an unofficial website
www.altrinchamfc.co.uk

NEWS ARCHIVE
October, 2013


31 October 2013

GLOUCESTER GAME OFF

As a consequence of Gloucester City's continuing involvement in the FA Cup on 9 November, the league game at Cheltenham on that date beteeen City and Altrincham is now postponed.

WORLD RECORD AT THE J. DAVIDSON STADIUM!

Above: Representatives of Altrincham FC Juniors, Altrincham FC Ladies and Altrincham FC's Youth Education Programme are pictured with Club chairman, Grahame Rowley, Community Officer Chris Bullock and other representatives of the Club and the Alzheimer's Society.

A world record was set at the J. Davidson Stadium, the home of Altrincham FC, on Wednesday morning as some 13,000 knitted mice were laid out around the perimeter of the playing surface at Moss Lane. The event, for the benefit of the Alzheimer's Society, was well attended by members of the local community, led by the Mayor of Trafford, as well as by a number of the Football Club's representative teams, which had players present at the event. Thanks go to the Club volunteers who helped to lay out the mice; no mean feat in itself.

Photographic and other evidence of the event, including BBC TV film broadcast on Thursday's NW Tonight programme, will be relayed to the Guinness Book of Record for validation. The total length of the five rows of mice which encircled the pitch was 3,085 metres or 1.917 miles. The mice had been knitted by people from round the world, including Australia and the USA.

After the display of the mice, a sandwich lunch was provided for those present, along with excellent live entertainment which also raised funds for Cancer Research.

Above: The mice were laid out round all four sides of the pitch.

Above: The mice, knitted in a multitude of colours, were protected from the weather by polythene tubes.

Above left, Mile of Mice cake and, right, the The Pied Piper.

5-GOAL MAX NOW MAKES IT 6

Striker Max Pouncey may have netted five goals for Altrincham FC Youth in the FA Youth Cup last week but he has now made it six of the current youth team squad to sign first-team Conference forms at the J. Davidson Stadium. He joins midfielders Rob Gilroy, Spencer Cunliffe and Matt Todd, and defenders Derek Ubah and David Brown, who are all eligible for the Youth team but have also signed first-team forms.

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

From the Football Conference we learn that "Workington have re-signed goalkeeper Joel Dixon on a month`s loan from Sunderland. Dixon hails from Middlesbrough and has been with the Black Cats’ academy since the age of 14... before featuring for the development squad on two occasions.

In February 2013, Dixon joined Workington on a month`s loan and played eight times for the Reds. This season he has been appearing for the Black Cats` under-21 side".

We read in the Gazette and Herald that "Swindon Town striker Kayden Jackson is set to move to Oxford City on loan after being recalled from his temporary spell at non-league Swindon Supermarine...

Town have now made use of a clause in the loan deal to bring the Win a Pro Contract winner back to the County Ground with 24 hours' notice, with Oxford now his likely destination. Jackson scored 12 goals in 14 appearances for Supermarine".

They beat Alty last week and now NL Daily reports that "Dennis Greene believes that his Boston United squad are more than good enough to finish the season as the Skrill North champions...

I want to instil that into the players, that we’re here to stay and we’re here to win this league'. The spat Greene mentioned was a midweek fall-out which saw keeper Ashley Timms transfer-listed...

Now Greene is challenging his squad to go out and prove themselves at Brackley Town on Saturday... They knocked United out of the FA... Greene added, 'We want to get them back. We go to win the game, but if we get a point we’ll take that'".

From the other side, the BBC says that "Brackley Town boss Jon Brady has said his side have the attributes to cause an FA Cup upset against Gillingham...

'We've got all the ingredients within our squad to do something special', Brady told BBC Radio Northampton... 'Who knows? The FA Cup always throws up funny results and you never know, hopefully we can be one of those results that people are surprised by'...

Brackley required extra-time to get past Barrow, with Izak Reid's penalty proving the difference, but not before Saints keeper Billy Turley had to save a late spot-kick from Sam Sheridan. 'I've never done this before but I didn't watch the penalty. I put my hands over my eyes and crouched on the floor', said Brady.

'All I did was hear my physio scream "Yes! yes!". I'm yet to watch the DVD but from what I hear it was an unbelievable save."

Elsewhere, the North Wales Pioneer reports that "Colwyn Bay will have put the disappointment of their shock FA Cup exit behind them as they prepare to entertain Solihull Moors this weekend...

The Seagulls will be boosted by the return of Marc Williams, who was cup-tied for last Saturday’s cup defeat against Corby Town, and could have Gareth D Evans in the matchday squad, who is close to completing his protracted move from USA side Wilmington.

However, there is no denying that last weekend’s defeat has been a bitter pill to swallow... Frank Sinclair’s half time team talk looked as if it had made some difference as Bay enjoyed more possession, but the away side’s lead was never threatened. That was until the 76th minute, when a rare error from Town keeper Paul Walker handed an equaliser on a plate Rob Hopley.

However, it proved to be a false dawn for the Seagulls, as the visitors picked Bay apart as they pressed for a winner. Nathan Rooney handed the Northamptonshire side a 2-1 lead with a spectacular 35-yard lob, before substitute Sam Ives secured a first round tie against Dover Athletic for his side".

Ex-Alty players respectively conceded and missed a penalty on Tuesday night for Barrow as Buckngham Tday confirs that "Brackley Town will face Gillingham in the first round proper of the FA Cup after a memorable 1-0 win against Barrow...

Izak Reid and Billy Turley were the heroes as one scored a penalty and the other saved one in extra-time... Brackley maintained their momentum in extra-time and, after wasting a couple of half chances, were awarded a penalty when Robbie Williams felled Reid in the box and the winger held his nerve to convert from 12 yards on 103 minutes.

Barrow poured forward in response and were gifted a golden chance to send the tie into a shoot-out when Dan Parkinson was brought down - but Billy Turley superbly saved Sam Sheridan’s penalty". P> Gates in Tuesday's games were:

  • Gloucester City v Solihull Moors - 313
  • Barrow v Brackley - 830
  • Kidderminster Harriers v Bradford PA - 1,212
  • Lincoln City v Worcester City - 1,344 (45 from Worcester).

30 October 2013

ALTY NEEDS YOU!

"Can you help? Are you over 21, with time to spare and do you enjoy meeting people?

Altrincham FC needs lottery collectors in your area. If this would suit YOU, please ring the Club on 0161 928-1045 and ask for Jenny Heslop".

The Saturday Yankee is a major fundraiser for the Football Club; details of how it works are here.

Last week's winning code was 4541 which earned four Treble winners £37.50 each. There are two jackpots available now; one at £5,000 and the other at £1,400.

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

A Cheshire Senior Cup First Round result on Monday was:
  • Hyde 5 Cheadle Town 0
The other 6 fixtures are on either 5th or 6th November. Altrincham are exempt till the following round.

TUESDAY FIXTURES

Skrill North:
  • Gloucester City 0-3 Solihull Moors

FA Cup 4QR replays include:

  • Barrow 0-1 Brackley Town aet
  • Kidderminster Harriers 2-1 Bradford Park Avenue aet
  • Lincoln City 3-0 Worcester City

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

The Football Conference says that "Hednesford Town boss Rob Smith has reacted to the FA Cup First Round draw with a mixture of delight and excitement as his high-flying team face Crawley Town...

'I think it’s a great draw', said Smith. 'To be at home was important for me and to draw a team in the upper places of League One exceeded my expectations. All the players and management are very excited about testing themselves against a quality side and I’m very proud of the lads for achieving what we set out to do at the start of the season. It’s been a rollercoaster ride so far and when the squad and some of our supporters convened at Keys Park for the draw it was a great atmosphere'.

The match is unlikely to be chosen for live television coverage, but a crowd of over 2,000 is expected at Keys Park".

According to the Shropshire Star, "AFC Telford United midfielder Martyn Jackson has been cleared to join Skelmersdale United on a month’s loan. The former Manchester United and Burnley youngster has recovered from an ankle injury suffered at his last loan club, Skem’s league rivals Stafford Rangers...

The teenager has yet to make a league appearance for the Bucks this season and has been earmarked as one for the future by Watson... Jackson’s temporary departure would bring to three the number of players shipped out on loan, following deals for Dan Preston and Jake Bennett.

Bennett made his debut for Market Drayton Town at the weekend... on a dual registration basis, as he’s on non-contract youth forms with Telford... Preston is on loan with Barrow and Watson will run the rule over him in tonight’s FA Cup replay against Brackley Town, who will be the Bucks’ hosts in the Skrill Conference North next Tuesday".

Meanwhile, Chester First says that "Ben Mills has revealed he has left Chester ‘with a heavy heart’. The 24-year-old striker had his contract cancelled by the Blues... and has now joined Brackley Town until the end of this season.

Mills... believes he was given a chance to make an impact this season despite only being named six times in the starting line-up. 'I’ve known for a number of weeks that I was not part of the gaffer’s plans and the situation had dragged on long enough so I thought it was best to get away and play elsewhere', Mills said.

'It was the gaffer’s decision to cancel my contract, but I knew the score because my contract at Chester was due to finish at the end of this season. My progress at Chester wasn’t helped by the injury I picked up at the end of last season during my loan spell at Altrincham, but I told the gaffer that I would work hard to get myself fit and prove my worth. Since the summer I have not really made an impact and, although I thought I played well against Forest Green Rovers, I haven’t been ripping up any trees like the gaffer wanted... but I am leaving Chester with a heavy heart...

My form started to dip when the bad weather arrived and then I was loaned out to Altrincham where I picked up a knee injury... It probably suits the club to move me on and it will suit me if I can play regularly once again... My agent has been in dialogue with a few clubs about the possibility of clinching a loan deal and Brackley came in and presented me with a contract offer until the end of the season'".


29 October 2013

ANOTHER WIN FOR ALTY LADIES

Above: The two teams pose with posters for the Motor Neurone Disease Association's campaign, which is being led by former Alty captain Mark Maddox.

There is now available a match report, courtesy of Phil Taylor, (and a further photo), on the Ladies' 2-1 win over Crewe Alexandra, last Sunday.

STALYBRIDGE STOMP!

Altrincham FC official caterer, Richie Bentley, is organizing a "Stalybridge Stomp" with funds raised going towards the Altrincham Community Sports Trust.

On New Year's Day, when Altrincham travel to the Bower Fold to play Stalybridge Celtic, "The Stalybridge Stomp", a charity fund-raising walk from the J Davidson Stadium to the match will be taking place. The route is via several pubs but drinking will be limited. Fancy dress is an option for participants.

Participants are invited to bring along a change of clothes, which will be transported by the club to the destination. Also transport home from the game will be provided.

To enter the Stomp, there is an entry fee of £25, to be paid to the Club office.

Alty chairman Grahame Rowley has arranged with Stalybridge for the "Stompers" to be admitted to the ground and refreshment will be provided those completing the walk.

Richie advises that the walk will burn off 4,000 calories over five to six hours, with the start being around 7.45 to 8am. He will be providing a packed lunch for the walkers and he is seeking the involvement of other companies in the event. You can get further information or register for the Stomp from Richie by e-mail. Richie's Facebook page has details, too.

Richie Bentley Catering is also proud to be sponsoring the Radio Robins commentary on the Stalybridge match.

And, at next week's Alty v Hednesford game, the Altrincham FC Ladies will be modelling their new t-shirts, sponsored by Bentley Catering and provided by Ian Senior's SK Kits.

PRIZES NEEDED, PLEASE

Altrincham FC would be grateful to receive any suitable items to be used as raffle prizes during the upcoming Sportsman's Dinner on 22 November. Please contact the club on 0161 928-1045 or by e-mail for further details or, if you prefer, deliver the prizes to the club offices.

YOUTH EDUCATION PROGRAMME TEAM WINS AGAIN

Ritchie Semple has kindly provided a report on his Altrincham FC Youth Education Programme team's 1-0 win over Hyde FC, here.

YOUTH TEAM NEWS

After its postponement last Sunday, the NWYA Open Cup match between Altrincham FC Youth and Bootle has now been rescheduled for next Sunday, 3 November at 1.30pm at the Hale Country Club, Clay Lane. The winners will meet Daisy Hill FC in the next round.

Kevin Thompson's Alty & Sale Sport has interviews with Alty Youth manager George Heslop and five-goal scorer Max Pouncey, following the 10-3 FA Youth Cup win over Nostell Miners' Welfare last week.

OLD BOYS

Pitchero Non-League says that at Mossley "news came of the departure of last season's leading scorer [ex-Alty Youth] Sam Madeley... Striker Madeley’s on-off relationship with Mossley now looks to be finally off. Madeley was the Lilywhites’ top scorer last season as they reached the play-offs.

He then switched with manager Steve Halford to Ashton United in the summer, before being given the chance to return by new Mossley joint-bosses Peter Band and Lloyd Morrison when things didn’t work out at Hurst Cross. But the player is believed to be on the verge of joining FBT Manchester League outfit Old Alts...

Said Band, 'We’d offered him an olive branch, but I think because he wasn’t catching of late due to the fine form of Danny Broadbent, Wayne Welbeck and Dougie Carroll, he’s not been seen for a few weeks and he isn’t answering his phone'".

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

Boston United report that "defender Peter Bore has signed dual registration forms with Spalding United. The move means that Bore will be eligible to turn out for both clubs...

After strengthening his squad in recent weeks, Boston boss Dennis Greene has been forced to ‘balance the books’ which has culminated in Bore’s short-term departure. Bore’s move... follows Ben Fairclough’s transfer to Grantham Town on a month’s loan. Greene told bufc.co.uk, 'Unfortunately when you bring in two players like Rene (Steer) and Jake (Hall), you have to balance that out... Peter Bore is a non-contract player. I do not want to let him go, because I want him here, but it might be two or three weeks before I can get him back. I have always got to tweak things and keep the wage bill in line, so the players know that I will not settle for second best and whether you are on contract or not, if you are not performing to the required standard, I will bring somebody else in and lose a player as a result'".

From the Football Conference, we learn that "Bradford City striker Louie Swain’s loan deal at Guiseley AFC has been extended until 26th December... Along with Alex Johnson, now signed permanently following his initial loan spell, Swain has helped to reinvigorate the forward line in recent weeks...

Guiseley have also confirmed that academy goalkeeper Conor Crossley, who has impressed since signing for Dave Currie’s young Lions in the summer, has been signed on as the first-team’s third keeper, should he be required as back-up to Steven Drench and Steve Dickinson".

Meanwhile, "Stalybridge Celtic's new management team have brought in two new players. Re-joining on a month`s loan from league rivals Guiseley AFC is former Forest Green Rovers forward Phil Marsh. Twenty-six-year-old Marsh moved to Nethermoor following his departure from Forest Green midway through the 2012/13 season... He began his career at Manchester United before moving on to play for FC United of Manchester, Stalybridge, Forest Green and Hereford United.

Also joining Celtic is 17-year-old defender Danny Mukuna, who was originally on the books at Burnley as a youngster and has more recently been with FC United".

According to Skrill Football, "Brackley Town manager Jon Brady has moved to lift the goal burden on Steve Diggin by adding two more strikers to his ranks... after seeing his side conjure up just 16 goals in their opening 11 matches...

Brady has now attempted to ease the pressure on his main frontman by bringing in Ben Mills and Danny Newton. Mills makes the move to St James Park after he left Chester FC by mutual consent, while Newton arrives from Barwell, where he notched up 10 goals in 13 appearances...

Brady told the Advertiser & Review, 'We've signed Ben Mills from Chester and also Danny Newton because we need goalscorers. It's recognised that we've only scored 16 goals in the league. Defence is fantastic and we are defending well from the front but Steve Diggin has taken the burden of eight goals and no one else has come along with him at the moment, so we've made the decision to go and bring those two in'".

Opponents of Alty on 11 November, "Bradford Park Avenue have bolstered their squad with the signing of Leeds United midfielder Simon Lenighan on a one-month loan deal. The 19-year-old has featured regularly for the Whites' development squad".

The News & Star reports that "Out of the FA Cup and bottom of Skrill North, Workington boss Darren Edmondson accepts he is under pressure...

Edmondson said, 'I heard the fans chanting and I know the board will be thinkiing about our league position. I accept that I am under pressure. “But I honestly feel that I am still the right man to work with this group of players to get us up the league and to safety. We didn’t help ourselves again with the goals we conceded. They were all bad goals to give away'.

Edmondson wasn’t helped by the fact that he had defender Dan Wordsworth sent-off after 39 minutes when it was 1-0. He faces a two-match ban next month. And there will soon be a permanent absentee. Danny Forrest, who was used for 28 minutes from the bench as a substitute, is leaving the club to join Guiseley after the Yorkshire club put seven-days’ notice in on him.

'I am trying to bring in new faces and I would like to think they will be with us on Saturday', he said."

In the Shropshire Star we learn that "AFC Telford United supremo Lee Carter believes the club can now move on from their disastrous relegation, after hailing boss Liam Watson as the most intelligent manager they have had.

Watson’s players... are on a four-game unbeaten run in the Conference North. The Telford chief made 18 new signings over the course of the summer and Carter reckons... 'We are ticking along. We have put together a four-game unbeaten run which seems to have snuck up on us, because we are still thinking about last season....it was always going to take a bit of time to build a bond with the fans.

Liam is, by far, the most intelligent manager we have ever employed. People forget he’s had very little time to turn this club around. For the first three or four months, he wasn’t even at the club, he was practically signing players from home. And he’s preparing us to make the step back up'.

Telford’s 30-game run without a win in 2012-13 was the worse sequence the league had ever seen, but Carter claims... 'All I ask of people is to stop a second and take stock of what we have here, there’s is still a big future for us'.

Saturday’s hosts, Stockport County, came down with Telford for this season... and a delegation of potential Chinese investors will be attending the Telford game".


28 October 2013

"GREAT SEASON, SO FAR"

The NL Paper interviewed Grahame Rowley in a piece which records the recent lease extension agreed on the J Davidson Stadium as well as the planned development of a community sports hall at Moss Lane. "It's been a great season for us, so far" said the Altrincham FC chairman. "Last season we got in the play-offs and we let ourselves down in the second leg of the semi-final against Brackley. Lee Sinnott, our manager, has done a good job and strengthened the squad. Getting back into the Conference Premier has to be our aim, after getting so close last season.

We're taking positive steps, both on and off the pitch, and really trying to put a legacy in place for the football club".

Referring to the lease extension, Grahame added, "What really prompted it was that we're building a community sports hall alongside the main stand. This would get more people into the football club, which benefits everybody involved".

For details of the sports hall development, visit its own dedicated website. ..

MEET THE REFS

Friday 22 November 2013: An Evening with Referees

The next fundraising event arranged by Altrincham FC sees referees Mark Halsey (football) and Karl Kirkpatrick (rugby) as the guests... click on the adjacent image for details. Come along and enjoy an entertaining evening whilst also helping the Football Club.

BOSTON UNITED v ALTRINCHAM

Michael Ripley has excellent images from the game at Boston whilst Boston have match highlights on YouTube. You can also hear the Radio Robins commentary again.

OLD BOY

Chester FC "can confirm that striker Ben Mills is to leave the club by mutual consent. Mills joined Chester after a successful loan spell at the club from Macclesfield Town... Once his loan spell ended Mills returned to Macclesfield in hope of breaking into the first team but was unable to do so and returned to Chester in a permanent deal. This time his spell wasn't as prolific and he struggled to hold down a regular place in the team, he was loaned out to Altrincham earlier this year where he suffered an injury that ended his 2012-13 campaign. After a successful recovery Mills lined up for the Blues this campaign but has found himself struggling for opportunities again of late".

MILE OF MICE - EVERYONE WELCOME

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

Barrow's "Holker Street Newsletter" tells us that former Alty modfielder, "Paddy Lacey has been speaking to the Mail about things Barrow AFC, and offers an interesting perspective on what happened at Atherstone. 'I could just see a group of about 20 lads walking around the pitch and you could just tell they were trouble. The stewards were trying to fend them off and they were trying to help, but you could see the lads were going to hurt the stewards. Then I saw a few smoke bombs and they just ran in. I just saw one fella, who was about 50, getting punched from all sorts and he was protecting his face, so I split it up.

Then lads, who I didn't even know were on the pitch, started coming for me then, and I ended up boxing with a few. They were throwing punches at me and trying to hurt me and I was lucky. I moved out the way of a few, otherwise I could have been sitting on my backside on the pitch which wouldn't have looked good on the pictures!

After I'd been fighting with a couple of them, I just had to back off then because they were gathering, they were like hyenas, do you know what I mean? So I just backed off down the tunnel and it was mad. That was the end of it, luckily'.

As for the Vauxhall result, he added, 'That was the most solid we have looked, we were really hard to beat. Vauxhall may be a small club in this league but their manager gets them playing, they move the ball about the pitch and they can score goals and cause problems... When Shez ([ex-Alty loanee] midfielder Sam Sheridan) was dropping in and getting on the ball, we did well'".

And Barrow add that "Greg Mills has gone on loan to Kings Lynn allowing a winger / forward to sign from a Football League club on Friday. Mills joins the Evo-Stik outfit until 23 November freeing up (the) budget to bring in another winger / forward on a one-month youth loan until 24 November".

The NL Daily says that "The Football Conference has attempted to focus on the subject of player discipline in recent seasons, in particular with regards to reducing the number of reports submitted against clubs, where a lack of respect and sportsmanship is concerned.

The Board, having received the latest figures relating to dissent and lack of respect being showed by players and management amongst member clubs, reveal that the campaign to improve in this area is bearing fruit. We are pleased to report the figures in these areas show a considerable reduction in reported offences by margins of:-

Premier: - 8%, North: -59%, South: -39%

We believe this is a testament to the efforts being made around the ‘Code of Conduct’ agreement signed by Club Chairmen and Managers at the start of the season.

On the eve of the Football Association celebrating its 150th anniversary this is good news and Chairman Brian Lee commented, “We are pleased to note the downward trend in the figures released today and it is a testament to our efforts to make the match day experience at all our 68 clubs a pleasurable one for all spectators and especially families.

Prior to the start of this season under our new title sponsors Skrill, we sought cooperation from our members to sign up to a ‘Code of Conduct’ and in the main this has proved successful. This is not to say that there are no exceptions to the overall trend and we have targeted those clubs who fall short of the standards we set collectively to achieve.

Where we find the need, we are asking those clubs to demonstrate they have in place a strong and robust policy of internal sanction to deter players and management from this type of unsavoury behaviour. Being at the top of the non league game, we need to be seen, as in many other areas, to set standards”.

It is confirmed, whilst overall discipline is subject of control from the Football Association, the Football Conference believes it has a duty to call clubs to account, where figures show them to be well above the average per division of such reports.

