the stanchions that hold up each stand roof - they've all had the benefit of countless coats of paint expertly administered by lifelong Alty fan Ian...

[Said Ian], 'I've been spending two or three hours an evening four or five times a week painting one bit of the ground or another...

'My uncle took me to Alty games when I was six or seven, and it has carried on over the years, with my son really get into it now... I must say this award has come as a lovely surprise.'"

ALTY OLD BOYS

Luca spent four seasons at Altrincham but when asked who was his "Best Manager" he selected Gary Lowe who managed Hyde during Luca's time there, with a "mention" too for Mark Bower of Bradford Park Avenue.

His "Best Teammate" was NICKY CLEE and the "Funniest Player" he selected was another with whom he spent time at Moss Lane, namely PADDY LACEY.

As for "Funniest Moment", Luca chose selected LEE SINNOTT's team talks "because they were like an Oscar oerformance each week! His brother is an actor.. so I don't know if that's where it came from.

"Everybody sat there wondering what was going to come out of his mouth an we still laugh about it when we see each other"

Amongst the feats chosen as his "Biggest Achievement" was "helping Altrincham back into the then Conference Premier in 2014".

Luca's "Lowest Moment" was also at Altrincham when he was "relegated with them in 2016".

Luca was recently in action at Moss Lane for Stuart Coburn's testimonial, as pictured (right).

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Olley was on the receiving end of a poorly-timed challenge from Woking’s Dion Kelly-Evans after just 13 minutes on Saturday. The Woking defender was sent off for the tackle which left Olley in agony and needing urgent medical treatment.

The 28-year-old left the pitch on a stretcher and the match was suspended for an hour while he received treatment...

But he tweeted on Sunday evening to reassure his followers. 'Surgery all done and went well,' Olley wrote. 'Broken leg, dislocated ankle, plus ligaments all ruptured. No hard feelings at all towards Dion, these unfortunate things happen.'...

Gateshead boss Rob Elliot [said]... 'I’m absolutely gutted and devastated because there’s no need for it to be in that situation'".

From Woking, "club owner Drew Volpe [wrote]...

"On behalf of everyone at the Woking Football Club, I wanted to send our best wishes to Gateshead's captain Greg Olley who was seriously injured in our match on Saturday...

I have personally reached out to Greg and offered him our wishes. The Club is currently assessing options to help Greg in his recovery".

19 August 2024

ALTY PREDICTOR

As explained above, entries must be submitted by e-mail and you can do that HERE. Simply cut and paste the text below into your message, including your forecasts, name and contact details. (These details will be received and held by Altrincham FC and NOT the Alty Files).

• Game 1: 1, 2 or X
• Game 2: 1, 2 or X
• Game 3: 1, 2 or X
• Game 4: 1, 2 or X
• Game 5: 1, 2 or X
• Game 6: 1, 2 or X
• Game 7: 1, 2 or X
• TOTAL Number of Goals ...

NAME...................................

E-MAIL ADDRESS.........................

Please address any enquiries about the scheme to sales@altrinchamfootballclub.co.uk

NEXT: MAIDENHEAD UNITED

Once again the away fixture at Maidenhead United is a midweek affair. Last season Altrincham won there 1-0, thanks to a Conn-Clarke goal.

The previous season, the fixture was exactly the same as this week's affair; a third fixture of a new season in August 2022, which the home side won 2-0.

Earlier that calendar year, but in season 2021-22, the sides played out a goalless draw in a Saturday afternoon fixture. A year earlier, in 2020-21 season, the match was a Saturday evening game which kicked off at 6.15pm for the benefit of the TV cameras. Alty lost 1-0.

So, in those four meetings since Alty's return to the top-flight of non-League, Maidenhead have won twice, whilst Altrincham have a single victory to their name.

MAIDENHEAD LOOKING FOR FIRST POINT

Maidenhead United, lost 2-1 at Solihull Moors, following a 0-2 loss to Eastleigh on the opening day of the season.

Maidenhead United tell us that "Alan Devonshire made three changes following our opening day defeat to Eastleigh with club captain Alan Massey, Shawn McCoulsky and Joshua Johnson replacing Will De Havilland, Tristan Abrahams and Ruben Carvalho".

After an uneventful and goalless first half, after the break "It was a nightmare start for the Magpies when a Matty Warburton cross slipped through the fingers of Ross and trickled into the net...

Solihull doubled their advantage just before the hour mark when a well delivered cross found Thavon Campbell who slotted the ball into the net.

Maidenhead responded well again to the goal and this time were rewarded with a goal. Reece Smith played a ball into the box which caused a scramble, the ball eventually trickled into the net thanks to an own goal from Jordan Tunnicliffe...

We will now welcome Altrincham to York Road on Tuesday night looking for our first points of the season...

Maidenhead United: Craig Ross, Zak Bell, Tyrese Dyce, Kevin Lokko, Nathan Ferguson, Shawn McCoulsky, Jayden Mitchell-Lawson (Abrahams 75’), Joshua Johnson (Carvalho 75’), Casey Pettit (Keetch 89’), Reece Smith, Alan Massey (c).

SUTTON MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

DREADFUL START TO SEASON FOR ALTY RESERVES

For unstated reasons their next two fixtures have been postponed

1. 27.7.24: Altrincham FC Res. 1-4 Denton Town (Scorer: Ryan. Line up: Blyth Emile Bywater, Sekouba Camara, Jack Alexander Chandler, Afernee Denise, Alfie Holland-Curwen, Alfred Igbinake, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Finley Ryan, Harry St Romaine, Thomas Whyte. Subs: Samuel Bonney-Phillips, Charley Jarrald, Ben Taylor, Kyran Webster)
2. 31.7.24: Middlewich Town 2-1 Altrincham FC Res. 1 (Chandler). (Line-up: Blyth Emile Bywater, Sekouba Camara, Jack Alexander Chandler, Oscar Cooper, Afernee Denise, Alfred Igbinake, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Remi Raymond, Finley Ryan, Harry St Romaine. Subs: Owen Fox, Jamie Garner, Rory Gorton, Ryan Millington, Luca Daniel Partington)
3. 3.8.24: Parklands 3-1 Altrincham FC Res. (Scorer: Chandler. Line-up: Samuel Bonney-Phillips, Blyth Emile Bywater, Sekouba Camara, Jack Alexander Chandler, Oscar Cooper, Afernee Denise, Alfred Igbinake, Charlie Noble, Remi Raymond, Finley Ryan. Subs: Alfie Holland-Curwen, Charley Jarrald, Harry Watson, Thomas Whyte)
4. 6.8.24 Poynton 5-0 Altrincham FC Res. (Samuel Bonney-Phillips, Sekouba Camara, Jack Alexander Chandler, Oscar Cooper, Alfred Igbinake, Charley Jarrald, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Remi Raymond, Finley Ryan, Thomas Whyte. Subs: Blyth Emile Bywater, Afernee Denise, Alfie Holland-Curwen, Harry St Romaine, Harry Watson)
5. 10.8.24: B>Altrincham FC Res. 3-5 Golborne Sports (Scorers Leckey, Ryan and Shtyhlian. Line-up: Blyth Emile Bywater, Sekouba Camara, Oscar Cooper, Afernee Denise, Alfred Igbinake, Charley Jarrald, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Remi Raymond, Finley Ryan, Harry St Romaine. Subs: Samuel Bonney-Phillips, Vladislav Shtyhlian, Harry Watson, Thomas Whyte, Shtyhlian, Nathan Wood)
6. 13.8.24: Altrincham FC Res. 2-2 Whaley Bridge Athletic (Scorers: Shtyhlian and AN Other. Line-up: Sekouba Camara, Oscar Cooper, Rhys Cosquer, Afernee Denise. Lucas William Edwards, Charley Jarrald, Kian Leckey, Charlie Noble, Remi Raymond, Finley Ryan, Vladislav Shtyhlian)
7. 17.8.24 Whalley Range 5-1 Altrincham FC Res (Scorer: Shtyhlian. Line-up: Blyth Emile Bywater, Sekouba Camara, Oscar Cooper, Charley Jarrald, Kian Leckey, Charlie Nobl, Remi Raymond, Vladislav Shtyhlian, Harry Watson, Thomas Whyte, Nathan Wood. Subs: Kian Gonzalez-Moghaddam, Harrison Howells, Harry St Romaine, Ben Taylor)

ALTY OLD BOYS

Closer to home in League Two, CALLUM DOLAN was mot in the Fleetwood Town squad, but HARRISON HOLGATE played the whole game at Meadow Lane against Notts County. Fleetwood went two goals up almost straight from the second-half restart, but the hosts rallied to earn a 2-2 draw.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A neat finish from defender Morgan Williams was enough to seal the points on a sweltering afternoon in Essex...

This was not a pretty performance and the cliched ‘game of two halves’ with a first 45 minutes which had all the hallmarks of the frustrations against Hartlepool seven days earlier, but the second 45 showing far more promise...

The pitch looked like it had not seen water in months...

Before the match, all the talk was about Braintree’s new signings Inih Effiong and John Akinde, but they were well-handled by our defence".

18 August 2024

"MASTERS OF OUR OWN DOWNFALL" SAYS PHIL

"It sounds strange saying it when you'v just let in five but I thought, in the first half hour, we were something like we want to be and got into some good areas.

"But we were masters of our own downfall and made individual errors that, at this level, against a side that's just come down from the Football League, you just can't make and we were punished every single time".

SUTTON UNITED 5-0 ALTRINCHAM

The first goal arrived in the 27th minute when Jake Cooper's forward pass, under no pressure, went to a Sutton man some thirty yards out. The ball found Coley whose low shot took a deflection past Ross.

Left: Jake Cooper

Five minutes later a Boateng run led to Harris netting the second goal.

Cooper was again at fault for the third goal as he was caught in possession as he attempted to run out of defence and Davies netted (38 mins). And Cooper's wretched afternoon continued as he brought down Harries and Odelusi sent Ross the wrong way from the spot to leave Alty four-goals down at the interval.

It was reminiscent of Altrincham conceding four times in 24 minutes in the first half at Solihull on 29th January 2022.

The second half was largely a non-event as Sutton were happy with their big lead and Altrincham lacked the ability to get back into the match.

Sutton made it five-nil in the 85th minute from a powerful header by substitute Nadesan.

Match report here .

SUTTON UNITED 5-0 ALTRINCHAM

Then a mistake from Altrincham defender Jake Cooper, who would endure a nightmare quarter of an hour, was seized on by Josh Coley and, from there, Sutton didn’t look back, opening up a four goal gap by half time and then preserving a clean sheet during the second half, the performance rounded off by a superb Ashley Nadesan header six minutes from time.

Altrincham carried an early threat and Steve Arnold had to field shots from Alex Newby and Jon Nuttall after two attacks down the right. Nana Boateng had a cross from the left acrobatically cleared, but while Sutton’s approach work was fluent there was little indication of the goal rush to come. Then Cooper’s wayward pass out from the back was intercepted by Coley...

From then until half time it was one-way traffic, and a second goal soon followed when Jayden Harris stabbed a shot home after a low Boateng cross had diverted in to his path. Harris was an increasingly influential figure, and when he slid in to dispossess Cooper six minutes later he had an assist to his name as well as a goal as his challenge sent Will Davies clear to slot the ball past Ethan Ross.

Before the interval there was time for Harris to inflict more misery on Cooper when the defender brought him down in the penalty area...

It was always Sutton who looked likelier to add to the score and... there would be a fifth goal, though, and it was a first Sutton goal for Nadesan".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship: After DUNCAN WATMORE had scored Millwall's third goal to complete a turnaround from a 2-0 half time deficit at Ashton Gate, he was substituted - and Bristol City equalised only a minute later, going on to win 4-3.

Swansea City won 3-0 at home to Preston, but are still without JOSH GINNELLY who has a muscle injury.

League One: Peterborough United had a comfortable 1-4 win at Shrewsbury. CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was left on the bench, as was JOEL SENIOR as Bristol Rovers fought out a goalless draw at Rotherham United.Although Crawley Town's TOBY MULLARKEY (right) was shown a yellow card early in the second half at Cambridge United, with JUNIOR QUITIRNA joining him in the book, and being quickly substituted, the West Sussex club won with the only goal of the game after 86 minutes.

League Two: MARCUS DINANGA came off the bench after 64 minutes, Bromley having already scored the goals by which they beat visitors AFC Wimbledon 2-0.

With RYAN COLCLOUGH not in the Chesterfield squad at Crewe, JAMES BERRY started, and scored twice as the Spireites raced to a 0-3 lead after just 12 minutes. They'd completed the scoring in their 0-5 win before he was substituted after 66 minutes. His old team mate JEFF KING had a much less satisfactory afternoon putting in a full shift for Swindon Town as they lost 0-4 at home to Walsall.

Another ex Robin booked was Stevenage's CARL PIERGIANNI in a 2-1 reverse at Huddersfield Town.

JOE HUGILL played the full game for Wigan Athletic at Reading, but could do nothing to help them avoid a 2-0 defeat.

