NEXT VISITORS: PORT VALE

Port Vale "forward Louis Dodds says he is expecting a competitive game against an organised Altrincham side on Saturday. The Valiants face the National League side after winning four and drawing one of their six pre-season games so far, with the only defeat coming against Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday night...

The 28-year-old admitted, 'I think they will be organised. I don’t think there is too much difference between the Conference and League One really, I think it is probably players that make the difference so, collectively, I think they will be very organised, they will be fit and it will be a very good test for us. I think it will be good for us fitness wise'".

Holders of 2015/16 Altrincham FC season tickets are reminded that they will be admitted free of charge to the game on Saturday. For those paying at the turnstiles, the admission prices for the home pre-season games are the same as last year, namely...

• Adults: £7
• Concessionaries: £4
• Under 5s: Free.

SUPPORTERS' TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS 2015-16

We have booked coaches for our first two away games of the season at Guiseley and Woking and places can be booked via the club on 0161 928 1045 or at the TASC table in the Community Sports Hall on Saturday and against Forest Green.

Please note it will not be financially possible to provide travel to the third fixture at Dover Athletic. This is due to the long journey requiring the wages for two drivers meaning the hire cost is approaching four figures and we have a number of our core of regular travellers on holiday or staying down south.

The travel is run as a separate part of the Supporters' Club and must remain self-sufficient. We are delighted to announce that (with a small donation of £25 from a member at the end of the season) we managed to record a £1 profit for the travel last season. Thanks again to all who supported it; there were many challenging fixtures last season and we managed to achieve our aim.

During the Conference North promotion season we managed to build up a healthy float exclusively from coach travel which we thought we would need to use for the challenges of the longer trips in the Conference. However, we managed to keep that intact. Therefore, £150 was donated to the club in the form of three entries to the Patrons' draw for the coming season. Should a prize be won then we will think of the best way to use it to raise further funds for the Travel Club, If not, it's a donation into the Club. We still have a float to work with and hope that, once again, we can keep it in the bank, with your support.

Details of the first two fixtures are on the Away Travel page and we look forward to seeing you again. If you have any queries at all please e-mail me. Supporters can join/renew TASC membership on the coach and qualify for cheaper pricing".

THE VIEW FROM SHAWE VIEW

Trafford’s superiority in the opening stages was rewarded in the 8th minute when Chris McDonagh neatly laid the ball into the path of Jake Cottrell who fired past Tim Deasy. Tom Baker’s side looked hungrier and were quicker to the ball although Alty’s powerhouse striker Michael Rankine was a constant threat and blasted over in the 27th minute following a neat move...

Altrincham manager Lee Sinnott obviously laid into his players at half time for a generally lacklustre display and they started the second period in a far more determined and committed manner. And they found themselves level in the 50th minute when a deep cross from the left was met by a soaring header from Josh O’Keefe that keeper Matt Green just failed to keep out.

However, within a minute Trafford were ahead once more when the rejuvenated Chris McDonagh brilliantly dribbled past three defenders and fired inside the far corner.... Matt Green produced a fine fingertip save to turn Damian Reeves' shot past the post. Altrincham were now dominating but the Trafford defence, superbly marshalled by the magnificent Caldecott, were holding out before disaster struck in the 81st minute when another cross from the left was headed home by Damian Reeves to make it 2-2.

James Lawrie and Josh O’Keefe were both denied by fine saves by Green and in the dying seconds Chris McDonagh almost snatched the winner for the Shawe View men but shot straight at Deasy following a great run by John Pritchard."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He has spent time on loan with Gainsborough Trinity (twice) and Harrogate Town while towards the end of last season, Margetts made a temporary move to Cambridge United. Manager Gary Brabin...said, 'He’s a proven goalscorer at youth and under-21 level and now we hope that we can provide him with a good environment to build on that and he can get us some goals to help with what we want to achieve this season'".

At the other relegated club, confirmation comes that "Gary Johnson, manager of Cheltenham Town, has made experienced defender Danny Parslow his latest new signing. The central defender has appeared in all of the Robins' pre-season friendlies to date... after being released by York City... He had not featured for the Minstermen since last November, originally because of a knee injury and then as a result of going on loan to Cheltenham`s new league rivals Grimsby Town last season".

At Aldershot Town "Defender Sean McGinty suffered a fractured metatarsal in last weekend’s friendly against Basingstoke Town and will be out for up to six weeks. McGinty fractured his fifth metatarsal, a long bone on the outside of the foot which connects to the little toe... but managed to complete the 90 minutes.

Sean has already begun his rehabilitation with Russ Clash, The Shots’ Head of Medical and Sport Science, and continues to work on upper-body strength. He will visit a Specialist on Friday to learn of a possible reduction in his recovery period. McGinty will also use barometric oxygen therapy chambers at Guildford’s Samson Centre, the home of the Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Group, to aid his recovery. The pressurised chambers are able to give the body ten times its normal level of oxygen through an increase in red blood cells, which particularly promotes rehabilitation from bone fractures".

In the Western Morning News we learn that "Torquay United boss Paul Cox has seen his transfer plans thrown into chaos after injuries to captain Luke Young and trialist Jim Kellerman. Young has suffered a knee injury which was initially feared to have damaged his cruciate ligament. The club are waiting until swelling on Young's knee goes down before assessing him, with Cox saying it may yet be a twisted joint.

Kellerman, however, has had to return to parent club Wolves for treatment after a diagnosis of tendonitis in his knee which could also rule him out of the start of the season".

According to the Daily Post, "Gary Mills has ruled out the likelihood of making any further signings ahead of the start of the new National League campaign and is confident he has assembled a squad which he feels will be competitive.

The Wrexham boss has revamped his squad since taking over in the hotseat in April, making 10 new permanent signings while allowing a raft of senior players to leave the club. Earlier in the week Mills brought in Stoke City under-21s' captain Mason Watkins-Clark on an initial month-long loan, and was impressed by the youngster in Tuesday’s pre-season friendly at Welsh Premier League side Bangor City.

With the addition of Watkins-Clark, Mills said that would be his final piece of business in the summer, and was relishing having a nearly empty physio room ahead of the campaign opener at Bromley in little more than a week's time."

Kidderminster Harriers "can confirm they have agreed a deal to sign goalkeeper Dean Snedker on a contract for the new season after a hugely successful trial period. The former Northampton Town youngster, 20, has spent the entire summer here at Aggborough and put in some impressive performances... He’d been a free agent after departing Brackley Town at the back end of last season, and will now do battle at Aggborough for the number one jersey with fellow new goalkeeping arrival, Alex Palmer."

From Gateshead comes news that "Youngsters Shaun MacDonald and Joe Hailes have both signed first-team terms with Gateshead. The pair, both 18, figured prominently for the Heed’s U18 side last term, and have made a handful of substitute appearances during the current pre-season campaign.

Goalkeeper MacDonald caught the eye with an impressive second-half display against Newcastle United three weeks ago, having played a series of games for the Tynesiders’ U19s at the back-end of last season... Wide-man Hailes... was a regular for John Gamble’s U18 side last time out... Both players have agreed one-year deals".

There is food for thought in news from the New Lawn that Forest Green Rovers "has this week launched a new matchday menu ahead of the upcoming season. The new menu made its debut on Tuesday night at The New Lawn and went down well with Rovers fans.

Two big changes for the new menu are the addition of Quorn as a new ingredient and the presence of local chef Nicholas Allan and the Star Anise Cafe team in the matchday kitchen.

Dale Vince, FGR Chairman, said, 'Food is a really important issue for us, it’s a big environmental and sustainability issue, and it’s a frontier we’ve been exploring for a few years now. We started by removing red meat from the menu, then going vegetarian, and now we’ve teamed up with Nick from Star Anise Cafe. It’s another big step, bringing better food to football. The star of the new line-up is the new Q-Pie. It’s handmade in Stroud and Quorn is the magic ingredient; Quorn is great to add to the mix. It’s a healthy alternative to meat, high in protein and fibre, and low in fat'".

Meanwhile, Braintree Town report that "Iron Manager Danny Cowley was pleased to announce the appointments of Glenn Skingsley as our Perfomance Analyst and Paul Barnes, who joins our medical team, and will work alongside Steve Gracey.