To date out of 68 clubs, 11 clubs – 6 Premier – 2 North - 3 South have each been challenged to improve on their current showing and make the Football Conference even more confident that it is moving in the right direction.

Mr Lee added 'It would be foolish of me to say the figures, although pleasing to note, indicate we have cracked dissent and other acts of unsporting behaviour. There is much clubs, their players and management can do to continue to fly the flag for the Skrill Conference and we will strive to improve even on this good news'”.

FA CUP 1st ROUND

The draw for the FA Cup with Budweiser Round One Proper includes the following ties for Skrill North clubs...
  • Gillingham v Brackley Town or Barrow
  • Worcester City or Lincoln City v Plymouth Argyle
  • Bradford PA or Kidderminster v Hemel Hempstead or Sutton
  • Hednesford Town v Crawley Town
  • Gloucester City v Fleetwood Town

27 October 2013

GAME OFF

Although 99% of the pitch at Clay Lane was perfectly playable for Sunday afternoon's NWYA Open Cup match between Altrincham FC Youth and Bootle, the match officials were unhappy with a small patch of muddy grass about five yards away from the corner flag on the by-line. As a result, after much deliberation, the match was postponed for fear that a player might slip and injure himself in the affected area.

More on this on the Youth page.

SUNDAY FA CUP MATCH

  • Bradford Park Avenue 1-1 Kidderminster Harriers

FA YOUTH CUP DATE

Altrincham FC's FA Youth Cup tie at home to Wrexham has been confirmed as taking place on Tuesday, 5 November (7.45pm) at the J Davidson Stadium. Make a note in your diary and come along to help the lads as they battle for a place in the next round, away to either Port Vale or Walsall.

Today, Alty Youth entertain Bootle at Clay Lane (2pm) in the NWYA Open Cup.

BOSTON UNITED 3 ALTRINCHAM 2

Right: Alty defend their goal in the first half at Boston.

Match report here.

Boston United report that they "moved into third place in Skrill North with a deserved and exhilarating 3-2 victory over Altrincham... The Pilgrims led twice before half-time, through goals from Conor Marshall and Spencer Weir-Daley, which sandwiched a stunning Shaun Densmore free-kick.

Scott Garner added a third after the break and although James Walshaw cut the deficit with eight minutes to go, the Pilgrims stood firm to record a notable home win". The gate of 1,081 included 75 spectators in the away section.

DISCO NIGHT SUCCESS

Altrincham FC report that "On Friday night there was a 60s,70s and 80s night at the club organised by Neil Faulkner and Tony Savage. The event was well supported and a really enjoyable evening was had by all. A fantastic hot pot supper was provided by club caterer Richie Bentley

This event was to raise money for the community sports hall and raised a total of £762.

Thank you to everyone who came and supported this event.

A similar event is being organised for the New Year. Please look out for further details and support these vital fundraisers if you can!

GATES

  • Boston United v Altrincham - gate 1,081
  • Histon v Stockport County - 508
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Leamington - 383

LEAGUE FIXTURES

Tuesday 29th October
  • Gloucester City v Solihull Moors

Saturday 2nd November

  • Altrincham v Hednesford Town
  • Brackley Town v Boston United
  • Bradford Park Avenue v Gloucester City
  • Colwyn Bay v Solihull Moors
  • Guiseley v Barrow
  • Harrogate Town v Oxford City
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Histon
  • Stockport County v AFC Telford United
  • Vauxhall Motors v Leamington
  • Worcester City v North Ferriby United
  • Workington v Gainsborough Trinity

26 October 2013

RESULTS

Saturday, 26 October

  • Boston United 3-2 Altrincham
  • Histon 2-1 Stockport County
  • Stalybridge Celtic 2-1 Leamington

FA CUP FIXTURES

Saturday, 26 October

  • Brackley Town 0-0 Barrow
  • Colwyn Bay 1-3 Corby Town
  • Dover Athletic 3-0 Oxford City
  • Gloucester City 3-1 Hampton & Richmond Borough
  • Macclesfield Town 7-0 Vauxhall Motors
  • North Ferriby United 1-3 Alfreton Town
  • Stamford 0-2 Hednesford Town
  • Tamworth 4-1 Solihull Moors
  • Worcester City 1-1 Lincoln City FC
  • Workington 1-3 Stourbridge

BOSTON UNITED v ALTRINCHAM: MATCH COVERAGE

Brian Flynn writes that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Saturday's Boston United versus Altrincham game. Coverage starts at 2.50pm with the game kicking off at 3.00pm. You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com.

The match commentary is sponsored by Techknowledgey Ltd. Techknowledgey Ltd provide IT support services to home and small business users. They offer services ranging from PC, Mac and Laptop repair to networking and servers.

Need a hand? Call Dan Jones on 01625 348 727 or by e-mail or take a look at the website.

Coverage starts at 2.50pm with the game kicking off at 3.00pm. You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com. The commentary team is Ian Wilkinson and Brian Flynn.

Simon Brotherton will be providing regular updates on Twitter (@altrinchamfc) as well as half-time & full time updates on facebook (Altrincham FC).

As usual, this website will also be providing its live matchday updates throughout the game, starting from as soon as the line-ups are available.

The various alternatives can be found via the icons below and in the right sidebar".

 radiorobins

BOSTON UNITED v ALTRINCHAM: BEFORE THE GAME

The Football Conference reports that former Altrincham and current "Boston United goalkeeper Ashley Timms has been transfer-listed. A report on the Boston United club website states, 'Timms is free to find a new club with immediate effect, either permanently or on loan'. Meanwhile, attacker Ben Fairclough has joined Grantham Town on a month’s loan.

And the Boston Standard cites former Alty loanee Carl Piergianni, as saying that "Boston United will hold no fear when they face one of the Skrill North’s deadliest attacks this weekend. The Pilgrims host second-placed Altrincham on Saturday. But despite the Robins boasting two players in the top 10 of the division’s goalscoring charts (James Walshaw has nine goals and Damian Reeves six), the United defender is in a confident mood.

'Altrincham are a good side but we still fancy ourselves to beat anyone at home', Piergianni said. 'We’ve got to keep the belief going and we need to come out and play like we did in the first half (against Harrogate). I still fancy us to win'. United put in arguably their best showing of the season on Saturday when they stormed into a 3-0 interval lead at home to Harrogate, a brace from Marc Newsham seeing him move up to second in the goals chart with 10.

But a forgettable second half saw Town leave York Street with a 3-3 draw. Piergianni refused to be disheartened, adding, 'We’re still around where we want to be in the league, roughly. We’ve still got a massive chance of promotion, especially with the play-offs. That’s our belief and that’s our aim, we can do that... There’s got to be a reaction from the lads. All of us need to pick it up'".

The Standard adds that "Boston United host Altrincham, and that can mean only one thing - goals, goals, goals... They host a team which has taken great pleasure in tormenting them over the past two years.

Boston and the Robins have met five times in the last two seasons, with a total of 26 goals being scored. And it’s fair to say that Altrincham have more than had the better of the recent tussles, winning four and drawing one. The 2011-12 season saw United hold this weekend’s visitors to a 1-1 draw, but that was after a humiliating 6-1 seeing to at Moss Lane...

Last season was way worse. Altrincham knocked United out of the FA Cup with a controversial 3-1 victory at York Street, in which Fairclough and Spencer Weir-Daley both received the only red cards of their careers. That was followed up by the Robins recording a 3-2 league victory here in December and improving on the previous year’s drubbing by putting Graham Drury’s uninspired side to the sword with a 7-1 scoreline...

But still, it would take a brave man to suggest an away victory is a dead cert, that Alty will dish out more of the same. This current Boston United squad is looking far more accomplished than the squads of the past two seasons...

The Robins should be just as scared of United. The Pilgrims are second in the scoring stakes with 24 goals in 12 matches. Top scorer Marc Newsham is second in the charts with 10 goals, while the front three of Newsham, Weir-Daley and Ricky Miller have scored 19 league goals between them.

Saturday’s match is an intriguing one as it pits two of the division’s most freescoring front lines against two more-than-capable defences".

Elsewhere, the Standard reports that "The arrival of Jake Hall will only strengthen Boston United’s midfield, says boss Dennis Greene. The 23-year-old Londoner, who has been on the books of Boreham Wood and played in Luton Town Development fixtures this campaign, has impressed during his three appearances for the Pilgrims...

'He’ll work hard. He’s a problem to pick up', the manager said. 'He’s got to fit into the side and learn the way we play. But he’s show glimpses of how he can break play up and carry the ball. He can be a threat going forward and he can only get better as the weeks go on... He’s someone I’ve known about for a little while, but it’s been a case of trying to get hold of him', Greene added".

In the Boston Target, Greene "has revealed a difference of opinion led to him putting goalkeeper Ashley Timms on the transfer list. The former Manchester City keeper has been told he can leave the Pilgrims either on loan or permanently.

Timms has been ever-present for the Pilgrims this season and has been impressive for the most part...

'I have certain standards that I expect from the players', said Greene. 'At the moment, I’m asking a little bit more from everyone in the squad. I told Ashley that I expect more from him, which is fair enough; I’m the manager and he’s the player. But Ashley thinks otherwise, that he knows best and that he’s doing everything right, and it's been the same for a few weeks. His attitude hasn't been right for a few weeks so I've told him to look for another club.

I’ve got nothing against Ashley. I think he’s got a good heart but he needs to knuckle down and focus on Boston United'.

With Timms unlikely to play against Altrincham on Saturday, youngster Sam Vince is in line to go in goal. The 17-year-old stopper is highly-rated by United, but Greene is also looking to sign a more experienced keeper. 'I’m sure Sam can do a job but, with two of our toughest games of the season coming up, I would like to play him under a little less pressure. So if I can bring a keeper in before the weekend, I will'.

Meanwhile, Greene has rejected claims made by Timms in a tweet that Peter Bore has been released. However, he did confirm that he could move Bore out on loan while striker Ben Fairclough is poised to join Grantham on loan. 'I’ve brought Jake (Hall) and Rene (Steer) in recently so I need to move things around', added Greene."

FA YOUTH CUP

In the FA Youth Cup, Altrincham FC Youth's next opponents, Wrexham, report that in the last round "Three second half goals from Danny Reynolds, Matty Hammons and an own goal, swung the result in Wrexham's favour. We now head to...Altrincham... while the second round draw has also come through and the winners of our side of the tie will be away to either Port Vale or Walsall.

While Selby put up a spirited display, thwarting Wrexham's attacking ambitions, it was deserved win for the Welshmen, who enjoyed the vast majority of possession throughout the 90 minutes, but took until nearly the hour mark to breakdown the visitors' resistance. Wrexham: John Hodgin, Aaron Simpson, Jake Doran, Ross White, Jon Smith; Iwan Cartwright, Matt Hammons, Ross Weaver; Richard Harvey-Davies (Jake Phillips 70), Dan Reynolds, Jack Davies. Subs: Adam Whitlock, Daniel Roberts, Peter Hope, James Papirnyk".

Alty's management will be especially interested to see if the club's youth team can reach the next round as both hail from Walsall and Lee Sinnott was manager at Port Vale.

CSC>

Altrincham had a bye in the Cheshire Senior Cup First Round. But this week Hyde FC beat Cheadle Town 5-0 in the competition. Other fixtures (on 5 November unless shown) are as follows.
  • Northwich Flixton Villa v 1874 Northwich - on 6 Nov.
  • Winsford United v Northwich Victoria
  • Macclesfield Town v Vauxhall Motors
  • Stockport County v Witton Albion FC
  • Alsager Town v Runcorn Linnets - on 6 Nov.
  • Congleton Town v Cammell Laird

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

According to the
Football Conference, "Vauxhall Motors have signed forward Steven Tames on loan until January 2nd 2014 from neighbours Southport. The 21-year-old joined Port from Prescot Cables... Tames scored nineteen times the previous season for Cables, which attracted Conference and Football League interest."

Elsewhere, "Colwyn Bay have received agreement from midfielder Sean Williams to return to the club from FC Halifax Town... The 21-year-old made twenty-five appearances for the Bay last season before signing for the Shaymen in January but, after playing a big part in the Yorkshire team's promotion to the Conference Premier, he has not been able to gain a regular place in the team this season.

Seagulls' chairman David Messom and manager Frank Sinclair have been working hard to get the deal done over the past week, but the move has been frustrated by additional interest coming in from ambitious AFC Fylde, league rivals Barrow AFC and most recently Hyde FC. But the player finally agreed to re-join the Bay and Sinclair commented, 'Obviously, he brings a great footballing quality to add to our squad'".

The Conference confirms that "Greg Mills has gone on loan to King`s Lynn Town allowing Barrow AFC to sign another player on loan... freeing up budget to bring in versatile Rotherham United attacker Nick Walker... Walker can operate as a winger or a forward and his deal... will expire on November 24th. Meanwhile a request to Fleetwood to allow Jamie Allen to play [in the FA Cup] on Saturday was turned down".

Further south, "Oxford City have signed midfielder Michael Pook, who was allowed to leave Maidenhead United last week. The skillful Pook was shown the exit door after Maidenhead's Berks & Bucks Cup defeat at home to Slough Town. Pook hasn't been a regular for Maidenhead since the summer...

The 27-year-old started his career at Swindon Town... He then moved on to Cheltenham Town and recorded sixty-four games for them, scoring six goals... After being released by the Robins, Pook spent time on trial with Forest Green before signing for Brackley Town in November 2011, signing for Maidenhead for the first time a month later".

According to NL Daily, "Chairman Brian Keen insists the Barrow AFC board will not gamble on ploughing FA Cup cash into Dave Bayliss’s reduced playing budget in the wake of tumbling home gates. The Bluebirds have already scooped £12,000 in cup prize money after seeing off under-dog duo Ramsbottom and Atherstone.

And they will claim £12,500 if they progress from Saturday’s final qualifying round tie at Brackley Town...

'Every penny that comes into the club such as from cup runs, gate money and corporate rooms, everything goes into one big pot', said Keen. 'A couple of board members sit down and plan the cash flow and everything else'. When asked why Bayliss will not receive any of the cash, Keen said, 'We can't afford it. You spend wisely and if we have a little bit of luck there might be a bit of flexibility that we will use. But everything we do with the money that comes in is strongly for the good of the club. We're holding steady, plodding away and we will judge things as and when'...

AFC’s prudent approach, after struggling to compete financially in the Conference Premier last season, saw them slash Bayliss’s budget by 40 per cent in the summer... The board also recently reported that Barrow are ‘reducing the amount of debt in the club and living within our means’... with their current 694 average Holker Street attendance being well down on the 965 figure (all competitions) they achieved last season. For every 100 fans who stay away from a home fixture Keen reckons the club loses £1,000, as ‘a rough calculation’" according to the NW Evening Mail.

The Evo-Stik Northern Premier League report that "Barwell have lost top scorer Danny Newton to Brackley Town... Newton, who was with the Canaries on loan last year in the Southern League, signed on a permanent basis from Nuneaton Town in the summer. The former Hinckley United striker scored ten goals in thirteen games".

According to NL Daily, "Dale Johnson has weeks to save his FC Halifax Town career following a disappointing loan move to Barrow, says boss Neil Aspin. The striker, who signed from Droylsden in the summer of 2012, had a bright start to his Town career scoring ten goals before Christmas.

But he suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury... On Saturday he was included among the Town subs for the first time since limping off at Worcester...

'We had a chat this week', said Aspin after the 3-0 win over Welling United. 'He should have done better at Barrow. I don’t think he put himself into a position where he could come back and get straight in the team. He’s basically got a few weeks to try and get himself back in the team. I’m not putting him under pressure and he knows the situation. He’s got to produce if he is to stay at the club'",

OLD BOYS

Alty supporter Brian Birtles alerts us to Backpass magazine, whose October/November issue has John King and John Davison in it as part of a feature on fifty non-League legends. The info on them is not new to us Alty fans I guess.
25 October 2013

ALTY YOUTH 10 NOSTELL MINERS WELFARE YOUTH 3

Altrincham FC Youth won their FA Youth Cup Third QR match 10-3 on Thursday night against Nostell MW from Wakefield. The Altrincham scorers were Max Pouncey (5), Kane Hughes (3), Rob Gilroy and Tom Clarke. Altrincham now entertain Wrexham in the next round. More on this match to follow...

TUESDAY SCORES

  • Harrogate Town 3-0 Workington
  • North Ferriby United 2-3 Guiseley
  • Stalybridge Celtic 3-2 Vauxhall Motors

22 October 2013

FA YOUTH CUP THIS THURSDAY

On Thursday night at the J. Davidson Stadium, Altrincham Youth entertain Nostell Miners' Welfare Youth in the FA Youth Cup, k.o. 7.45pm. Come along and help the lads as they seek to progress to a tie at home in the next round when Wrexham or Selby Town will be the opponents of whoever wins on Thursday.

LADIES REVERSE HALF-TIME DEFICIT

Above: Before their game, Alty and Wallasey Athletic Ladies display the Motor Neurone Disease Association's poster showing former Alty captain Mark Maddox, who is helping to publicize the work of the charity in helping sufferers from the disease.

Altrincham FC Ladies had another impressive win last Sunday; they won 5-2 after trailing 1-2 at the break. Courtesy of Phil Taylor there is a match report on the game, against Wallasey Athletic Ladies, here.

Phil also advises us that "Next up for the Ladies is a home League fixture versus Crewe Alexandra Ladies next Sunday, October 27th, kick-off 2pm as usual. This will be a very tough assignment for the Ladies as Crewe are, as yet, unbeaten this season, having conceded only one goal so far".

SNAP THEM UP!

Altrincham FC announces that "Ian Senior of SK Kits had very kindly donated 20 of the fab back packs (pictured) to be sold for just £10 each ! The proceeds are to go to The Community Sports Hall fund. They would make an ideal Christmas present for any Alty fan! Please contact the office on 0161 928 1045 if you would like to buy one. Remember only 20 available.

Many thanks to Ian for his very kind donation!"

YOUTH DISTRICT CUP

Altrincham FC Youth provided the team for the Altrincham and District FA as they took on Mid-Cheshire, last Sunday. The FA provides the results, so far, and the fixtures remaining in the Cheshire County FA District Youth Cup, League One...

  • Mid Cheshire 3-0 Wirral
  • Altrincham 4-0 Stockport
  • Stalybridge & Hyde 3-4 Mid Cheshire
  • Wirral 1-3 Altrincham
  • Mid Cheshire 2-1 Stockport
  • Wirral 4-2 Stalybridge & Hyde
  • Altrincham 1-1 Mid Cheshire
  • Stockport 4-2 Stalybridge & Hyde
  • Stockport v Wirral on 10/11/13
  • Stalybridge & Hyde v Altrincham on 10/11/13

BRACKLEY GAME REVISITED

Kevin Thompson's Alty & Sale Sport has Saturday's post match interview with Neil Tolson, Alty's assistant manager. It is to be found in the show for 21 October.

Brian Flynn reports that the Saturday match commentary from Radio Robins on the Alty v Brackley Town game is here.

Meanwhile, Brackley Town have posted a match report.

BOSTON - OUR NEXT OPPONENTS

Alty travel to Boston on Saturday, where Boston United report that "Video highlights of Saturday’s clash between Boston United and Harrogate Town are now available, here.

LEAGUE FIXTURES

Saturday, 26 October

  • Boston United v Altrincham
  • Histon v Stockport County
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Leamington

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

According to the FA "Five players have been nominated for the Budweiser Player of the Round award following their performance in The FA Cup Third Round Qualifying... The person who tops the poll will receive a commemorative Budweiser Player of the Round trophy and he will also be invited to The FA Cup Final at Wembley next May as a guest of The FA and Budweiser.

The selections for the Third Round Qualifying include...

Joe Parker (Gloucester City). Eighteen-year-old Joe Parker fired Gloucester City to within one game of the First Round Proper with a superb first-half hat-trick against Yate Town".

Last Friday, Histon reported that "Brian Page has completed his second signing of the day, securing the signature of David October from Ipswich Town, again on Youth Loan terms. October’s signing comes hot on the heels of the capture of Peterborough United striker Shaq McDonald earlier today".


21 October 2013

ALTRINCHAM SECURE HOME UNTIL 2047

Altrincham FC has issued the following press release...

"Altrincham F.C. are delighted to announce they have safeguarded the club’s future for the next 34 years after securing an extension to their lease at their J.Davidson Stadium until 2047.

Alty are assured of at least another three decades at their iconic home at Moss Lane after successfully applying for an extension to their long-standing agreement with landlords Trafford Borough Council.

Chairman Grahame Rowley welcomed the development and explained its relevance to the exciting project recently undertaken to build a low-rise community sports hall alongside the main stand.

‘The lease was last renewed in 1987 for a 40-year period, so it still had 14 years to run,’ he said. ‘It’s the sort of thing you tend to put on the back burner until nearer the time, but once we formulated plans for the community sports hall, it became a matter of urgency.

‘Funding is vital for putting those plans into action, but one of the stipulations for obtaining grants from the Football Foundation and the Premier League Facilities Fund is that you have to have at least 25 years left on your ground lease.

‘With that in mind, we began lobbying the council for a renewal, and I am absolutely delighted to say we have succeeded in securing an extension until 2047. As soon as the new lease arrived on Friday, we put the company seal on it and returned it to the council straightaway. Beating Brackley in the top-of-the-table clash the following day made it a memorable 24 hours.

‘It was imperative things were done post haste, following planning permission for the new hall, and I want to express my appreciation for the help we received from the council leader Matt Colledge, head of property and development Andy Prideaux and head of estates management Derek Lowe. They have supported one of the major football clubs in the borough, and I am extremely grateful.

‘It’s great news that we have secured our future at the J.Davidson Stadium for such a long time. It is another positive step forward in the development of the club, and, of course, it means that it is now full steam ahead with the new hall. We are proceeding with our applications for grants, but we need help from businesses, organisations and individuals as well.

‘I would urge anyone with an interest in seeing this invaluable new facility up and running at the earliest opportunity to access the website www.altrinchamfccsh.com and please contribute or pledge anything they can.’".

ALTRINCHAM 1 BRACKLEY TOWN 0

Match report here.

After the game, Alty assistant manager Neil Tolson told Dave Stringer of the NL Paper, "It may not have been the most exciting game but the result was more important than the performance. We put in a good performance that restricted Brackley to just a few chances. We will celebrate a victory that points us joint top and move on."

CROSSBAR CHALLENGE

Alty goalkeeping coach, Ian Senior, reports that in the Crossbar Challenge for charity, "Having recovered from early season failures to get back to 4-3, Neil is currently on a four-game winning run, leaving the overall score currently at 8-3. It's not looking good for me; I may need to play my joker soon!".