National League: DAN MOONEY (right) was booked as Boston United suffered a 0-4 defeat at the hands of visiting Forest Green Rovers. LUKE WATERFALL underwent a worse fate, being dismissed for two yellow cards soon after the restart for Hartlepool United, who eventually brought BILLY SASS-DAVIES off the bench in the 84th minute of a goalless draw with visitors Southend United.

TYRESE SINCLAIR was booked after 30 minutes, and substituted after 73 minutes. In between those events, his York City side scored the game's only two goals to beat visitors Tamworth 2-0.

National North: Altrincham traditionally have a poor record at Kidderminster, so it was perhaps little surprise that Radcliffe, with four ex Robins starting, and another on the bench, found their visit a tough challenge. On happy Alty Old Boy, however, was ASHLEY HEMMINGS who scored the goal that rounded off Harriers' 3-0 victory.

Southern Central: AFC Telford edged a nine goal thriller against visitors Hitchin Town, with five different scorers featuring - the middle one of those goals was netted by DIOR ANGUS.

NPL Premier: A second half hat trick in 22 minutes from JACK REDSHAW was the major contributor to Hyde United's 1-4 victory at Matlock Town.

FA Cup Qualifying Round: Bootle goalkeeper TONY THOMPSON was beaten twice in 3 minutes, and visitors City of Liverpool led at the break. Within two minutes of the restart AIDY ROXBURGH joined the action from the bench, and then a SEAN WILLIAMS (right) free kick took a deflection to reduce the arrears. Unfortunately Sean was sent off, along with an opponent, in the 83rd minute, and City of Liverpool scored again in added time to eliminate the Bucks.

Runcorn Linnets meanwhile will have to come to Ericstan Park on Tuesday evening for a replay with Wythenshawe Town. The visitors were ahead early, but RYAN BROOKE restored parity midway through the first half.

He was substituted just before the hour mark, and Town regained the lead in the 73rd minute. However Linnets took just four minutes to equalise for the second time, so live to fight another day.

NPL Division 1 West: With most of the clubs in this division engaged in the cup, there was just one fixture, Congleton Town running out 1-3 winners at Vauxhall Motors. The hosts' goal was scored by KEVIN ELLISON.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Gateshead captain Greg Olley was on the receiving end of a brutal challenge from Dion Kelly-Evans in the 13th minute, resulting in a straight red card for the Woking defender. Olley, 28, quickly received treatment on the pitch as a stretcher was immediately called for at the Kingfield Stadium in Surrey.

Seven minutes later, both teams were told to return to their respective dressing rooms by referee Matthew Russell, as Olley continued to be seen to by the medical staff. Russell then decided to suspended the game by a further 30 minutes.

During that period, the Durham-born midfielder was taken away in one of two ambulance vehicles which had been driven onto the pitch. Both sets of supporters gave a standing ovation. It was then announced that the game would restart from the 13th minute at 4:15pm, more than an hour after Kelly-Evans' tackle".

Post-match, Gateshead boss Rob Elliot provided an update confirming that Olley had suffered a broken leg. He added that "Greggy wanted us to play the game and carry on. It was more the lads that dictated it, I was quite distressed and I wanted to call the game off. The lads and Greggy made the right decision, and I thought we went about the game really well, but it's kind of hard to talk about the football after that to be honest."

Olley's absence is set to be a major blow for the Heed, as the attacking midfielder scored a hat-trick in last weekend's 5-1 win at home to Ebbsfleet United, kicking off their season in style...

The visitors took the lead on the brink of half-time when centre-back Kenton Richardson shot from 25 yards and a deflection took it past goalkeeper Will Jaaskelainen... Gateshead then wrapped up all three points in the 82nd minute through striker Mark Beck."

17 August 2024

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

Vanarama National League

• Boston United 0-4 Forest Green Rovers
• Braintree Town 0-1 Yeovil Town
• Eastleigh 4-2 AFC Fylde
• Ebbsfleet United 1-2 Barnet
• FC Halifax Town 0-1 Aldershot Town
• Hartlepool United 0-0 Southend United
• Rochdale 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge
• Solihull Moors 2-1 Maidenhead United
• Sutton United 5-0 Altrincham
• Wealdstone 0-1 Oldham Athletic
• Woking 0-2 Gateshead
• York City 2-0 Tamworth

KAHREL REDDIN INTERVIEW

Kahrel explains that he was with Aston Villa from the age of eleven to eighteen, and was in the Villa team which beat Liverpool to lift the FA Youth Cup.

Two years at Stoke City followed before he was released this summer and joined Alty initially as a trialist and then as a signed-up member of the squad. He made his debut against Warrington Town in the pre-season friendly there and made his debut as an Altrincham player when he joined the game against Woking, last Saturday, from the bench.

Kahrel can play at wing-back and full-back as well as in his primary position on the wing where his pace is a major attribute.

TODAY: SUTTON UNITED

It reminds us that following relegation from the EFL "The Club has held ticket prices across the board for the new season... Tickets for the games... are available on line... [and] tickets for all home games will be available from the ticket kiosk on the day of the game, but as before these carry a £2 increase in price.

Segregation of Home and Away supporters will be in effect for the upcoming season... Halftime on-pitch entertainment however will not feature in the match-day events this season.

Away fans are to be accommodated on the Mound Terrace, via turnstiles 5-8 at Gate B, with a new drinks facility operating behind that stand... This new stadium layout requires relocating segregation gates and an amendment to the stadium operating licence. This isn’t anticipated to occur in time for the season’s first match, meaning Away fans will still use those turnstiles but solely be located on Parkside Terrace...

For this season the turnstiles will now open at the earlier time of 12-30pm for a 3pm kick off...

The car park is not a public facility on match-day".

ALTY OLD BOYS

In the Welsh Premier League : There was a clean sheet for JOEL TORRANCE (right, in his Alty days, 2019) as Bala Town beat Briton Ferry 2-0 at home. This wasn't a major surprise as the visitors are still without a goal after their second game of the season. At Aberystwyth, JOHN DISNEY played the full match for Connah's Quay Nomads in a 1-1 draw.

Irish FA Cup : BARRY BAGGLEY put in a full shift in Waterford's home tie against lower division Athlone Town, but, although they went ahead two minutes after being reduced to 10 men, Athlone equalised to force extra time. Waterford regained the lead, and held it until there were just four minutes left, but Athlone struck twice in that short spell to end Waterford's interest in the competition.

Championship: OWEN DALE is currently injured, and hasn't started the season for Oxford United, who drew 2-2 at Coventry City.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

But now Solihull Moors have admitted that "Following feedback from supporters, Solihull Moors are pleased to announce a change in our ticket pricing structure for the 2024/25 season.

Previously the Club announced that tickets for Category A games [including the Altrincham game] this season would be £26. As fans appreciate, higher profile fixtures require significant extra stewarding, staffing, catering and toilet facilities and the pricing reflected those factors.

However, as Chairman Darryl Eales, told us, all Category A fixtures will now be available for the same price as the Category B fixtures that were initially announced.

'We want football to be accessible to everyone and pricing is a key factor for all supporters. We work closely with the SMSA and we are always approachable and open in everything we do. In this case we got it wrong with the pricing and so we have acted quickly to change it and do away with the top price tier...

The below table displays the simplified, two tier, match ticket pricing for the 2024/25 season.

• CATEGORY A : Adults £21, Concesssions £17, U-18s £12, U-12s free.
• CATEGORY B : Adults £17, Concesssions £13, U-18s £9, U-12s free.

Footnote: All matches are Category A now except for the visits of Maidenhead United, Braintree Town, Wealdstone, Woking, AFC Fylde, Eastleigh and Sutton United.

From Yeovil, Gloverscast tells us that "Manager Mark Cooper has said his Yeovil Town side will stick to their footballing principles as they go in search of their first win of the season at Braintree Town on Saturday.

The Glovers’ boss said he did not see his side move the ball quickly enough in their opening day defeat at home to Hartlepool United last weekend.

Speaking before the announcement of the signing of winger Josh Sims on Thursday, the boss said 'We did not get our attacking play going against Hartlepool, our attacking players did not spark, we were too slow with the ball and getting the ball to them and there has been plenty of work this week (to improve that)'..

[Referring o Braintree] Cooper said 'When you talk about physicality, you are not going to get two bigger strikers than Akinde and Iffiong, so we will have a physical threat to deal with. So we can either fight fire with fire in which case we will probably get burnt or beat up, so I think we want to stick to our identity. We want to be a really good football team'"

Earlier Yeovil Town had announced that "Yeovil-born winger Josh Sims has signed a two-year deal with Yeovil Town.

The 27-year-old forward has been without a club since leaving Ross County at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Sims began his career at Southampton... He made his first-team debut... in 2016... Following loan spells at Reading, New York Red Bulls, and Doncaster Rovers, Sims left St Mary’s and spent two seasons with Ross County in the Scottish Premiership".

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of experienced right-back Kieron Freeman...

The former Wales international signs at The Prestige Group Stadium on a short-term deal following a spell with Oldham Athletic last campaign.

Freeman has played in all of England’s top five divisions, with nearly 300 career appearances to his name.

Most notably, the 32-year-old enjoyed five years with Sheffield United... The defender has also appeared for the likes of Derby County, Notts County and Portsmouth...

Freeman stated... 'I want to do the best I can and use my experience to help the squad... Seeing the training facilities today was fantastic'...

Pools manager Darren Sarll added 'Kieron’s experience was telling on this decision, the need for a full-back was evident'".

Ebbsfleet United have confirmed "the signing of goalkeeper Dylan Berry following his departure from Norwich City...

The 6ft 6in Berry, aged 21, is the latest addition to Danny Searle’s squad...

The young goalkeeper reached U21 level with the Canaries after signing from Northampton Town in 2021, playing in the Premier League 2. He had almost a full season in the National League South with St Albans City in 2022/23...

Last season he earned further National South experience with time at Havant & Waterlooville in between games back at Norwich in the PL2 and he ended the season taking part in the play-offs once again with Chelmsford City. He also featured for Macclesfield and Hendon in 2023/24".

16 August 2024

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Eddy's dismissal was his first ever red card for Altrincham and came in his 108th appearance for the club.

Fortunately, Altrincham have a more than adequate replacement in the versatile Tylor Golden, who joined from FC Halifax Town over the summer. Former Shayman Tylor is at home botb at left-back and righ-bank, whilst Lewis Banks has also played on either flank of the back line too.

As for Sutton United, last week their management team signed contract extensions.

The club announced that "coach Steve Morison and assistant coach Anthony Fenton have both signed a two-year contract extension on their current deals, extending their stays at the VBS Community Stadium until 2027.

Morison joined the club at the start of the year following a stint in the Isthmian League Premier Division, guiding Hornchurch to the top of the table before his departure...

The 40-year old would take over a club at the bottom of League Two, but took the relegation fight to the final day of the season...

The former striker enjoyed a glittering 18-year playing career, turning out for Northampton Town, Bishop’s Stortford, Stevenage Borough, Millwall, Norwich City, Leeds United and Shrewsbury Town, as well as appearing internationally for Wales between 2010 and 2012.

Morison transitioned into coaching following retirement with spells in the academies of Northampton Town and Millwall, before moving to Cardiff City as lead coach of the Under-23’s. He was later placed in temporary charge of the first team following the departure of Mick McCarthy and subsequent spent 18 months with the Bluebirds, before departing South-East Wales in September 2022.

He later dropped into the Isthmian League Premier Division with Hornchurch almost a year after his exit from the Welsh capital, spending seven months in Upminster before replacing Matt Gray at Gander Green Lane back in January".

WOMEN'S FA CUP TIE

His team has "to find a way of getting past local rivals Macclesfield in an FA Cup first qualifying round tie that kicks off at 2pm on Sunday September 1st.

It will be the new manager's first competitive appearance in the dug-out since his appointment during the close-season, and it promises to be a challenging one against opponents who are fresh from winning the league the Robins will be playing in this coming campaign.

That's the Cheshire Women's and Youth League Premier Division, and the list of 2024-25 fixtures for the Robins begins on Sunday, September 8th...

The club have decided to make entry free of charge [on]... Sunday September 1st (kick-off 2pm), and get along to The J.Davidson Stadium if you possibly can".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 24-year-old goalkeeper joins after impressing as a trialist.

A multiple-time Northern Ireland youth international, Webber was born in Portsmouth but moved to Northern Ireland shortly after. He spent his early career with Ards Rangers and Glentoran before being snapped up by Crystal Palace in 2016.

He didn’t make an appearance for the club, being loaned out to National League side Dover Athletic in January 2021, where he made three appearances. Webber departed Selhurst Park in January 2022, joining Portsmouth permanently.

However, he left in July 2022 after not making an appearance for Pompey, joining Glentoran of the Northern Irish Premiership. Following ten appearances across two seasons... Webber left Glentoran and joins the Cards following several appearances in pre-season as a trialist".

Gateshead tell us that defender Brandon Haunstrup has returned to the club "on a one-year deal... having previously spent a brief period on loan from Cambridge United during the final month of the 2023/24 season.