Danny Cowley said, 'This will certainly add to the support network available and help us to further improve the environment for the players... We like to do a lot of anaylsis on both our own and opposition teams. We feel that this provides us with the necessary information to make intelligent decisions about team selection and team organisation. Video analysis and statistical data are excellent tools when providing feedback to the players about individual and team performance.

Glenn has been working tirelessly behind the scenes with different software to find a suitable analysis tool for us to use. He has spent numerous hours editing our pre-season games so that both players and management staff can access a breakdown of the different elements of the game. We will also use this software to analyse opposition's strengths and weaknesses so that we can share it with the players and look to find ways of outwitting our upcoming opponents.

Paul Barnes comes in to a massively overstretched "medical team". Steve Gracey has been overworked trying to manage the day to day issues that arise during a challenging pre-season. Paul will come in and offer both assistance and expertise. He has just completed a Sports Therapy degree in Birmingham and is now embarking on a Physiotherapy Masters at the University of Essex. He has worked at both non league level with Rushall Olympic FC and more recently with Wolverhampton Wanderers Academy and U21's teams. He has a clear vision and many ideas in relation to rehabilitation, player preparation and recovery that will further improve the medical provision available. Accompanied with this additional support we also have access to Ross Poyton on a consultancy basis, who has already been working with Charlie Strutton, and others away from the training ground. It is another area that we have been able to make an increase in. With a small squad we need everyone fit and contributing and these additions to the medical team will help us to work towards this objective."

TRAFFORD 2 ALTRINCHAM 2

Match report here

LEE ON TRAFFORD GAME AND PRE-SEASON

"Lee Sinnott believes Altrincham remain firmly on course for the big kick-off after twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 with a highly-competitive Trafford at Shawe View on Tuesday night.

Deservedly trailing at the break, Alty stepped up a gear in the second half to score twice for the first time this pre-season through far-post headers from Josh O’Keefe and Damian Reeves.

Speaking ahead of this Saturday’s final warm-up game against Port Vale at The J.Davidson Stadium (3pm), Alty boss Sinnott said: ‘The players responded as I wanted after Witton Albion last week, even if we started slowly and conceded early.

‘I still couldn’t fault their effort or application in the first half, but we weren’t getting anywhere. A couple of changes in the second half, and it became a different game. With teams like Trafford, you have to match their energy and enthusiasm and then let the football you’re capable of make the difference, and we did that.

‘We started to pass the ball better and find the pockets that are a bit of a blueprint of how we like to play. That was pleasing. James Lawrie had a great second half, and generally we upped our game, but it’s the old adage – August 8 is exam day.

‘Pre-season is there for a purpose. If there are areas where improvement is needed, the little whip comes out and there’s a little giddy-up to make sure they are addressed.

‘But, don’t forget, it’s still pre-season. You don’t put a load on your own back before the campaign has even started. Results at this stage are important, of course they are, but they are not the be-all and end- all. There are only points at stake when Forest Green Rovers arrive on the 8th.

‘It’s about making sure we are fully prepared, and we will keep working towards that and making the most of the time available.’

Shaun Densmore suffered an injury scare after being flattened by a late, high challenge, but Sinnott said: ‘Thankfully, he seems ok, though there is some bone bruising to the left shin. It was a worry at the time.’".

TRAFFORD 2 ALTRINCHAM 2

The visitors improved after half time with the arrival of James Lawrie, Scott Leather and Jordan Sinnott. Altrincham equalized after 50 minutes when O'Keefe's header avoided the grasp of goalkeeper Green, from a Lawrie cross. But some 90 seconds later Trafford scored again when McDonagh dribbled impressively through three Altrincham defenders before scoring.

Alty equalized again in the 81st minute when Crowther's mishit shot ran to Lawrie on the left. From his cross, Reeves headed in at the back post. Next up is a home friendly against Port Vale this SAturday.

Match report to follow...

Above right: Shaun Densmore was on the wrong end of a bad tackle at Shawe View but recovered to complete the first half. Here he is seen in action earlier in the match.

TRAFFORD (All white) 1. Matt Green, 2. Mark Haslam, 3. Danny Lambert 4. Jordan Hadfield (capt), 5. Danny Caldecott, ,6. Danny Lafferty, 7. Joe Shaw, 8. Martyn Andrews, 9. Ben Deegan, 10. Chris McDonagh, 11. Jake Cottrell. Subs 12. Sam Marshall, 14. Robbie Bromley, 15. John Pritchard, 16. Jake Wood, 17. Porya Ahmadi.

ALTRINCHAM.(Red & white striped shirts, black shorts, red socks) 17. Tim DEASY, 2. Shaun DENSMORE (capt), 3. Adam GRIFFIN, 4. Sam HEATHCOTE, 5. Tom MARSHALL,6. Anthony GRIFFITH, 7. Josh O'KEEFE, 8.Ryan CROWTHER, 9. Michael RANKINE, 10. Damian REEVES, 11. Nicky CLEE. Subs: 12 Sam HEATHCOTE, 14. Luca HAVERN, 15. Jake MOULT, 16. Scott LEATHER, 17. James LAWRIE, 18. Simon RICHMAN, 19. Jordan SINNOTT.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Central defender Parslow has appeared in all of the first-team pre-season friendlies to date and was offered terms by Johnson after the Robins' boss got clearance from the board on Monday. Former Forest Green Rovers midfielder Rowe shone in Saturday's 2-1 win against Bristol Rovers and becomes the 14th recruit to the first team.

Goalkeeper Lovett played on trial for World of Smile Stadium tenants, Gloucester City, earlier in pre-season and was on the bench on Monday night as the Robins' second string drew with Bishop's Cleeve. The former Rochdale trainee will provide cover and competition for on-loan number one Dillon Phillips and back-up gloveman Calum Kitscha.

Defender Jack Deaman, didn't appear in the photo, the transfer-listed defender is set to leave the club and is set to play on trial for two different clubs in the coming days."

Following the confirmation of Tom Craddock’s signing, Guiseley "are pleased to announce the squad numbers for the upcoming Vanarama National League season. Any further arrivals will be handed numbers as and when they sign but, for now, the current squad list is below.

1- Steven Drench, 2 – Ryan Toulson, 3 – Ben Parker, 4 – Danny Lowe, 5 – Adam Lockwoood, 6 – Jake Lawlor, 7 – Wayne Brooksby, 8 – Danny Boshell, 9 – Adam Boyes, 10 – Tom Craddock, 11 – Gavin Rothery, 12 – Danny Hall, 13 – Steve Dickinson, 14 – Will Hatfield, 16 – Liam Dickinson, 18 – Oli Johnson, 19 – Nicky Boshell, 20 – Luke Porritt, 21 – Jordan Hendrie".

TRAFFORD v ALTRINCHAM: MATCHDAY COVERAGE

You can follow the fixture via this website's minute by minute text updates by clicking on the icon below. Alternatively Radio Robins' coverage of the game is outlined below as well.

Brian Flynn advises that "Radio Robins is providing full live commentary of Tuesday night's game at Shawe View. The commentators are Ian Wilkinson & Brian Flynn. The match summariser is John Edwards. Coverage starts at 7.40pm.

You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at http://www.radiorobins.com/".

TASC SUPPORTERS' TRANSPORT

SATURDAY'S VISITORS: PORT VALE

And "Port Vale are delighted to announce the signing of Crystal Palace defender Ryan Inniss on a season-long loan. The 20-year-old, who spent around a month at Vale Park last term, put pen to paper on his deal on Monday morning. Inniss made five appearances for the Valiants in 2014/15 but his spell was cut short after he picked up an ankle injury in March’s win over Coventry City. The highly rated centre half is a former England youth international and has had spells at Cheltenham Town, Luton Town, Gillingham and Yeovil Town.

Manager Rob Page said, 'Ryan is a very talented defender and someone we have been in talks with throughout the summer'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The seriousness of the Bristolian’s injury has yet to be established, but manager Ady Pennock is resigned to being without the 33-year-old when the competitive action kicks off on August 8. Coles joined the Nailsworth outfit in August 2014 and was a virtual ever-present in the heart of defence until the turn of the year, when Aarran Racine’s return to fitness and the signing of Charlie Clough saw him lose his place. He was recalled for the second leg of last season’s play-off semi-final at his former employers Bristol Rovers and would have been confident of forging a partnership with the returning Darren Jones this term."