FAIR PLAY

According to Non-League Daily, Altrincham remain top of the national Fair Play League for non-League clubs.

NEXT OPPONENTS - BOSTON UNITED

Our next opponents are Boston United whose "boss, Dennis Greene, admitted that he was ‘numb’ after seeing the Pilgrims pegged back by Harrogate Town on Saturday. Greene was full of praise for United’s fabulous first half showing — but bemoaned their inability to hold on to a three-goal lead. In a video interview "The United manager reflected on the Pilgrims’ excellence before the break but was deeply disappointed to concede three times in 17 minutes to allow the visitors to claim a point".

Meanwhile, This is Lincs tells us that "Boston United boss Dennis Greene branded his side’s second half display a 'shambles' after watching them surrender a 3-0 lead against Harrogate Town...

'I gave the players a few words at the end. What went wrong in the second half? It would take me all day (to explain)', he fumed. 'They made three changes at half-time and kept putting the ball forward. We just didn’t show enough composure when we won the ball. Consequently we gave them the ball in the second half and we had to defend, and we didn’t defend well enough. There was lots of indecision and, once again, poor goals conceded.

They were gambling with three or four bodies up, which should have left one or two free bodies in midfield who we just had to pass it to, but we decided to give it straight back to them.. At 3-0, if you haven’t got the confidence to pass five yards to a team-mate, it’s a problem. The positive is that we went in at half-time 3-0 up... we showed some clinical finishing and some good play in the first half. But in the second half it was a complete shambles'".

The views of an ex-Alty loanee who now plays for The Pilgrims comes from the Boston Standard as "Carl Piergianni admitted that Boston United’s 3-3 draw with Harrogate Town felt more like a defeat than a point gained...

'To be 3-0 up at half time at home and to end up drawing 3-3 feels like a loss to us really', centre back Piergianni said. 'We’re thoroughly disappointed... The whole team weren’t good enough second half. We coped well with a lot of the pressure but we were inviting more pressure onto us by dropping deeper. They were knocking at the door and they were bound to score'...

He added, '(The first-half performance was) one of the best, but that’s why we’re so down as a team, because we know how good we can be'. Manager Dennis Greene gave his thoughts on the game, stating... 'We kept smashing it forward and giving it back to them'"

DANNY'S DEPARTURE

Guiseley announce that the club "can confirm the signing of midfielder Danny Boshell, who has also been appointed as assistant manager. Boshell, who made close to 100 appearances for Guiseley between 2010-2013, rejoins the club from Altrincham. While at Moss Lane he made 17 appearances and tasted defeated only once, against last season’s eventual champions Chester.

In signing Boshell, manager Mark Bower adds further experience to the squad and a new voice on the training pitch... Danny takes up his post on Tuesday and will be available for selection as soon as transfer clearance has been received from the Conference. The club would like to welcome Danny back to Nethermoor and wish him all the best in his new role".


20 October 2013

DANNY BOSHELL LEAVES

Danny Boshell has left Altrincham FC. For more on this, see below...

THE ROAD TO BOSTON

TASC has organised a supporters' coach for Altrincham's away game at Boston United next Saturday. Details are here. As usual, booking should be made by ringing the club on (0161) 928-1045 during normal weekday office hours.

NEXT OPPONENTS

Yesterday, the FOotball Conference reported that "Boston United and Harrogate Town shared a six-goal thriller at the Jakeman`s Stadium in which the Pilgrims threw away a 3-0 lead. Marc Newsham hit a brace in the 11th and 23rd minutes, the second from the spot, and Spencer Weir-Daley was also on target on 28 minutes in an opening half where the Pilgrims were totally dominant.

However, the second period half saw subs Liam Hardy on 68 minutes and Dominic Rowe 3 minutes later both net within a three-minute spell. And, five minutes from time, Dayle Southwell, signed on loan from Grimsby Town on Friday, converted from the spot after Netan Sansara saw red".

From the opposition, Harrogate Town add that "Town stunned Boston United with a fantastic second half display to battle from 3-0 down to gain a point, and they could have even snatched all the points!...

Manager Simon Weaver dismantled his midfield at half-time and on came Liam Hardy, Dominic Rowe and Craig Nelthorpe and what a difference it made!... Hardy pulled one back when he fired under Ashley Timms in the Boston United goal (the first goal Town had scored in 315 minutes!). The goal spurred the team on and in the 71st minute Rowe produced a superb curling goal to leave Timms clutching fresh air...

A dangerously high tackle from Boston sub Netan Sansara nearly took off Frank’s head. Sansara saw red, a penalty was awarded and new loan signing Dayle Southwell powered the ball home, sending Timms the wrong way".

GATES

Attendances on Saturday in Skrill North on Saturday were:
  • AFC Telford United v North Ferriby United 1,368
  • Altrincham v Brackley Town 855
  • Boston United v Harrogate Town 921
  • Colwyn Bay Bradford Park Avenue 313
  • Guiseley v Histon 405
  • Leamington v Stalybridge Celtic n/a
  • Oxford City v Worcester City 291
  • Solihull Moors v Gainsborough Trinity 383
  • Stockport County v Gloucester City 2,727
  • Vauxhall Motors v Barrow 230
  • Workington v Hednesford Town 442

Right: Lee Sinnott talks to strikers James Walshaw and Damian Reeves during a break in play on Saturday.

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

Amjad Iqbal has moved to FC United of Manchester from Bradford Park Avenue.

OLD BOYS

Under the heading "Watmore at the double for U21s", Sunderland report on Saturday's game, which endedd Sunderland U21 2 Chelsea U21 2.

Wes Brown played the full 90 minutes for Kevin Ball’s side and put in an assured performance as the development squad maintained their unbeaten record on Wearside this season. The hosts went ahead on five minutes after a wonderfully worked move found Liam Marrs on the right hand side before he cut back for Watmore to curl in a fine strike with his left foot"

After falling behind, "The young Black Cats were level just five minutes later as the on-rushing Watmore drove home Wickham’s lob from eight yards out... Sunderland: Dixon, Marrs, Ferguson, Cabral (Lynch, 80), Brown, Diakite, Watmore, Ba (Agnew, 30), Wickham, Gorrin, Moberg Karlsson (Mitchell, 88)".

Lewis Chalmers has joined New Mills from Nantwich Town. More old boys scored goals yesterday in the FA Trophy, as noted below...

FA TROPHY

FAT 1QR results on Saturday included:
  • AFC Fylde 1-1 Kendal Town Att. 254. (Kendal scorer Daniel Mitchley)
  • Ashton United 0-3 Sheffield FC Att. 104.
  • Barwell 0-4 Rushall Olympic Att. 153.
  • Belper Town 2-3 Mickleover Sports Att. 225.
  • Blyth Spartans 6-0 Skelmersdale United Att. 340.
  • Buxton 1-1 Darlington 1883 Att. 443.
  • Coalville Town 3-2 Stafford Rangers Att. 182.
  • Droylsden 0-3 Nantwich Town Att. 114. (Scorers Aaron Burns and Ben Deegan (2))
  • Evesham United 0-2 Leek Town Att. 167.
  • Frickley Athletic 1-2 Brigg Town Att. 136.
  • Grantham Town 2-2 Soham Town Rangers Att. 217.
  • Gresley FC 2-1 Ilkeston FC Att. 372.
  • Halesowen Town 1-3 St Neot's Town Att. 273.
  • Kings Lynn Town 1-2 Cambridge City Att. 605.
  • Marine 1-1 Burscough Att. 238.
  • Matlock Town v Hinckley United (Tie awarded to Matlock Town)
  • Mossley 3-2 Lancaster City Att. 186.
  • Northwich Victoria 2-0 Radcliffe Borough Att. 123.
  • Ramsbottom United 7-2 Worksop Town Att. 355.
  • Redditch United v Chasetown (Match abandoned due to waterlogged pitch, 81 minutes)
  • Stamford 1-2 Kidsgrove Athletic Att. 151.
  • Stocksbridge Park Steels 3-4 Scarborough Athletic Att. 239.
  • Trafford 6-1 Wakefield Att. 159.
  • Whitby Town 0-1 Chorley Att. 219.
  • Witton Albion 2-2 FC United of Manchester Att. 693.

19 October 2013

DANNY BOSHELL LEAVES

Joint Press & Media Officer, John Edwards, writes...

"Danny Boshell has expressed his relief and gratitude after Altrincham reluctantly agreed to release him from his contract at the J.Davidson Stadium to take up a new post as player-coach at his old club Guiseley.

The influential midfielder placed Alty bosses in a quandary after turning his loan move into a permanent transfer during the summer, then telling them he wanted to leave, barely two months into the new campaign.

But manager Lee Sinnott (left) and chairman Grahame Rowley eventually relented after weighing up the pros and cons of keeping a player against his wishes and securing an ideal replacement, in Stalybridge Celtic midfielder Greg Wilkinson.

After being told he was free to return to Guiseley, and saying his farewells in the aftermath of Alty’s 1-0 home win over Brackley, Boshell described the emotional turmoil of the past few weeks and insisted he was leaving behind a team equipped to challenge for automatic promotion.

‘It came completely out of the blue, to be honest,’ he said. ‘Mark Bower is one of my best friends and lives about 100 yards away, but I still didn’t see it coming when he got the manager’s job at Guiseley and put it to me about joining him.

‘He just sounded me out and asked what my thoughts would be about going there as player-assistant manager. That was about four weeks ago, and I have to say, it led to a lot of soul-searching. I was made up at getting a contract here and had no thoughts of leaving whatsoever. But the more I thought about it, the more it seemed an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.

‘I spoke to Sinbad (Sinnott) and Grahame and was honest and open with them about what had been put to me and what I thought of it. They weren’t happy about it. It’s fair to say, they were a bit disappointed, but I did my best to explain why it seemed so appealing. It wasn’t about just wanting to move to another club. It was about combining the two things any player in his early 30s wants to do.

‘I’ve only just turned 32, and I still feel fit. I’ve still got a couple of years left in me as a player and have no intention of hanging up my boots until I have to. But at this stage of my career, coaching is an obvious next step. I love the game and want to stay involved, so this really does represent the best of both worlds.

Right: Danny Boshell.

‘I outlined all that to Sinbad and Grahame. In fact, I’ve had numerous conversations with them about it, and I am so grateful for their understanding. I know they could have made it awkward for me, and some might have done.

‘Make no mistake, they didn’t want to lose me and were very reluctant to let me go. But they can see where I’m coming from and can understand the opportunity that has been presented to me. They could easily have put their foot down and said: “Sorry, you’re a big part of the team here. You’re going nowhere.”

‘They were very reluctant to sanction my departure, but, in all honesty, I can’t speak highly enough of how they have handled the situation and treated me. I really appreciate that and will never forget it.

‘In all fairness, I shouldn’t have expected anything else, because everything about this club is spot-on. From the day I first arrived here on loan, I have been made to feel welcome by everyone, from the manager and chairman to John (Skelhorn) the kit man, Ritchie (Bentley) the caterer and everyone who looks after us. Everyone has been brilliant. I’m not just saying that, either, It’s the truth.

‘This is a fantastically well run club, with fantastic people working for it and fantastic supporters turning up every week. I’ll miss all that. Honestly, it is a wrench leaving all that behind, and I wouldn’t be going, if it hadn’t been such an exceptional opportunity. It wasn’t an easy decision, and who knows if coaching will suit me? Time will tell.

‘I’ll take some great memories with me. It is a fantastic dressing room here, and that helped me settle in straightaway. I have so much respect for the manager and chairman and everyone else I came into contact with in my time here.

‘I have known Sinbad a long time and can’t speak highly enough of him as a manager. That made it particularly difficult when I had to approach him for the first time and have a conversation about possibly leaving. Believe me, that wasn’t easy, but it couldn’t be swept under the carpet.

‘It’s not easy leaving this team, either, because you can see how far they have come. We did OK against Brackley in the first leg of the promotion play-off last season but struggled in the return. Today, I thought we made them look ordinary. That is the improvement we’ve made, and I’m quite sure this team is going to be in the mix for promotion this season.

‘A play-off place is the minimum I would expect. There is enough quality to go one better and claim the automatic promotion place. I’m quite certain the lads will be fighting to the end for top spot. I’d just like to wish everyone here all the very best. These are good times to be involved with Altrincham, and, in many ways, I’m sorry to be going.’

Alty chairman Rowley (left> gave his account of how the club responded to Boshell’s shock request to be released from his contract.

‘It came as a complete surprise and certainly wasn’t something we wanted to happen,’ he said. ‘I have to say we were disappointed he wanted to leave us, after we worked so hard during the summer to put together a deal that would be acceptable to him.

‘He was an integral part of a plan that was all about getting us promoted this season, so it really was a tremendous disappointment. An opportunity arose for him, but sometimes when a contract is signed, you feel it should be adhered to. It was obvious how much it meant to him, though, so the emphasis switched to engineering a situation whereby we could grant his wish without the club being damaged in any way.

‘Greg Wilkinson had been on our radar for a while, so we decided to make an enquiry about him. We heard he was a bit unsettled at Stalybridge, after losing his place in the starting line-up at the beginning of the season, but then he settled his differences with the manager at the time Jim Harvey and got his place back.

‘Even so, when he heard of our interest, I think it turned his head a bit. It does seem he liked the idea of playing for a club like ours, and I’m very pleased to say that, after prolonged negotiations with Stalybridge’s chairman, we managed to secure his signature. I would like to thank the Stalybridge chairman for eventually allowing Greg to join us.

‘Bosh is right to say we were reluctant to let him go. In fact, a condition of his release was that we needed to bring someone in of equal quality. We would never willingly enter into an agreement that left the club in a weakened position. I believe we’ve been true to that. Greg knows this level and has shown repeatedly what he is capable of. With a new challenge before him, we are expecting great things from him.’"

Footnote:

Danny joined Altrincham on 15, March 2013 on a loan till the end of the 2012-13 season, before signing at Moss Lane for 2013-14 during the close season. He made 16(+1) appearances for Altrincham and the team lost only one league match in which he played a part (to Chester FC).

ALTY 1 BRACKLEY TOWN 0

Above: James Lawrie won the Man of the Match award and here he watches as Matt Doughty waits to receive the ball from Jake Moult in the second half at the J. Davidson Stadium.

In their seventh home fixture out of eleven league matches so far this season, Altrincham took the lead in first-half added time. The goal arrived when Densmore fed Walshaw who, from right of goal, drew Turley and slotted a left footed shot into the far corner of the net

Match report here.

SATURDAY GAMES

Next Saturday's Skrill North games were:
  • AFC Telford Utd 2-0 North Ferriby United
  • Altrincham 1-0 Brackley Town
  • Boston United 3-3 Harrogate Town
  • Colwyn Bay 2-2 Bradford Park Avenue
  • Guiseley 1-1 Histon
  • Leamington 1-0 Stalybridge Celtic
  • Oxford City 0-0 Worcester City
  • Solihull Moors 3-2 Gainsborough Trinity
  • Stockport County 2-2 Gloucester City
  • Vauxhall Motors 1-1 Barrow
  • Workington 2-2 Hednesford Town
  • Through the Years from Howard Watts

GREG WILKINSON

On Friday evening Altrincham FC were pleased to announce that the club had signed Stalybridge Celtic midfielder Greg Wilkinson (dob 3 October 1989), who has been at the Bower Fold since February, 2008. Greg played for Celtic as recently as 5 October. In all he made 165 appearances and scored 17 times for Celtic. Whether he is available for tomorrow's game depends on whether his registration is confirmed in time.

ALTRINCHAM v BRACKLEY TOWN MATCH COVERAGE

Brian Flynn writes that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Saturday's game at the J.Davidson Stadium against Brackley Town. Coverage starts at 2.50pm with the game kicking off at 3.00pm. You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com.

The match commentary sponsor is Blocked Drains North West, a family run Manchester business.

The commentatory team is Paul Salt and Tim Ainsworth, with match summaries from Ian Wilkinson.

Dan Whitelegg will be providing regular updates on Twitter (@altrinchamfc) as well as half-time & full time updates on facebook (Altrincham FC).

As usual, this website will be providing its live matchday updates throughout the game, starting from as soon as the line-ups are available.

The various alternatives can be found via the icons below and in the right sidebar.

 radiorobins

ALTY v BRACKLEY TOWN - BEFORE THE GAME

Friday's Buckingham Today reports that "Brackley Town manager Jon Brady said he was thrilled with his team’s 'fantastic team performance” in the 2-0 FA Cup win over Boston United. Goals from Glenn Walker and Steve Diggin sent Saints through to the fourth qualifying round...

Brady said, 'I thought we played from the front foot from the off. The back four denied space for their front three, we pushed them back and won the ball off the front. My midfield won the battle in there and played on top of that; Steve Towers and Brett Solkhon were immense today in their approach to their game. Glenn Walker grew into the game and was absolutely amazing. His assist for the second goal, to run from one box to the other, take on three or four and then lay the ball into Steve Diggin, would be played over and over on Match of the Day. The vision, skill, speed was just amazing ability'.

Brady also lavished praise on his front two, Steve Diggin and Gary Mulligan, and was particularly impressed with their work-rate, adding... 'I feel their work-rate has probably been about 70% but they were at 95% today and that was the difference. You’re only as good as your front two and they helped us get up the pitch, they created things... All over I thought it was a fantastic team performance'".

SPENCER SCORES

Friday's Manchester Evening News reports that, with a 2-0 victory, "Manchester County FA dumped Liverpool CFA out of the second round of the FA County Youth Cup last week... [Altrincham FC Youth captain] Spencer Cunliffe doubled the lead after the break".

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

Stalybridge Celtic report that "Celtic are pleased to reveal the new management team of Keith Briggs and Andy Fearn. Neither Keith nor Andy will be strangers to many a Celtic fan, with both at the club under Steve Burr between 2008 and 2010. Keith made 81 appearances for Celtic in his two seasons... He has also played for Stockport County... Andy was Steve Burr's right hand man, and a scout specialising in unearthing real talent.

Celtic Chairman, Rob Gorski believes it has been a difficult decision in one way, but very easy in another. 'We had nearly 30 applications from a variety of backgrounds', said Rob. 'From Premier League players (not Scholesy!), from ex Football League managers, from top Conference Premier managers and from ex-players...

We remain committed to the full time concept so the successful candidate needed to take training every day. He needed to be able to command the total respect of the players and preferably have played at the highest level. He needed to be professional, passionate and fully bought in to the vision and finally, as this is very important too, he/they needed to be able to reunite the club and its fans'.

Rob believes that Keith is the man that fulfils all that criteria, and as player/manager will add much needed experience to the team.

'They have great plans for the club, tremendous ambition', Rob added. 'Keith, (who captained Kidderminster last year for 40 games), can add some much needed experience to the midfield too. Andy has worked with one of the best non-league managers for the last 14 years. He was a scout for Steve Burr in his early years but was in the dug out at Kidderminster this season and has been Steve's right hand man".

On their Forum, Celtic's Keith Trudgeon says, "Midfielder Greg Wilkinson has left the club. Greg has elected to join Altrincham after the Robins indicated their interest in him. The club worked hard to keep the current leading appearance maker at Bower Fold but Greg has decided his future lies elsewhere".

Meanwhile, the Manchester Evening News says that "Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has been coaching Stalybridge Celtic all week but the players were sworn to secrecy... The former England midfielder, who only retired in the summer, has been a long-term friend of the club as his son, Aaron, has come up through their junior ranks. Aaron currently plays for their Under-15s.

So, when manager Jim Harvey left the club by mutual consent last week, Celtic asked Scholes if he would look after the first team for the week. The media-shy star agreed, on the proviso that word did not get out, and the starstruck Celtic players and staff kept their end of the bargain. They only began mentioning it on social media after their final training session with Scholes on Friday morning.

'It was unreal', said Celtic's 17-year-old centre-half Louis Smith, who is a United fan. 'He’s a childhood idol so it was a great experience. The first we knew was when we turned up for training on Monday morning and there he was. It was a shock and a surprise at the same time. “There’s no one better to learn from. You learnt so much from him, even in just a week. To get an insight and help from someone like him is invaluable; you can't put a price on that. And for him to come down and do it for free was a great gesture of goodwill'.” From the Football Conference, "FC Halifax Town`s striker Alex Johnson has joined Guiseley AFC on a permanent basis following a successful loan spell... having joined the Shaymen in October 2012 from Clitheroe". And "Guiseley AFC have announced a second new signing of the day, experienced defender Adam Lockwood...

Having played over 300 matches for League clubs, 31-year-old central defender Lockwood takes his first steps into the Conference after spending the majority of his career at Yeovil Town and Doncaster Rovers. He was most recently at Bury, where he made twenty appearances last season".

Also, Alty's next away opponents, "Boston United have completed the signing of left-sided player Rene Steer... from St Neot's Town.

At "AFC Telford United defender Dan Preston has joined rivals Barrow AFC on a month's loan. A centre-half, Preston made his debut for Birmingham City in the Carling Cup in September 2009 and his first appearance in the Football League while on loan to Hereford United in February 2010".

According to Pitchero Non-League, "Brian Page, manager of Histon, has finalised the youth loan signing of Shaquille McDonald from Peterborough United until January 1st 2014... The 18-year-old striker has been a prolific goalscorer for Peterborough at youth team and under-21 level since signing from Chasetown last year and has recently been on loan at Chester FC.

Page was delighted with his latest acquisition, 'Shaq is a terrific striker', he said. 'He’s powerful, direct and a natural goalscorer'".

"Stockport will have to do without star man Phil Jevons as they host Gloucester", reports the Manchester Evening News. "Playing at the head of County’s midfield diamond, Jevons has been scoring goals and making them during the Hatters’ revival under new boss Alan Lord. Jevons had scored eight in seven games before coming off in the first half of last Saturday’s FA Cup upset by Rushall Olympic.

'I don’t think we’ll see Phil for the next three weeks', he said. 'Hamstrings are a poor injury to get because they can go again just as you’re ready to come out of it... It’ll be a month in my mind. It gives Kristian (Dennis) a chance to come back but I’ll have to do some tinkering because Phil was perfect for the role he was in... It’s not a role that Kristian can play though'" said the manager.


18 October 2013

LADIES' FITNESS COACH EXCELS ON WORLD STAGE

Keith Edleston, manager of the Altrincham FC Ladies reports that "John McManus, the Ladies' fitness coach, finished fifth in the World Karate & Kickboxing Championship over in Italy on Thursday. John has been training hard over the last year or so and also had to fund it all through his own pocket. He has really put the effort in to try and compete with the world's elite. Myself, Phil Taylor, Chris Bullock, all the girls - as well as chairman Grahame Rowley- are so proud and want to send big congratulations to John for his achievemen. Well done!"