Haunstrup made his debut at half-time... on the final day of the Vanarama National League season, and re-joins The Heed after appearing as a trialist during the final fixture of pre-season against Farsley Celtic.".

The player stated "I was really keen to get back in.

"Being in and around the boys and the staff last season, there was a real feel-good factor in and around the club and it's definitely something I wanted to be part of, moving forward".

Ebbsfleet United "have signed trialist Elijah Anthony on a development deal ahead of the new season.

The highly promising 20-year-old former QPR academy wide player joins from Beaconsfield Town...

Anthony has featured in most of the pre-season games through July, wearing the number 35 shirt. The new arrival who plays mainly as a left-sided wing back, rose through QPR’s academy"...

Later, Ebbsfleet United confirmed that "Elijah Anthony will join Chatham Town on an initial 28-day loan. Having signed for the Fleet on a development deal with the intention of gaining loan experience early in the season, the former QPR U21 will now take on the challenge of a competitive Isthmian Premier division".

Dagenham & Redbridge "confirm that Luca Woodhouse has become our twelfth signing of the summer after the left-sided defender agreed a loan deal from Wycombe Wanderers until January 1st.

The 6 foot 2 defender came through at Tonbridge before moving to Wycombe Wanderers.

So far at Wycombe he has enjoyed loans at Worthing, Banbury and Slough.

The 20-year-old impressed the staff in pre-season games against Tottenham u21 and Charlton as a trialist".

At AFC Fylde "Head Coach Chris Beech was delighted after Nick Haughton’s hat-trick earned the Coasters an opening day victory over 10-man Solihull Moors at Mill Farm on Saturday.

Haughton’s treble saw Fylde come from behind in the sunshine to beat Andy Whing’s Moors 3-2... with the visitors having Joss Labadie sent off for two bookable offences.

Fylde’s number 10 scored two free-kicks either side of Owen Evans’ own goal and Jack Stevens’s strike before his stunning left-footed strike into the top right-corner after 83 minutes completed his hat-trick...

Beech said 'There’s not too much Solihull could have done with the 10-man factor so it was easier for me to make a stronger and a more positive decision with more numbers, and the lads had to go on and make a difference and they did, they supported what we were doing and took it up a level...

'It’s exciting because we have a very young team... We’ve got 21 lads and four who are only 18, so we’re going to grow and grow with this. [Owner] David (Haythornthwaite) is supportive of me to add one or two more attacking options as it will make us more physical to be able to make a difference in the National League'".

15 August 2024

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

The Deck tells us that "Sutton United manager Steve Morison has confirmed the news that one of his players will be sidelined for an extended period.

During an exclusive interview with our National League podcast (NL Natter), Morison revealed that one of his players has suffered an injury setback during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against National League North champions Tamworth...

During the off-season, Sutton United clinched the signing of playmaker Dillon De Silva from fellow National League side Wealdstone FC and has already left a significant impression on his new manager, but a first-half injury has seen his start halted...

'We lost Dillon De Silva to a knee injury, which will rule him out for a few months. He was arguably our best player in that first 20 minutes and our best in pre-season'..

Losing De Silva will be a blow for Sutton United and although the club have several replacements such as Siju Odelusi and Nana Boateng, his bright start to the campaign will be an unfortunate miss... heading into their weekend fixture against Altrincham".

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW WINNERS

• £500 cash | #383 | D Brown
• £75 cash | #368 | Mrs Burke
• Hospitality for Two | #138 | Sally Graham
• £25 cash | #260 | Emma Ball
• Bottle of Alty Gin | #292 | Mike Flaherty
• Scarf & Team Photo | #174 | Catherine Grace

SAM'S MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE

Regarding the opening fixture against Woking, for Sam "the feature that stood out on the day and is still in my mind's eye now is people. Alty fans old and new, young and not-so-young, some there as volunteers willingly and happily doing their bit and others offering support in a more vocal sense on the terraces and in the stands... It became clear how each one plays a part in the shared objective of helping the club continue to thrive".

"Community is my theme for the season ahead, and I thank everyone who is helping make Altrincham FC, Altrincham FC Women, Altrincham FC Community Sports and Altrincham FC Juniors a community that I am proud to be part of".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Sithole, 21, arrives at the Cal.Delivery Stadium following two years at Bolton Wanderers, during which he spent time on loan in the National League with Altrincham and Chorley...

Sithole said 'I’ve found it great. I’ve gelled well with the lads and they’ve made me feel welcome so it’s been easy for me'...

Hailing from Kent, Sithole came through the ranks at Gillingham and played 16 times for them in the Football League as a winger or striker. At the end of last season, he featured four times for Chorley in National League North.

Warrington Town manager Mark Beesley said 'Gez gives us pace and gives us that other option at number nine. He can play wide as well, so we’ve got options up there now... He’s come out of the full-time environment, which always takes time for young lads to get used to in terms of training at night and changing the way they do things'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Iron were comprehensively beaten 3-0 at Oldham Athletic last Saturday... Braintree are now preparing for their first home game of the season against the Glovers...

Harrop told the Braintree Town YouTube channel 'Every game is going to be very tough, in this league... "We need to make it [home] a fortress. We'll be a different animal...

'It wasn't a great performance [at Oldham]... We need to learn from it and learn from it fast... They know in that dressing room that's not good enough. That doesn't represent myself, or the staff or this football club. We need to defend far better than that...

'This isn't going to be something we'll be able to fix quickly; we're going to have to work really hard'">

And Altrincham's next home opponents, Eastleigh have also suffered an early-season injury as the Spitfires report that "Deji Sotona has suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury.

The winger sustained the injury during the second-half of Eastleigh’s 2-0 win over Maidenhead on Saturday 10 August, with a subsequent scan on his right knee revealing the extent of the injury.

Although there is no definitive timescale for his return, it is likely that the winger will miss the remainder of the 2024/25 season...

Manager, Kelvin Davis, commented on the news: “It’s really sad news. It’s a big blow for Deji and the club as well. We will be supporting him the whole way through his rehabilitation process.

'It’s important we look forward with a positive mentality but it’s certainly not good news for us.'”

Footnote: Deji is not to be confused with Damola Sotona who played for Altrincham in pre-season.

Yahoo Sports reports that "Wealdstone boss Matt Taylor says his side can take ‘lots of positives’ from Saturday’s National League opener despite going down 2-1 to Dagenham & Redbridge.

Sam Ashford’s header looked to have secured a point for Taylor in his first competitive game in charge, but Dion Pereira’s brilliant late strike condemned Stones to an opening-day defeat.

'Lots of positives. I thought at times we moved the ball exceptionally well,' said Taylor. 'We were really crisp in the way we did that, and we played out of really pressured situations - especially in the first half - really well with confidence... but the reality is we weren’t ruthless when we had our big chances...

There were more positives than there were negatives. I thought the boys worked extremely hard in pre-season. They were on their knees today because they’ve lost a game of football'...

After weeks of relentless preparation under Ben Strevens, Dagenham looked to play a possession-based game for the most part...

'But we’re a new group and I look at the players I wasn’t able to select. Sean (Adarkwa) got injured on Thursday in training, we’ve lost Craig (Eastmond), who’s a big player for us, Munds (Mundle-Smith) is a big player for us. I look at Mason (Barrett), who played every minute of pre-season. He tore his hamstring last Saturday in the last pre-season game, so we haven’t been particularly lucky with injuries'" concluded Taylor.

The next match for Woking is against Gateshead and The Cards report that "It’s been a summer of change for the Heed...

Rob Elliot’s side lost the prolific Marcus Dinanga to newly promoted Bromley, as well as getting a six-figure fee for Ed Francis from League One Exeter City.

However, Dinanga’s replacement in particular has hit the ground running over pre-season. Owen Oseni, signed from Derby, got off the mark on Saturday in a 5-1 thumping of Ebbsfleet United at the Gateshead International Stadium. Greg Olley collected the match ball after his hat trick; the 28-year-old is the Heed’s longest serving player.

Other impressive signings include former Notts County ‘keeper Tiernan Brooks, experienced midfielder Jacob Butterfield from Scunthorpe United and young midfielder Tyrelle Newton".

ALTY TV HIGHLIGHTS

The full match can be viewed free of charge on the National TV website.

CARDS' BALANCED VIEW

"Michael Doyle named a fairly similar side to the one which drew against Gillingham last weekend.

Deon Moore started up front, this time as a Woking player and not a trialist, whilst Dale Gorman and Dion Kelly-Evans replaced Harry Beautyman and Tunji Akinola, both on the bench....

With Woking starting well, they had a real chance six minutes in when a whipped cross from the right hand side found Kendall inside the box, but he couldn’t quite divert his effort goalbound. A minute later, Deon Moore got onto the end of a ball inside the six yard box, forcing a good save...

The game then turned on its head with 10 minutes gone, Eddy Jones receiving an early bath for a crunching challenge on Cian Harries...

However, with their first effort of the game after 27 minutes, substitute Tylor Golden curled into the top corner from the edge of the box, unleashing a pearler past the outstretched dive of Will Jaaskelainen...

Woking went into the break having created few chances despite the man advantage...

With Dale Gorman already booked for his reaction to the challenge by Eddy Jones, a late challenge... gave the referee no choice but to even it up at ten men each...

1-0 was how it finished, with a scrappy affair going the way of the hosts thanks to a goal fit to win any game".S

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

In their opening fixture , Sutton United reported that " A stoppage time equaliser from Josh Coley saw Sutton start the Vanarama National League season with a point at promoted Tamworth, who looked as though they had grabbed a first victory when Nathan Tshikuna punished a poor Steve Arnold clearance with six minutes left.

It was a hard fought game but with few clear chances, particularly in the first half, and in the end a draw was probably a fair result.

There was little to excite the crowd in the first half... Sutton had to make a change after half an hour when Dillon De Silva was forced off after a strong, though fair, challenge from Jamie Willets, Coley coming on... and a second change was made at half time as Ashley Nadesan replaced Siju Odelusi, joining Davies up front and increasing U’s attacking threat...

Tamworth went ahead six minutes from time. Arnold’s clearance from Hayden Muller’s back pass was cut out by Finn, whose pass sent Tshikuna away to beat Arnold with a low shot inside the post.

It looked as though U’s were going to begin the campaign with a defeat... With the board having just gone up to indicate five additional minutes, Davies unsuccessfully attempted to convert a Ryan Jackson cross with an overhead kick, but the ball ran on to Coley who brought the ball down on his chest and hammered a volley past Singh to ensure a point for the U’s.

Sutton United: J Singh, J Cullinane-Liburd, H Hollis, J Willets, G Morrison, A Fletcher, K Finn(sub B-R Enoru 86), N Tshikuna, D Creaney(sub M Okafor 83), B Acquaye, L Fairlamb. Subs n/u T Tonks, C Wreh, T McGlinchey, L Phillips, J Moore. Booked: Cullinane-Liburd, Tshikuna, Finn".

ALTY OLD BOYS

EFL Cup: Barrow had just come from behind to level 2-2 against visitors Port Vale, when they substituted ELLIOTT NEWBY in the 71st minute. Five minutes later they scored again to clinch a 3-2 win.

MARCUS DINANGA (left) played the whole game for Bromley, but, despite taking the lead in the 19th minute, they lost their debut tie in this competition, visitors AFC Wimbledon winning 1-2. ALISTAIR SMITH came on for the victors after 86 minutes.

Despite a full shift from JOEL SENIOR, Bristol Rovers were knocked out 2-0 at Cardiff City.

At Crawley Town, there was a full shift from TOBY MULLARKEY, while JUNIOR QUITIRNA joined the action at the start of the second half with his side a goal up.

JEFF KING played the whole game for visitors Swindon Town, although he relinquished the captaincy, but he was credited with the assist for the goal that levelled the game after they had been two goals down. However it was Quitirna's 89th minute assist that saw Crawley run out 4-2 winners.

RYAN COLCLOUGH was left on the bench at Pride Park, while JAMES BERRY (right) was a 65th minute substitute, as Chesterfield, having led, bowed out 2-1 against Derby County.

In one of the evening's more surprising results, HARRISON HOLGATE reverted to central defence as Fleetwood Town, who left CALLUM DOLAN on their bench, beat visitors West Bromwich Albion 2-1.

Despite a spirited performance under the leadership of CARL PIERGIANNI, Stevenage were knocked out at Norwich City by the odd goal in seven.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE came off the Peterborough United bench after 67 minutes, but hosts Oxford United had already scored the game's only two goals.

Having scored twice on Saturday, DUNCAN WATMORE only came on for Millwall in the 74th minute at Portsmouth. His side had scored the only goal of the game much earlier.

Tranmere Rovers were already two goals to the good against visitors Accrington Stanley by the time CONNOR JENNINGS came off the bench. CHRIS MERRIE (above, left) joined him later. Rovers won 3-0.

Wigan Athletic withdrew JOE HUGILL just after the hour against visitors Barnsley, who won the penalty shootout after the game ended 1-1.

NPL Premier : Although ANDY DALES equalised for Mickleover, visitors Ilkeston Town went on to win 1-3.