In Cumbria, the Evening Mail reports on how Barrow "owner and chairman Paul Casson looks back on the summer so far with his club preparing for their assault on the National League...

'Considering we had to do it all in a very short window, the transition of switching from a part-time operation to full-time was a remarkable achievement that involved some very long hours for a lot of people.... As the first week of May ended only Jason Walker, Andy Cook and Alex Newby were 100 per cent fully committed to playing for Barrow in 2015/16, no matter what... Going full-time would be a dramatic transition for some; to be required to train four days a week.

When our manager Darren Edmondson, his assistant Alex Meechan and club director Austin Straker boarded a plane for Dallas, on May 20, we were still in active deliberation over that decision. By then, Alex-Ray Harvey and Andy McWilliams had also signed up for the ‘no matter what’ brigade, and so we had five players signed for 2015/16. And the unpleasant likelihood loomed that we would lose a lot of last year’s squad if we pursued the full time-option...

On leaving Dallas, we had several long lists of target players depending on which scenario we chose... On June 1, at a board meeting via Skype, the board made the decision to go full-time... As June began, we still only had five players signed... Twenty-eight days to sign around 18 players of a quality to compete in the National League...

Andy Haworth was important and fortunately he quickly agreed... One-by-one, almost all of the players we wished to retain decided to continue their journey with Barrow. The last of last year’s brigade signed being Paddy Lacey on July 12... Training began on Thursday, June 25, and we had 15 players under contract, but no goalkeeper which would have made for an interesting first pre-season game.

Mo Fofana was stuck in Calais for two days. Our top goalkeeping target was being pursued by a League One club. As I look at the squad now it’s amazing what’s been achieved in a short period of time. New goalkeeper Joel Dixon, David Mellor, Mo Fofana, Matt Young (in line to earn a deal) and Neil Ashton were identified as five of our top targets and we eventually captured them all. Four are young with a big upside and Ashton is a natural leader of men.

We missed out on a central defender, an attacking midfield player and a striker, but we acquired Steve Williams, Ashley Grimes and Barrovian Elliot Newby along the way. The final piece in our puzzle is hopefully a fully fit Anthony Wilson. We weren’t privileged to see the best of him last year, but come October or so... There’s still much to do, but we do have a team. How they will develop, during the season only time will tell. The players are mainly young, with a point to prove. I have a quiet feeling they will do rather well'".

News of another promoted side comes from the National League It says that "Guiseley AFC have confirmed the signing of former Portsmouth and Oxford United striker Tom Craddock. The 28-year-old striker put pen-to-paper on his deal at the weekend and becomes the club's third new signing of the close-season following the arrivals of Adam Lockwood and Will Hatfield.

Craddock began his career at Middlesbrough before permanent spells at Luton Town, Pompey and Oxford... 'He's a player I know from earlier in my career,' said manager Mark Bower. 'He's been impressed with the players around him and he's sure he'll be able to score goals for us. I'm confident he's got the qualities to fit into the way we play... I'm not too fussed about what other people think about us, we're just going about our business how we want to do it and getting the players in who we think will help the squad.

It's obvious we've been a bit short at the top end of the pitch and Tom's got good quality into feet, he brings other players into play and his goalscoring record is top notch'".

Meanwhile, as reported above, "Torquay United have completed the loan signing of highly-rated defender Nathan Smith from Port Vale. The 19-year-old penned his first professional deal at Vale Park last summer and whilst he is yet to taste senior action for the Valiants, his progress has been such that he signed a new two-year deal at the club earlier this summer.

Last term saw him enjoy a successful loan spell with Stafford Rangers... 'Nathan is a player with a lot of potential,' said Torquay manager Paul Cox. 'He is very highly rated by Port Vale, who see him as a big part of their future plans, and this deal suits all parties involved. He’s a... good all-round defender'... Smith arrives at The Launa Windows Stadium on a three-month loan deal".

The Lincolnshire Echo says that "Lincoln City will not be offering deals to trialists Shaun Harrad and Nicholas Bignall. The strikers have both been vying for a place in the Imps squad, but both have been told there is no room for them.

Former Notts County man Harrad had been eager to seal a deal, saying he had been impressed with the calibre of player City boss Chris Moyses had recruited this summer... Moyses had been keen to find an extra striker for his squad... While he was keen to secure one from a trialist in pre-season training, he hasn't ruled out looking at the loan market. Those players, though, are unlikely to come available until closer to the start of the new campaign as clubs finish their own summer training schedules and determine who will be available for loan."

NEXT TUESDAY'S OPPONENTS: TRAFFORD FC

Trafford were well on top and doubled their lead on the stroke of half time when Ben Deegan collected McDonagh’s cross-field pass and advanced to rifle the ball past Martin from 10 yards. Ashton were on top in the opening stages of the second half with substitute Chris Baguley floating a wonderful effort from just inside his own half inches over the crossbar and Martin Pilkington striking a low drive that was well held by [ex-Alty keeper] Russ Saunders.

But it was Trafford who struck again in the 58th minute when the menacing McDonagh was tripped once more in the penalty area and coolly placed his spot kick past Martin to make it 3-0. And that soon became four when substitute Porya Ahmadi broke clear of the home defence and clipped the ball past the advancing Martin. Three minutes later Ahmadi crashed a drive just past the near post from 20 yards and two minutes from the end Ashton striker [Adam Morning] was unfortunate when his run past three Trafford defenders ended with a shot that cannoned back into play off the foot of the post.

The final whistle signalled a superb victory for [ex-Alty reserve] Tom Baker’s newly assembled side and just reward for a performance full of skill, passion and honest endeavour...

Trafford Team: Russ Saunders, Mark Haslam, Danny Caldecott, Jordan Hadfield, Josh Granite, Danny Lafferty, Joe Shaw, Ash Reece, Ben Deegan, Chris McDonagh, Danny Lambert. Subs: Sam Marshall, Chris Palmer, Robbie Bromley, Jon Pritchard, Porya Ahmadi, Jake Wood, Matt Green".

NEXT SATURDAY'S OPPONENTS: PORT VALE

YOUTH TEAM FIXTURES

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Johnson meets the Robins board on Monday and try to secure the money to sign central defender Parslow and former Forest Green Rovers midfielder Rowe after they impressed in Saturday's 2-1 defeat of Bristol Rovers. But, having already signed 12 new recruits, funds are tight and Johnson may be told that players need to leave before others can sign.

'I want to make a quick decision on both James and Danny as they both played a part in a game where we beat a team from the league above,' Johnson said. 'But a lot of it depends on people going out. It will be a shame if we were to lose people who are definitely good enough for our squad because there are people who aren't, that haven't moved out yet. That may sound harsh but life is harsh. If we can get James and Danny in and the loan centre-half, that would be it. We would have a squad then.

The loan deal is still on and I expect it to go through. He will be in, I am sure, for the start of the season'.

Academy graduate Zack Kotwica played for Evesham United on trial on Saturday and could be set to depart on a loan deal in a bid to gain crucial first-team experience. Transfer-listed central defender Jack Deaman has also been told that he needs to move out, as has versatile midfielder Jordan Wynter. Winger Omari Sterling-James and forward Jamal Lawrence have already departed for Oxford City on loan and Johnson hopes that they will be joined by the others.

'People like Zack, Jack Deaman and even Jordan Wynter need games, they can't afford to have another season where they aren't playing regular football,' Johnson said. 'I have spoken to them and they know they have to get out and play and then we will have to see what happens. It will mean that they aren't sitting down on Saturday watching Jeff Stelling, they need the experience. We have tried to help people go out and find them places. But sometimes they come back and say that they don't want to go there as they are waiting for Man United and Liverpool to make a move.'

Johnson was delighted with the way his team performed in Saturday's 2-1 win against a full-strength Bristol Rovers side. Billy Waters netted a first-half double and missed a golden chance to put the gloss on the win after missing a penalty that he won through his own persistence in the second half. Johnson was pleased with the overall showing, as 10 of the team completed 90 minutes, despite them tiring late and almost gifting newly-promoted Rovers a route back into the game through a penalty of their own.

Goalkeeper Dillon Phillips made an excellent save to deny Matty Taylor from the spot...