For more on the championships see the WKC website.

JAMES'S HAT-TRICK

Right; James Walshaw hit a hat-trick against Guiseley in Altrincham's last home league match. Here he is captured in action by Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography.

ALTY v BRACKLEY

Altrincham hope to have everyone to pick from for Saturday's home match against Brackley Town. Mike Garnett reminds us of our record against Saturday's opponents:

  • Home p2-w1-d0-l1-f3-a5
  • Away p2-w1-d02-l1-f1-a3
  • All p4-w2-d0-l2-f4-a8

Since 1977, Altrincham have played eight times on 26 October as Howard Watts's Through the Years data confirm. A sign of the volatility of non-League football is that five of the those eight opponents either no longer exist or have changed their name since the game in question. The five clubs are Newcastle Blue Star, Kettering Town, Wakefield & Emley (formerly Emley, now Wakefield FC), Wealdstone and Scarborough.

SKRILL NORTH NEWS

News of a former Alty loanee comes from the Shropshire Star, which reports that "AFC Telford United manager Liam Watson today insisted he has no immediate plans to revive a move for Mat Bailey. The Bucks' boss argues that the towering 6ft 7in former Crewe man is still not fully match-fit, having watched him play only a tiny bit-part for Nantwich this week.

Watson missed Telford’s 2-1 friendly victory at Chester on Tuesday night to watch Nantwich’s game against Chorley, where Bailey came on in the last minute. The 27-year-old left Nantwich at the end of last season after suffering a serious cruciate ligament injury, with Telford taking him on for his rehabilitation.

Bailey even posed for the team photograph before the season got underway and played his first match minutes for them last month, 30 minutes of a friendly at Airbus. He was sent back to Nantwich on non-contract forms last month but has made just one start since, with five second-half substitute appearances and two goals.

Watson said, 'Mat hasn’t completed a full 90 minutes for Nantwich yet and I am not going to bring him back until I know he can play a full game. He's 6ft 7in and mobile, so he’s going to be a handful. But, with the injury he has had, we can't just be throwing him in. For instance, Matt only got on for a couple of minutes when I was there the other night, which is disappointing. He needs to be playing more than he is, so I think he’s a bit frustrated with that. It's a serious injury but it’s common enough, people get over it'".

DISCO NIGHT AT MOSS LANE

Neil Faulkner announces that "We are having a 60,70 and 80s' disco night to raise funds for the Community Hall at the Club on Friday 25th October at 7.30pm. We are trying to make this a good night for the ladies as well as the gentlemen and we hope to fill the place and have a good time. We promise a night free from football!


17 October 2013

CHANGING SHAPE

Kevin Thompson has an article in this week's Hale, Altrincham and Sale Independent. In it, Kevin speaks to Shaun Densmore who told him, "It was a a massive disappointment to go out of the FA Cup, not just going out but the manner of the way we lost. We did not get going at all and we knew we had a chance to put it right [versus Guiseley]. I think going behind so early in the match knocked the stuffing out of us a bit. It was a poor first half but, credit to our fans, they stuck by us and did not get on our backs.

We had a good chat at half time when the manager said we needed to change things. We had a great start to the second half and, after we went in front, I think we dominated. We have the squad to be able to change our shape this season, if we need to".

CUP REVERSE

Altrincham's Youth Education Programme team, which plays in the Football Conference Youth Alliance, played Guiseley in a League Cup match. The FA reports that the Yorkshiremen won 3-1 with Matt Graetzer scoring Alty's goal. The website hopes to have more on this game in the near future.

FROM TASC COACH TO GENERAL MANAGER

Alty supporters who used the TASC supporters' coach service a couple of seasons ago will know the subject of this following report from the NW Counties Football League. "Grassroots football follower and groundhopper Alan Oliver has joined Oldham Boro as their new General Manager. Alan was featured on the League website earlier in the season when he decided to follow the winning team of each game in every round of the FA Cup, starting with West Didsbury & Chorlton, the closest team to his home, in the Extra Preliminary Round. He will also be raising money for the Christie Hospital as he travels around the country to the various grounds.

Subsequent results will mean a trip up to Workington in the Fourth Qualifying Round a week on Saturday for Alan and his daughter Jordan but. in between his FA Cup travels, Alan will be devoting his time to helping Boro.

'In the past eight years I've been pursuing my hobby of groundhopping', he said. 'I've made some good friends along the way, with Oldham Boro and Ashton United being particularly helpful when I was completing the NWCFL and Evo-Stik Leagues. I think it was my fundraising and contacts that prompted Boro Chairman Mark Kilgannon and manager Tony Mills to approach me to help out Boro in some capacity.

I decided to join and help to try and move the club forward. Mark, Tony, the rest of the committee and myself are working tirelessly to relocate Boro back into Oldham where we belong and, from there, we can look to gain a fan base and move forward together. It's all a learning curve for me at present, and I challenge everybody connected to the club to stick with us and, together, we can put the Boro back in Oldham'".

FA CUP REPLAY

  • Gloucester City 7 Yate Town 0

    In Monday's replay, Hednesford Town had two men sent off; Macpherson went for an alleged "elbow", whilst Bailey picked up a second yellow, believed to be for kicking the ball away.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    The Football Conference says that "Defender Paul McCone, who recently re-joined Stourbridge, has accepted the chance to return to playing in the Skrill North following an approach from Hednesford Town... McCone has decided to take up the opportunity to play at the higher level once more, having left Hednesford's league rivals Leamington at the beginning of the month.

    McCone, 22, skippered the Glassboys last season as they pushed Brakes all the way in the Southern Premier Division... He spent ten years at Wolverhampton Wanderers as a youngster before being snapped up by Gary Hackett on his release in 2010. He was a mainstay of the Stourbridge side over the last few seasons, making 144 appearances (plus four as a substitute) and scoring thirteen goals for the Black Country outfit.

    He signed for Leamington towards the start of the season having been on trial with Kidderminster Harriers".

    Grimsby Town report that their "striker Dayle Southwell is set to go to Harrogate Town for an initial one month loan. Harrogate have been looking for an attacking player for some time and their manager Simon Weaver and his assistant John McDermott were impressed with the striker during Tuesday’s practice game against Scunthorpe United".

    Still in Lincolnshire, This is Lincs tells us that "Ashley Timms has reaffirmed his commitment to Boston United after ending his spell training with Sheffield United. Timms has been working with the League One Blades, who sacked manager David Weir last week, on top of training with Dennis Greene’s side.

    The highly-rated Pilgrims keeper has made no secret of his desire to return to the full-time game one day and is believed to be catching the eye of Football League clubs. However, Timms insists Boston are his priority this season. The former Manchester City man wants to make up for his costly error in Saturday’s FA Cup defeat at Brackley and help the club win promotion to the Skrill Premier...

    'Obviously I came back in the summer injured and didn’t play in the first few pre-season games, so the idea of training at Sheffield United was for me to gain some match fitness and train every day', explained Timms. 'It was to the benefit of Boston United and myself as it would make me sharper but the manager just felt I was coming to training a little tired having trained all day with Sheffield United. He just wants the best for the club and the players, which is right, so we’ve agreed that I’ll stop training there. It’s been a mutual decision really. At the moment it’s important that I concentrate on Boston United and try to help us win promotion.

    I’m ambitious and I want to get back to the full-time game. So, if anything came up at the end of the season, I’d be interested. But, if we were to go up, there would be more money around and maybe we would go full-time'...

    'It was very disheartening to make a mistake like that in such a crucial game', added Timms... 'I was expecting to catch the ball, but it dipped sharply. Almost a thousand times out of a thousand I would save that... I feel particularly bad for the fans who travelled in big numbers again. They’ve paid out money to get to the game and I felt I let them down... but the support I’ve had on social media has been really encouraging. We’ve got two big home games now, against Harrogate and Altrincham, and I want to repay that faith'".

    In the Shropshire Star we read that "AFC Telford United manager Liam Watson missed last night's 2-1 friendly victory at Chester to run the rule over a player figuring in Nantwich's visit of Chorley.

    Assistant boss Dominic Morley took the team at the Deva Stadium, where the Bucks ran out winners through a goal from Sean Cooke and a Tony Gray penalty. Watson was taking in an Evo-Stik Northern Premier League fixture where Chorley prevailed 1-0, with the resurgent [ex-Alty loanee] Mat Bailey playing as a late substiute for the home side. The towering 6ft 7in former Crewe man rehabbed at Telford over the summer from a cruciate ligament injury, before returning to the club he left in the close season.

    Watson is planning to offer the 27-year-old a deal when he is convinced he is fully fit... Morley revealed...'Liam was watching Nantwich last night but it wasn't just to see Mat Bailey, he was watching some else on a recommendation he had. We are not actively looking for signings but we are always on the look-out for better players, if they can fit into the club's budget'...

    Telford defender Dan Preston, who has been transfer listed at his own request, didn't start at Chester last night as he was stuck in traffic... so was introduced for Neill Byrne at half-time".

    According to She Kicks, "Birmingham City are moving to play their home games at Solihull Moors FC from the start of the 2014 WSL season. The decision to move came about after it was that Blues Ladies current home venue at Stratford Town, did not meet the improved criteria set out by the FA for the next four seasons.

    Solihull Moors have implemented some management changes over the last eight or nine months and The Autotech Stadium has undergone an initial revamp, with major improvements to both the playing surface and spectator facilities. Our recently formed Development Squad will play their home games there this season starting on Sunday October 6th, and the first team will begin next season in mid March.

    Steve Shipway, Birmingham City Ladies' Chief Executive commented 'This is a great time to adopt Solihull Moors as our landlords and, with the changes being made there, we will combine with them on several initiatives to heighten our profile in the area and make Solihull our home. Watch out on our website for details of these schemes in the coming months'".


    16 October 2013

    SATURDAY YANKEE

    The winning code this week in the Altrincham FC Saturday Yankee was 8554. As that code had not been issued, the reserve jackpot rolls over to £800 - in addition to the main jackpot of £5,000. Five people did win £30 each for Trebles.

    MATCHDAY SPONSORS

    Barry Pond's updated chart of Matchday Sponsors is now available.

    FA CUP

    This week's FA Cup replays involving Skrill North clubs are:

    Tuesday 15th October 2013

    • Rugby Town 0-2 Worcester City
    • West Auckland Town 2-2 Hednesford Town aet, Hednesford won 4-2 on penalties. They finished the game with nine men.

    Wednesday 16th October 2013

    • Gloucester City v Yate Town

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    His brother Mike is on Altrincham's books but "Colwyn Bay have signed striker Marc Williams on a short-term deal. The former Halifax and Chester frontman will be a welcome addition to Frank Sinclair's squad... The 25-year-old, who has been playing for Northwich Victoria, has been a long-term target of manager Frank Sinclair, who announced the news on Twitter on Tuesday.

    He tweeted, 'Happy to confirm the signing of ex Halifax Town striker Marc Williams, someone I chased pre-season. Happy to finally sign'.

    A club spokesman said, 'He did well at Chester last season and it was somewhat surprising that they decided to release him. Frank has been a long-term admirer of the player, who was eager to return to a higher standard of football', reports the Nw wales Pioneer.

    According to the Boston Standard, "Boston United are closing in on the signature of left back Rene Steer. The 23-year-old began his career as an Arsenal trainee and has also played for Gillingham and St Neot's Town".

    From the Shropshire Star we learn that "AFC Telford United are set to try out Mike Phenix in an out-and-out striking role during their friendly at Chester tonight as they look to get more goals out of the winger.

    Phenix has netted twice this season, both from the bench... [The] trip to the Deva Stadium [is] the first football Watson’s men have experienced for 10 days, with Phenix set to spearhead the attack. Sean Cooke, Adam Farrell and Tony Gray are likely to play just behind the lone striker, sitting in front of central midfield pairing Charlie Barnett and Russell Benjamin.

    Ryan Young will be in goal as Andy Pryce is feeling the effects of illness, which has plagued Phenix, Gray, Wes Baynes and captain Simon Grand in the Bucks' camp during recent weeks.

    However, skipper Grand and Neill Byrne are likely to be excused from duty with Baynes, transfer-listed defender Dan Preston, Chris Lever and Matthew McGinn in defence. Watson said... 'Martyn Jackson is very doubtful, though, with an ankle injury. Hopefully, Jake Bennett will get some part of the game. Mike will play as a centre-forward".

    Reports in the Telegraph & Argus tell us that "Bradford Park Avenue’s fourth qualifying round FA Cup tie against... Kidderminster Harriers at Horsfall Stadium looks set to be played a week on Sunday...

    Avenue finance director Kevin Hainsworth said, 'I always want the easiest draw possible but this is one of the hardest'...

    Hainsworth quipped, 'I’m surprised we got the team in second place and not the Conference leader’s (Cambridge United) – but you have got to beat teams like Kidderminster if you are going to go all the way to Wembley... We are in the process of trying to get the game switched to Sunday (October 27) because [Bradford] City are at home to Wolves and Huddersfield are at home to Leeds on the Saturday. We have to get confirmation from Kidderminster and the FA in order to switch the day but it will probably happen'".


    15 October 2013

    LADIES ADVANCE AND SUPPORT MARK'S CAMPAIGN

    On Sunday, Altrincham FC Ladies defeated AFC Stockport 3-0 in the First Round of the Challenge Cup, with a hat-trick from the prolific Tracey Blanchard-Webb. In the second round the Ladies play Blacon LFC on the 17 November at Beech Field, Timperley k.o. 2pm

    A match report on the Ladies' First Round win over AFC Stockport, kindly provided by Phil Taylor, is to be found here, together with a photo (above) of the Ladies supporting the Mark Maddox MNDA campaign.

    YOUTH MATCH REVIEW

    Kevin Thompson advises us that Alty & Sale Sport now has a report and interviews in its show of 14 October on the FA Youth Cup clash between Altrincham and Vauxhall Motors last Thursday.

    FA CUP WITH BUDWEISER AFFECTS LEAGUE FIXTURES

    Skrill North clubs in the FA Cup with Budweiser Fourth Qualifying Round Draw have the following ties. Matches are to be played on Saturday, 26th October.

    • Macclesfield Town v Vauxhall Motors
    • Stamford AFC v Hednesford Town/West Auckland Town
    • Worcester City/Rugby Town v Lincoln City
    • Bradford Park Avenue v Kidderminster Harriers
    • Workington v Stourbridge
    • Colwyn Bay v Corby Town
    • Tamworth v Solihull Moors
    • North Ferriby United v Alfreton Town
    • Brackley Town v Barrow
    • Dover Athletic v Oxford City
    • Yate Town/Gloucester City v Hampton & Richmond Borough
    As a consequence several Skrill North matches have been postponed on 26th October...
    • AFC Telford United v Vauxhall Motors OFF
    • Barrow AFC v Stalybridge Celtic OFF
    • Gainsborough Trinity v Bradford Park Avenue OFF
    • Gloucester City v Colwyn Bay OFF
    • North Ferriby United v Leamington OFF
    • Oxford City v Workington OFF
    • Solihull Moors v Brackley Town
    The remaining matches are...
    • Boston United v Altrincham
    • Hednesford Town v Harrogate Town - subject to Hednesford's replay
    • Histon v Stockport County
    • Stalybridge Celtic v Leamington
    • Worcester City v Guiseley - subject to Worcester's replay
    Matches on Tuesday 22nd are...
    • Harrogate Town v Workington
    • North Ferriby United v Guiseley
    • Stalybridge Celtic v Vauxhall Motors

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    The Worcester News says that "Right-back George Williams believes Worcester City will be too strong for Rugby Town when the sides meet in tomorrow night’s FA Cup replay...

    Williams admits Worcester need to be more clinical in front of goal and is confident they will finish the job off. He said, 'We are disappointed that we didn’t get the win but it’s not the end of the world, we’ve got tomorrow to get the win and I’m confident we can go there and get a result. We knew they were going to come out flying and they did well in the first 20 minutes but after that we started to get the ball down and created some chances. I think what we lacked was that finishing edge...

    I think we’re a stronger team'...

    Saturday’s game was the first time Williams had started a match since hobbling off with an ankle injury at Colwyn Bay a month ago... The former Loughborough University player said, 'It would have been nicer to get a win but it’s good to be back playing'. Manager Carl Heeley added, 'Willo has been out for a few weeks but he gives us a threat going forward'..

    Meanwhile, it is looking increasingly unlikely that the one-month stay of midfielder Phil Trainer will be extended. Parent club Nuneaton denied permission for him to play in the Cup and he is due to return to the Skrill Premier club after tomorrow’s reply. The City boss said, 'Nuneaton have had a few injuries so they wanted to monitor it a bit closer to the end date which is the middle of this week. I don’t anticipate anything changing'”.

    According to NL Daily, "Workington Reds banked another £7,500 from their latest FA Cup victory at Guisborough , but the cash is already spoken for. With a ground grading inspection coming-up at Borough Park at the end of the month, Reds have already earmarked the money for some ground maintenance work.

    But the 4-1 win at Guisborough does give Reds an opportunity to add another £12,000 to the coffers... Manager Darren Edmondson said, 'We know how vital the money from a Cup run is to a club like ourselves and it’s great that we have progressed... The important thing now is that we maintain that sort of approach and carry it into our League programme. We have two hard games coming up – Hednesford at home on Saturday and Harrogate away the following Tuesday. We have to start picking-up some Skrill North points'.

    Edmondson made four changes from the side which had lost 2-1 to Leamington, with skipper Kyle May among those moving to the bench. 'Kyle has still a problem with his shoulder and, as Dan Wordsworth can't play next Saturday, I'm hoping he will be fit enough to come back in then... Others like Danny Forrest are finding their fitness. I played Danny from the start again at Guisborough and I thought he did really well', explained the manager" to the News & Star.

    Boston United "have issued a statement in relation to an incident which occurred against Gainsborough Trinity on February 2. The statement reads, 'Following the crowd disturbance at The Northolme during the Conference North fixture against Gainsborough Trinity in February of this year, the club issued temporary banning orders against a number of Boston United supporters and have subsequently worked closely with Lincolnshire Police over the matter.

    'Three people were interviewed by Gainsborough Police in relation to the incident, which resulted in one male being cautioned for assault... The same male has received a ban from all Boston United fixtures until the end of the season. The other bans have now been lifted. We will not tolerate this type of behaviour either at The Jakemans Stadium or at away fixtures. We will always co-operate fully with the Police and pursue matters to a conclusion".

    News of Alty's next opponents is to be found in the Banbury Guardian, which reports that "Brackley Town are just one game away from their second appearance in the first round proper of the FA Cup. Saints will meet Barrow in the fourth qualifying round tie at St James Park where goals at the end of each half secured a 2-0 victory over Boston United in Saturday’s third qualifying round clash.

    Dominating the first half, it took a 43rd minute goal from Walker to give Saints the lead their possession and control warranted. In a moment keeper Ashley Timms will want to forget, Walker’s shot trickled through his legs just as the Pilgrims sensed they could reach the break still level.

    The corner count of 7-0 told the story of the first half... Saints sought the crucial second goal which came in the 86 minute when Walker broke from inside his own half dancing past a clutch of defenders to set up Diggin who made no mistake with a classy finish".


    14 October 2013

    SUPPORT MARK AND THE MNDA

    Former Altrincham FC captain, Mark Maddox, is leading a campaign on behalf of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Click on the poster, right, for details on the MNDA website. And on this website, see how Stuart Coburn and other current players are helping to raise the profile of the MNDA campaign on our Support MNDA page.

    ALTRINCHAM 2 1874 NORTHWICH 1

    Altrincham included two new trialists in their squad for Saturday's game...

    Match report here.

    ADAM STARS

    Altrincham FC goalkeeper, Adam Reid, starred in his first game of his new loan spell with Prescot Cables. Playing away to Darlington 1883, Adam saved a penalty - which was unfortunately converted on the rebound - and won the NL Paper's Man of the Match accolade. The game was a 2-2 draw.

    SATURDAY GAMES

    Next Saturday's Skrill North games are:
    • AFC Telford Utd v North Ferriby United
    • Altrincham v Brackley Town
    • Boston United v Harrogate Town
    • Colwyn Bay v Bradford Park Avenue
    • Guiseley v Histon
    • Leamington v Stalybridge Celtic
    • Oxford City v Worcester City
    • Solihull Moors v Gainsborough Trinity
    • Stockport County v Gloucester City
    • Vauxhall Motors v Barrow
    • Workington v Hednesford Town

    YOUTH CUP SUCCESS

    Alty Youth beat Vauxhall Motors 4-1 on Thursday night to secure a place in the next round of the FA Youth Cup. Pictured, right, by James Lobley, is captain Spencer Cunliffe being congratulated after scoring one of his two goals. Another of James's images is on the Youth page. The rest of James's photos from the game are here.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Former Alty midfielder Paddy Lacey appeared (back view!) in the national press on Sunday as he was confronted on the pitch by fans of his current club Barrow's FA Cup opponents, Atherstone Town, on Saturday. Fortunately, he more than held his own against his would-be attackers and Barrow won 4-0.

    This is Lincs tells us that "Boston United boss Dennis Greene has admitted crashing out of the FA Cup is a financial blow to the club.. They lost 2-0 at fellow Skrill North high-flyers Brackley Town. Victory would have netted United £7,500...

    'Financially it’s a big blow, for the club, the supporters and myself', said Greene. 'We wanted to stay in this competition, but we got a really tough draw and couldn’t get through it'...

    Greene admitted a rare error by keeper Ashley Timms, which led to Walker’s goal just before half-time, drastically altered the course of the game. 'I’m just really disappointed. To go a goal behind in the manner we did was very disappointing', added Greene. 'I wouldn’t say we were comfortable at that point but they hadn’t really had a shot at our goal. It was 0-0 just before half-time and we were happy, then Timmsy makes a complete clanger and we were 1-0 down. We then had to chase the game in the second half, had a bit of pressure and opportunities to score. Then we got caught on the break (for Diggin’s goal), but if it had been 0-0 we wouldn’t have been caught.

    It’s one of those things (Timms’s mistake). It sticks out badly because it put us 1-0 down in an FA Cup game. It meant we had to chase the game'. Last night, following talks with Greene, Timms revealed he will stop training with League One outfit Sheffield United. 'After speaking to the manager I'm going to stop training at Sheffield United and concentrate 100% fully on trying to get Boston United promoted', he said on his Facebook page".

    Football Conference says that "Ricky Marheineke has stepped down as manager of Huntingdon Town following the game against Wellingborough Town yesterday to become Brian Page’s assistant at Histon. Marheineke, 32, was offered the position at tassworld Stadium five weeks ago, prior to the brawl at Sleaford Town which resulted in both clubs being kicked out of the FA Cup, but only informed his chairman and the club’s board of directors on Tuesday that he would be accepting the offer".