NPL West : Your correspondent went to Shawe View on Tuesday evening expecting to watch two former Robins in action for Trafford's visitors, Bootle. The early stages of the game were overly physical, giving the impression that some players might have old scores to settle, and this phase culminated in Bootle's Jonny Spittle seeing a 20th minute red card for a flying elbow.

There was quite a delay as Bootle's players, with TONY THOMPSON (right) prominent, surrounded the referee to dispute the decision. The referee had words with both benches, culminating in a PA announcement that if both players and the crowd did not calm down he would suspend the game.

While SEAN WILLIAMS marshalled his depleted forces, Bootle made a tactical substitution in what was now the 27th minute, and a third Alty Old Boy entered the fray in the shape of AIDY ROXBURGH (left), who went on to give an impressive display at right back on his return to Trafford. As half time approached, Bootle's manager was given a yellow card for dissent, and one suspected his side, who were proving hard to break down despite being a man light, would be happy to go in level at the break.

But that didn't happen, for with clock at 45+7 minutes a superb strike from about 35 yards by Michael Burkey gave Bootle the lead. Within 10 seconds of the restart the referee blew for half time.

Far from hanging on after the break, Bootle began to take control, but failed to take advantage of two poor pieces of distribution by Trafford's keeper. However when he messed up his third piece of distribution in four minutes his attempt to recover the situation led to a penalty. Unfortunately for Bootle, Tom Peterson blazed it over the bar in the direction of Chassen Park.

Tony Thompson's ability to run down the clock occasionally saw him attract the attention of the referee in his Altrincham days, but tonight's official treated his antics with surprising leniency as Bootle were now confidently in control. Sean Williams limped off after 73 minutes.

Bootle confidently held out through four additional minutes at the end, and were deserved victors.

Elsewhere in this division, RITCHIE SUTTON (above, right) scored the middle two goals in Kidsgrove Athletic's 4-0 home win over Witton Albion, RYAN BROOKE opened the scoring in Runcorn Linnets 2-2 home draw with neighbours Widnes, and the evergreen KEVIN ELLISON struck after 87 minutes for Vauxhall Motors, who added another, three minutes later, to beat visitors Wythenshawe 2-0.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 20-year-old joins from John Eustace’s side and becomes Chris Beech’s second loan signing of the summer following Ben Winterbottom joining the club late last month.

Gamble is a young defender who is capable of playing both as a centre half and right full-back...

Gable said, 'I’ve been at Blackburn for 13 years so it’s all I’ve ever known really – so it’s good to get a change of environment and see what things are like somewhere else and explore a little bit'".

Ebbsfleet United's "opening-day trip to the north-east was a frustrating one as a skilful Gateshead side scored five to top the table on Matchday One.

Lewis Page and Jim Kellermann made their debuts alongside two more summer signings, Tyler Cordner and Louis John, but it was a home signing that caught the eye early on as ex-Derby County striker Owen Oseni gave the Fleet defence a lot to think about".

3-0 down, "Danny Searle changed shape at half-time with Tom Dallison and Kwame Thomas introduced but Gateshead made it 4-0 three minutes after the restart. Booty floated a clever ball to the far post with Fleet looking for an offside decision and lurking there was Olley who took a touch before finding the target...

Skipper Olley got his hat-trick three minutes later when he was able to run the ball over the line and home from close range...

Fleet dug in and tried to take something from the match – but it ended on a sad note with a seemingly serious injury to Heed defender Joe Grayson who had to be stretchered off after injuring his knee.

Straight after that, Poleon tucked away a cross to give the Fleet a consolation".

At Hartlepool United "Pools manager Darren Sarll has confirmed the extent of Joe Aungiers and[ex-Alty loanee] Luke Waterfall’s injuries following Saturday’s fixture at Yeovil Town.

Seventeen-year-old Aungiers, who broke into the first team from the Academy side during pre-season, was set to be involved on the opening day of the season at Huish Park.

However, Sarll explained... 'During Thursday’s training session, he had an innocuous fall and has broken his wrist. “He’s been to the hospital – Danny O’Connor was fabulous with looking after him. It’s a shame for Joe because he would’ve been in the matchday squad today – that would’ve been an experience he could remember forever'...

Meanwhile, Pools skipper Waterfall was forced off midway through the second half with a knock... 'We’re not yet too sure on Luke,' stated Sarll.

'I think it was cramp turning into a strain so we’ll need a few days to bring his body back in line. I thought it was his best performance, which is not surprising because it’s the fittest he’s been'".

Last season's play-off contenders Solihull Moors suffered "Opening day defeat... as Andy Whing's side fell to a 3-2 loss at Mill Park against AFC Fylde... with Nick Hughton scoring three goals.

For the opening weekend of the Vanarama National League, Andy Whing made one change to the side that started against Walsall.

This means that John Bostock and Joss Labadie both start in the defensive midfield positions, whilst Tahvon Campbell starts as the lone striker.

After signing for the Moors, defender Jordan Tunnicliffe starts on the substitutes bench alongside Sam Bowen and Bradley Stevenson ...

In the tenth minute, the hosts took the lead through their top-scorer from last season Nick Haughton...

On the half an hour mark, the Moors found their equaliser... On 39 minutes, the away side took the lead..

Fylde scored their second of the game with Haughton doubling his tally. Haughton struck the ball underneath the wall from over 25 yards...

Three minutes later, Joss Labadie was sent off for a second yellow card...

With seven minutes to play, Fylde took the lead again as Haughton completed his hat-trick".

HIGHLIGHTS OF ALTY'S WIN

Right: Tom Crawford was one of Altrincham's debutants on Saturday.

"ILL-TEMPERED GAME"

Altrincham appeared to have their backs against the wall when Eddy Jones was shown a straight red card for a foul on Cian Harries after just 12 minutes.

However, Golden put the home side ahead when he scored a fine goal on his debut with 27 minutes gone.

Woking’s hopes of an equaliser were dealt a blow when they were reduced to 10 men after Dale Gorman was dismissed for a second bookable offence early in the second half".

ALTY OLD BOYS

MATCHDAY VOLUNTEERS WANTED AT ALTY

We already have a small, very friendly and dedicated group of volunteers who help the club out on matchdays. We're now on the lookout for new people and pairs of hands to help us further as we look to expand our already fantastic group of volunteers and make our home as nice as possible to visit.

Match day work volunteers would be needed approximately two hours before kick-off to assist with the match set-up (moving practice goals). This would then continue at half time, including divotting and repairs to the pitch if necessary.

All volunteers will receive free match tickets and some kit.

If you or someone you know would be interested in getting involved with the Robins please contact the Head Groundsperson here".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Club’s appeal related to a decision by the National League to impose licensing conditions (which laid the groundwork for the ‘bond’)...

In short, following the granting of an unconditional licence to play in the National League’s competition (on 5 May), the National League (on 14 June) sought to impose financial conditions on the Club and stated that non-compliance with those conditions could result in relegation, expulsion or the requirement to provide a bond.

The Club successfully appealed that decision at a hearing on 4 July, and as such the Club continues to operate on an unconditional licence.

Tom Lawrence, CEO, said 'Whilst I acknowledge that since dropping into the National League, the Club has caused the National League Executive a few headaches... I found it hard to understand the timing of the bond, its magnitude and the short lead time to comply. I say that because, since joining the National League our financial health has improved...

'Since becoming a member of the National League, we have paid £1.93m of HMRC debt... we have reduced historic trade creditor debt by £1.5m (thanks to COSU) and we have moved from a position of delinquency to compliance in respect of Companies' House filings.

'On top of that, our trading position has improved too - our operating losses have reduced - all pointing to a much-improved financial position'".

The Blackpool Gazette judges that "Chris Beech was a happy man after watching his AFC Fylde players start the National League season with a 3-2 win over Solihull Moors.

Nick Haughton’s hat-trick gave the Coasters three points at Mill Farm against last season’s beaten play-off finalists.

Having taken the lead, Beech’s players found themselves behind to Owen Evans’s own goal and Jack Stevens’s effort.

Fylde then made the most of their man advantage as Haughton fired home the winner with seven minutes of normal time remaining.

Speaking to Coasters TV afterwards, Beech said... 'We were frustrated. It was a hot day and the way Solihull play, we couldn’t be off the leash and jump press them... We came up with a different version of it in the second half and it helped, then there’s more turnovers of the ball and we’re attacking with more intent'".

According to the Halifax Courier "Town boss Chris Millington says youngster Ted Lavelle will be made available for loan to maintain his development.

Lavelle wasn't part of the matchday squad for Saturday's season-opener against Barnet and has previously been on loan at Colne and Bradford Park Avenue.

'At this stage, we're not in a great rush to let people go out,' Millington said, 'but we're going to offer Ted Lavelle for loan because we know how important it is that he gets experience playing senior football and maintains his development'...

Striker Justin Iwobi remains available for permanent transfer... The Halifax manager said 'We're still looking at other players and we've got one or two conversations going on with players who may well become available. But there's nothing imminent'".

12 August 2024

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 WOKING

Match report here.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW

He was pleased with how his side reacted to being reduced to ten men early in the game against Woking. But hchance was upset by how Woking had reacted to the tackle by Eddy Jones which led to his dismissal.

Phil was disappointed that his team had not taken chances, with Justin Amaluzor having the best opportunities to do so.

SATURDAY FIXTURES

Saturday 17 August 2024

• Boston United v Forest Green Rovers
• Braintree Town v Yeovil Town
• Eastleigh v AFC Fylde
• Ebbsfleet United v Barnet
• FC Halifax Town v Aldershot Town
• Hartlepool United v Southend United
• Rochdale v Dagenham & Redbridge
• Solihull Moors v Maidenhead United
• Sutton United v Altrincham
• Wealdstone v Oldham Athletic
• Woking v Gateshead
• York City v Tamworth

11 August 2024

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 WOKING

The afternoon started badly for Alty as Eddy Jones was shown a straight red card after just 12 minutes for a challenge on Woking captain, Gorman.

Ironically it was his replacement from the bench, Tylor Golden, who struck a superb shot into the top corner of the Woking net fourteen minutes later to give his side the lead on his debut. Max Haygarth had been the unfortunate player substituted to cover for Jones's dismissal.

The match became ten-aside eight minutes after the interval when Gorman's foul on Crawford earned him a second yellow card.

The Cards created little in the way of a goal threat and after a second half punctuated by frequent freekicks for petty fouls Altrincham were deserved winners.

Report to follow

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Ethan ROSS, 2. Lewis BANKS, 4. Lewis BAINES (c), 5. Jake COOPER, 3. Eddy JONES, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 22. Tom CRAWFORD, 10. Alex NEWBY, 21. Max HAYGARTH, 11. Justin AMALUZOR, 24. Joe NUTTALL. Subs: 19. George WILSON, 23. Tylor GOLDEN, 15. Kahrel REDDIN, 16. James JONES, 17. Luke WEAVER, 27. Louie FALLON (gk)

WOKING: 22. Will Jaaskelainen, 6. Jamie Andrews, 35. Max Dyche, 8. Dale Gorman (c), 4. Cian Harries, 2. Dion Kelly-Evans, 9. Charley Kendall, 11. Dennon Lewis, 14. Deon Moore, 2. Dan Moss, 5. Timi Odusina. Subs. 16. Tunji Akinola, 23. Jermaine Anderson, 10. Harry Beautyman, 3. Jacob Jones

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Sutton United were first at national level in 1999/2000 when both they and Altrincham were relegated after a single season in the Conference.

Sutton did not return to that level until 2016, just as Altrincham's two-year stay at National level had come to an end. So the sides did not meet again until Altrincham were again promoted for the 2020-21 campaign.

On Alty's last visit to Surrey, on 9 January 2021, the sides drew 2-2 at Gander Green Lane.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship : DUNCAN WATMORE played the full game for Millwall - and he scored twice in the second half to wipe out the two goal cushion that visitors Watford had established after 55 minutes. Alas, Watford struck late and Millwall lost 2-3.

League One : The match was goalless when Joel Senior came on for Bristol Rovers in their home game against Northampton Town after 76 minutes. He helped them to keep a clean sheet, and they took 3 points with a goal in added time.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA marked his Crawley Town debut by putting them two goals up against visitors Blackpool, and despite a late goal by the Seasiders, and a booking for TOBY MULLARKEY, they held on to win 2-1.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was substituted after 54 minutes as Peterborough United were beaten 0-2 by Huddersfield Town.

Despite missing a penalty, Stevenage, captained by CARL PIERGIANNI, beat visitors Shrewsbury Town 1-0.

JOE HUGILL was withdrawn by Wigan Athletic after 73 minutes. At that point the game was goalless, but visitors Charlton Athletic scored the only goal after 81 minutes.

League Two : ALISTAIR SMITH, on loan from Lincoln City, played the whole game as AFC Wimbledon, who were two goals down in only 9 minutes to visitors Colchester United, fought back to win 4-2.

Fleetwood Town, with HARRISON HOLGATE apparently playing in midfield rather than his accustomed back four role, found that one goal was sufficient to win the Battle of the Fishermen against visitors Grimsby Town. CALLUM DOLAN was left on the bench.