Johnson said, 'The only thing is that to play our high-energy game we have to make sure we can do that for 90 minutes and we aren't quite there yet. We talked about not leaving any burning embers and if you don't put the fire right out, it can re-ignite. We were a bit disappointed that we didn't snuff out that last ember with our penalty as that gave them hope they were still in the game. In the league we are in if a team gets that chance they may take it and we can't always rely on our goalkeeper or the referee...

The game was a benchmark for us. Our workrate was phenomenal, there wasn't one player who didn't give every last ounce of effort and if we can keep that energy, and have players who will compete like that I will be pleased'... Forward Amari Morgan-Smith missed Saturday's game with a slight thigh strain".

FC Halifax Town say that "full back James Bolton felt his side didn’t turn up in yesterday’s 1-1 draw with Hyde United. Bolton conceded the foul that led to Hyde’s Lee Neville burying his penalty past Matt Glennon, after Danny Hattersley gave Town the lead with his second goal in as many matches.

Bolton said, 'I didn’t think we were brilliant today, we weren’t up to scratch and especially in the first half we got caught out of position a few times. Hyde have a unique way of playing with how their forwards have free rein of the pitch, which a lot of teams in our division wouldn’t play like. But, saying that, it was a good test. Bolton was quick to focus ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Oldham Athletic at The Shay, a game in which Bolton is relishing. 'It’s going to be great to get back to The Shay and play on the new pitch... Technically, they are going to be difficult to break down, but we’ve just got to get in their face and make it hard for them'".

NEXT OPPONENTS: TRAFFORD

Right: Chris Denham and Ben Deegan at Ashton on Saturday.

As well as the management, Trafford's players also included several with Alty links. In goal was Russ Saunders, who was at Alty two years ago. In midfield there was Jordan Hadfield, who played as a Macclesfield loanee for Altrincham in early 2009. Up front was Alty youth and reserves' graduate, Ben Deegan.

Ashton also included some ex-Alty faces. Playing on the wing was Jayden Hall who has played two trial games for Altrincham this summer, whilst a used Ashton substitute was Chris Baguley, who trialled for Alty in 2007. He hit the cross bar with a superb effort from 55 yards, which had Saunders back-pedalling anxiously.

Trafford will prove a tough test for Alty on today's evidence. Up front with Deegan, who scored Trafford's second goal, was Chris McDonagh who won and comprehensively converted two penalties. In the second half, young Porya Ahmadi came on and impressed as a pacy lone front-man and he scored his side's fourth goal too. Their line up at Ashton was 1. Russ Saunders, 2. Mark Haslam, 3. Danny Caldecott, 4. Jordan Hadfield, 5. Josh Granite, 6. Danny Lafferty, 7. Joe Shaw, 8. Ash Reece, 9. Ben Deegan, 10. Chris McDonagh, 11. Danny Lambert. Subs: 12. Sam Marshall, 14. Chris Palmer, 15. Robbie Bottomley, 16. John Pritchard, 17. Porya Ahmadi. 18 (wearing 20) Jake Wood, 19. Matt Green.

Earlier this summer Trafford lost narrowly 0-1 at home to Chester FC, with a line-up comprising Russ Saunders, Chris Palmer, Danny Lambert, Danny Caldecott, Josh Granite, Ryan Ledson, Joe Shaw, Ash Reece, Ben Deegan, Chris McDonagh, Porya Ahmadi. Subs: Sam Marshall, Jack Cookson, Danny Lafferty, Max Pouncey, Robbie Bottomley, Ashley Woods, Jordan Hadfield, Matty Kay.

Last Wednesday, Trafford defeated Bury Under-18s 3-1 with a hat-trick from McDonagh.

CREWE VIEWS

Steve Davis fielded a strong line-up in South Manchester after gaining fitness in a number of local pre-season outings, and there was a real sense of purpose about his side in the opening stages. That was demonstrated after just 50 seconds when Billy Bingham’s masterful through ball was collected by Inman and he made no mistake to slot past the keeper.

The Alex continued to control possession and looked tidy, until the home side gained a foothold midway through the half and wasted a few half chances to draw level. Then came the home side’s best chance of the game, Lawrie finding space and shooting before seeing the ball bounce back off the crossbar [post]. Into the second half and it was Inman again who struck to make it 2-0, and what an individual goal it was. He broke in the Altrincham half & ghosted into the box before curling his effort into the corner.

A host of substitutions broke the game up, but The Alex again had the final say with fellow subs Chris Atkinson and Ryan Wintle combining, with Atko going on a mazy run before slotting it to the former Alsager Town man tap in from close range."

Gavin Rathbone has images from the game here and Michael Ripley also has images from the match.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Moscow-born Guinean began his career in the Bristol City youth academy before continuing his scholarship with Bristol Rovers... Brief spells at Gloucester City and Oldland Abbotonians preceded his move to Weston in July 2010... In January 2013, Diallo also reached the final eleven in the Samsung 'Win A Pro Contract'` competition which attracted over 5,000 applications to earn deals with Leyton Orient and Swindon Town."

Other news from NL Pitchero is from Eastleigh where "With the news that supporters' player of the year Ross Flitney would be missing the start of the season through injury, Eastleigh have taken goalkeeper Michael Poke on loan from Portsmouth until January 2016. Twenty-nine-year-old Poke started his career with Southampton, making four appearances for them and having loan spells at Oldham Athletic, Northampton Town, Woking and Torquay United.

Following a permanent move to Brighton & Hove Albion where he never made a first-team appearance, Poke had a loan spell at Bristol Rovers before a permanent move then followed to Torquay before moving on to Portsmouth in June 2014".

From NL Daily we learn that "Following joint planning meetings in relation to the Wrexham AFC and Chester FC fixtures for the coming season, all parties, including both Chester and Wrexham Football Clubs, Cheshire Police and North Wales Police have agreed that, in the continued interests of safety, both games will remain all ticket, with supporters travelling to the matches on officially organised coaches.

All parties are committed to working towards returning these fixtures to ‘normality’ with standard kick-off times and, as a result, it has been agreed that these fixtures will both take place on the dates already set and will have 2pm kick-off times. The main driving factors in the implementation of these conditions remains to be; reducing the potential for disorder, the safety of fans, residents & visitors to Wrexham and Chester town / city centres & minimal disruption to businesses and local communities.

During the last two seasons whilst these conditions have been in place, both Forces have seen a decline in the number of persons arrested at the fixtures and there has been a noticeable absence of any disorder or disruption to the communities outside of the two stadiums. However, at the more recent fixture at Wrexham, damage was caused to seating in the Racecourse Ground by a small minority of Chester supporters. As a result of a very positive and ongoing relationship between the clubs, Chester FC have agreed to reimburse Glyndwr University for the damage caused.

Unfortunately, the actions of these few supporters continues to highlight issues of concern, which have a potential to impact upon the safety of other supporters and the wider general public. These actions also have a direct bearing on the implementation of the transport arrangements surrounding these fixtures.

There has been recent speculation that fixtures against Tranmere Rovers may be subject to the same conditions. This is not the case as the same level of historical public disorder in relation to Tranmere fixtures does not exist for either Wrexham or Chester Football Clubs. Therefore there is no current plan to use the Safe transport arrangements for the Tranmere Fixtures.

Two well-contested and incident-free fixtures will see these arrangements reviewed and will further support consideration of a return to 3pm kick-offs and independent travel. However, incidents of disorder or further damage to either stadium will not be tolerated and will give grounds for concern that the games cannot take place without safe transport arrangements. 1,200 tickets have been allocated to Wrexham supporters for the Chester game in October, the Clubs will be announcing the detailed ticketing arrangements in due course on their websites".

Meanwhile, "Forest Green Rovers have confirmed that goalkeeper Jonny Maxted has signed for the club on a one-year contract.The 21-year-old former Hartlepool and Doncaster player had impressed the The New Lawn faithful last week during a Man-of-the-Match display in Forest Green's 1-1 pre-season draw with Cardiff City. Standing in for Arnold and back-up keeper Paul White who were both sidelined with injuries, Maxted pulled off a number of outstanding saves...

Maxted is a product of Doncaster Rovers' youth system and spent six years at the South Yorkshire club before graduating to the first team squad, and was a regular back-up to Ross Turnbull and Sam Johnstone at the Keepmoat. After spending most of last season at Hartlepool United, Maxted had been on trial at QPR this summer before answering the call from Rovers following injuries to both keepers during preseason.