    Click here for EARLIER NEWS


    13 October 2013

    ACTION PLAN

    The next games for the four senior Altrincham FC teams are...
    • Sat. 19 Oct, 3pm @ J Davidson Stadium: ALTRINCHAM v BRACKLEY TOWN - Skrill North
    • Sun. 20 Oct, 2pm @ Trafford FC: ALTRINCHAM FA YOUTH v MID-CHESHIRE - CCFA District Cup
    • Sun. 13 Oct, 2pm @ Beech Avenue, Timperley: ALTRINCHAM LADIES v AFC STOCKPORT - Cheshire Women's League
    • Wed. 16 Oct. 2pm @ Hale Country Club, Clay Lane, Timperley: ALTRINCHAM YEP v GUISELEY - FCYA League Cup

    FIXTURES

    Next Saturday's Skrill North games are:
    • AFC Telford Utd v North Ferriby United
    • Altrincham v Brackley Town
    • Boston United v Harrogate Town
    • Colwyn Bay v Bradford Park Avenue
    • Guiseley v Histon
    • Leamington v Stalybridge Celtic
    • Oxford City v Worcester City
    • Solihull Moors v Gainsborough Trinity
    • Stockport County v Gloucester City
    • Vauxhall Motors v Barrow
    • Workington v Hednesford Town

    OLD BOYS

    NL Pitchero reports that "Darlington 1883 had to make do with a point at home against mid-table Prescot Cables on Saturday... Ged Murphy then threatened an upset as he put Cables ahead on 65 minutes".

    Elsewhere, "Kidderminster Harriers secured a 2-1 victory against Southport on a blustery afternoon at Haig Avenue... James Smith levelled for Southport 3 minutes before the break when he headed past Nathan Vaughan

    And, still on Merseyside, "Goalkeeper Ryan McMahon has returned to Skelmersdale United after spending just over three years with rivals Marine. McMahon was a very popular member of the side when he last played for Skem. However, he left to join the Mariners in 2010. He made 123 appearances for the Mariners".

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    According to Barrow's Holker Street Newsletter, "Thursday's Mail sees [manager, Dave] Bayliss telling us he is leaving the door open for Dale Johnson (his two-month loan from FC Halifax Town finishes this weekend)... and whether he will play for Barrow again". It goes on to quote Bayliss as saying, "Well, that's down to Dale and he's got to show a bit more willingness. We've had a chat with him and he's got his head and heart set on Halifax. He hasn't indicated that he wants to stay, so that was the thinking behind not playing Dale on Tuesday...

    Dale is playing football and putting himself on a good stage. If Dale wants to come here and work his nuts off every single week, then he's got the platform to do it. He's playing every week and if he doesn't want to stay at Barrow then, fair enough, he can go and sign for a Stockport or whoever, a bigger club. But if Dale comes and doesn't showcase what he's worth and what he's about then nobody's going to take him. But Dale's a really good player and that's why we signed him. But I want more out of Dale and I expect more of Dale and I don't think I've had it out of him in the last four games.

    I don't think he's been anywhere near what he wants to be. I don't think he's looked fit enough, and we've told Dale all of this and his head is a little bit all over the place because he's had no response from Halifax. So I think he needs to sort himself out at Halifax to see where he goes from there and then we'll move on from there and see what we're going to do."

    The BBC reports that "Atherstone chairman Rob Weale apologised to Barrow supporters after disturbances at half-time delayed their FA Cup third qualifying round tie. Visiting fans were allegedly approached and abused at the interval of Barrow's 4-0 victory, leading to police attending and a 20-minute stoppage.

    'I am personally embarrassed about the scenes here at half-time', Weale told BBC Radio Cumbria. 'It was unacceptable, obviously we will be pursuing the perpetrators'...

    Atherstone had progressed through five rounds to get to the third qualifying stage, with the visit of Conference North side Barrow one of the biggest games in their history. 'It's wrecked it and it makes me feel sick', manager Ivor Green told BBC Coventry & Warwickshire. 'The second half just fizzled out, both sides were affected by it'".

    Alty are scheduled to travel to Boston when the next round of the FA Cup takes place so Saturday's defeat for the Pilgrims ensures that the Skrill North fixture goes ahead as planned. Boston United tell us that they "bowed out of the FA Cup with Budweiser after suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of league rivals Brackley Town {Alty's next opponents]. Glenn Walker fired the hosts in front two minutes before the break, following an [ex-Alty keeper] Ashley Timms gaffe, while Steve Diggin applied the killer blow four minutes from time.

    Ben Milnes saw a second half free-kick rattle the post, but Brackley held the upper hand after the break".

    On the same match, Buckingham Today adds that "Saints could now face the likes of Luton Town or Wrexham in the fourth qualifying round... It took Brackley 10 minutes to get going... Brackley continued to shade a scrappy first half, Brett Solkhon’s header brought a fine save from Timms, but constant soft fouls disrupted the flow of the game...

    Three minutes before the break a howler from Timms gifted Saints the lead. Walker was the scorer after he cut in from the right and scuffed what looked like a harmless shot goalwards, but Timms let it through his legs and the ball trickled into the net... The second half followed a similar pattern to the first – Saints again shaded the play...

    Brackley: Turley, Odhiambo, Sharpe, Austin (c), McDonald, Reid (Kaziboni 69), Solkhon, Towers, Walker, Diggin (Jarvis 88), Mulligan. Subs not used: Story, Nisevic, Sandy, Griffin, Worby".

    In the Shropshire Star there is news that "AFC Telford United player-coach Alan Moogan will go under the knife next Saturday to have groin surgery... The midfielder has already missed eight games, but at least has a date for surgery with the operation paid for by the Professional Footballers' Association...

    Bucks' manager Liam Watson said 'I think we are looking at Christmas before we see him back'. The Telford boss also revealed that midfielder Martyn Jackson’s ankle injury is still bothering him and he may miss Tuesday night’s friendly at Chester as a result. Watson said... 'It’s ligament damage. It’s not serious, though, it’s probably just more niggly than anything'".

    Reports from the Football Conference include the news that "Giant defender Exodus Geohaghon has been released by Worcester City. City boss Carl Heeley said, 'Exodus would not commit to playing in the FA Cup as he did not want to be cup tied in later rounds should another club sign him. Whilst I understand his decision to a degree, my priority is the team and getting through to the next round of the competition. Commitment from every player has to be is 100%, if it isn't they will be moved on'.

    An addition to the squad... is Reece Hales from Birmingham City. The 18-year-old striker, who made his debut for the Blues against Leeds United in the FA Cup earlier in the year, has come in on a month's loan period".

    This is Hull informs us that "North Ferriby United chairman Les Hare admits the club may have to relocate to a new ground should their success on the pitch continue. The Villagers sit joint top of the Conference North table after five straight league wins, and although still early in the season, Hare admits he is having to think ahead.

    Securing promotion to the Conference Premier Division would mean their current Church Road ground does not meet the necessary requirements....

    'If we win promotion, of course we will take it, but we would have some big decisions to make as a club', he told the Mail. 'There may be a couple of grounds within a reasonable distance we could share but it has to be practical for us. We could lose our identity as a club'.

    Adapting the Eon Visual Media Stadium for the next step up, to achieve a Grade A licence, would involve raising the capacity to 4,000, adding new turnstiles and adapting the main stand to four rows of seating instead of three, at an estimated cost of around £2m.

    That though, would leave Ferriby ready for a push towards Football League status.

    'Upgrading our current ground may cost around £2m, and we wouldn't get funding from grants', Hare explained. 'Moving to a new stadium might be better than trying to make adjustments to a ground with limited development opportunities, but it would have to suit all 20 teams we run. If we had a new stadium built on a 12-acre site, it might cost us between £6m and £8m but we would be able to apply for grants from the Football Foundation, local authority and European Community Fund. All options will be discussed'.

    The same source says that "Chairman Les Hare believes manager Billy Heath is certain to attract the attention of bigger clubs. Heath has guided the Villagers from the bottom end of the Evo-Stik Premier Division to top of the Conference North in just two years... Hare says the hard work of Heath and assistant manager Mark Carroll, who have only suffered 20 defeats in 116 matches, will not have gone unnoticed...

    '"Billy is going nowhere', Hare told the Mail... 'We are one of the smallest clubs with the smallest budget around but right now we are joint top of the Conference North. The credit for that goes to Billy and Mark... This is a football love affair made in heaven and Billy is green and white all the way through... I can't speak highly enough about the job he has done so far and as far as I'm concerned he's going nowhere'...

    'A good cup run can mean the world to non league clubs like ourselves', he said. 'If we can beat Runcorn Linnets, [they did], we'll equal our best ever achievement in the FA Cup... A live TV game could take us close to £200,000 in total income, which would be like winning the lottery for us. We've never been in the first round before but we had never been in the Conference North before this season. We are setting new records and hopefully we can continue to do so'".


    12 October 2013

    TRIALISTS


    Shaun Pearson

    Adam Cowen

    Altrincham deployed two trialists in their friendly today against 1874 Northwich.

    1. Shaun Pearson 23 year-old goalkeeper Shaun Pearson (dob 16.8.90) played the whole match. Signed by Barrow from from Llangefni Town in Wales in 2010, he is the younger brother of Barrow defender Mike Pearson. He marked his Alty debut with a penalty save. After leaving Holker Street in Spring 2013, Pearson headed for Australia.

    2. Adam Cowen Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, Adam is a 6ft 6ins central defender who played the second half against 1874 Northwich. He has recently been playing in the United States. He is not to be confused with the older Adam Cowan, who is also a New Zealander!

    YOUTH GAME OFF

    Altrincham FC Youth's league game away to Abbey Hey, scheduled for tomorrow, has been postponed as the Gorton club have players involved in a County match today. Next week (Sunday 20th) Altrincham and District FA play Mid-Cheshire at Trafford FC (2pm) in the CCFA District Cup.

    FA CUP

    Saturday's results include;
    • Atherstone T 0-4 Barrow
    • Brackley T. 2-0 Boston U.
    • Bradford Park Avenue 2 - 1 Penrith
    • Carlton Town 1-3 Vauxhall Motors
    • Colwyn Bay 2-1 Ossett Town
    • Concord R. 2 -1 Histon
    • Corby Town 4-2 Trafford
    • Eastleigh 2-3 Oxford C.
    • Guisborough Town 1-4 Workington AFC
    • North Ferriby United 2-0 Runcorn Linnets
    • Solihull Moors 4-0 Worksop Town
    • Stockport County 0-1 Rushall Olympic
    • Worcester City 0-0 Rugby Town
    • Yate Town 2-2 Gloucester City

    SATURDAY'S FRIENDLY

    Don't forget that Altrincham face 1874 Northwich in a friendly today (Saturday, at NB 2pm at the J. Davidson Stadium). Turnstile prices are £5 for adults, £3 for concessionaries and the game is free for under-12s.

    There will be no Radio Robins coverage of Saturday's friendly against 1874 Northwich.

    This website will provide its usual Matchday Updates.

    YOUTH CUP NEWS

    A report on Altrincham FC Youth's 4-1 win over Vauxhall Motors in the FA Youth Cup is now here.

    The next round pits Altrincham against Nostell Miners' Welfare from Wakefield, at the J. Davidson Stadium on Thursday, 24 October at 7.45pm.

    Whichever team wins that match will be at home in the First Round Proper to either Wrexham or Selby Town (both previous opponents of Alty in this competition). That game will be in the week of Saturday 9 November 2013.

    ADAM GOES ON LOAN

    Altrincham goalkeeper Adam Reid has gone on loan to Prescot Cables from today until 9th November. Adam has been on the Alty bench eight times so far this season but has yet to make an appearance.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    According to the Football Conference, "The Football Association have confirmed that the appeal by Gainsborough Trinity has been thrown out and that Rushall Olympic have been re-instated back into this season's FA Cup with Budweiser. This now means that tomorrow Rushall Olympic will now travel to Edgeley Park to take on Trinity`s league rivals Stockport County in the Third Qualifying Round."

    Skrill Football report that "Harrogate Town have announced the departure of Alan White after he signed for Darlington 1883. The 37-year-old defender had become a firm fan favourite since his arrival at Wetherby Road in December 2011 from rivals Boston United...

    'Making the decision to leave Harrogate was a really tough one', he told the club's official website... 'Working alongside Simon and Macca has been an absolute pleasure. They're both exceptionally professional and gifted coaches but more importantly lovely blokes and very good friends. It's a club with a bright future, an ambitious chairman and ambitious manager and, most importantly, a talented squad of players...

    In the end my decision all boiled down to playing regular football and getting the most out of however many years I have left. To remain at Harrogate this season would, if I'm being realistic, mean sitting on the bench with limited starting opportunities'...

    Town boss Simon Weaver added, 'We are sorry to see Whitey go but he's been offered a deal with his home-town club that he just couldn't turn down'... White made 58 appearances for the Yorkshire outfit, scoring three goals in the process".

    OLD BOY

    The NW Counties Football League reports that former Alty Youth defender Alex Weatherby has signed forms for Abbey Hey.
    11 October 2013

    ALTY PROGRESS IN FA YOUTH CUP

    Four well-taken goals against Vauxhall Motors ensured that Altrincham FC Youth advanced to a Third Qualifying Round match in the FA Youth Cup against Nostell Miners' Welfare (from near Wakefield) in two weeks' time. But the visitors hit the woodwork three times so could rightly feel unfortunate at the margin of their defeat.

    A good ball forward from David Brown prompted an interchange between Louis Potts and Max Pouncey, with Potts firing home well inside the third minute of the match. Vauxhall responded with an equalizer after 18 minutes through Hughes's header.

    In the 56th minute Alty captain, Spencer Cunliffe expertly lobbed the keeper from fully 50 yards out on the right flank, before an impressive volley from Matt Todd made it 3-1 in the 68th minute. Cunliffe completed the scoring when a slick interchange of passes opened up Vauxhall, nine minutes from time. Report to follow.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Non-League Pitchero says that "Former Norwich City midfielder Michael Clunan has had his registration with Boston United cancelled to allow him to join rivals Histon. The teenager joined the Pilgrims in September, putting pen-to-paper following a successful trial spell with the club.

    He joined the Canaries as a schoolboy in 2002 and progressed all the way through to the Premier League’s development squad in 2012/13... The teenager made two appearances for Boston — against Oxford City and Gloucester City."

    And Non-League Pitchero also reports that "Rob Smith, manager of Hednesford Town, has stressed in no uncertain terms that his Pitmen side, on an absolute roll on all fronts this season, will ensure they do not take West Auckland Town lightly in their FA Cup Third Qualifying Round tie at Keys Park on Saturday.

    Hednesford, currently sitting top on goal difference, face a team from two divisions below as they look to progress into the next round where a Conference Premier giant could be lying in wait.

    'From the outside we may be big favourites but we are not really looking at it like that', Smith said. 'West Auckland are unbeaten in what is a very strong league indeed, in my opinion it is not the equal of the same levels in the Midlands, it is a much higher standard, so we will not be fooled into believing we are massive favourites'.

    Smith's fifteen-goal leading scorer Elliott Durrell, who won the coveted FA Cup player of the round award for his superb performance against former club AFC Telford United in the previous round, will be buoyed by the recognition coming his way...

    'To me they are not a lesser side, they have players well capable of playing in our league. They will come to us pressure free and full of confidence so will prove very difficult to beat'" concluded the manager.

    According to the Worcester News, "When it was announced Worcester City would be sharing with Kidderminster Harriers, it is fair to say there was a great deal of scepticism... Fears that crowd numbers would drop off a cliff and the team suffer as a result were rife. In short, this was the beginning of the end.

    How wrong we all were. Yes, City still face an uncertain future but, thanks in no small part to selling 500 £100 season tickets, they are surviving and, it could be argued, prospering in the short-term at Aggborough. They no longer have expensive maintenance bills to pay at the Lane and are keeping their heads above water financially.

    Beating Coventry Sphinx in the FA Cup earned them £4,500 and they can add another £7,500 in prize money by repeating the feat against Rugby Town on Saturday. So far, it seems, the move has been more successful than anybody expected, on and off the pitch...

    Gates are down but not dramatically... two topped 700, which is more than respectable in Skrill North. The club helping fans get to games has also played a key role with the reduced train fares to season-ticket holders proving popular...

    City are paying a substantial rent but they have been welcomed by their neighbours and can even use the Aggborough Suite, reserved for hospitality packages when Harriers are at home... Watching their team play in a high-quality Football League-standard ground has whetted the appetite and made them wonder what could be achieved if the supporters’ trust plans for Perdiswell were to come to fruition, albeit on a smaller scale. Above all, there is now a more professional feel to City and, for now at least, the scepticism has disappeared".


    10 October 2013

    FA YOUTH CUP

    Tonight, Thursday (10th), Altrincham FC Youth entertain Vauxhall Motors Youth at the J. Davidson Stadium (7.45pm) in the FA Youth Cup 2nd Qualifying Round. All supporters are invited to come along and cheer the lads on - entry is just £3, (£2 for concessionaries).

    PLANNING GO-AHEAD FOR ALTY'S COMMUNITY SPORTS HALL

    Altrincham FC has issued a press release after plans were approved recently for a new Community Sports Hall at the J. Davidson Stadium. The text can be viewed in its original pdf format here.

    More information, along with ways to donate can be found on the Community Sports Hall website.

    LEE PRAISES PLAYERS

    Altrincham FC's joint Press and Media Officer, writes, "Lee Sinnott resisted the temptation to ‘blister the paint off the walls’ and was rewarded with a second-half turnaround that left Guiseley reeling and reinforced Altrincham’s push for promotion.

    A stunning hat-trick by James Walshaw, against his former club, put the gloss on an irresistible second 45 minutes, as third-placed Alty roared back from a 1-0 half-time deficit to win 4-1.

    Right: Alty celebrate one of their goals against Guiseley.

    ‘We were caught cold early on and never got going in the first half,’ said the Alty manager. ‘I knew changes had to be made and different personnel were needed to make them work. Some people might have thought I would blister the paint in the changing room, but, as a manager, you have to think carefully about which approach is likely to get the required response.

    ‘You can’t go in there bellowing at them every time something isn’t right. I know from my time as a player that if you keep getting that, it becomes like a humming noise. You think “here we go again” and switch off to a degree. It goes in one ear and out the other and ends up defeating the object.

    ‘You have to be careful, so the emphasis at half-time on Saturday wasn’t on tearing a strip off them but making sure they understood what was needed to turn things round. The midfield needed tinkering with, because we weren’t getting a stranglehold there. We were playing too deep. Midfielders were collecting the ball too deep, and, with too much of a gap to make up, the forwards were getting isolated.

    ‘The system needed changing, and, naturally enough, I was delighted with the way it worked out. We pushed out more and started playing a good 25 yards further up the pitch, which is a lot in football terms. As a consequence, we began to play at the level we are capable of. It was an attacking formation that allowed Shaun Densmore and Nicky Clee to get forward but still placed a responsibility on those at the back to be ready for runners coming through.

    ‘Credit to the players for that. Systems don’t work by themselves. It’s players who put them into practice and make sure they are implemented properly. I always want them to express themselves, but it is good they can do it within whatever framework you put before them.’

    Walshaw is now out on his own as top scorer with nine goals, and Sinnott made light of suggestions that the summer signing from Guiseley doesn’t always hit the target.

    ‘Nine goals by the beginning of October is some return, and he can miss as many as he likes for me, because if he carries on at the rate, he’s going to finish the season around the 40-mark,’ he said. ‘The point is, James gets himself in the right position time after time, and, like any striker who does that, he will miss on occasions.

    ‘But he has a hunger about him that you can’t help noticing in training and in games. He’s in his late 20s, but it’s like watching a kid. When it comes to sheer enthusiasm and wanting to score all the time, he’s like a nine-year old. It’s great to see. I’ve faced him a few times down the years, but this is the first time I have worked with him, and he has made a really good start.

    ’It was good to see Damian Reeves on the scoresheet as well. That’s exactly what I want to see, forwards who are hungry and on fire, because there is competition for places. If you’ve got that, you’re chances of winning games increase considerably. It is the way to challenge people and bring more out of them, and it’s got to be good for us that there is fierce competition for places up front and in midfield.’"

    LEADING SCORER?

    So, who is Alty's leading goalscorer this season, so far? Damian Reeves? No, he's 'only' got six. James Walshaw? No - he's 'only' got nine. The correct answer is Tracey Blanchard-Webb of the Altrincham FC Ladies' team who has hit ten goals in just four outings this season. Phil Taylor has kindly provided a match report on the Ladies' latest game, their first defeat of the season, by a narrow 4-5 margin, against Warrington Wolverines. The report can be found here.

    Next Sunday the Ladies are at home to AFC Stockport at Beech Avenue, Timperley, k.o. 2pm in a Challenge Cup match.

    Dave from the "Blue Dog Bar", Altrincham, has kindly agreed to sponsor a Player of the Match award at Alty Ladies' home fixtures this season. Here he is seen presenting Louise and Hannah with their free drink for having played well. Tracey Blanchard-Webb was Woman of the match (not pictured) and was presented with a bottle of wine for her performance.

    YOUTH EDUCATION PROGRAMME

    Altrincham FC's Youth Education Programme (YEP) now has a team competing in the Conference Youth Alliance (North Division), managed by Ritchie Semple. There is now a section of this website dedicated to the YEP team, here.

    SATURDAY'S FRIENDLY

    Altrincham face 1874 Northwich in a friendly this Saturday (2pm at the J. Davidson Stadium) and their squad includes a number of names who have played for Alty. Amongst these are ex-Youth team players Ryan Barry (on loan at Northwich from Chester FC), Ryan Stewart and Stephen Crane.

    The forerunners of Northwich Victoria, Northwich Hare and Hounds and Football Club were founded in 1874, hence the new club's name. The club's motto is also that of The Cheshire Regiment who had associations with the Vics' former ground at the Drill Field.

    The NOrthwich Guardian reported recently that "Adam Foy believes 1874 Northwich are capable of competing for promotion at the first attempt, predicting the newly-formed club already has a squad equipped to play at a higher level. After seven successive wins in the North West Counties League, and only one defeat in Division One all season, the captain says his teammates’ confidence is high.

    Tuesday’s win at Leek CSOB, when leading scorer Mike Brandon took his goals tally to eight, leaves Ian Street’s men with a share of the lead with fellow pacesetters – and newcomers – Hanley Town.

    'This group is good enough to challenge for the title, without question', said the 32-year-old. 'We feel as though we can beat anybody at the moment, and there’s a buzz around the place... It’s a whole new team that was put together from scratch and many of us, including me, arrived late in pre-season. We’ve all needed time to get used to each other and how we play, as well as adapting to a formation that a lot of the lads haven’t tried before'.