MARCUS DINANGA was a 70th minute substitute for Bromley, who won 0-2 at Harrogate Town.

Visitors Port Vale were already a goal up at Salford City when the hosts brought on Marcus Dackers on the hour, and they soon sealed the win with a second goal.

CONNOR JENNINGS played throughout as visitors Notts County fought out a goalless draw at Tranmere Rovers.

National League : Boston United's return to the fifth tier got off to a bad start as visitors Rochdale hit 3 goals without reply. DAN MOONEY was substituted after 84 minutes.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM was substituted after 74 minutes at Boundary Park, the scoring in Oldham Athletic's 3-0 win over Braintree Town already being completed.

With his York City side a goal down at Southend United, TYRESE SINCLAIR entered the fray after 54 minutes - they recovered to draw 1-1.

With MATT GOULD on the Yeovil Town bench, BILLY SASS-DAVIES replaced LUKE WATERFALL for visitors Hartlepool United, who won by the only goal

National North : MONTEL GIBSON opened the scoring, and YUSIFU CEESAY rounded it off as Hereford won their home game with South Shields 3-0.

Radcliffe had been two goals down after 40 minutes, but JOSH HANCOCK pulled them level early in the second half. Scarborough's Dom Tear completed his hat trick to restore their lead, but Radcliffe came back again to draw 3-3. [10/08/2024 20:20] : National South : Weston-super-Mare had a comfortable 3-0 interval lead, but two goals from DANNY CASHMAN contributed to a brilliant second half comeback which saw them win 3-4.

NPL : JACK REDSHAW gave Hyde United the half time lead, but visitors Mickleover fought back to draw 1-1.

There was a clean sheet for OLLIE BYRNE, while DONTAI GABIDON put in a 63 minute shift, as FC United won by the only goal at Morpeth - the scored was the evergreen Adam Le Fondre.

Northern Ireland Premiership : Another former Robin to enjoy a clean sheet was SAM ROSCOE, as Linfield opened their league campaign winning 0-2 at Ballymena.

10 August 2024

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Vanarama National League

• AFC Fylde 3-2 Solihull Moors
• Aldershot Town 3-3 Forest Green Rovers
• Altrincham 1-0 Woking
• Boston United 0-3 Rochdale
• Dagenham & Redbridge 2-1 Wealdstone
• FC Halifax Town 2-1 Barnet
• Gateshead 5-1 Ebbsfleet United
• Maidenhead United 0-2 Eastleigh
• Oldham Athletic 3-0 Braintree Town
• Southend United 1-1 York City
• Tamworth 1-1 Sutton United
• Yeovil Town 0-1 Hartlepool United

TODAY: WOKING

Despite 12 of their previous 18 first-day games having been at home, Altrincham last won a home fixture on the opening day of a campaign 18 years ago in 2006, winning 2-1 against Stevenage Borough!

Altrincham previously met Woking on an opening day in 2008-09 season when they emerged victorious, 2-1, at Kingfield.

ALTY SQUAD COMPRISES 24 PLAYERS

Right: Remi Thompson.

The two surprises are the decision not to bring in an experienced keeper as Ethan Ross's deputy, and the inclusion of a playher who only appeared in the very last pre-season game when he came off the bench after 83 minutes.

So, Academy keeper Louis Fallon is assigned the vacant cover-goalkeeper role and Remi Thompson is included after his seven-minute cameo against Bradford City.

As for players who remain from last season, a few have changed numbers. These are Ethan Ross who becomes no.1 rather than no.29. Centre-back Jake Cooper's elevation last season to being a first-team regular is confirmed as he becomes no. 5 rather than 15.

That means James Jones becomes numer 16. Also changing numbers are Ollie Crankshaw (from 27 to 7), Matty Kosylo (7 to 17} and Max Haygarth 23 to 21).

Interestingly, Alex Newby who generally played on the left wing last season, jettisons his no.11 for the no.10 shirt vacated by Chris Conn-Clarke.

The new signing are assigned the following shirts; 17 is Lucas Weaver, Kahrel Reddin is 20, Tom Crawford 22, Tylor Golden 23 and Joe Nuttall who wore 23 throughout pre-season becomes no. 24.

Speaking of Remi Thompson who is a "former Fulham, Manchester United and Huddersfield Town youngster [who] made his professional bow in Ireland with Waterford" manager Parkinson said ""Remi's really impressed in training and I feel we can develop him further in our full time programme. He's not quite ready for a regular National League first team spot yet, but if called upon I feel he could help us and we can help him improve in our model".

Squad numbers in full - 1 Ethan Ross, 2 Lewis Banks, 3 Eddy Jones, 4 Lewis Baines, 5 Jake Cooper, 6 Elliot Osborne, 7 Olly Crankshaw, 8 Isaac Marriott, 9 Regan Linney, 10 Alex Newby, 11 Justin Amaluzor, 14 Matty Kosylo, 16 James Jones, 17 Lucas Weaver, 18 Owen German, 19 George Wilson, 20 Kahrel Reddin, 21 Max Haygarth, 22 Tom Crawford, 23 Tylor Golden, 24 Joe Nuttall, 25 Joel Bailey, 27 Louie Fallon, 28 Remi Thompson.

TYLOR GOLDEN INTERVIEWED

An Altrincham resident Tylor explains how he has come to his local club and pays credit to former club FC Halifax Town for their faith in him.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League Two : Having won the National League last season, Chesterfield are fancied by the bookmakers to achieve successive promotions. They released JEFF KING at the end of the season, but it didn't take them long to renew acquaintance with him, as he captained his new club, Swindon Town, in Derbyshire tonight.

The Spireites led after 15 minutes, and Jeff picked up a yellow card soon afterwards. After 62 minutes the Railwaymen withdrew him - and within 2 minutes they equalised. After 72 minutes JAMES BERRY replaced RYAN COLCLOUGH for the hosts, but the game ended 1-1.

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY took the armband on his return to Waterford's starting lineup, but they returned to the dressing room at Bohemians trailing 2-0 at the interval. Barry was substituted after 80 minutes, but just a minute later his team completed a fine comeback, and held on to win 2-3.

Scottish Championship : As Livingston were unable to fill their bench at Hampden Park for tonight's 1-1 draw with Queens Park, we must assume that MILES WELCH-HAYES is again injured.

HOW TO WATCH NATIONAL LEAGUE TV

Full details have been reproduced by Aldershot Town

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The defender spent the first-half of last season on loan at Chorley, gaining plaudits for his displays at Victory Park.

Moore has spent pre-season with Neil Critchley’s squad but will now get first-team minutes under his belt in England’s fifth tier with newly-promoted Tamworth."

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of goalkeeper Nathaniel Ford following his release from League One side Rotherham United.

The young keeper has so far spent his entire career with the Millers...

At the end of the 2023/24 season, Ford’s contract was not renewed and he signs for Town following a successful trial period".

Also FC Halifax Town also "confirm the signing of midfielder Owen Bray following his release from League Two side Barrow.

Bray spent time in the Leeds United academy, rising through the ranks and making an appearance for the under 23s in the EFL Trophy in 2020. In 2022, Bray left Leeds after his contract wasn’t renewed...

In July 2023, Bray became one of the first players to sign a professional deal with Barrow’s b-team and made his first start for the first team in November. At the end of last season, the midfielder was one of 10 players released by the Bluebirds. Bray signs after a successful trial with the Shaymen.".

9 August 2024

NEXT: WOKING

Following this home game, Alty face two long away trips in the following ten days as they travel to Sutton United and Maidenhead United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Vanarama National League

• AFC Fylde v Solihull Moors
• Aldershot Town v Forest Green Rovers
• Altrincham v Woking
• Boston United v Rochdale
• Dagenham & Redbridge v Wealdstone
• FC Halifax Town v Barnet
• Gateshead v Ebbsfleet United
• Maidenhead United v Eastleigh
• Oldham Athletic v Braintree Town
• Southend United v York City
• Tamworth v Sutton United
• Yeovil Town v Hartlepool United

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 29-year-old joins the Spitfires with a wealth of experience in both the Football League and the National League, having made just shy of 100 appearances in the Football League and well over 100 appearances in the National League.

The central defender most recently played for Grimsby Town...

He began his career at Bolton Wanderers... He made five appearances for them in the Championship during the 2015/16 season.

In the season before that, Niall made 10 appearances in the Championship whilst on loan at Blackpool".

Gloverscast tells us that "Yeovil Town boss Mark Cooper is looking to bring in one more 'statement' signing to his squad as they prepare to kick-off the National League Premier season this weekend.

The Glovers’ manager added on loan Bristol City defender Raphael Araoye during the week but has said he is still looking to make a further addition...

Cooper said... 'We are one player short which gives us a really healthy balance, we have got cover in most areas now with the arrival of Raph...

Cooper said: “He [Araoye] is 6’3″, he is still only 19, but he has got great potential... He is a man mountain...

Yeovil have added goalkeeper Ollie Wright, on loan from Premier League Southampton, goalkeeper/coach Matt Gould, defenders Finn Cousin-Dawson and Jordan Thomas, midfielder Brett McGavin and striker Aaron Jarvis in the summer...

On the new division, Cooper said 'There is no difference in fitness, it is physicality and pace. Some of the clubs... have big, powerful squads.. What we have tried to do in the summer is add to the athleticism of our squad and bring in players who are robust'".

8 August 2024

BAINES NAMED AS CAPTAIN FOR 2024/25

Explaining the decision to make Lewis club captain, in succession to James Jones, Phil [Parkinson] said 'We felt he really flourished in the role at the back end of last season, showing great leadership qualities on and off the pitch.

'He is someone who really wants it, and it certainly looks like having the armband has enhanced his performances. It has made him grow as a person as well.

'There were several other really strong candidates for the captaincy, which I can't say has always been the case since we went full-time...

'With James Jones... I just want him to focus solely on himself and his performances. It's a pivotal year coming up for James'...

[Lewis said] 'I've loved every minute of playing for Alty, so to be made captain of this great club is an honour I'm really proud of'".

Footnote: The arrival of left-sided centre-back Lewis Baines at Altrincham was announced on 30 May 2022. He had started out at Fleetwood Town, from where he had loan spells with Bamber Bridge (2017) and Ashton United (2018).

After making his debut for Fleetwood Town in the EFL Trophy late in 2018, loans at Chorley (December 2018) and Stockport County followed (January 2019). After leaving Fleetwood, he signed for Chorley in July 2019. The Magpies were then in the National League but were relegated back to the North division at the end of that season. In all he has made well over 100 appearances for Chorley and has an England C cap to his name, when he was a used sub against Wales in April 2022.

Injury sidelined Lewis for eleven games after starting the first six Alty fixtures of 2022-23 and also caused him to miss games at the end of the campaign. However, he proved dependable through the core of the season.

In 2023-24 he briefly lost his place before returning to the starting eleven but he became a reliable rock in the defence to the extent that he assumed the captaincy following Isaac Marriott's injury in March 2024.

So far, Lewis (aged 25) has made 79(+4) appearances and netted 5 goals in his Altrincham career.

NEXT: WOKING

Back in March, even Ethan Ross's return in goal could not prevent a sixth defeat in seven matches for Altrincham as their eventually successful play-of quest faltered.

In that Vanarama National League match, The Cards won 1-0.

Four weeks earlier, Altrincham had lain fourth in the table but had then embarked on a run of seven matches in which just three points had been won out of twenty-one available and they had dropped to ninth in the National League.

And Alty could have no complaints at their loss to lowly Woking, with a Conn-Clarke freekick the only serious threat of a home goal across the 90 minutes.

The first half was a mediocre spectacle and whilst the second half was a more open affair it was the visitors who had most of the attacking momentum after the break.

Without the suspended Linney, Altrincham were toothless and an illustration of the final stages of the game was that Altrincham's last substitution saw the withdrawal of striker Angus for centre-back Roscoe in a home match against a club which had only escaped the relegation places in midweek.

The decisive goal came when Korboa counter-attacked and got round Marriott before beating Ross in the home goal in the first added minute at the end of the game.

Having already used 37 players in league matches this season, Woking added loanee KEVIN BERKOE to their squad on the eve of the match and also recalled Alfie Pavey from Braintree. Berkoe had an unfortunate loan spell at Altrincham in 2022, being sent off in only his second start, which in turn ended his one-month loan from Salford City.

Despite two wins on the trot, Woking made four changes as Walker, Akinola, Dyche and Wilkinson were replaced by Kelly-Evans, Odusina, Korboa and Anderson.

ALTRINCHAM 29. Ethan Ross, 2. Lewis Banks, 15. Jake Cooper, 4. Lewis Baines, 3. Eddie Jones, 8. Isaac Marriott (c), 8. Elliot Osborne, 10. Chris Conn-Clarke, 7. Matty Kosylo, 30. Alex Newby, 14. Dior Angus. Subs: 19. George Wilson, 11. Justin Amaluzor, 16. Sam Roscoe, 21. Matt Gould, 44. Dan Mooney.