Ady Pennock said, 'I'm very pleased that Jonny has joined us. It gives great competition between the three goalkeepers... I've known Jonny for a while, having watched him at Doncaster when I was at Stoke'. Commenting on his arrival at the club, Maxted added, 'The Conference is a really good level to be at. The facilities here are as good as a Football League club. I've got a flat-viewing tomorrow and if all goes well I'll be moving down here'".

The BBC confirms that "Fans of Grimsby Town have raised £100,000 for the club in eight weeks. Operation Promotion was launched by the National League side's supporters trust in June to provide cash to sign new players for the 2015/2016 season. The club narrowly missed promotion to the Football League in May and The Mariners Trust had initially hoped to raise £20,000.

The trust said more than 3,500 individual donations had been received. Dave Roberts, from the trust, said, 'It is an incredible achievement and we are very grateful to every supporter for all of their donations over the past eight weeks. It goes to prove Grimsby Town supporters really are the best around and we can't wait to get the season under way'".

ALTRINCHAM 0 CREWE ALEXANDRA 3

Despite Alty starting the second half brightly, Crewe's fast tempo and slick passing brought them two second-half goals. Inman netted for a second time in the 55th minute before Wintle converted a 76th minute cross from Atkinson after he had made an impressive run up the inside-left channel.

Match report here.

JORDAN SIGNS UP

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boss Darren Edmondson said, 'I think Harrogate tried their hand to see if Andy would be available. I spoke to Andy about it and, obviously, with (left-back) Neil Ashton coming in, he wants to play football. And we decided that, from the point of view of him playing more football, he was going to get more game time at Harrogate. I left it up to Andy really, option-wise, and he said that it would be more beneficial for him at this stage to play, having missed quite a few games last season.

He just wants to play football. He’s a very honest and a very fit young man and he wants to play as many games as he can. So we decided to let him go'. Edmondson currently has no plans to replace McWilliams in his squad."

LEE "WATCHING PLAYERS LIKE A HAWK"

"Sinnott fumed, 'If we think that standard is going to be good enough for the Vanarama National League, we are deluding ourselves. Pre-season is there to weed out certain aspects and the message has been delivered to the players in very clear terms.

'We've got Crewe on Friday and I'm sure they will be up for it against a pro team. But the fixture I'm more interested in is Trafford next Tuesday and I will be watching my players like a hawk in that one, because of things I noticed against Witton.

'Full credit to Witton for playing with energy and enthusiasm but the fact is we played with neither. If people talk about it being like some of our cup defeats against lower opposition, I can see the comparison. The buck stops with me and I need to make sure it doesn't happen again.

'It can be a bit disjointed pre-season when you are trying different formations and giving players minutes on the pitch. Our passing was poor, our decision-making was poor and our defending, at times, was extremely blase and asking for trouble'"

BEFORE THE GAME: ALTY'S OPPONENTS

The boss told crewealex.net 'Those three positions, left-back, centre-back, goalkeeper, are still our key areas we want to improve. The keeper we have in did OK at Kidsgrove and we’ll have another look on Friday at Altrincham and then give him a decision then. It’s very difficult for a goalkeeper because he’s dependent on how good or bad we defend. But we look at all aspects of it, distribution, communication, positioning. He’s big enough, strong enough, he’s good around the place but the be all and end all of it is that he’s got to stop the ball going in the net and that’s the bottom line. We can see things in training to see things more clearly to test the goalkeeper and all of the other players that come in on trial'".

In their most recent game the score was Kidsgrove Athletic 1 Crewe Alexandra 2. A game in which "A spirited Kidsgrove Athletic pushed Crewe all the way but couldn’t deny them keeping up their 100% pre-season record. Perry Ng’s 68th minute winner proved to be the difference, but came at a time when Kidsgrove were looking the more likely to take what was an even contest.

Callum Saunders handed Crewe an early lead but [an] Alex side made up of first and second year professionals found it tough against the Evo Stik Division One South side... The teams went in level at half-time.

Steve Davis named a youthful Alex XI for the fixture at the Novus Stadium, though Marcus Haber was given his first run out in pre-season after his international commitments with Canada. Trialist goalkeeper Dave Richards continued in goal, while Chris Atkinson captained the side. As expected, Crewe dominated the possession stakes early on but struggled to fashion any chances against a well organised Kidsgrove side who were keen to pressurise the Alex on any given occasion...

The second half started much the same way as the first, with Crewe trying to force their way through... It was slightly against the run of play when Crewe took the lead on 68 minutes, with Perry Ng scoring from close range after Callum Ainley worked a crossing angle to pull it back for him... It was only down to some sloppy finishing, in particular from Andre Brown, that they weren’t able to add to their lead, with Callum Saunders also looking hungry for more goals...

Crewe: Richards, Baillie, Dowsett, Mullarkey, Ng, Wintle, Atkinson (Ainley, 46), Howell, Brown, Haber (Murdoch, 61), Saunders. Subs: O’Neill, Kirk, Finney, Quinn"

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The Boston Standard adds that "Ex-Telford and Bradford Park Avenue midfielder Jordan Deacey also featured last night, hoping to impress while on trial. However, with Kyle Dixon, Grant Roberts and Jay Rollins all able to play in central midfield, along with utility man Scott Garner, Greene isn’t sure whether adding to that position would be advantageous.

'He’s done well', Greene continued. 'It’s one of those areas, we’ve got to see whether we need to improve in that area. We’ve got Garns who can play midfield and three others who can play there. Potentially it’s something we might not be able to afford to do'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE ON TV

BT Sport will show last year’s Promotion finalists Grimsby Town take on Vanarama National League newcomers Tranmere Rovers live from Blundell Park, whilst last year’s play-off semi-finalists Forest Green Rovers will make the trip to Hampshire to face Aldershot Town. Elsewhere, Cheltenham Town will continue their pursuit for promotion back to the Football League with a tricky match against Grimsby Town.

The full list of fixtures with kick-off times:

• Grimsby Town v Tranmere Rovers – Friday 18 September – 7.45pm on BT Sport 1 (From Saturday 19 September)
• Dover Athletic v Woking – Friday 25 September – 7.45pm on BT Sport 1 (From Saturday 26 September)
• Guiseley v Lincoln City – Friday 2 October – 7.45pm on BT Sport 1 (From Saturday 3 October)
• Aldershot Town v Forest Green Rovers – Wednesday 7 October – 7.45pm on BT Sport 1 (From Tuesday 6 October)
• Macclesfield Town v Kidderminster Harriers – Saturday 10 October – 12.30pm on BT Sport 1 (From Saturday 10 October at 3pm)
• Grimsby Town v Cheltenham Town – Friday 30 October – 7.45pm on BT Sport 1 (From Saturday 31 October)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

National League North side City will now face Southern League Premier Division outfit Redditch at Bromsgrove Sporting’s Victoria Ground on Saturday (3pm). Lamb admits 'something needs to be done' about the pitch, which had drainage problems last season and cut up badly. He was unsure whether Harriers’ home friendly against Shrewsbury Town next Tuesday would still be played at Aggborough. Lamb said, 'We have got problems with the pitch. After playing against Birmingham City (on Saturday), we are concerned there are lots of areas where the seeds have not gone through in places where a new drainage system has been put in... We are just a bit concerned about what happened last season when the pitch cut up and there’s no way we want that situation to happen again. I suppose we are being a bit more fussy this time because we are just concerned it will happen again'...

Worcester agreed to a third term with their National League landlords despite the problems with the pitch last season. Lamb said...'Worcester have a friendly here against Birmingham City (on Friday, July 31) and it’s a chance for them to raise some funds so it’s important that match goes ahead'. Harriers, who lost 3-0 on penalties to Redditch in their Worcestershire FA Senior Cup semi-final, will face Evesham United on Saturday in the third-place play-off".