    Manager Ian Street has continued to add to his squad even during 1874’s winning sequence, recruiting forward Matthew Ward from higher-ranked Droylsden... Picked as the North West Counties League Premier Division player of the year after netting 21 times for Winsford United the season before last, he will share the scoring load with Brandon.

    On-loan teenager Thomas Peers, Stuart Wellstead and Dean McGregor are alternatives in attack too... And Foy, skipper at landlords Winsford for the past two seasons, says he has no regrets at dropping down a level to play for Northwich. He added, 'It’s been great so far; the support we have as a team is fantastic'".

    SUPPORTING MARK AND THE MNDA

    Before Saturday's game against Guiseley a number of current Altrincham players posed for photos (by Gavin Rathbobe of GR Photography) to assist the publicity campaign for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). The MNDA seeks to raise funds and to make people more aware of the disease. Right, we see Mark Maddox's former team-mate, goalkeeper Stuart Coburn, "saving" the MNDA's striking poster which features Mark.

    This website now has a page devoted to Mark's campaigning for the MNDA, which can be found in the Community section of the site, here.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Another Skrill North manager has lost his job as Stalybridge Celtic's chairman, Rob Gorski, announces that "Jim Harvey has left his position as First Team Manager by mutual consent. Jim joined us in February 2010 and has had two promotion-challenging teams in that period. He has been a major driver in the youth policy that we have developed and he was instrumental in our change to a full time structure.

    I would like to put on record our sincere appreciation for all the hard work that Jim has put in over the past 3 1/2 years and we wish him every success in his future career. Colin Chambers, our excellent Academy Coach, will take control of training from tomorrow morning until a new appointment is made".

    According to the Holker Street Newsletter, "Barrow's decent home run of late took a turn for the worse when we lost 4-3 at Holker Street against Stockport County... This was Dale Johnson's last game in a Barrow shirt, as whilst his loan spell doesn't come to an end until Saturday, his host club, FC Halifax Town haven't granted him permission to play in the FA Cup, so he'll miss this weekend's game at Atherstone Town.

    However his short-term permanent contract with Halifax expires in a month, so whether he'll be back remains to be seen. Before the Stockport game, he told the Mail, 'It would be nice to score against a big team, it's always nice for anyone to score against a big team like Stockport. I don't feel like I've had as many chances as I would have liked. Whether it's just not falling for me, I don't know what it is'".

    According to the Football Conference, "Solihull Moors` goalkeeper Jasbir Singh was awarded the Asian Non-League Footballer of the Year last night... at the prestigious awards dinner at held at Wembley Stadium... which forms part of the Football Association’s 150th anniversary celebrations"

    NL Daily states that "New-boy Alex Wimmer hopes a starring role for Workington Reds could see him join Brad Friedel and Tim Howard as the latest American keeper to play in English football. The 6'5" goalkeeper from Philadelphia gave up basketball at the age of 16 to focus on his football.

    He was offered a place at Middlesbrough’s Academy but turned it down to continue his education after going on to study at Ohio University. Wimmer arrived in Britain in June to attend the International Football Academy (Lancashire), run by England keeper coach Billy Stewart...

    The 23-year-old hopes playing in competitive games will provide him with the opportunity with a full-time club...

    'I've played football since the age of four, and I've come over here following my dreams after watching the Premier League on TV', said Wimmer, who also holds a British passport through his mother.... 'I would like to stay over here as long as possible and play a few games for Workington. My agent set me up with a trial game and Darren Edmondson saw me and signed me... I train with Billy Stewart on days I'm not training with Workington. I feel as if I have improved as a goalkeeper since I came over here... There is good team chemistry, and there are no divisions"

    Pitchero Non-League reports that "Oxford City have signed young midfielder Josh Baines from neighbours Banbury United. Baines, who played for Salisbury City reserves towards the end of last season, signed for Banbury at the end of August. He has also played for Marlow and Chinnor".

    At Guiseley, the club "confirm the signing of forward Ryan Williams and the return of goalkeeper Steve Dickinson as well as the departure of two players from Nethermoor. Ryan, currently a student at Sheffield University, has signed after impressing in training over recent weeks and will fill the gap up front left by Adam Priestley who has returned to former club Farsley AFC.

    Steve, who last played for the club in the 2007/08 season, will replace goalkeeper Jon Worsnop who has returned to FC United of Manchester".

    OLD FOES

    "Hinckley United Football Club have released this statement following them being wound-up in court on Monday. It includes, "The business went into liquidation with liabilities in excess of a million pounds and the Board of Directors ourselves had invested a significant six-figure sum. We would like to assure all that any investigation into the running or financial affairs of the football club will be fully supported by the Board...

    The Board of Directors would also like to inform all supporters, sponsors and shareholders that their intention is to attempt to continue with a new football club playing at the Greene King Stadium and it is our intention that they will honour, where possible, any promises that have been made to shareholders in the past".

    OLD BOY

    Tuesday night saw Nantwich Town and FCUM draw 1-1 with the scorers both ex-Alty men, Aaron Burns for Town and Andrew Pearson for FCUM.
    9 October 2013

    PLANNING GO-AHEAD FOR ALTY'S COMMUNITY SPORTS HALL

    Altrincham FC has issued the following press release. More information, along with ways to donate can be found on the Community Sports Hall website. The text below can be viewed in its original pdf format here.

    "Altrincham Football Club has been granted planning permission to build a community sports hall following overwhelming support from councillors and local residents.

    The next challenge for the club is to secure financing for the project. The Robins recently set-up a non-profit company and are now in the process of applying to the Premier League and other organisations for funding.

    The cost of the development is expected to be in the region of £750,000 with the club expected to raise around £200,000 from fund-raising activities and sponsorship.

    The hall will host after-school clubs, disabled groups, ballroom dancing and sports such as yoga, martial arts, indoor bowls and badminton. The project is part of Alty’s London 2012 Olympic legacy.

    Chairman Grahame Rowley said, 'We want to provide a facility that benefits the whole town and gets people of all ages active and involved in sport, not just football. The hall will provide a real community hub but, to make it happen, we need local people and businesses to help. We will have a great facility here and we want it to serve the community, not just on match day. We have some fantastic sponsorship opportunities and events planned, so please get involved!'

    Altrincham supporters and members of the community can be part of this legacy building by sponsoring the community sports hall.

    Options include:

    • Donate £1,000 or more to the project and be recognised as a GIANTKILLER on our glass honours board. Local companies and partner organisations can donate £250 towards the project and have their logo displayed on our ‘Band of Community Businesses’ within the Sports Hall (30 x 15 inches per donation).
    • Donate £50 or more and be recognised as a Community Supporter on our glass honours board.

    Notes:

    • Altrincham FC has been based at Moss Lane for more than a century
    • The club runs a variety of community programmes and supports 37 junior football teams
    • The Community Sports Hall will be used by young people, the elderly, and disabled groups
    • The hall will be suitable for many sports including minority sports
    • The hall will be available for local sports clubs and schools
    • The hall will provide a facility for seminars, workshops, and local health/wellbeing groups
    • The hall will be used by the club on match-days

    The Sport Business CIC has been taken on by Altrincham FC to oversee fundraising and communications for the proposed development. The Sport Business is a Sale-based social enterprise. For more details, contact 0161 969 2242 / 07968 326541 or e-mail".

    ALTY GAME ON SATURDAY

    With no league or cup fixture this Saturday, Altrincham FC have arranged a friendly game at the J. Davidson Stadium, Moss Lane, kicking off at NB 2pm. The opposition will be 1874 Northwich, the club set up under the banner of the Northwich Victoria Supporters' Trust, in 2012. For the current season the club is playing in the North West Counties League, First Division, with their home fixtures taking place at Winsford United's Barton Stadium.

    Admission to all areas of the ground this Saturday will be £5 for adults, £3 for concessionaries and there will be free entry for under-12s.

    ALTY YEP TEAM WINS AGAIN

    Altrincham FC's Youth Education Programme team plays in the Conference Youth Alliance (North Division). Manager Ritchie Semple has kindly provided a report on the side's game on Tuesday, which ended with Altrincham winning 4-1 away to MMU.

    Match Report:

    Result: MMU 1 Altrincham FC Youth Education Programme 4. Scorers: Luke Crompton (15mins), Tom Clarke (35mins & 85mins), Louis Potts (65mins)

    Match Report:

    "Altrincham FC’s Youth Education Programme put in a dominant performance to beat a spirited MMU side 4-1 at Sandbach United FC.

    On a massive 3G pitch the game started very scrappily with both teams giving up possession too easily. The game started to settle when Alty worked out how to deal with MMU punting the long ball on every occasion.

    Alty took the lead on 15 minutes when a shot by Louis Potts was saved, but fell at the feet of Luke Crompton who couldn’t miss from two yards.

    MMU continued to use the long ball tactic and, following a mistake and rash challenge by Sam Heathcote, a penalty was awarded but, for the second week running, Matthew Johnson in the Alty goal saved low to his right.

    Alty now started to dominate and pile on the pressure and it came as no surprise when they doubled their lead when, following good link play between Ben Reid and Matty Hancock, the ball fell to Tom Clarke at the back post who headed the ball in via the crossbar.

    Following the break the second half started pretty much the same as the first with no team interested in keeping possession and a mixture of under-hit passes and poor decisions. Dan Jones was again dominant in midfield and, after winning a crunching tackle, sent a long diagonal pass to Luke Crompton on the left wing, who took on the full back and won a corner. Crompton took the corner himself and found the near post run of Louis Potts who flicked the ball into the bottom corner to give Alty a 3-1 lead on 65 minutes.

    MMU made their subs and changed formation, going three at the back but were creating no goal scoring opportunities. On the other hand, Alty were pressing forward and creating plenty of chances, going close with efforts from Jake Foy and Ben Reid. After another marauding run by Matty Hancock down the right, he came away with a corner, which was taken hard and low by Tom Westall. Tom Clarke called for Louis Potts to dummy the ball and, following a great first touch, Clarke smashed the ball home.

    There were no more chances in the last five minutes so the match finished 4-1 to Alty.

    Alty’s Team: Johnson, Hancock, Clarke, Heathcote, Westall, Jones, Walker, Potts, Reid, Foy, Crompton, Graetzer, Simpson, Longley".

    LADIES' NEXT GAME

    The next match for Altrincham FC Ladies is this Sunday (13th) at home to AFC Stockport in the Challenge Cup, at Beech Fields, off Langham Grove, Timperley WA15 6DY. Kick off is at 2pm.

    TWO JACKPOTS TO BE WON

    A second jackpot has been started for the Altrincham FC Saturday Yankee as the previous jackpot has now reached £5,000. Last week's winning code was 1729 which produced three winners of "Trebles", who each netted £50.

    MID-WEEK

    Tuesday 8 October:
    • Barrow 2-4 Stockport County
    • Vauxhall Motors 0-1 North Ferriby United

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Reports in the Shropshire Star say that "AFC Telford boss Liam Watson has backed winger Mike Phenix to continue being a 'super-sub' for the Bucks after the club's enforced break. Watson’s side will spend two weeks on the sidelines after Saturday’s scheduled clash with Brackley Town was rearranged due to the hosts’ involvement in the FA Cup.

    Phenix made sure Telford rebounded from their Cup defeat at home to Hednesford with a 1-0 win at Histon on Saturday, netting a second-half winner. The 23-year-old had only been on the pitch for three minutes and Watson revealed he had seen the player have a similar sort of impact for Skelmersdale United last season.

    The club gave him the chance to step up two leagues to the Skrill Conference North and Phenix has already chipped in two goals, both coming from the bench. Watson said, 'He’s done it a couple of times for us and he was used off the bench at Skelmersdale, too, and you used to wonder why. But he does seem to have a major impact that way'...

    A change in formation did the trick for Telford at the weekend with a 4-2-3-1 system making way for Watson’s favoured 4-4-2. Watson said, 'We played two totally different systems on Saturday... I would always like to play 4-4-2 but we have had to counteract problems where teams are coming and playing five in midfield'".


    8 October 2013

    CUSTOMER CARE

    Altrincham FC Safety Officer, Allison Lewis, reports that the stewards and catering staff at the J. Davidson Stadium are undertaking a training course with Telford College on 'Customer Care'. She writes that "Tony Dunkerley who leads the training has said that the training is open to anyone at the Club, so any of the turnstile operators, bar staff, match day staff are welcome to join us for our first session on Tuesday 15th October at 7.30pm in the Manchester Glass Ltd Sponsors' Lounge. There will be a certificate at the end of the course for anyone who completes the course, which will be good for your C.V.".

    GUISELEY GAME REVIEWED

    Alty TV (right) has the highlights of the Altrincham v Guiseley game last Saturday.

    John Edwards, Altrincham's joint Press Officer, writes that "James Walshaw expressed his delight at sharing the scoring spotlight with goal machine Damian Reeves after a quickfire hat-trick put paid to his old club Guiseley and kept Altrincham in the thick of the Skrill North promotion race.

    The former Guiseley striker is now out on his own as top scorer on nine goals after a stunning second-half performance helped shake off the lingering disappointment of losing to Trafford in the FA Cup.

    But he was quick to credit the influence of Reeves, whose overall tally of 101 league goals makes him only the club’s fourth centurion, behind Graham Heathcote (104), Walter Jones (117) and the incomparable Jackie Swindells (195).

    ‘Usually, at the start of the season, I set myself a figure to aim for, but not this time,’ he said. ‘The target this season was simply to try and keep up with Reevesie. He seems to hit the 40 mark every time, so if I can do that, I’ll be more than happy. I’m certainly pleased with nine, so far, but the most important thing was the result. It was imperative we won, because everyone was really disappointed with the performance and result at Trafford. That wasn’t a true reflection of this side, and everyone was pretty quiet in training during the week.

    ‘Maybe there was a slight hangover from that in the first half against Guiseley, because we played pretty badly and could easily have been a couple of goals down. Half-time was important, for turning things round, but to be fair to the manager (Lee Sinnott), he didn’t give us too much of a rollicking.

    ‘He calmed us down, made a couple of changes by sending on Bruno (Carl Rodgers) and James Lawrie and basically changed the system. He did really well for us, because we were a different team in the second half, and James made a fantastic contribution.

    ‘It was great to get a hat-trick, and Reevesie did what he does best for his goal. There is real competition for places up front, so I know I’ve got to keep producing. That goes for all of us. There are four or five teams that look capable of challenging for promotion, so we’ve all got to keep plugging away.’"

    Alty TV also has a post-match interview with James Walshaw conducted by Brian Flynn.

    Kevin Thompson's excellent new Alty & Sale Sport Show has post-match interviews with Nicky Clee and Shaun Densmore.

    The Telegraph and Argus claims that "Two Guiseley old boys wrecked the chances of their former club pulling off a shock victory at Altrincham. The Lions dominated the first half and went into the break with a deserved lead at Moss Lane. However, they were blown away by a four-goal salvo inside 16 second-half minutes as James Walshaw and Damian Reeves ripped through their fragile defence..

    It all began to unravel just four minutes after the interval when a long ball over the top saw Walshaw in the danger zone. A clumsy foul and a clinical finish from the penalty spot by the former Lions striker began the landslide..

    Shell-shocked boss Mark Bower said, 'We didn’t defend the long ball, gave a penalty away and gift-wrapped another goal for them. We all know goals change games and from then on the confidence drained away. The last person you want to gift wrap chances for is James Walshaw... I’m finding it hard to explain why these players who were so good in the first half made so many errors in the second half'".

    More on this comes from the Yorkshire Evening Post, which says that "Former Guiseley striker James Walshaw bagged a 15-minute hat-trick as the Lions were sunk 4-1 at Altrincham... Guiseley have now lost six matches in a row in all competitions and find themselves 20th in the table.

    Harrogate Town also endured an afternoon to forget as they fell to a 2-0 loss at Gainsborough Trinity".

    Last Saturday's TASC bucket collection raised £46.74. Thanks go to the donors and collectors for their efforts.

    LADIES' NARROW DEFEAT

    Keith Edleston, manager of Altrincham FC Ladies advises us that his team suffered a narrow 4-5 defeat on Sunday to Warrington Wolverines. Keith says that it was a "very entertaining game, one which swung from end to end throughout the 90 minutes. Goalscorers were Tracey Blanchard-Webb (x2), Nat Thornley and Hannah Shufflebotham. The Player of the Match picked by The Blue Dog Bar was Tracey Blanchard-Webb. There will be a full report to follow tomorrow".

    Above, the teams line up before kick off.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Gainsborough Trinity confirm that "It is with great regret, after a meeting today at Wembley Stadium, Gainsborough Trinity FC have been removed from the 2013/14 FA Cup. It was decided by a sub committee meeting today, Monday 7th October, after a protest was lodged last week by Rushall Olympic FC in reference to player Jordan Thomas.

    Gainsborough Trinity were found guilty of playing Jordan Thomas in the FA Cup tie against Rushall on 28th September 2013. The sub committee claim that he was not registered for Gainsborough Trinity and the Football Association registration department claim that they never received any loan paperwork before the deadline of 12pm on Friday 27th September.

    Evidence was presented to the sub committee showing that an email with loan forms was sent from Lincoln City at 10.19am on Friday 27th September and to the Football Conference at 10.20am. The Football Conference confirmed this loan, but the Football Association are saying that they never received the email.

    Gainsborough Trinity Football Club are proud to take part in such competitions like the FA Cup and FA Trophy and to be removed from the competition like this really hurts, but we have to move on.

    The club will be looking to investigate all failings around Jordan's loan from Lincoln and will learn from this going forward. Gainsborough Trinity will decide whether to appeal the sub committee decision once we have got all the paperwork from the Football Association and gathered more evidence from Lincoln City. No other statement will be made at this time".

    Trinity were to play Stockport County in the next round, from whom we learn that "Following Saturday’s fantastic 4-0 win over Worcester City, Alan Lord was rewarded for his productive spell as caretaker manager with confirmation he will take on the Edgeley Park hotseat permanently. Lord assumed temporary control following Ian Bogie’s shock resignation only 5 games into the season.

    Since taking over the team have found some form with 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss in all competitions with 3 clean sheets in the last 3 games...

    'I’m very pleased and very proud, I get emotional at stuff like this'" said Lord.

    His philosophy of securing clean sheets to set a solid foundation for winning games has worked wonders for the team and County fans will be hoping that Saturday’s game sets the tone for even more wins to propel the team up the table.

    'It’s been a real experience for me over the past four or five weeks and I know I’ve had a bit of criticism for trying to get clean sheets but I wanted to build some blocks and lay some foundations to build on. And I think the fruits of that were born today. Some of the performances from the lads were fantastic and I wouldn’t want to say who was our best player because it was difficult to know.

    It’s not been easy. We set out with a plan to get better to get a bit more stability, to really start developing the team and get some confidence. You can’t do it in a week or two, it’s a long process but I’ve got to say it’s not about what I’ve done. The players were the heroes today, they were unbelievable and I’m so pleased for the fans. They’ve waited a long time for this'".

    At our next league opponents "Brackley Town manager Jon Brady said he was disappointed with the way his side had to hold on towards the end of their 2-1 victory over Vauxhall Motors at the weekend" reports Buckingham Today. "Goals from Steve Diggin and Izak Reid had put a dominant Saints side 2-0 ahead but Matthew Williams hit back for the visitors and Brackley needed some desperate last-ditch defending to hang on in the closing minutes.

    Brady said, 'I thought the first 25 minutes we were excellent. We pressed them hard, dominated the game and that’s how we got our first goal – through pressing. I felt, at times, there were too many gaps between the back four, the middle four and the front two, and they were allowed to play between the lines. I wasn’t impressed by it at all. I’m more annoyed and disappointed rather than relieved by the fact that we had to hold on. We should have been dominating that game right to the end. But take nothing away from Vauxhall, they passed the ball and moved the ball very quickly, like we did in the first 25 minutes'

    Brackley are second in the table, one point off leaders Hednesford, having won seven and drawn three of their opening 10 matches, but Brady feels there is still more to come from his side, adding, 'Maybe we could be a little bit critical but the fantastic thing is that I feel we can still be 50% better, especially on the ball, so to be honest, it’s not a bad position to be in if you’re not pushing yourself to the limit but are in second place'.

    Brady was also pleased with Kevin Roberts's performance on his Brackley debut after signing on loan from Cambridge United last week".

    OLD FOES GO BUMP

    "The end has finally arrived for cash-strapped Hinckley United today with the club announcing it has officially been liquidated". On Twitter, the Club said “At 11.15am this morning Hinckley United FC have ceased to exist",

    This is Leicestershire explains that "Legal proceedings were brought by former chairman Kevin Downes, who resigned as chairman in July last year claiming the club owed him more than £187,000. It is believed the latest debt mostly comes from unpaid rent on a building on the Leicester Road site which belongs to Mr Downes’s family pension fund and is leased to the club.

    Paul Moss, the club’s commercial director, confirmed its fate... Commenting on the demise of the club he co-founded in 1997, Mr Downes said, 'I feel extremely sad. It is just a huge shame'".

    According to Bulls' News "Hinckley United have been wound up at the High Court this morning. In a bizarre twist to their ongoing saga, the club asked to be wound up with the applicants, the pension fund of the former chairman, asking for a further delay to resolve matters... with fans expected to reform [the club] for the start of next season."

    FA CUP

    Trafford report that "Four players have been nominated for the Budweiser Player of the Round award following their performance in The FA Cup Second Round Qualifying... The selections for the Second Round Qualifying... [include] Michael Oates, Trafford. Michael Oates booked Trafford’s place in the next round with a second-half winner against Altrincham – handing Garry Vaughan’s men a notable FA Cup scalp... Oates made up for an earlier miss to fire the ball into the roof of the net just after the hour mark for a deserved victory".
    7 October 2013

    FAIR PLAY

    Altrincham are currently top of the national Non-League Paper Fair Play League, a competition they won in 2011/12 season. Coincidentally, the only other Skrill North club in the top ten is Brackley Town, whom we meet in our next league fixture on 19 October at the J. Davidson Stadium, Moss Lane. Altrincham players have received six yellow cards in their ten league games to date.

    GUISELEY GAME

    Match report here.

    If you missed the live Radio Robins' commentary on Saturday's game you can catch it as follows:

    Guiseley report that "Having had the better of the first half, an early penalty conversion by ex-Lions' favourite James Walshaw, just after the restart, cancelled out Michael Potts's early strike and seemed to suck the life out of the visitors as Walshaw scored another two to add to Damian Reeves’ strike for the third.