WOKING 22. Will Jaaskelainen, 2. Dan Moss, 3. Josh Casey (c), 7. Ricky Korboa, 18. Manny Oyeleke, 4. Scott Cuthbert, 21. Timi Odusina, 23. Jermaine Anderson, 27. Dion Kelly-Evans, 32. Curtis Edwards, 33. Charley Kendall. Subs: 6. Luke Wilkinson, 29. Alfie Pavey, 37. Paul Osew, 30. Josh Smith, 38. Kevin Berkoe .

UNITED GAME AT MOSS LANE

The match featured Manchester United under-21s versus a PFA Pre-Season Squad.

The PFA squad comprised Jayson Leutwiler, Luke Jackson, Paul Huntington, Liam Ridehalgh, Max Melbourne, Darnell Johnson, Anothony Stewart, Jean Belehouan, Gabriel Adebambo, Ravel Morrison, Kieron Freeman, Flynn Clarke, Keenan Appiah-Forson, Joe Starbuck, Aiden O'Brien, Hakeen Adelakum, Fernando Geremias and Ryan Glover.

The PFA team comprises unattached players who are looking for new clubs.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Jai, 21, spent pre-season on trial with the Spitfires before signing a contract... The wide player was called up to represent Ghana at youth level whilst he was on the books at Cardiff City.

Jai made his debut for Cardiff City back in early 2022...

During his time with us in pre-season, Jai impressed massively... He made five appearances in total for us during our pre-season campaign, starting in three of those games".

NEXT: WOKING

In their last weekend friendly, Woking drew 1-1 at home to EFL2 Gillingham.

Woking rounded off their pre-season preparations with the visit of League Two Gillingham. There were three changes to the side who narrowly defeated Salisbury last Saturday, with Jermaine Anderson, Jamie Andrews and a trialist replacing Dion Kelly-Evans, Dale Gorman and Lewis Walker.

Their opponents... sent a strong team to the Laithwaite... Gillingham broke the deadlock. Max Clark’s cross was well headed home by Jacob Wakeling... meaning that despite their best spell of the game, Woking trailed at the break...

But they had their leveller when a lovely ball into the box was met by the powerful head of Charley Kendall...

There was little action to report on until the full time whistle, with a strong performance from Woking closing out their pre-season campaign. All eyes are now on Saturday, with the trip to Altrincham...

Woking: Jaaskelainen, Moss (Trialist 58’), Odusina, Harries, Dyche, Lewis (Jones 83’), Anderson (Beautyman 45’), Akinola, Andrews, Kendall (Trialist 58’), Trialist. Subs:Trialist, Smith

BAILEY GOES ON LOAN

Left: Joel Bailey

The 18-year-old, who's impressed during pre-season outings for the Robins against Colne, Cheadle Heath Nomads, Warrington Town, Salford City, Chester and Bradford City, signed his first professional contract with Alty earlier in the summer after coming through our academy.

Manager Phil Parkinson said, 'We're really pleased that we've been able to get Joel a loan to Witton Albion, a club who should help develop and grow Joel to the levels he needs to get to be closer to the Altrincham first team.

'A club that has Ben Harrison there [see below], and the Alty faithful will know just how important Ben was when we first came in at Altrincham. Those fans who can remember Ben as a player will see those similarities in Joel. Physically and the way he plays the game. He's a perfect match to help Joel's development.

'We've had success in recent season with our loans. We found the right loans for Owen German last year and hopefully this is another one where we can help a player get to where he wants to be, through our player pathway'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Right: Ben Harrison, playing for Witton Albion last November.

He will be supported by Paul Houghton, Michael Alcock and JIM LAWRIE.

Witton Albion Football Club are pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Harrison as caretaker manager for the club following the departure of Jon Macken and Steve Atkinson earlier in the week.

Club Chairman, Graham Wood said 'We are delighted that Ben, who has made over 300 appearances for the club, has accepted this role. He will be ably supported by Paul Houghton, Michael Alcock and Jim Lawrie who will be known to all Witton fans.'

Ben said 'This is a great opportunity for me as a local lad with a long history with the club both as a player and as a fan. I am really looking forward to the challenge of preparing the squad for the start of the season next weekend against City of Liverpool'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Morrison – a second year pro at Fleetwood – heads out on loan for the 2024/25 season to gain more valuable experiences following his time away from the Fylde Coast last year.

Following a very successful season on loan at King’s Lynn Town last campaign, the midfielder will be looking to build on his 36 league appearances in the National League format".

Solihull Moors "confirm the signing of centre-back Jordan Tunnicliffe...

The former Wrexham defender has signed a one-year deal at Damson Park, following the expiration of his Wrexham contract after two years with the Red Dragons...

The defender said 'It’s a local club to me, I’ve lived in the area the last few years'...

Tunnicliffe leaves Wrexham having made 32 appearances...

Tunnicliffe, who was born in Nuneaton, was previously part of West Bromwich Albion’s academy before spending time with Barnsley, Sutton Coldfield Town and Kidderminster Harriers".

At Barnet "Lucas Georgiou has registered with Kings Langley FC ahead of the 24/25 season.

Georgiou joined the Barnet FC Academy (Canons High Academy) last season. The defender played in the FA Youth Cup for the Bees as well as playing his part in the U19’s team that came 2nd in the National Youth Alliance Division. He was also given the opportunity to train with the first team as well as representing the first team in the Middlesex County Cup.

The 17 year-old has now signed a dual-registration with Kings Langley FC and has already hit the ground running with Kings by featuring in their FA Cup fixture against Cockfosters".

6 August 2024

NEXT: WOKING

Perhaps the most notable are the arrival from Sutton United of Harry Beautyman and, from Northampton Town, of Max Dyche. Another arrival from an EFL club is that of Timi Odusina from Bradford City. Two Barnet men have also moved to Surrey, namely Ben Wynter and Dale Gorman.

Another move within the National League sees Cian Harries join from Aldershot Town.

Heading away from Kingfield, the most notable name is that of Jim Kellermann who has moved to Ebbsfleet United. Another man moving sideways within the National League is Rhys Browne who has joined Barnet. Other well-known names to have left the club include Sam Habergham, Alfie Pavey and Emmanuel Oyeleke.

ALTY "BRIDGED A GAP"

He told the Non-League Paper that the Robins could even be better without the National League Player of the Year {Chris Conn-Clarke]..

But he says those player{s] brought in... could make his team more powerful all round.

He told the NLP 'We’ve bridged a bit of a gap this summer... You never want to lose a player like Chris but this season we will have a different way of doing things - and I do truly feel we’ll be an all-round better team for the players we’ve signed...

'The fact is, Altrincham over-achieved last year and we’re probably at a level now where some people expect us to be in and around the play-offs.'”

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Vanarama National League

• AFC Fylde v Solihull Moors
• Aldershot Town v Forest Green Rovers
• Altrincham v Woking
• Boston United v Rochdale
• Dagenham & Redbridge v Wealdstone
• FC Halifax Town v Barnet
• Gateshead v Ebbsfleet United
• Maidenhead United v Eastleigh
• Oldham Athletic v Braintree Town
• Southend United v York City
• Tamworth v Sutton United
• Yeovil Town v Hartlepool United

ALTY OLD BOYS

In the 1963/64 season Roy played 31 games for the Robins and scored eight goals broken down as follows:

• League games: 22 apps, 5 goals.
• FA Cup: 6 apps, 1 goal.
• Cheshire League Cup: 1 app, 2 goals
• Cheshire senior Cup: 2 apps.

Footnote: The Altrincham v Wrexham match programme (November 1963) noted that Roy "was understudy to Brian Douglas at Blackburn for many seasons. A really great winger, has been responsible for scoring and making many of the goals at Moss Lane this year".

And Terry Rowley, in an article on manager Freddie Pye, included the following context to Roy's arrival at Altrincham, stating that "For the last weeks of the 1962/63 season, Fred [Pye] assessed the squad and made few changes to the side except for bringing in former Manchester United goalkeeper, Gordon Clayton, for the last three games of the season...

During the close season Pye used his contacts to begin building his own side. Goalkeeper Bobby Allan was persuaded to re-join and a collection of League professionals was blended with Cheshire League talent. Amongst the professionals signed were former Bolton skipper John Higgins along with Ian Greaves, and former Blackburn Rovers duo Roy Isherwood and Paddy Mulvey".

Roy joined Altrincham from Southern League club Chelmsford.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The seven-year deal, announced last month, confirmed the competition will now be showcased across more than 200 countries... when it arrives on the DAZN platform in the Autumn.

Until the Vanarama National League is available on the DAZN platform, fans will continue to sign up to NLTV in order to watch these enhanced games, and all other National League matches...

• Saturday August 10: Southend United vs York City - 3pm
• Monday August 26: Woking vs Hartlepool United - 3pm
• Saturday August 31: Sutton United vs Forest Green - 5.30pm

5 August 2024

NEXT: WOKING

Remarkably, despite home advantage, Altrincham will be seeking a first win in that long sequence.

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

Altrincham previously met Woking on an opening day in 2008-09 season when they emerged victorious, 2-1, at Kingfield.

PHIL'S "BIG AMBITION"

Asked about Max Haygarth's performance in the no.10 role, the Alty boss said, "He really showed up well, his pedigree is outstanding". Later, when asked about his starting eleven for the season next Saturday, Phil said that Max's showing in pre-season had forced himself into contention for the game against Woking. Max is pictured, right.

The manager's comments also suggested that, as well as the long-term duo of Isaac Marriott and Ollie Crankshaw, who are not expected to be match fit till September, both Matty Kosylo and Regan Linney are unlikely to be ready for next week either.

At the back, James Jones was praised for his performance against Bradford City, with the boss pointing out that as yhe Yorkshiremen introduced their substitutes into the game their side got physically bigger whilst Alty's eleven went the other way with the introduction of the Academy players and first-year professionals.

Up front, Parkinson felt that in pre-season "Joe Nuttall [left] has been brilliant. His attitude is second to none... He gives us that presence, allowing others to play off him". And he added that "He's worked tirelessly... and will score goals for Altrincham".

After his good campaign in 23/24, "Justin Amaluzor will be a marked man" the manager judged. Justin still "wants to play in the Football League" and now "He's doing more of the ugly side, the tracking back".

Regarding the surface at the J. Davidson Stadium, Phil judged it "The best I've ever seen it" at Altrincham. He indicated that the grass will be a bit shorter than in pre-season as it had been left a little longer to protect it for the season.

According to the manager, new signing Kahrel Reddin (right) "wants to start" against Woking. However, at Altrincham this season "We've got a big target on our backs" after last season's fourth-place finish. But 'Parky' asserted that "We want to carry the momentum" forward. He believes we can beat any side in the division on its day.

Given the player injury absences mentioned above, Phil thinks that in "mid-season we will be at our strongest", assuming the are fewer injuries than last season. In short, Phil summarised the position as "We've got big ambitions".

One area not covered in the interview was goalkeeping. Since the departure of Matt Gould to Yeovil Town, no new understudy to Ethan Ross has arrived. In pre-season Academy keeper Louie Fallon has had quite a bit of game time and has not let the side down but he faces a big step up to face National League opposition if he is to be the substitute keeper.

OPEN AFTERNOON AT ALTY

The full first team playing squad and coaching staff will be in attendance and lining up for, amongst other poses, the traditional team photo opportunity.

We'll also have the following going on at the ground...

• Pop Up Club Shop in the John King Lounge
• Player Autograph/Selfie Opportunities
• Meet Rocky Robin & Bear (the AO Teddy)
• If you fancy witnessing the 2024/25 team photo process in all its glory, while meeting the players and picking up some of our latest merch [sic], FREE entry will be via Gate 4 on Moss Lane from 1:30pm to 3pm".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Meanwhile the Sale & Altrincham Messenger's cricket reporter told us last week that "For OLLIE BYRNE this game [for Timperley CC] marked his last on a Saturday for the club as he's returned to his day job after signing for FC Utd in the Northern Premier League. Larger than life Byrne - a cricketing teenage prodigy before opting for a career in football with Manchester United's academy, became an instant hit at his local cricket club this summer quickly establishing himself in the Timperley first team on his return to the game".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Traore plys his trade as a central midfielder, has been described as a 'powerful' with 'incredible physical and athletic qualities'.

The midfielder signed his first professional contract with the Boro just two months after his 18th birthday. Traore had highly impressed for the U18s, playing under Lee Cattermole, making 42 appearances in the U18 Premier League before moving up to the U21s, where has since made 17 appearances.

Impressing so much for the youth ranks, Traore has also featured for the Boro first-team at just 18-years-old , playing in a 2-0 friendly win against Hibernian in 2022".

4 August 2024

ALTRINCHAM 0-0 BRADFORD CITY

Match report here.

Right: Alty gave another run-out to several of their younger players in the second half against Bradford City. Here we see midfielder Owen German in action against the Bantams.

BANTAMS' VIEW OF ALTY GAME

The game soon evened out, being played primarily in the midfield...

The second half began in much the same fashion as the first, with CIty and their hosts evenly matched. Both sides would have chances as Aden Baldwin headed wide from a Pointon cross, while the City defence was able to deal with a cutback that fed Joe Nuttall.

The game then once again descended into a tight affair where both the Bantams and the Robins were stuck creating little in the way of clear goal-scoring openings...