Barrow's Holker Street Newsletter reports that "The Mail has some details of how Barrow's 2015-16 squad is shaping up, telling us we are 'close to signing former Carlisle loan right-back Matt Young and Barrovian attacking midfielder Elliot Newby (his twin brother, Alex is already on-board for next season) on one-year deals", with 'former Carlisle right-winger Dave Symington (he's completed his final sessions of rehabilitation at St George's Park this week, after suffering a dislocated knee-cap last season) in line to earn a deal and Barrovian prospects Brad Carroll, the ex-Huddersfield right-back, and Danny Eccles, the former Carlisle keeper, could seal twelve-month deals this week, with negotiations continuing...

The Mail adds, 'With attacking duo Adam Dawson and Lewis Guy, plus centre-back Danny Parslow, now off Edmondson's radar, the boss is seeking to recruit a striker to serve as cover for Anthony Wilson, who is recovering from his latest knee cartilage surgery, which he underwent last Thursday. Edmondson says Wilson's operation went well, but the hit-man faces several weeks on the sidelines"...

Edmondson told us, 'We're just looking at one or two potential loans and there are still out-of-contract people who are on trial at other clubs. It's an important one but we're not in a rush to do it, but I'd like one in just to cover while Wilson does his rehab. So it maybe the loan market is potentially the best option. I don't foresee anybody with any quality that would come in and sign a short-term contract. But we might have one or two in on trial next week. I'm not sure yet'".

From NL Pitchero we learn that "Paul Carden, manager of Southport, has signed 19-year-old midfielder Michael Brewster. Brewster suffered a fractured fibula in his left leg at the age of 17 which slowed his progress with League One Oldham Athletic. He was eventually released by the Latics at the end of the 2013/14 season and eventually joined FC United of Manchester in August 2014.

Then in February 2015 he left the Reds and signed for Scottish side St Mirren where he featured in their under-20 side".

BBC Sport reports that "Torquay United have signed former Crystal Palace and Cardiff City youngster Bayan Fenwick, as manager Paul Cox continues to add to his squad. The 21-year-old midfielder has played in pre-season for the Gulls and also spent time at non-league Eastbourne Borough and Lewes.

Cox who took over at Plainmoor last month, says there could be more additions before the weekend. 'I'd like to think, even before Saturday, there might be four', he said. Cox has so far brought in Exodus Geohaghon, Waide Fairhurst, Shepherd Murombedzi, Dan Butler, Tyrone Marsh and James Hurst. 'I've looked at the squad, I've been very patient,' he added... 'Now is the time to act so I've got a bit of time to bed people in. It's more or less down the spine of the side where I think we need strengthening, not just with better players, but players with a bit more about them mentally and character-wise'.

Fenwick has impressed Gulls director of football Dean Edwards since joining in pre-season. 'He has an excellent pedigree from his time at Crystal Palace and we are delighted to bring him on board to help him develop and improve our squad', Edwards told the club website".

At Forest Green Rovers comes news that "Despite a 3-0 defeat, assistant manager Jamie Day remains upbeat but has reminded the squad that places are still up for grabs. His comments follow a defeat at the hands of a lethal Aston Villa side... Although a lot of players put in strong performances, Day insists that... 'No one’s guaranteed a place in the team,' he said. 'So they’ve got to show the Gaffer what they’re capable of doing and stake a claim for the first game at Altrincham. The boys have obviously got a lot of games still to play over pre-season, and they’re all itching to be in the starting XI.'

Day also remained positive about the injury to Steve Arnold after an encouraging assessment, 'Stevie’s not as bad as we first thought,' he continued. 'Hopefully he’s going to be back sooner rather than later, and fingers crossed it’s not too serious at the minute'. Despite playing in left midfield, Tom Bender put in a very good shift. 'I think Tom’s capable of playing two or three different positions,' commented Day, 'I think predominantly he’s a left back, but I think it’s nice over pre-season that you can chop and change players around and that’s what the Gaffer’s done tonight...

We’ve got some new players in that have got pace that we perhaps didn’t have last year, so we’ll be looking to use that. We’ve also got players like Keanu that have got good technical ability so we want to get them on the ball'. With a promising campaign ahead Day is eagerly anticipating the start of the season, which begins away to Altrincham in early August."

More on the club comes from the Gloucester Citizen which says that "Forest Green are in the market for a new goalkeeper after first-choice stopper Steve Arnold aggravated an ankle problem. Rovers are in pre-season action at Bishop's Cleeve this evening (Thursday), and an unfamiliar face is likely to line up between the posts...

Inexperienced understudy Paul White is the only other senior custodian on the books, and Ady Pennock could opt to have another look at former Hartlepool United man Jonny Maxted... Maxted impressed in Forest Green's opening friendly of the summer against Cardiff City and has recently been on trial at Queens Park Rangers. The 22-year-old came through the ranks at Doncaster Rovers and may well fit the bill as a short-term signing...

[Jamie Day commented on the defeat by Aston Villa], "It was good to see the likes of Joe Cole play a decent amount of time, and even the young lads they brought on looked very good... It's important to build relationships with teams of that calibre going forward. The games against local teams are tough to play in because we are expected to win but we're still in pre-season and it's not about results. It's about game time but, no disrespect to anyone, we want to be getting goals and winning those games to build our confidence up'.

As well as Arnold, Rovers are monitoring knocks picked up by defender Danny Coles (knee) and forward Kurtis Guthrie (ankle)".

NEW NW NON-LEAGUE MAGAZINE

TheNonLeague Magazine

"August 1st, 2015, sees the launch of a brand new monthly football magazine for supporters of North West non-league football. TheNonLeague is a full-colour 100 page magazine filled with articles and images from the region’s non-league clubs.

The magazine will provide unrivalled monthly coverage of all the North West teams playing their football in The National League through to NWCFL 1st Division, whilst there will be regular articles on teams playing in Step 7 and beyond.

First issue ‘Special Offer’

The cover cost of the magazine is £4.50 per issue but every copy of the first issue delivered to Altrincham FC will have a special ‘matchday’ sticker on the front cover stating that, if supporters buy their copy from the club, it will cost them just £1.

The additional bonus being that Altrincham FC will keep every single penny of every single pound taken for the magazine at the ground. Every copy sold makes money for Altrincham FC.

From September onwards TheNonLeague magazine will continue to deliver special ‘matchday’ versions to the club. Each issue will have a promotional sticker on the front cover stating that, if supporters buy their copy from the club,. it will only cost £3 (a saving on the cover cost of £1.50). The additional bonus being that Altrincham FC will also receive £1 from each sale!"

The magazine also says that "This month’s issue includes interviews with Tranmere Rovers manager Gary Brabin, Andy Walsh the General Manager of FC United, Anthony Johnson one half of the management team at Salford City, Warrington gaffer Shaun Reid and Glossop North End skipper Dave Young.

We also have special features with Matthew Hatton, the former World Boxing Champion, former Premier League star Dean Holdsworth, the MD and Founder of The Non-League Footballers' Association, as well as in depth coverage of all the clubs in our region".

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Grimshaw, who has spent time on trial at Manchester United, has filled in at left-back, a position that Crewe have been looking to strengthen for all of the close season. He has attracted interest from a number of Championship clubs, although Crewe are understood to prefer a loan deal for a Premier League loanee rather than bringing in Grimshaw.

The budget is unlikely to stretch to both, which makes a return for Grimshaw unlikely. Steve Davis has been impressed with aspects of his performances, but insists there would be work to do if he was to sign. 'Sam has filled in that position and it’s given us an extended time to look at him', Davis said.

'He’s played more game time more than anyone else because we have been short in that position. We haven’t spoken to him yet so I think that’s something we will do this week but a lot will be dependent on whether we bring in a full-back this week, He’s done OK, there’s aspects of the game he would need to improve if he was here, there are some decisions in the last third he’d need to work and a couple of times people have got in behind him. There’s work to be done but he’s a good kid and he’s worked hard since he has been here. Good left backs are hard to get and the ones we have in mind would improve us and hopefully we can sort that this week'"

NEXT OPPONENTS: CREWE ALEXANDRA

But it is understood a decision will now not be made until next week as the Swansea management take another look at the Scotland youth international in their forthcoming friendlies. Kingsley, who finished last season on loan at Yeovil Town after three years at Falkirk, has interested several Championship clubs.

However, Crewe hope their good links with the Premier League side could swing a deal in their favour if they decided to loan Kingsley out. The Alex have already taken midfielder Adam King on a six-month loan from the Swans and would like to make Kingsley their second.