    Potts gave Guiseley the best possible start after just three minutes when he converted Louie Swaine’s pull back from the by-line as the visitors took the game to their higher placed opponents but couldn’t turn their surfeit of posession into a crucial second goal despite some enterprising and confident play that restricted Alty to just two efforts on goal.

    All that changed four minutes into the second period though as Walshaw scored from the spot after being brought down in the area and when debutant Matt Clarke missed his cue Walshaw was on hand to dink a shot over Steve Drench for the second four minutes later. Worse was to follow just before the hour as Reeves stooped to head home from a corner, and Walshaw completed his hat-trick courtesy of some slack marking on 65 minutes.

    For their part the Lions looked a demoralised side once Alty had levelled and on this performance it looks like a long hard season ahead as the Lions languish in the bottom three".

    OLD BOYS

    Old boys in the news include former reserve goalkeeper Craig Ellison, who has moved to Ashton United from Vauxhall Motors. Former Alty players who scored goals on Saturday included Nantwich Town's Aaron Burns, Leek Town's Anthony Danylyk, Burscough striker Mark Beesley and Farsley FC's Lee Ellington.

    MID-WEEK

    Tuesday 8 October:
    • Barrow v Stockport County
    • Vauxhall Motors v North Ferriby United

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    In the Football Conference, "Stalybridge Celtic have re-signed [ex-Alty] goalkeeper Andy Ralph. Ralph had re-joined Celtic from New Zealand side Waitakere United in August 2012. However, just 2 minutes into the first game of the season away at Workington, he was involved in a bad challenge that broke his leg.

    Ralph came through the academy set-up at Everton before making the move to Tranmere Rovers. He should have progressed to the first-team at Prenton Park, but with a change of management he was released and joined Kidsgrove Athletic at the end of the 2001/02 season, but wasn't there long before joining Vauxhall Motors.

    After a spell with Northwich Victoria, Ralph moved across Cheshire to Altrincham where he made seven appearances and kept six clean sheets. In 2009 he moved to Australia and played in their first division and then sailed south to join Waitakere United in New Zealand.

    He had a previous loan spell with Stalybridge in 2004. He left Celtic in the summer and had a brief spell with Scottish side Partick Thistle before returning to Bower Fold".

    Further north, "Barrow AFC have signed experienced midfielder Keith Briggs on a month's loan from FC Halifax Town, with FA Cup permission... with Sam Sheridan ill and Alex-Ray Harvey out for four more weeks. Briggs, 31, can play in central midfield, the right side of midfield and right-back. Born in Glossop, Derbyshire, Briggs began his career as a trainee Stockport County in August 1999 where he made sixty-eight League and cup appearances before joining Norwich City in January 2003 for £65,000.

    Unable to establish a regular place in the first-team at Carrow Road, he spent a loan spell at Crewe Alexandra before being released in September 2004 and returning to Stockport in January 2005... He joined Shrewsbury Town on non-contract terms in January 2008... and joined Mansfield Town on loan in February 2008... and played for Stalybridge Celtic during the 2008/09 season.

    In 2011 he signed a two-year deal with Fleetwood Town for a fee believed to be in the region of £8,000. Upon his release he re-signed with Kidderminster Harriers in 2012. At the end of the 2012/13 season Briggs signed a contract with FC Halifax keeping him at The Shay until 2014."

    According to Skrill Football, "Cambridge United defender Kevin Roberts has joined Brackley Town on a one-month loan agreement. The 24-year-old has found his first-team chances limited under Richard Money this term, making just one appearance in the Skrill Premier... The former Chester FC player, who can also be deployed in a midfield berth, has racked up 100 appearances for the U's".

    Elsewhere, "Boston United have confirmed the signing of midfielder Jake Hall from Boreham Wood. The 23-year-old was reportedly a transfer target for Luton Town, but has opted to sign for the Pilgrims... Hall, who can also operate in a defensive role, joined 'The Wood' in September this year following spells with Dagenham & Redbridge, Grays Athletic and Bromley".

    Saturday's Skrill North attendances were:

    • Altrincham v Guiseley 838
    • Boston United v Barrow 1,041
    • Brackley Town v Vauxhall Motors 320
    • Colwyn Bay v North Ferriby United 257
    • Gainsborough Trinity v Harrogate Town 401
    • Hednesford Town v Gloucester City 750
    • Histon v AFC Telford United 350
    • Oxford City v Stalybridge Celtic 223
    • Solihull Moors v Bradford Park Avenue 374
    • Stockport County v Worcester City 2,332
    • Workington v Leamington 359

    The Boston Standard says that "Stefan Galinski gave his Boston United teammates the thumbs up for the determined spirit which saw the Pilgrims beat Barrow 1-0... following a scrappy, physically tough match.

    'The most important thing today was keeping a clean sheet', said Galinski, who was part of a Pilgrims back line which had to work overtime to repel the waves of late attacks from the visitors... 'It wasn’t pretty. It was workmanlike, tough, but job done'...

    Victory came at a price for United, with [ex-Alty loanee] defender Carl Piergianni, midfielder Ian Ross and forward Ben Fairclough all forced from the field of play through injury. Galinski himself finished the contest with a shiner.... With Piergianni playing the first half with a bandaged head and fellow defender Scott Garner ruled out due to a similar injury, Galinski was happy to accept it was his turn to take one for the team...

    He added, 'I’ve played the last two games and the last two clean sheets, hopefully the gaffer will look at that... Centre half is my position. But, hopefully, the gaffer knows the minumum he can do is chuck me in there and I’ll do a job for him... If they look up in the dictionary what sexy football means, that was the last 25 minutes', he said with sarcasm, but delight in his side’s fighting spirit, especially as Indy Aujla and Jake Hall impressed on their home debuts...

    Obviously, losing Pidge (Piergianni) was a real blow because they were a big, big side.. They’re giants and we can’t win the first ball. It’s just panicking, it’s corner after corner. We had no height left... Fairclough (cramp), Ross (toe) and Piergianni (dead leg) are all expected to be fit for selection on Saturday when Boston travel to face league rivals Brackley in the FA Cup. Greene also confirmed that leading scorer Marc Newsham (ankle) and Garner (head wound) will also be ready for action following a two-match absence".


    6 October 2013

    NEW RECRUITS PROVIDE ENTERTAINING EVENING

    Saturday evening witnessed the latest in the series of "Meet the New Recruits" events and, as usual, it produced an entertaining evening and a win on the pitch! With a raffle and auction, the event also helped to raise funds for the proposed Community Sports Hall at Moss Lane.

    The guests were James Walshaw, who had hit a hat-trick a few hours earlier against Guiseley, Kyle Perry, Junior Smikle and Danny Boshell. Junior and Kyle travel to Alty together, whilst James and Danny are, likewise, car-sharers from West Yorkshire. The event was compered by Brian Flynn and the excellent food was provided by Richie Bentley. Thanks, too, go to the volunteers who helped with the serving and provision of drinks.

    The players were asked to introduce themselves and we learnt that James Walshaw is an electronics engineer, whilst it came as a surprise to us all that Kyle Perry fronts a band called Stubblemelt - though he had perhaps mentioned that once or twice before! Danny does HGV driving and works for a firm of aluminium equipment suppliers. Junior told us that he had come to the club via his fellow West Midlander, Kyle Perry, who had suggested that he contact Lee Sinnott over last summer.

    Later in the evening Junior explained that he has always been known as "Junior" because his father shares the same forename of Brian, so "Junior" distinguished him from his dad. He also confirmed the pronunciation of his name as "Smykul" and that when people asked him if, at 5ft 9ins and a winger with a West Midlands background, he was related to the 6ft 3inch blond Danish goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, he would say "Yes" just to end that line of conversation!

    The players outlined their careers, with Danny having the most Football League experience after spending 8 years at Oldham Athletic from the age of 16, which included a loan to Bury under the managership of former Alty stalwart, Graham Barrow. A year at Stockport County, four years at Grimsby Town and a spell with Chesterfield completed his League experience, before he moved to Guiseley.

    Kyle revealed that it had been his ambition to play for Walsall's first team and he spent nine years at his local Midlands club before the demise of their manager Paul Merson undid his ambitions. Spells with Hednesford, Willenhall and Chasetown led to Alty's current boss Lee Sinnott taking him to League club, Port Vale. Spells at Mansfield, Tamworth and Lincoln City followed. Kyle expressed his respect for Lee Sinnott, whom he felt had had a raw deal at Vale, where the club was suffering from internal conflict at the time.

    Junior told us how he had joined West Brom at the age of 13 and spent 7 years at The Hawthorns, followed by four with Kidderminster Harriers. After two more years at Cheltenham Town, he arrived at Hereford United for a season. He said that he had "lost his love" for football but coming to Altrincham has revived that sentiment.

    Surprisingly, James Walshaw had no Football League experience, having started out with five or six years at Ossett Town, before spells with Leek Town and Guiseley preceded his arrival at Moss Lane. James said he was grateful to Ossett boss Gary Brook for teaching him a lot in his early football career. For his part, Danny said that John Sheridan at Oldham was the player from whom he had learnt most, whilst Junior named Ronnie Wallwork at WBA as the best player he had played with.

    As for regrets, Danny had been talked out of joining Derby County whilst at Oldham and he had also attracted interest from Burnley and Birmingham City. Kyle regretted not joining Manchester City at the age of 12 when he had the chance to do so; doing so would have meant living in digs miles away from home. Junior's biggest disappointment was being in the Kidderminster side which had led 2-0 in the FA Trophy final at the new Wembley, only to lose 3-2. James revealed that, whilst at Ossett, he had declined an approach from Lincoln City as he had wished to complete his electronics studies.

    Amongst the opponents that the guests admired, James Walshaw picked Kyle MacFadzean as one of his most impressive markers. Brian Flynn reminded us that MacFadzean's father, John, had briefly played for Alty in the 1990s.

    The players uniformly said that the dressing room atmosphere was good at Moss Lane and admiration was expressed for the excellent family atmosphere of Altrincham FC. James and Danny both underlined how small things, like seeing the chairman (Grahame Rowley) putting divots back on the pitch, epitomised the sort of club it was. Such things, they said, made them go "the extra mile". Praise was also forthcoming for the playing surface at the J. Davidson Stadium, which is expertly maintained by Neil Brown.

    Amongst the players' tips for teams to win the Skrill North (excluding Alty) this season were Hednesford Town, Brackley Town and Solihull Moors. The players believed that Alty would be competitive if promoted, saying that the gap in quality between the Skrill divisions was small and that the key attribute for the national division was the ability to achieve consistent results.

    When the next New Recruits event comes around, make sure you get a ticket as the events give a unique insight into the club's playing staff!

    ALTRINCHAM 4 GUISELEY 1

    Above: James Walshaw nets from the spot to make it 1-1.

    After a poor first half in which Guiseley deservedly led from a third minute goal by Potts, Lee Sinnott made decisive changes of personnel and formation as he brought on Rodgers and Lawrie at the interval. He pushed Densmore into midfield as Rodgers slotted into a three-man the back line. Within five minutes, James Walshaw had been brought down and scored from the spot against his former club...

    Match report here.

    CROSSBAR CHALLENGE

    In the absence of Neil Tolson, Saturday's "Crossbar Challenge" was held at half-time in the game against Guiseley. In place of Neil, former Altrincham winger Colin Potts was the guest to take on Altrincham FC goalkeeping coach Ian Senior. The competition is to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association of which former Alty captain Mark Maddox is a talisman.

    Colin showed that he has lost none of his playing expertise as he beat Ian 1-0 in the shoot out on the pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium.

    "CROSSTOWN TRAFFORD"

    Barry Pikesley's entertaining reflections on last week's FA Cup exit at Trafford form the starting point for his entertaining article in last Saturday's "Robins' Review". The full article is here.
    5 October 2013

    SATURDAY'S GAMES

    Saturday's Skrill North results are:
    • Altrincham 4-1 Guiseley
    • Boston United 1-0 Barrow
    • Brackley Town 2-1 Vauxhall Motors
    • Colwyn Bay 0-3 North Ferriby United
    • Gainsborough Trinity 2-0 Harrogate Town
    • Hednesford Town 4-1 Gloucester City
    • Histon 0-1 AFC Telford Utd
    • Oxford City 2-1 Stalybridge Celtic
    • Solihull Moors 2-2 Bradford Park Avenue
    • Stockport County 4-0 Worcester City
    • Workington 1-2 Leamington
    • Howard Watts's Through the Years.

    ALTRINCHAM v GUISELEY MATCH COVERAGE

    Brian Flynn writes that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Saturday's game at the J.Davidson Stadium against Guiseley. Coverage starts at 2.50pm with the game kicking off at 3.00pm. You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com. The commentatory team is Simon Ellis and Ian Wilkinson with match summaries from Brian Flynn.

    Dan Whitelegg will be providing regular updates on Twitter (@altrinchamfc) as well as half-time and full time updates on facebook (Altrincham FC).

    Also, this website will be providing its usual matchday updates throughout the game, starting from as soon as the line-ups are available. The various alternatives can be found via the icons below and in the right sidebar.

     radiorobins

    ALTRINCHAM v GUISELEY - BEFORE THE MATCH

    Mike Garnett summarises the previous meetings between these two clubs:
    • Home p4-w2-d1-l1-f6-a5
    • Away p6-w0-d2-l4-f6-a14
    • All p10-w2-d3-l5-f12-a19

    Altrincham have ex-Guiseley players in James Walshaw and Danny Boshell and the Yorkshire Evening Post writes that it is "Bittersweet for Walshaw as Guiseley visit thriving Altrincham. Former Guiseley hot-shot James Walshaw admits he is surprised by the Lions' limp early season form – but is tipping them to come good.

    The Altrincham striker, who left Nethermoor under a bit of a cloud in the summer, locks horns with his old club at Moss Lane tomorrow and his move looks a shrewd one on this season’s evidence.

    While Guiseley, in the play-offs for the past three seasons, are languishing in the bottom six, [and] have parted company with long-serving boss Steve Kittrick and are on a five-match losing sequence, it’s a far healthier situation for Lee Sinnott’s Alty.

    The Cheshire club, who also boast the striking prowess of ex-Farsley marksman Damian Reeves in their ranks, are third in the table and currently 12 points better off than Guiseley, now managed by Walshaw’s former team-mate Mark Bower. On the Lions’ alarming run, Walshaw, top-scorer in his first spell with Guiseley in 2009-10 and 2010-11 with 27 and 32 goals respectively ahead of rejoining the club in early 2012, said, 'I am very surprised. The club shouldn’t be where they are and they have really good players, some of the best in the league. It will be a tough game for us. Guiseley have had some tough games and obviously, things weren’t right with the old manager and you could probably tell with the results. But they have a new manager in now and have an easier run after us, so I do expect them to be moving up the table and competing for the play-off spots.

    I think Mark is a top lad and I used to get on with him when I was there last year. He hasn’t had a good time of it in his first few games but he hasn’t had chance to put his stamp on the team. Once he does that, signs all his own men and gets his tactics over to the players, I am sure they will do well'.

    On the personal significance of the game for himself, he added, 'When the fixtures came out, I was looking forward to this game straightaway. It will be good to see the fans and a lot of friends I have got at Guiseley and I know quite a lot of the players still. But, ultimately, it’s about concentrating on the game and trying to get a win for Altrincham. I have spoken to a couple of players, but haven’t had much bad banter!...

    I’ve got six [goals] in my last eight [games] and I am really enjoying it at Altrincham and getting a few chances and will be looking to continue that on Saturday. Let’s just hope I get a few chances and put them away. If I score, it will be mixed emotions. I would be happy to keep my goalscoring run up, but I also want Guiseley to do well'”.

    The Telegraph & Argus adds that "Guiseley’s tough run of fixtures is unrelenting and they travel to high-flying Altrincham with former City defender Matt Clarke expected to make his debut. The Lions are still seeking their first point under new manager Mark Bower...

    Looking to kick-start his reign at Lee Sinnott’s side is a tough ask, as 'Sinbad’s' Alty are third in the table... Guiseley are a lowly 17th following four straight defeats...

    Bower said, 'We need to put chances away if we are going to get out of this run but we must improve at the back as well... We have to be better in both final thirds of the pitch'. Clarke is still awaiting his first appearance after picking up a calf injury but he is in contention tomorrow, while young striker Louie Swain, on loan from Valley Parade, should make his second start after his debut in the cup against Park Avenue".

    YOUTH TEAM'S THREE HOMES!

    Altrincham FC Youth's next fixtures include three home games, each at a different venue! Another oddity is that the away fixture (v. Abbey Hey) is actually at a ground nearer to Altrincham than it is to the away team's base in Gorton.

    • Thu. 10.10.13, FA Youth Cup 2nd QR, Home (at J. Davidson Stadium, Moss Lane, 7.45pm) to Vauxhall Motors
    • Sun. 13.10.13, NWYA Premier League, Away (at Egerton Sports Club, Knutsford, 2.30pm), to Abbey Hey
    • Sun. 20.10.13, CCFA District Youth Cup, Home (at Trafford FC, 2pm) to Mid-Cheshire FA
    • Sun. 27.10.13, NWYA Open Cup, Home (at Hale Country Club & Spa, Clay Lane, 1.30pm) to Bootle

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    The Football Conference says that "Workington have signed former Bradford City midfielder Luke Dean. Bradford Park Avenue signed Dean from Conference North rivals Harrogate Town in August, but he moved on to Buxton just over a month later. Dean had originally joined Harrogate for a month`s loan from Bradford City.

    He had previous Conference North experience when he played for Hinckley United and has also played for FC Halifax Town and Ossett Town on loan a couple of seasons ago. Recalled back to Bradford on 12th November 2011, he then re-joined Harrogate the following March and made the move permanent in July 2012".

    Also, "Central defender Mark Gray has decided to leave Frickley Athletic and rejoin North Ferriby United. Gray had two months on loan at Frickley from Gainsborough Trinity before joining the club on contract in January 2012. Originally a junior at Grimsby Town, he moved onto Ferriby in July 2012. Gray only rejoined the Blues from Ferriby in the summer but the Humbersiders submitted a seven-day notice of approach last week and he has now decided to take up their offer".

    According to Skrill Football, "Gainsborough Trinity boss Steve Housham has added to his midfield options with the capture of Alastair Taylor on a month's loan from Alfreton Town. Housham admitted this week that he was 'down to the bare bones' in the middle of the park after confirming Michael Leary would soon undergo surgery.

    However, the 37-year-old tactician has moved to lift the burden on his midfielders by bringing in Taylor on a short-term deal. The 22-year-old has managed just two appearances for the Reds in their opening 12 games of the Skrill Premier season... Taylor will remain at the Northolme until November 9 and will be available to feature in the FA Cup for Housham's side".

    We learn from the Shropshire Star "AFC Telford United manager Liam Watson today called for supporters to stick with his side as they look to get back on track at Histon... on the back of a run that stands at one win in five games...

    There’s likely to be changes for the game at Bridge Road and Watson's side may look to keep the ball more on the deck, in a bid to play their way through the hosts. He said, 'We just have to go to Histon, kick on and put in a proper performance. We need to get some smiles on our faces and come home with a win. It's important that we be positive. We need to keep on believing that the players are good enough to get us to where we want to be. The only way we are ever going to get team spirit is by everyone pulling in the right way.

    We are going to carry on working extremely hard and we do need to play a little bit more football but it's easier said than done. I know where we are and where we are trying to get to. Let’s get the players focused and the fans behind us, we need all aspects of the club to be going in the right direction if we are going to achieve anything. Just stick with us'.

    The 10-game mark will pass after tomorrow's game with Telford, at best, gleaning 18 points. That’s two down from the 20 Watson was hoping for at the start of the season. Want-away AFC Telford United defender Dan Preston was today linked to a loan move with Alfreton".

    The Warwick Courier reports that "Leamington summer signing Paul McCone has left the club. McCone, who been a reassuring presence at both centre-back and right-back for Brakes, is expected to return to former club Stourbridge.

    Manager Paul Holleran said he had been aware of McCone’s desire to leave the New Windmill for a few weeks and admitted there was little he could do to change his mind. 'He’s come across and he hasn’t settled', said Holleran. 'His heart’s not at the football club and he’s not enjoying it here. He’s another one struggling with the start we’ve had and there have been little things off the pitch as well as on it. With the start we’ve had, it’s been a challenge for everyone and we need players that are up for the challenge'.

    There was better news for Holleran with the addition of two former young professionals, Josh Hawker and Luke Connolly, in time for tomorrow’s fixture at Workington. Connolly is a versatile defender who can play anywhere across the back four. The 20-year-old spent nine years at West Bromwich Albion, captaining the under-18s and playing regularly for the reserves before moving to play in Sweden after his release.

    Connolly returned from a serious knee injury to see out last season with Solihull Moors, who loaned him out to Redditch United for the early part of the 2013/14 campaign.

    Midfielder Hawker, who is also 20, is a former first and second year professional at Birmingham City and held a first team squad number at St Andrew's last season. Released in the summer, he continued his rehabilitation with the Blues following a car crash and is now fully fit... Holleran also revealed that midfielder Alex Taylor is awaiting a scan on the knee injury he suffered at Solihull Moors."

    WeIn the Northampton Chronicel comes news that "Jon Brady says there is a stronger mentality among his Brackley squad this season. The Saints claimed a gritty 1-0 win in an FA Cup second qualifying round replay at Gresley on Tuesday night... to ensure Brackley were not dumped out by lower-league opposition for the third successive season...

    And Brady said, 'The squad has improved from what we’ve been through together during the past couple of years... They’ve got a stronger mentality'".

    "MOORE THAN A QUIZ"

    The following is a Football Conference press release from Colin Peake, PR & Media Director...

    "The Football Conference is pleased to align itself to the great work which 'Bowel Cancer' charity fundraising receives from the Bobby Moore Fund. In an attempt to raise the profile of the charitable work the Trust does in his memory, and to aid financial income, Brian Lee, the Chairman of the Football Conference, wishes for all member clubs to circulate this great cause via match day programmes, club websites, and all forms of social media networks.

    He stated 'Bobby Moore is a legend to the English game and [so, too, is] the work done in his name, since his untimely death, to promote and support research and understanding into bowel cancer. The work of his trust is also now a legend. Please, in October, try your best to support them. It is so easy and costs so little but, with many responding, it can produce so much Mo(o)r(e)'. Thank you in anticipation of your cooperation in promoting and supporting 'Moore than a Quiz'.

    A supporting document entitled "Moore than a Quiz" states...