Entering the final stages, City were unable to break through and the game would finish 0-0".

ALTY OLD BOYS

DUNCAN WATMORE played the whole match as Millwall lost to visitors Southampton by the only goal of the game.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE also played the whole game, and scored the only goal as Peterborough United beat Notts County.

ASHLEY HEMMINGS opened the scoring at Aggborough as Kidderminster Harriers beat Stoke City U21 2-0.

A goal from DAN MOONEY was sufficient to give Boston United victory at Gainsborough Trinity.

In a six-goal thriller at Stainton Park, all three Radcliffe goals against AFC Fylde were scored by Alty Old Boys. JAMIE MORGAN struck twice, before JOSH HANCOCK also hit the target.

Salford City were already three goals down at Rochdale before MARCUS DACKERS reduced the arrears. In the 77th minute he was one of three players substituted, with KEVIN BERKOE coming on, but Rochdale's 89th minute goal wrapped up a 5-2 win.

OLLIE BYRNE made his debut for FC United at Southport, with AARON BENNETT (above, left) also in the starting XI. LUKE BURGESS started for the Sandgrounders. Another debutant for the visitors was much-travelled 37 year old striker Adam Le Fondre, released by Scottish Premiership Hibernian at the end of last season, and it was he who gave them an early lead, but Southport were soon level as Byrne was beaten from 30 yards.

Then Burgess put the hosts ahead from close range after 42 minutes. The visitors brought on DONTAI GABIDON for Bennett at the start of the second half, but there were no further goals as Southport won 2-1. According to FCUM's X account, the hosts had an "unsalable" lead - so no corruption at Haig Avenue then.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"He has signed a loan deal with Rob Elliot's side ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Beck was made available by Solihull Moors at the end of last season. The 30-year-old Wearsider now links up with the Heed in a half-season loan move which lasts until early January.

Beck was a trialist for Gateshead at their 2-0 victory against Carlisle on Tuesday although he did not feature in the game".

Whilst at Carlisle early in his career, "He had loans at Falkirk, Yeovil Town and Wrexham and then had a successful spell at Darlington before joining Harrogate Town.

After five years with the Sulphurites, which included a loan spell at York City, he returned to Darlington and his form in 2022/23 earned him a move to Solihull Moors in January last year...

He said 'It's been quite a long, complicated process but we've finally got something sorted... The amount of crosses and possession we have in the final third really attracted me.'"

And the second signing is Jacob Butterfield who was last season's Supporters' Player of the Season at Scunthorpe United. He turned down a contract extension earlier in the summer.

Gateshead confirmed that "The central midfielder joins on a one-year deal, with an optional extension available at the club's discretion".

At Sutton Unitedit is "Welcome to striker Ashley Nadesan, who has joined Sutton United from Gillingham on a season-long loan.

29-year-old Ashley first came to attention while playing for Horley Town in the Combined Counties League... and earning a move to Fleetwood Town at the end of the 2015-16 season. He made over twenty League One appearances for Fleetwood, and had two successful loan spells at Carlisle, before joining Crawley in May 2019.

Ashley went on to play around 150 games for Crawley over the next four seasons... At the start of last season he moved to Gillingham...

Head Coach Steve Morison said 'Ashley is a player we’ve had our eye on for a while, and his friendship with Harry Ransom and our first team coach Jon Meeney played a crucial role in making this move happen'”.

3 August 2024

ALTRINCHAM 0-0 BRADFORD CITY

Right: Remi Thompson was the only new face for Altrincham today. The 22 year-old only got a few minutes' action towards the end of the game, on the right wing. He has recently been at Waterford in Ireland but started out with Fulham and Manchester United as a youngster..

Altrincham and Bradford City played out a well-contested goalless draw in the final pre-season game for the hosts.

The Robins were without Linney, Baines and Kosylo as well as longstanding absentees Marriott and Crankshaw, as they faced the League Two men from Yorkshire.

Altrincham fielded a fairly strong side to start the afternoon but ended with probably only two or three players who can expect to start the league campaign next Saturday at home to Woking.

ALTRINCHAM: Ross, Banks, J Jones, Cooper, E Jones, Osborne, Crawford, Haygarth, Newby, Amaluzor, Nuttall. Subs: Fallon, Reddin, Golden, Weaver, Hussain, German, Bailey, Thompson, Wilson.

BRADFORD CITY: 1. Sam Walker, 2. Brad Halliday, 5. Neill Byrne, 7. Jamie Walker, 9. Andy Cook, 14. Tyler Smith, 16. Alex Pattison (c), 17. Tyreik Wright, 18. Ciaran Kelly, 23. Bobby Pointon. Subs: 3. Lewis Richards, 4. sam Stubbs, 6. Richie Smallwood, 8. Calum Kavanagh, 10. Antni Sarcevic, 11. Alex Gilliead, 12. Clark Oduor, 12. Colin Doyle (gk), 19. Vadaine Oliver, 20. Jake Young, 24. Jack Shepherd, Trialist (gk).

Match report here.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

"Workington Reds manager Mark Fell had tried to re-sign the popular defender but he has opted to join their NPL Premier Division rivals" after being "on trial at Bamber Bridge throughout pre-season...

Left-back Brockbank, 23, arrives from Altrincham and has plenty of Northern Premier League experience from his time at Lancaster City and Workington.

Over the past two seasons, Brockbank made eight appearances in the National League for the Robins, including three during the 2023/24 campaign.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at fellow NPL side Warrington Rylands. During the 12 games he was in the team, the Blues kept five clean sheets.

A product of the Carlisle United youth system Barrow-born Brockbank was signed for Reds by Danny Grainger in 2019 shortly after being appointed manager.

He spent two seasons with the Reds and he was then persuaded by Mark Fell to join Lancaster City in 2021, described at the time as “his main target.”

After a season there he stepped-up to the National League with Altrincham but his progress was halted by a serious knee injury".

The other players who were at Altrincham last season but who have either been released or moved on have almost all found new homes this summer...

• Dior Angus (AFC Telford United)
• Chris Conn-Clarke (Peterborough United)
• Matt Gould (Yeovil Town)
• Mitch Hancox (Chester FC)
• Joey Jones (Walton & Hersham)
• Dan Mooney (Boston United)
• Sam Roscoe (Linfield)

That only leaves George Burroughs as apparently being still without a club.

TODAY: BRADFORD CITY

Bradford City's squad for 2024-25 includes summer signing Antoni Sarcevic who has faced Altrincham previously. Indeed, he scored an early goal in each of the festive season games for Stockport County against Altrincham in 2021/22 season.

He joined Bradford City from Stockport County this summer, signing a two-year deal for Graham Alexander's team.

Sarcevic started out at Manchester City before joining Crewe Alexandra. He then joined Chester, followed by Fleetwood Town.

After winning promotion with Fleetwood he repeated the act at Plymouth Argyle. A spell at Bolton Wanderers came next before he joined Stockport County.

On the eve of visiting Altrincham, the Bantams have signed centre-back Jack Shepherd on a season-long loan from Barnsley.

Altrincham remain without the long-term injured duo of Isaac Marriott and Ollie Crankshaw whilst Regan Linney and Lewis Baines (above, right) also missed the midweek game at Curzon Ashton, through injury too.

HOW TO WATCH NATIONAL LEAGUE TV

Full details have been reproduced by Aldershot Town

ALTY OLD BOYS

In Ireland, BARRY BAGGLEY was a 68th minute substitute with Waterford level at 1-1, but visitors Shamrock Rovers took the points with an 85th minute winner

There was a clean sheet for JOEL TORRANCE as Bala Town earned their place in the last 16 of the Welsh League Cup, a single goal proving sufficient for them to win at Ruthin Town.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

For the 2024/25 season, fixtures will be split up into three categories. Category A, Category B and Category C.

All tickets include a booking fee which is to cover the fee paid to TicketCo".

Prices for adults in each category are as follows, with reduced levels for concessions and younger supporters.

• Group A: £26
• Group B: £21
• Group C: £17

Altrincham have been assigned to Group A so supporters will pay £9 extra for the Solihull facilities compared with, say, supporters of recent EFL side Sutton United.

• Category A fixtures are (in date of fixture order) as follows: Forest Green Rovers, Southend United, York City, Altrincham, Tamworth, Oldham Athletic, Yeovil Town and Boston United
• Category B fixtures: Barnet, Hartlepool United, Aldershot Town, FC Halifax Town, Gateshead, Ebbsfleet United, Rochdale, Dagenham & Redbridge
• Category C fixtures: Maidenhead United 17/08, Braintree Town, Wealdstone, Woking, AFC Fylde, Eastleigh, Sutton United

Altrincham also have a tiered entrance fee for 2024/25. Standard adult entry will be £20 but with a £2 supplement for certain games.

By way of some random comparisons, watching Alty at Forest Green Rovers will cost £21, AFC Fylde £18, Aldershot £23 (but £21 in advance), Dagenham £25 (but £23 in advance), Barnet £24, Rochdale £24, Oldham £25 (but £20 in advance), Boston United £17 (standing).

Solihull Moors also announce "the arrival of Jacob Pinnington on a season-long loan deal from Luton Town...

The 19-year-old defender had an impressive trial period under the watchful eye of Andy Whing before securing a loan deal... Prior to his arrival at Solihull, Pinnington helped step-three side AFC Sudbury avoid relegation on the final day of the season to remain in the Southern Premier Central Division.

The youngster joined the Hatters’ youth ranks... before making his step into senior football with AFC Sudbury".

And at Wealdstone comes "the signing of 19-year-old Christian Scott, who joins on a permanent deal, having trialed with the Stones during pre-season...

A technical player, Scott has shown he is not shy with the ball at his feet, looking to play forward at every opportunity...

Scott was born in London despite both his of parents being South African, but has played the majority of his footballing career in Portugal.

Starting with Portimonese S.C. of the Primera Liga, Portugal's top division, Scott made 17 appearances for the U19 team, before making the switch across the south coast of Portugal, joining Farense in the summer of 2023.

The midfielder was a key component of the Farense U19's 2023/24 campaign, scoring three goals in 29 appearances for the Leoes de Faro, now of the Primera Liga"...

'Christian is an exciting young midfielder with a bright future in the game ahead of him,' said Matt Taylor.

Able to play in midfield or as part of the forward line, Scott will be a useful asset to Matt Taylor".

In addition, Wealdstone "announce the signing of Henry Sandat on a season long loan from Hull City.

The 19-year-old spent his youth career in the ranks of National League side Southend United before breaking into the first team in late 2022 at just 17-years-old...

In July 2023, Sandat made the move to Championship side Hull City on a two-year permanent deal, with an option for a third year, only returning back to hometown club Southend United on loan in December 2023. The young forward featured 15 times in the Shrimpers push for the playoffs...

The youngster then returned back his parent club Hull City this summer before making the loan move to Grosvenor Vale">

Eastleigh "announce the signing of Jake Vokins following the end of his contract at Southampton FC*

Vokins, 24, spent the end of last season on loan with us, but this time round he has penned a deal to join us permanently.

The left-back came up through the ranks at Southampton, and has spent his entire career there up until now. During that time he enjoyed loan spells with Sunderland, Ross County and Woking before coming to SO50.

He made appearances in the Premier League for the Saints during the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons... Vokins made the majority of his senior appearances whilst playing for Ross County in the Scottish Premiership during the 2021/22 campaign...

Whilst on loan with us last season, Vokins made six appearances in the National League".

2 August 2024

ALTY GET REDDIN FOR NEW SEASON

Right: Kahrel pictured at Warrington in pre-season.

Kahrel has been given the chance to impress in recent pre-season friendlies against Warrington Town, Salford City, Chester and Curzon Ashton and has grabbed it with both hands... 'Everyone has been so good with me and made it easy for me to settle in. I've thoroughly enjoyed the last few weeks, training and getting minutes on the pitch in pre-season games'...

Kahrel, who can operate as a winger or wing-back on either flank but is primarily a lightning-quick outside-right [was]... part of the Aston Villa squad that beat Liverpool 2-1 in the FA Youth Cup final...

After leaving Villa, he joined Stoke, where he was a regular for their under-21s before being released two months ago".

Footnote: Kahrel becomes Altrincham's sixth new signing of the summer, five of whom could be described a attacking players, the exception being defender Tylor Golden.

The five attacking players are Lucas Weaver (left-winger), Joe Nuttall (striker), Max Haygarth (no.10), Tom Crawford (no.10) and Kahrel Reddin (right-winger). Haygarth was already at Alty on a short-term contract at the end of last season.

NEXT: BRADFORD CITY

• 2000: Back on Friday, 4th August, 2000, the Bantams emerged 1-0 winners in a clash at Moss Lane. At the time the Yorkshire club was in the Premier League so it was quite a coup to have them play at Moss Lane, with Alty having just been relegated from the Football Conference.

  Left: Mark Ward and Dan Petrescu compete for the ball.

  Another Premier League element of the game was that the referee was Anthony Taylor, who was to forge his own impressive career at that level.