The news comes after Crewe decided against offering a deal to trialist Sam Grimshaw...

Meanwhile, trial goalkeeper Dave Richards and Marcus Haber played the second half of Crewe's 3-2 behind-closed-doors friendly win at Blackburn Rovers yesterday. A George Cooper brace and a goal from Brad Inman helped Crewe on their way to their fifth consecutive pre-season win.

Cooper and Inman have both impressed so far in pre-season and will be targeting a starting spot on the opening day against Port Vale, particularly with the on-going contract saga of Ryan Colclough.

Haber made his first outing in pre-season in Lancashire after returning to the club after his international commitments with Canada in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Davis will need to assess whether to give Haber another run out when the team travel to Kidsgrove Athletic tonight, while Richards could again be used in goal as he bids for a permanent deal as understudy to Ben Garratt.

'Including the Rovers game, we have three this week', Davis said. 'The Nantwich game last Sunday was the first 90 minutes of pre-season for a lot of them and they were struggling towards the end. The intensity in the second half slowed significantly, even against this level of opposition, so we've still got to work on that. But their attitude is fantastic at the minute and they're doing everything that's been asked of them'".

The Crewe Chronice reports that 'Crewe Alex players have been told they must play passing football next season – or face being axed from the team. Over the past two seasons the Railwaymen have come under fire from some sections of supporters for appearing to have abandoned the club’s long held commitment to attractive play.

And the Chronicle understands some members of the club’s board voiced dissatisfaction as manager Steve Davis adopted more pragmatic methods to get results, particularly on a poor surface at Gresty Road. Now first team coach James Collins has given a presentation to all squad members at Reaseheath...

Collins explained...'This was a crystal clear reminder that we are Crewe and this is our philosophy. If you want to play for Crewe, this is how we play. If you can’t or won’t, then you won’t play. We won’t be stupid about it. There will be times when we have to adapt and play longer passes for certain situations. It will evolve as we go along, but this is what we are looking for'.

The commitment to keeping the ball on the floor has been in clear evidence during pre-season friendlies. The midfield, key to the 4-3-3 system Crewe will operate, has been restocked with playmakers ready to receive the ball to feet at all times.

And... Crewe have won all five pre-season friendlies, scoring 20 goals in the process. Collins... added, 'Credit to Neil (Baker) and Chris (Johnson), our recruitment has been excellent... The players we've brought in are miles better than what we had'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He featured seventeen times in the league as the Cod Army stormed to the Conference title. He added a further eighteen games to his Cod Army tally as well as a dozen on loan to Accrington Stanley before signing for the Crown Ground outfit on a permanent basis in the summer of 2013 after being released by Fleetwood. The 28-year-old centre-back played fifty-nine times in total for Stanley".

WITTON ALBION 1 ALTRINCHAM 0

Above: Damian Reeves heads clear as Alty defend their goal in the first half.

Altrincham went down to their first defeat of pre-season at EvoStik First Division Witton Albion on Tuesday evening...

Match report here.

Next up is a home match against Crewe Alexandra this Friday, 24 July (7.45pm).

JORDAN DEACEY LEAVES

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'The people Tim doesn't know aren't worth knowing', Creighton told BBC Hereford and Worcester. 'Tim's been great with that and great on the training ground'.

Harriers' 2014-15 campaign was severely undermined by serious financial problems, which saw many of their best players moved off the wage bill. Boardroom changes and a playing budget reduced by 50% have followed the club's worst league position in 17 years. Although more senior players have left, boss Gary Whild has brought in four new players this summer.

Kidderminster are being helped by their good relationships with Premier League neighbours West Bromwich Albion, who have loaned them goalkeeper Alex Palmer, and Birmingham City boss Gary Rowett as they look to secure further additions. 'We haven't got any money and we're at the stage where we're asking for favours', Creighton added. 'Gary has said he'll help us out, he wants his young players to join in at National League level. He knows this is where he needs to bed his players in and Albion have already helped us with Alex Palmer in goal. We're blessed with our position, geographically, to have big clubs around us'".

In the Halifax Courier we learn that "Blyth Spartans boss Tom Wade believes striker Dan Maguire made the wrong decision in joining FC Halifax Town as the striker’s future remains unclear. Maguire signed a two-year deal with The Shaymen this summer after hitting 31 goals for Blyth last season. But the frontman is yet to feature in pre-season and is finding it difficult to make the 350-mile round trip for home games and training as well as carry on his job away from football.

It is believed his situation is being monitored by leading non-league clubs back in the North East, though Blyth boss Wade does not believe Maguire will return to Croft Park.

Wade said, 'Maguire was probably naive in signing for Halifax as he is the junior partner in a plumbing company and to commit five hours travelling twice a week just to training is not easy. It was the wrong move at the wrong time and it looks like he is regretting it. Halifax still want him and could dig their heels in, so it will be interesting to see how it pans out. It would be massive if he decided to come back to Blyth but the likes of Darlington and Spennymoor are also likely to be interested, maybe even Gateshead, though he may be reluctant to go full-time'.

Maguire came to Blyth from Seaton Deleval Amateurs and was a key member of the side that were the leading scorers in the Northern Premier League last season and just missed out on the play-offs. 'Maguire was brilliant for us last season. He is a tireless worker and a good finisher. His goals will take some replacing but we have moved on. Halifax will want to keep him and will be reluctant to release him from his contract, though something will have to give in the near future you would imagine'".

WITTON ALBION v ALTRINCHAM

Admission Prices: Adults £6, Over 65s & Students £4, Under 15s & Witton Juniors Free Of Charge.

Matchday Programme: £2. Programme will cover all home friendlies.

Parking: Car Park on the right past the Social Club.

Social Club: Newly re-furbished Social Club will be open. The Social Club can only be accessed through the main entrance before the game and then supporters should enter the ground via the turnstiles. During the half time interval, supporters will be able to access the Social Club from inside the ground via the passageway within the main stand and also at the end of the game".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

• Monday, 31st August 5.30pm kick-off, BT Sport 1, Cheltenham Town v Wrexham

  Wrexham make the trip south to take on Cheltenham at the World of Smile Stadium in this Bank Holiday Monday fixture live on BT Sport...

• Saturday, 5th September 12.30pm kick-off, BT Sport 1, Welling United v Tranmere Rovers.

And the National League reports that "Two of the triallists in pre-season have penned one-year deals with Welling United for 2015/16. Twenty-three-year-old midfielder George Porter (pictured) and 19-year-old centre-back Kevin Lokko have agreed one-year deals with the Wings. Porter hails from Sidcup and having started at Cray Wanderers he has had experience at a number of League clubs, including Leyton Orient, Burnley, Rochdale and Dagenham & Redbridge. He ended last season helping Maidstone United to win the Ryman League championship.

Lokko earned a year's deal at Colchester United after being released by Norwich City... Lokko was called up to the first-team squad for the first time on 25th October, and was an unused substitute".

Elsewhere, "Danny Cowley, manager of Braintree Town, has returned to his former club Concord Rangers to sign full-back Jeremy Walker. Walker joins former Beachboys Matt Fry and Taylor Miles in making the switch to Cressing Road. Concord brought in Australian defender Jeremy Walker from Australian side Hume City in September 2014. The signing of 21-year-old Walker was seen as something of a coup for the Beachboys.

Released along with three others at the end of April 2014 by Melbourne Heart, who were bought by Manchester City and re-named Melbourne City, Walker teamed-up with Hume City during their mid-season transfer window. But he wanted to try and make a name for himself in English football."

According to NL Pitchero, "Gateshead have swooped for their second forward in the space of four days, with former Guisborough Town hot-shot Danny Johnson arriving on a one-year deal, subject to international clearance. Johnson, 22, was released by Cardiff City in the summer, having joined the Bluebirds a year prior. The previous season, the striker netted 59 goals in fifty-five appearances for the Priorymen... but found his first-team opportunities limited in Wales.

Brief loan spells with Tranmere Rovers and Stevenage followed as the season progressed, before Johnson began training with York City earlier this month. He figured in the Minstermen’s pre-season outings against Leeds United and Middlesbrough at Bootham Crescent, but has opted to join the Heed, with first-team football a priority.