    "Help us beat bowel cancer sooner by holding Moore than a Quiz, the Bobby Moore Fund’s brand new quiz pack. Just call to register for your FREE quiz pack now on 0870 6091966

    The Moore than a Quiz pack includes:

    • Question sheets with 6 rounds of 10 questions
    • Answer sheet
    • 15 x table displays
    • 20 x red (joker) cards
    • 5 x posters
    • 1 x money return form

    It’s so easy to hold Moore than a Quiz and [it] provides great entertainment for your club. You can hold your quiz anytime as it is a great opportunity to test your sporting and general knowledge while fundraising for the Bobby Moore Fund.

    How you can help us beat bowel cancer sooner...

    The Moore than a Quiz pack is completely free. However, we want to raise as much money as we can for live-saving bowel cancer research. With this in mind, we ask that the quiz entry fee is donated to the Bobby Moore Fund with a suggested donation of £5 per person or £20 for a team of 5. You can also do other fundraising games like ‘spot the ball’ or a raffle. Call now to register for your FREE quiz pack on 0870 6091966 Enjoy Moore than a Quiz and thank you for helping us beat bowel cancer sooner".


    4 October 2013

    EVERYONE AVAILABLE

    Manager Lee Sinnott reported after Thursday night training that it looks likely that everyone will be available for Saturday's game against Guiseley, including former Lions' player Danny Boshell who has missed recent games with injury.

    MAKE A DAY OF IT!

    On Saturday Altrincham FC's Noel White Suite will be showing a Premiership match on TV both before and after the Alty v Guiseley game. At 12.45pm Manchester City kick off at home to Everton, whilst at 5.30pm, Manchester United are away to Sunderland. The bar will open c.12.15pm.

    And, also, there is the latest New Recruits Evening; this starts at 7.15p.m. for 7.30pm (not 7pm as previously advertised) in the Manchester Glass Sponsors' Lounge. The guests are Kyle Perry, James Walshaw, Danny Boshell and Junior Smikle. Details are on the clickable poster, right. Just a few tickets remain so please contact the club (0161 928-1045) to secure yours as quickly as possible.

    ALTY'S Y.E.P. TEAM WINS

    As well as George Heslop's Altrincham FC Youth team and the Juniors age-group teams, the Club now has a Altrincham FC Youth Education Programme team, which plays in the Conference Youth Alliance (North Division). Manager Ritchie Semple has kindly provided a report on the side's game on Wednesday, which ended Altrincham FC Youth Education Programme 2 Macclesfield Town FC 1. The goal scorers were Luke Crompton (15 mins), Ben Reid (88 mins).

    Match Report:

    Altrincham FC’s Youth Education Programme team scored a late goal to win the game 2-1 against Macclesfield Town FC after an outstanding team performance.

    Alty enjoyed near domination in the first half, and it came as no surprise when they took the lead on 15 mins with a fine goal from Luke Crompton. Following great link play from Dan Jones and Jake Foy, Luke cut in from the left and fired an unstoppable near post shot into the bottom corner.

    Alty continued to dominate and went close several times through Louis Potts and Jake Foy. Tom Clarke and Sam Heathcote looked solid at the back and Dan Jones organised the midfield that controlled the game throughout.

    The score line was only 1-0 at the break despite Alty’s’ impressive performance. As the players tired the game became stretched but all the chances fell to Alty but a lack of focus by the defence in the 80th minute saw them concede an equaliser, after a hopeful ball was flicked on to an unmarked forward who slotted the ball past the advancing Johnson in the Alty goal.

    Macclesfield Town pressed forward and after a mix up in defence Johnson in the Alty goal brought down the Macc centre forward and a penalty was awarded. Matt Johnson saved the penalty and with great agility cleared the rebound, a quality double save that spurred the Alty team in to one last effort.

    With time running out the ball was played through the midfield to Jake Foy who span his marker and played the ball across the box to Ben Reid whose first time shot found the bottom corner of the net.

    There were no more chances in the last few minutes so the match finished 2-1 to Alty, a thoroughly deserved win.

    Alty’s Team: Johnson, Hancock, Clarke, Heathcote, Westall, Jones, Walker, Potts, Reid, Foy, Crompton, Folageade, Simpson, Longley.

    Right: Jack Jolly's poster for the upcoming event in support of the Alty Community Sports Hall venture.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    According to the Ilkley Gazette, "Mark Bower has lost all his four matches as Guiseley’s player-manager but he feels his team are turning the corner. A 3-2 behind-closed-doors friendly win at home to Halifax Town on Tuesday was a start, and that has been added to by the news he has a greater pool of players available for Saturday’s Skrill North encounter at third-placed Altrincham.

    Bower said, 'Centre half is a position that we are struggling with at the moment. Danny Ellis, Matt Clarke and Rhys Meynell have all picked up injuries while Jameel Ible was suspended after being sent off. Thankfully, Matt Clarke came through the midweek match all right and will be available for selection this weekend'.

    Bower added, 'We gave players who needed game-time an opportunity against Halifax, plus one or two new players, and for the first time I have a selection headache. There are more than 11 who want to play for Guiseley this weekend and some of them are going to be disappointed'.

    Bower... said, 'We have had a very tough run of fixtures but I have generally been pleased with how we have played, apart from silly errors'... Bower, who has ruled himself out of playing this weekend, added, 'People will call Saturday’s match against Altrincham a home banker but, if we go there and perform like we can and do not give gift-wrapped goals away, we have a chance to win there'.

    One thing Bower’s troops will definitely not want to do is let former Lions' striker James Walshaw score. He faces them for the first time since his summer move. 'We will never hear the last of it if we do [?lose]', said the former Bradford City stalwart. James is a prolific Tweeter.

    'We can keep him quiet for 89 minutes and he will score in the 90th. The same can be said of fellow striker, the experienced Damian Reeves. You can come off the pitch and he will have scored twice, and you will be thinking "How did that happen?" “But we have some players in our defence who know James well, as does our keeper Steve Drench'".

    The Football Conference says that "Oxford City have signed former Burton Albion utility player Chris Palmer from Ilkeston FC. The versatile Palmer, 29, who can fill numerous positions on the pitch when called upon, started his career with Derby County.

    After a loan spell with Hereford United, where he played three times, Palmer left Pride Park in 2004 without having made a senior appearance for the Rams. He joined Notts County where he made fifty-four appearances and then had spells with Wycombe Wanderers, Walsall and Gillingham before joining Burton Albion in the summer of 2011.

    After forty-three games for the Brewers he was released at the end of last season and moved to the New Manor Ground along with former Burton team-mate Aaron Webster".

    This is Lincs reports that "Gainsborough Trinity captain Michael Leary is set to go under the knife in a bid to resurrect his season... With a date set for his [ankle] operation next Thursday, Leary could be eight more weeks away from full training...

    Said Housham,'It is a big blow for us because Leary is a big player for us. He is club captain and a very valued member of the midfield, which is where we are short at the moment. We are down to the bare bones'.

    Housham was hoping to extend the loans of his young forwards during training at the Northolme tonight. The loans of Rhys Oates from Barnsley and Conner Robinson from Lincoln City are now at an end. Trinity are due to face Harrogate Town at home on Saturday and could be without a number of players. Phil Barnes, Tom Ward, Taylor McKenzie, Jonathan Williams are among the walking wounded."


    3 October 2013

    NEW DATE

    As previously reported, Altrincham's away game with Bradford PA has had to be postponed from 12 October, owing to Avenue's continuing involvement in the FA Cup. A new date has been agreed and the game will now be played on Monday, 11 November at 7.45pm.

    YANKEE

    With the unissued code 5693 being the winning combination, the Altrincham FC Saturday Yankee jackpot has risen to £5,000. One member did win £150, however, for a "treble". For details of how to help Altrincham FC and win big prizes for just £1, see the Yankee page.

    LADIES' NEXT MATCH

    Keith Edleston, manager of Altrincham FC Ladies, confirms that the team hosts Warrington Wolverines FC Ladies, this Sunday (6th) at Beech Fields, off Langham Grove, Timperley WA15 6DY. Kick off is at 2pm.

    TRAFFORD GAME

    Brian Flynn announces that the commentary by Radio Robins of Alty's defeat at Trafford can be heard here.

    OLD BOY

    Pitchero Non-League announce that "Buxton have been back in training this week following last Saturday’s FA Cup exit in preparation for Saturday’s clash at top of the table AFC Fylde. It has also been a busy start to the week off the pitch with the news that manager Martin McIntosh has appointed Tim Ryan as his new number two following the departure of Scott Maxfield. Ryan has previously been manager at Chester City and also the assistant to Jim Harvey at Stalybridge Celtic and returned to the Silverlands in the summer having previously played for the Bucks in the mid-nineties"

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    The Football Conference informs us that "Bradford Park Avenue’s John Deacey is The Skrill North ‘Manager of the Month’ for September. Deacey’s side moved up to seventh in the early table with an unbeaten month which featured key wins over AFC Telford United and Yorkshire rivals Guiseley in the league. They also met the Lions in the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round and progressed through to the next stage with a 2-1 win at Nethermoor".

    The Football Conference, which had scheduled a full fixture list in Skrill North for Saturday 12 October, now announces that "All Skrill North matches on 12 October have now been postponed". A number of clubs are still involved in the FA Cup on that date.

    According to the YorkshireEvening Post, "Guiseley boss Mark Bower was left to rue basic errors as their FA Cup journey ended at the hands of local rivals Bradford Park Avenue. For the second time in a week and a half, John Deacey’s troops emerged victorious at Guiseley...

    The Horsfall Stadium outfit profited from a mistake from Lions skipper Rhys Meynell to make the breakthrough on 27 minutes when Alex Davidson struck. They doubled their tally before the break when Richard Marshall’s effort diverted into the net off Spencer Harris.

    Guiseley, who handed a debut to young Bradford City striker Louis Swain, who had joined the club on a one-month loan, pulled one back on 51 minutes when Jake Lawlor netted at the near post. But Avenue held on, as Guiseley slumped to their fifth-straight loss in all competitions, much to Bower’s frustration.

    Bower said, 'The game showed that if you make individual errors at any level of football, then you are not going to win football matches. We gave them a two-goal headstart. It was an unfortunate error we made for the first goal and a simple mistake... But I can’t fault the lads for effort'".

    Guiseley's Craig Hobson, Gavin Rothery and Jameel Ible have all been suspended recently but the FA site does not make clear whether their bans apply this Saturday or not, when they visit Altrincham.


    2 October 2013

    CLUB STATEMENT

    "Altrincham Football Club have recently received a claim from a former director/Chairman. The claim will be strenuously defended and the matter has been placed in the hands of the club's legal advisors".

    YOUTH CUP TIE

    Altrincham FC will play their FA Youth Cup 2nd Qualifying Round tie at home to Vauxhall Motors at the J. Davidson Stadium, Moss Lane, on Thursday, 10th October at 7.45 p.m. Admission prices will be: adults £3, concessions £2.

    MARK'S MND MISSION

    The Motor Neurone Disease Association reports that "Mark Maddox made 300 appearances as a footballer but now he has MND and will never play again. Football v MND is Mark's mission to raise awareness of this progressive and fatal disease amongst Britain's footballing community. MND means Mark won't get to another 300 games in person, but by using his awareness poster, we can still reach thousands of people".

    The poster is only available via the above link.

    OLD BOYS

    The NW Counties Premier Division manager of the month is former Alty player and coach, Joey Dunn, of Runcorn Linnets. In September Linnets won an away league match and three home ties (two in the FA Cup and one in the FA Vase).

    Macclesfield Town confirm that "Midfielder Lewis Chalmers has left the Moss Rose after the club were unable to offer him a deal to remain a part of the squad. The player rejoined the Silkmen in August and has made two appearances from the bench".

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    Guiseley report that "Ben Parker believes his Guiseley team-mates need to concentrate on improving their league position, following their FA Cup exit against Bradford Park Avenue on Saturday...

    'At the end of the day the league is your bread and butter, that is how you are judged', Ben told Tom Feaheny. 'The previous two performances had been very encouraging, we have really worked hard for Mark, but Saturday was not acceptable by our standards'. Guiseley face high-flying Altrincham at the J Davidson Stadium on Saturday, with Ben eager to bounce back.

    'We will now work really hard in training on Tuesday and Thursday and try our best to get the three points on Saturday'.

    Similarly, striker James Burgess felt Guiseley lacked a cutting edge... 'We let ourselves down in the first half by making a few silly mistakes', he explained to Francis Grainger. 'We improved a bit in the second half but we need to be more clinical in front of goal. We are in a bit of a bad rut at the moment but I think the win is going to come if we keep it up. Once we get that win under our belts, we’ll be up and running'".

    Hednesford report that "Following Rob Smith being named August’s 'Manager of the Month', Hednesford Town’s Elliott Durrell has today been named the Skrill North Player of the Month for September. Elliott notched 4 goals in the club’s 4 league games in September, before his brace against AFC Telford United in the FA Cup brought his early season total to 14 goals in 10 games in all competitions".

    According to the Shropshire Star, "AFC Telford United have formally made Dan Preston available for transfer... The former Birmingham City centre-back asked to leave the New Bucks Head last week, after making just one start in the opening nine games of the season...

    The 22-year-old has been an unused substitute in two fixtures since but Saturday's FA Cup conquerors Hednesford have refuted that they are tracking him. Telford manager Liam Watson has been as good as his word in granting Preston's wish to depart and is waiting for interested parties to make themselves known. Watson said 'If someone doesn't want to be here, that kind of scenario needs to be dealt with'.

    The dust is still settling on Saturday's 3-1 cup defeat to Hednesford at home, with Watson collecting his thoughts on a run that now stands at one victory from their last five games. The Bucks boss believes his experienced players are not at their best, which is having a knock on effect... Watson said, 'The one thing we learned about Hednesford is that we have got to get that sort of spirit into us and it's hard, with the amount of new players we have. That's not rocket science. I look at the really experienced players in the team and we have Ryan Young and Simon Grand, vice-captain and captain, plus Tony Gray and Matthew McGinn, to a degree.

    They haven't got anywhere near to what they are capable of at a consistent level yet, Ryan is as good goalkeeper as anyone in the division and Tony has as good a record as any striker... It's up to these players to start leading from the front a bit. I am not pointing the finger at anyone, though. It's down to us all, collectively. We have all got to do better'.

    Former Telford winger Kris Taylor took to Twitter after playing for Hednesford in the cup game to claim that the team spirit at his current club is better than at his former side. Watson retorted, 'It's easy for someone on the outside to say that and, when you are the biggest club in the league, people will want to have a little pop at you. But, as far as he's concerned, how would he know what goes on in our changing room?'".

    CUP REPLAYS

    FAC replays involving Skrill North clubs were:
    • Leamington 1 Solihull Moors 2
    • Havant & Waterlooville 2 Gloucester City 3
    • Gresley 0-1 Brackley Town

    1 October 2013

    LEE ON CUP EXIT

    "John Edwards, Alty’s joint-press officer, has spoken to Lee Sinnott, prior to submitting back page articles for this week’s Sale and Altrincham Advertiser and Sale and Altrincham Messenger. As is the norm, due to space restrictions, only a selection of Lee’s quotes will appear. Usually, it is enough to convey his impression of the preceding game, but, on this occasion, the disappointment at Saturday’s FA Cup defeat at Trafford was such, it was felt a full transcript should be presented to supporters, here on the club’s official website. Lee makes no attempt to hide his feelings about how the chance of another Cup run slipped away and also sets the record straight about Damian Reeves.

    Right: Nicky Clee and Simon Richman during the game at Shawe View.

    JE: Given the way we have started in the league, that presumably wasn’t the result you expected?

    LS: It wasn’t the performance I expected, that’s for sure. Without a shadow of a doubt, it was not the performance I was expecting, not for a single minute. Football sometimes throws up bizarre results, Cup shocks that spring from lesser sides playing out of their skin, but this was different. When you get an upset, you normally find the higher-placed team have dropped their level by 20 per cent and the underdogs have raised theirs by 10 per cent. But Trafford didn’t have to do that. Our level fell to such a degree, we were always susceptible to a result like that. What I can’t get over is how we can play so well against Gloucester on Tuesday night, then so poorly four days later. The same team started both games, but if you compare the two performances, it was absolutely chalk and cheese. Saturday was the complete opposite to Tuesday, and we paid the price. Our general play was laboured, our decision-making was laboured, and we simply never got going.

    JE: How does that happen? I suppose it’s just something no-one sees coming?

    LS: It is quite baffling, to be honest. You look back to Tuesday, and there was an energy about us, and we were on the front foot, taking the game to Gloucester. That’s what I want from my team, and we drummed it into them that we needed more of the same. But it never happened. When the time came, it all went out of the window. It would be a Cup tie, too, where there are no second chances, no opportunity to repair the damage. We have to hold our hands up and wish Trafford all the best in the next round. I have no qualms about that, because we didn’t do enough to merit being in the hat, not even pending a replay. We have to accept we got what we deserved, but it hurts badly. I feel for our supporters, who were there in their numbers. I know how much they wanted another Cup run, as did everyone involved with the club, and it is bitterly disappointing we have not been able to deliver. Questions will obviously be asked, like did we underestimate our opponents? Well, no we didn’t. We had them watched a couple of times, our players know theirs anyway – and what they are capable of, after our pre-season game there – and all our preparations were based on the absolute certainty we were in for a tough test. We covered all bases. The Cup can be a great leveller that produces really tight encounters, but, equally, if we are on our mettle, we’ll be in with an excellent chance of going through. Then we cross the white line, and it just doesn’t happen. For some reason that can’t be explained, other than we are dealing with human beings and these things happen, we don’t ignite.

    JE: What do you do in those situations, when you can see it is all going wrong and something needs to be done?

    LS: You do what you can, but I was somewhat restricted by only having three substitutions at my disposal. If I could have made eight changes, I would have done. Honestly, that’s how many were a shadow of their normal selves. If you’ve got one or two off the pace, you can do something about it, but when it is wholesale like that, you’ve got a problem. It was a million miles away from Tuesday night’s performance. We never got out of first gear, never got going, and that is the be-all and end-all.

    JE: Everyone could see the fans’ frustration. What’s your message to them, and how were the players when they got back in the dressing room?

    LS: I can understand 100 per cent the supporters’ point of view, and how upset they were. The players were apologetic to them - I think Shaun Densmore went over to speak to one or two at the end – and I felt exactly the same way. I would just say the players didn’t go out to play badly deliberately. There would be no point lacing up a pair of boots and leaving the changing room, if you were going to do that. There was just no spark, unfortunately, and while it wasn’t on purpose, we do all feel dreadfully sorry for giving our supporters such a disappointing and frustrating afternoon. On behalf of myself and the players, I can only apologise to them and promise that we will move on and refocus on the league in as positive a fashion as we can. The players are determined to put matters right and build on the start we have made in the league. I had a very long conversation with them after the game. I kept them in the changing room for the best part of an hour, because there were things that needed saying. Let’s just say they were left in no doubt about my thoughts on the performance. Things had to be said, and were, so now we move on. There’s no better way of getting it out of their system than by showing everyone what they are capable of, on our return to league action. To be honest, they were surprised, as well as bitterly disappointed, that they could under-perform to such a degree. They were disappointed for the supporters and themselves, but we must dust ourselves down now and make sure we are ready for the next game.

    JE: How are things on the injury front for Guiseley on Saturday, and how are things with Damian Reeves, after some people expressed surprise that he was only on the bench at Trafford?

    LS: Jake Moult went on as sub at Trafford, and hopefully there will be no recurrence of the injury he had. Danny Boshell should also be knocking on the door for a return to the side after seeming to be over his groin problem. That just leaves Mike Williams as the only absentee. As for Damian, everything is absolutely fine. I just felt it was such a good performance on Tuesday night that I should stick with the same line-up, which meant Kyle Perry and James Walshaw up front. I wanted to have a look at Kyle and James together against Gloucester, and I thought they did well as a combination. I had a conversation with Damian and explained the decision to him, and I can assure everyone there has not been any fall-out. We have a clear, open relationship. That’s how it has always been between us and how it will stay. Everything is absolutely fine, and Damian is well aware of how much I value him. There is no problem there whatsoever. After the disappointment of Saturday, all we are thinking of, as a unit, is putting it behind us and putting points on the board as quickly as we can".

    LEE ON GLOUCESTER

    Kevin Thompson's Alty and Sale Sport has a post-match interview with Lee Sinnott after the match against Gloucester City last Tuesday.

    FA CUP DRAW

    Altrincham exited to FA Cup last Saturday but the draw for the Third Qualifying Round produced the following ties for Skrill North clubs.

    The games are to be played on the weekend of Saturday, October 12th 2013.

    • Worcester City v Rugby Town
    • Mickleover Sports or Corby Town v Trafford
    • Carlton Town v Vauxhall Motors
    • Stockport County v Gainsborough Trinity
    • Solihull Moors or Leamington v Worksop Town
    • Colwyn Bay v Ossett Town or Warrington Town
    • Hednesford Town v West Auckland Town
    • Atherstone Town v Barrow
    • Brackley Town or Gresley v Boston United
    • North Ferriby United v Runcorn Linnets
    • Bradford Park Avenue v Scarborough Athletic or Penrith
    • Jarrow Roofing Boldon CA v Workington or Guisborough Town
    • Concord Rangers v Histon
    • Eastleigh v Oxford City
    • Yate Town v Gloucester City or Havant & Waterlooville

    YOUTHS WIN IN DISTRICT CUP

    On Sunday, Altrincham & District FA beat the Wirral FA 3-1 in the Cheshire County FA District Cup.

    SKRILL NORTH NEWS

    According to Skrill North "Stockport County have received a welcome boost with the news that midfielder Adriano Moke has signed a new contract with the club.

    The 23-year-old initially joined the Hatters on non-contract terms in the off-season after parting ways with Cambridge United. And the Portuguese winger will now stay at Edgeley Park until the end of the current campaign after putting pen to paper on a new deal".

    And Skrill Football adds that"Harrogate Town chairman Irving Weaver has issued another statement, apologising for any offence caused by comments he made last week. Following the confirmation that Town had been deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player earlier in the campaign, the chairman claimed their current predicament had exposed 'fragile, insincere support'. And Weaver has since moved to clarify his comments, saying he did not intend to cause any offence.

    The statement read: 'I wish to apologise for any offense caused by the recent comments made on the Club Website with reference to the sincerity of genuine supporters of Harrogate Town AFC. They were written against a backdrop of abuse that personnel of the club had received, and my comments were attributable to only by a small minority of people. My comments were addressed at these anonymous sources but, nevertheless, the comments I made were regrettable. Indeed, I would comment that all but a handful of Town Supporters have been superb in their support for everybody connected with the Club.

    I will be happy to answer any questions you may have at Wednesday's Q&A session, and intend that these sessions become a regular part of our willingness to communicate with genuine supporters".


    FOR EARLIER NEWS, CLICK HERE