  

  Right: Courtesy of the late Alan Johnson, the Bradford City players warm up. Back in 2000 web-space was costly, hence the small image!

  The only goal came after 70 minutes from Isaiah Rankin and the gate was estimated at around 750. The gate was boosted by the appearance for Bradford of recent signing and Romanian international star, Dan Petrescu, whose appearance attracted Sky TV cameras. The visitors' starting eleven included more than half a dozen first-team regulars including former Manchester United star Lee Sharpe, as well as Rankin, Peter Beagrie and Ashley Westwood.

  For their part Alty had former West Ham player Mark Ward, who had been appointed their player-manager following the previous season's relegation.

  Altrincham's squad for the game comprised Coburn, Gallagher, Adams (D), Turkington, Talbot, Ward, Quinn, Hawes, Furlong, Power, Scheuber. Subs: Crowe, Landon, Chambers, Farley, Wilson, Maddox, O'Connor (gk).

• 2003: Just three years later, on Tuesday, 5 August, 2003 Altrincham drew 1-1 with a City XI. The Bantams at that time were in the First Division, which is nowadays the Championship.

  Alty Chairman Geoff Goodwin had strong links with Bradford City, as his Go Goodwins company supplied coach travel to the Yorkshire club.

  Alty included trialist Rob Matthews in the starting line-up in place of centre-back Gary Talbot. So, Stephen Rose moved to the back four, whilst Band and Craney started up front.

  Bradford's was a young side, captained by Tom Kearney, later to be an Altrincham player. At the time he was a 21 year-old midfielder who had ruptured his cruciate ligament after 9 first-team games and was returning after being out of action for a year.

  Alty's line up was 1. Richard ACTON, 2. Neil RYAN, 3. Chris ADAMS, 4. Mark MADDOX (capt.), 5. Stephen ROSE, 6. Steve ASPINALL, 7. Jason GALLAGHER, 8. Rob MATTHEWS, 9. Peter BAND, 10. Ian CRANEY, 11. Barry SHUTTLEWORTH. Subs: 12. Dave GARDNER, 14. Steve LUNT, 15. Andy TUNNICLIFFE.

• 2007: Four years later (in 2007) the clubs met again in another August friendly, but this time it featured an Altrincham Reserves side against a City XI, albeit Altrincham included several first-teamers. Alty won 3-1 with goals from Burns, Rose and Berkeley

  Played unusually on a Thursday night at 6.45pm, the time was dictated by the upgrading of the Alty floodlights which meant that half of the Moss Lane floodlights had been dismantled to make way for the new lighting system.

  

  Above: Alty without floodlight pylons on the Popular Side as they faced a Bradford City side in 2007.

  At this time City were in the third tier of football, nowadays League One.

  Alty's squad comprised 1. Stephen DOWNES, 2. Cavell COO, 3. Warren PEYTON, 4. Gary SCOTT, 5. Stephen ROSE, 6. Billy DEMPSEY, 7. Colin POTTS, 8. Aaron BURNS, 9. Matthew BERKELEY, 10. Rod THORNLEY, 11. Pat McFADDEN. Subs: 14. Sean CLANCY, 15. Chris FRANCIS, 16. Kurt LOWE, 17. Oliver OSBALDESTON.

• 2008: A fourth clash of the millennium arrived the next summer and again was a night match, played on Tuesday, 29 July 2008, at 7.45pm.

  Alty won 2-1 with goals from Kevin Street and Chris Denham. It was not just a win but also a very encouraging performance by Altrincham against a young Bantams' side. The only blight on the evening was an injury to Chris Senior who limped off just before the interval. Alty gave a late run-out to Bradley Barnes, an ex-Bolton Wanderers' youngster who had been with Flixton and who recently played as a trialist for Morecambe.

  Just 409 spectators watched the match in which midfielder Robbie Lawton started at right-back, whilst Chris Senior played in an unaccustomed right-wing position. Another first-teamer, Chris Lane, played at centre-back, but there were only three starters who were at Moss Lane in the previous season. But 14 of the 19-man first-team squad were on duty for this game, Warren Peyton and the injured Val Owen, Alex Meechan, Greg Young and Stuart Coburn being the exceptions. New centre-back Marc McGregor was making his first home appearance.

  City were managed this time by former Everton and Scottish international midfielder, Stuart McCall and his former Everton team-mate Graeme Sharp. The Bantams included one Shaun Densmore in their starting eleven!

TYLOR BRINGS "STEEL AND DETERMINATION"

The 24-year old right-back received lucrative offers from League Two clubs as well as others in the National League but opted for Alty after training with them and playing as a trialist in pre-season friendlies".

Manager Phil Parkinson said, “He will bring real steel and determination to our defence, and we can count ourselves extremely lucky that he has decided to ply his trade with us".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Pictured, above, are the Altrincham 2014 play-off squad who faced the 2005 play-off season's squad on Sunday in Stuart Coburn's testimonial game.

Back in the world of more recent Altrincham players, Phil Jordan reports that "At the Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, MAXI OYEDELE was one of eight 62nd minute substitutes as Manchester United beat Real Betis 3-2".

SUPPORTERS' AWAY TRAVEL

"Coaches are booked for our trips to Sutton United and Forest Green Rovers.

Above: Alty last visited (a very wet) Forest Green Rovers in November 2015 (shown) when they lost 2-0 in a relegation season for the Robins.

It would be great to welcome some new faces on the coach this year. It's a relaxed, welcoming environment suitable for all fans. You will have a great time.

If you haven't used it before and have any questions please drop me an e-mail. The price for each return trip is £30.

The pick-up times are as follow:

• SUTTON UNITED, Saturday, 17th August.

  8:30am from the lay-by outside Altrincham Leisure Centre (Oakfield Road)

  

• FOREST GREEN ROVERS, Monday, 26th August.

  9:45am from the lay-by outside Altrincham Leisure Centre (Oakfield Road).

Please reserve your seat(s) on our new platform.

Payment for the first two trips is by cash only. You can pay in the following ways:

• Before the home friendly against Bradford City (3 August). In the Community Sports Hall from gates opening to kick-off.
• Before the Home game against Woking FC (10 August). In the Community Sports Hall from gates opening to 2:45pm.

If you are unable to attend the above fixtures but would like a seat on the coach, please reserve a seat as normal and email Union Golf Road to arrange an alternative payment method. I can sort it out for you.

This is temporary and we will be returning to online payments for future fixtures. Please only reserve a seat if you're sure you're going to attend, and my apologies for the inconvenience.

We hope to see you there".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Brennan... had a brief spell on loan with the Coasters back in 2020, but was recalled just a couple of months later by parent club Blackburn Rovers... After coming through the ranks at Blackburn, Brennan would later join Wigan Athletic's under 23s before going out on loan to Welsh Premier League side, The New Saints....

Head Coach Chris Beech also added 'We’ve had Luke in the building for a number of weeks and have been really impressed... He gives our attacking style a different dynamic... He wants to run at defenders, take them on and put teams on the back foot. Sometimes you need an outlet option and Luke has that ability to allow us to reset in games and get us moving back up the pitch'".

FC Halifax Town "announce the signing of defender Harvey Sutcliffe from Championship side Leeds United.

Primarily a right back but can also provide cover on the left side of defence, Sutcliffe has so far spent his entire career in the Leeds academy. The defender signed his first professional contract with Leeds in July 2022, signing a two-year deal.

The full back made 30 appearances in the Under 18 Premier League, 25 appearances in Premier League 2, four appearances in the FA Youth Cup, and four Appearances in the EFL Trophy whilst with Leeds".

Solihull Moors report that "Gus Mafuta has joined Boreham Wood in a season-long loan deal...

The combative midfielder joins Ross Jenkins’s side as they compete in the Vanarama National League South following their relegation from the National League.

Mafuta made over 30 appearances last term in Andy Whing’s side as we reached the Promotion Final and Isuzu FA Trophy Final at Wembley Stadium".

Aldershot Town announce that "George Milner-Smith has joined Whitehawk on loan for three months.

The centre-back will link back up with former Shots manager Ross McNeilly who worked with the centre-back as his Academy Manager.

Milner-Smith played in Whitehawk’s 1-0 pre-season defeat to Worthing on Saturday as they prepare for their season in the Isthmian League Premier Division.

From Sutton United we learn that "Goalkeeper Jack Rose has today joined Northern Premier League Division One West team Hednesford Town on a season long loan. Jack joined us from Walsall at the start of the 2022-23 season and has made 51 league and cup appearances during his two seasons with us.

And there is also a new arrival at Sutton United that "defender Charlie Waller... has sgned from MK Dons on loan until January.

The 19-year-old has come through the academy at MK and captained their Under 18 side on a number of occasions. He made his senior debut last season as a substitute in the EFL Trophy... He had loan spells last season with Billericay Town and Banbury United".

Woking "can confirm that Matt Robinson has joined Braintree Town on a season-long loan.

The club would like to wish Matt all the best". York City "announce the signing of Cameron John following a successful trial period...

The 24-year-old left-back , who can also operate centrally, puts pen to paper with City after departing Rochdale in the summer.

John was offered a new deal at the end of last season by Dale, where he joined in the summer of 2022.

As a youngster, John moved from Southend to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2015... A five-year spell with Wolves saw John... go out on a season-long loan with Doncaster Rovers. 21 appearances during 2019/20 eventually led to John signing a two-year deal with Rovers in 2020...

After departing Doncaster, Rochdale acquired his services on a two-year deal which expired this summer. In total, he made 55 appearances in all competitions".

1 August 2024

NEXT: BRADFORD CITY

More on this to follow...

SPONSOR A PLAYER

From the moment you select the player you want to be associated with and pledge to sponsor him for 2024-25, you will feel a bond develop that will only grow as the season unfolds.

Every time a goal goes in at The J.Davidson Stadium, the scorer is announced over the tannoy, followed in the same breath by mention of his sponsor. That could be you. On the club's website and in the Robins Review matchday programme, all the players are listed and all have the names of their sponsors appearing alongside them. The same applies to social media. Imagine that being you.

Finally, the jersey you have been sponsoring all season will be presented to you at the end of the campaign, signed by the player you have been partnering, complete with a personal message of appreciation. How about that for a keepsake?...

Some players have been snapped up and already have sponsors, some are still available, so don't delay".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Above the players who represented the 2005 Altrincham squad are pictured at Stuart Coburn's testimonial last Sunday.

Alty TV has highlights of the game.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Martin Hellier, owner and Chairman of Yeovil Town, made the following statement: 'I could not be more pleased that Mark has agreed to stay with the club... Mark endured almost impossible conditions in his first season at the club under the previous ownership, and last season has shown us how a manager, the players and the club, can flourish when given the means to do so, which of course resulted in an end of season promotion for the Glovers.

Fourteen record wins in a row, attendance records smashed, and several other accolades are all testament to Mark’s prowess as a manager and his commitment to the club. Today I am glad to show my commitment to Mark.

Furthermore, I am today injecting more funds into the player budget so that Mark can fine tune the already superb squad he has put together".

In the Hartlepool Mail "manager Darren Sarll unsure whether potential hamstring injury could scupper a deal for impressive trialist [and ex-Alty loanee] Dylan Mottley-Henry

Hartlepool United manager Darren Sarll admitted he has been impressed by trialist Dylan Mottley-Henry but feared the winger might have sustained a hamstring injury in Tuesday evening's 2-1 win over Scunthorpe.

The 26-year-old, who caught the eye during Saturday's impressive win over Sunderland under-21s... had an eventful cameo in midweek as Pools edged past {Scunthorpe]...

Mottley-Henry, who has been on trial for the last couple of weeks... bagged the equaliser, scoring in back-to-back games, within a couple of minutes of coming on.

His joy was short-lived, however, as the former Bradford wideman, who spent the second half of last season at Buxton, on loan from South Shields, collided with an advertising hoarding five minutes later and was forced off, with Sarll suggesting he could have damaged his hamstring".

And Mottley-Henry is not the only ex-Alty loanee interesting Pools as the Hartlepol Mail also tells us that "Hartlepool United manager Darren Sarll admits he retains an interest in [ex-Alty loanee] Billy Sass-Davies, who has spent the last few weeks on trial in the North East...

The 24-year-old, who played under Sarll at both Yeovil and Woking, featured in all of the three games prior to Tuesday night's visit of Scunthorpe but was not involved in the squad for the midweek clash.

Sass-Davies, who had a staggering 10 loan spells while under contract at Crewe, the last of which saw him suffer National League relegation with Boreham Wood, is a free agent following his release".

In fact Hartlepool already have a third ex-ALty loanee on thir books as the Mail adds that "In [ex-Alty loanee] Luke Waterfall and Tom Parkes, Pools have two outstanding central-defenders".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the signing of Bristol Rovers goalkeeper Jed Ward on a season-long loan.

The 21-year-old made 18 League One appearances for the Gas in the second half of last season having been recalled from his impressive loan spell at Wealdstone.

Ward agreed a long-term contract with Bristol Rovers in March 2024 and was awarded the club's Young Player of the Season award...

Ward has also enjoyed loan spells at Hungerford Town, Prescot Cables and Swindon Supermarine".