He said, 'I’m pleased to join Gateshead, they are a club with ambition. Obviously I have been on trial with York but, as soon as Gateshead showed an interest, I wanted to come here and they have made me feel wanted from the outset... it was a no-brainer, really. I’d had a strange year at Cardiff before that. I did well for the under-21s, and I thought I might have had a chance for the first-team, but it didn’t work out. I went on loan to a couple of clubs, and although I wasn’t at either Tranmere or Stevenage for very long, I’ve now got some experience of playing Football League football, and I think that has brought me on.

Playing in the National League is a new experience, but that doesn’t bother me; football’s football at the end of the day. Once you cross that line, I just want to get on the scoresheet and do all I can for the team... I like to run in behind and link up play. I’ve played with Nathan Buddle and Ben Clark, having been with them both at Hartlepool, so it’s nice to know a couple of the other lads, coming in as a new player'.

Johnson follows the arrivals of another forward in Ryan Bowman from league rivals Torquay United for an undisclosed fee. The 23-year-old netted 18 goals in forty-four appearances for the Gulls last season, and arrives at the International Stadium on a two-year deal. Bowman began his career at home-town club Carlisle United, making nine appearances for the Brunton Park outfit before being released in 2011... Bowman becomes manager Malcolm Crosby’s eighth addition of a busy summer...

He said, 'I’m over the moon to have my future sorted... There have been other clubs sniffing around and one actually offered me something, but Gateshead suits me better than anywhere else, both football-wise, and personally. I’m here to score goals. As a striker, that’s obviously the main thing for me. But hopefully the fans will see the other sides of my game, like the ability to hold the ball up for others'...

Boss Crosby spoke of his delight at securing his first out-and-out striker of the window. He said, 'He has proven himself to be a striker who can score goals in this league; his record speaks for itself. We’ll still be looking to bring in another striker . There is another name in the pipeline, who we will hopefully be able to get over the line before Monday'.

Chairman Graham Wood, meanwhile, is thrilled that the Heed have beaten off competition from other clubs to secure Bowman’s signature. Commenting on the five-figure signing of the frontman, he said, 'We had to fight off strong competition for the player’s signature, particularly from Tranmere Rovers'".

LEE SPEAKS ABOUT HIS NEW SIGNINGS

We had Peter Cavanagh in there last season and, once he moved on, it was always a position I was looking to fill. Griff fitted the bill perfectly. He's been in the full-time game a long time but he's maybe just starting to realise football doesn't last for ever. I think part-time suits him now and that's where we've got lucky".

Right: New boys, Michael Rankine and Anthony Griffith, seen at Stalybridge last Saturday.

The article adds that "Sinnott is hoping to add 'another couple' to his squad before the season kicks off... 'We're looking at two, maybe three', said the former Farsley Celtic boss... 'We brought a couple of bodies in late last summer and we'll probably do the same again. Things change. Players you couldn't afford wait for this and that then, suddenly they're back on your radar. I'm not putting any timescale on it but I'm very comfortable with where we are'"

JOIN THE ALTY STEWARDS!

We are looking for outgoing, friendly people with good communication skills aged from 18 upwards. We are particularly keen to recruit more female stewards but everybody is welcome to apply. Mentoring and training is available so there is no requirement for prior experience. If you wish to become part of our friendly team in this important role, please contact Tony Mossman on 07547 188146.

OLD BOYS

STALYBRIDGE VIEW

The second half was more of the same, with Celtic look[ing] the more likely to score, but not creating that many real chances. Aaron Chalmers did carve open the Altrincham defence and force Coburn into a superb save. John [Josh] O’Keefe brought the best out of McMillan with a volley that McMillan punched clear, whilst Coburn did the same from Steve Tames’s effort.

The game’s second moment of controversy came when Have[r]n handled on the goal line, and Matty Hughes stabbed home the loose ball, only to have the goal disallowed due to offside. James Lawrie almost added insult to injury when his late effort dipped over McMillan but crashed against the bar. Despite the result, and the comedy-goals-club opening offering, the performance was promising."

ALL AGES CATERED FOR IN CSH

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Capped by England at under-16, 17, 18 and under-19 level, he never made the first-team at Loftus Road but did have a four-game spell on loan at Nuneaton Town in the Conference in 2013/14."

From FC Halifax Town we learn that "Town have confirmed the signing of 22 year-old midfielder Connor Hughes from Hyde. Hughes started his career with Oldham Athletic, playing in both their youth and reserve teams and making 8 appearances for the Latics. He joined Hyde in May 2013 scoring 10 goals in 62 appearances".

Alty travel to Trafford on July 28th and Chester FC report that they "won their first pre-season friendly game this season after a 1-0 victory over Evo-Stik North side Trafford FC. Chester got off to a bright start with an effort within the opening seconds of the game... The Blues definitely had more pace and more desire throughout the game and showed this with countless chances from both Peers and Thomson. Peers went the closest as his header was only just palmed away from danger by the Trafford keeper, [ex-Alty man, Russ Saunders] scrambling to his left and getting a slight touch for the corner.

But it wasn’t easy going for Chester... Trafford were throwing everything they had at the visitors... The first goal of the game and of Chester’s pre-season campaign was scored on 68 minutes by new boy Tom Shaw". Chester won a penalty but "Following some deliberation between Hannah and Rooney, the new signing [Hannah] decided to take the spot kick but Cookson guessed the right way and dived to his right."

STALYBRIDGE CELTIC 0 ALTRINCHAM 1

Above, the ball has rebounded out of the net as Michael Rankine, far left, is congratulated on his goal. Stranded goalkeeper Tony McMillan is seen over by the touchline. Click to enlarge the image.

Much better photos than the one above from Stalybridge Celtic v Altrincham are on Michael Ripley's website.

NEXT TWO AWAY FRIENDLIES

On Tuesday 28 July, Altrincham are away to Trafford, who are now also in the EvoStik First Division. On Saturday, the Shawe View club lost 1-0 to Chester FC. Their squad included some ex-Alty names... Saunders, Palmer, Lambert, Caldecott, Grande, Ledson, Shaw, Reece, Deegan, McDonagh, Ahmadi. Subs: Marshall, Cookson, Lafferty, Pouncey, Bromley, Hadfield, Woods, Kay.

JORDANS ON TRIAL

The 21 year-old midfielder wants to stay at the J. Davidson Stadium but dad Lee is making him work for it. Sinnott junior is one of several trialists to have featured in Alty's first three pre-season games.

Sinnott senior is yet to decide on him and Jordan Deacey but the Alty boss has now told three of the other trialists, [Josh Green, Jayden Hall and Jeff King], they are free to look elsewhere...

'The two Jordans were involved again on Tuesday night and the evaluation process goes on, as it does with one or two others who are under review. Any decision has to be right for the club and the player and, of course, has to fit within the framework of our budget''" said Lee.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

It was good to get into winning ways against Kendal, but I think first and foremost it’s paramount we get them to the levels of fitness they need to be at... The players have been doing double sessions, they’ve been doing strength and conditioning sessions and swimming pool sessions; you name it, they’ve done it. The three-day camp last week took them out of their comfort zone a bit and really tested them mentally as well as physically. I just think compared to what we are used to at Barrow and other part-time clubs, going full-time has definitely made a difference.

You can just see it in training, with the appetite of the boys. Lads don’t want to go home even though they’ve worked really hard all day. We did a little bit of shooting the other day and some of them wanted to still be out at 4.30pm doing shooting practice and you’re thinking, ‘No, let’s go home lads you’ve got a whole nine months ahead of you’. What that tells you is that the desire and appetite of the lads we’ve brought in. They all want to do well.”

STALYBRIDGE CELTIC 0 ALTRINCHAM 1

For Celtic, Chippendale impressed and, especially in the second half, they had the majority of the forward momentum. They had a goal chalked off for offside but Altrincham almost scored a second goal in the 90th minute when James Lawrie's fine shot came back off the underside of the crossbar.

Altrincham gave a debut to new signing, Anthony Griffith (right), but they were without their captain Shaun Densmore and Nicky Clee as well as the trialists, Jordan Deacey and Jordan Sinnott. Next up is a trip to Witton Albion on Tuesday night.

Match report here.

STALYBRIDGE CELTIC v ALTRINCHAM: MATCHDAY COVERAGE

Brian Flynn advises that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, "is providing full live commentary of Saturday''s game at Bower Fold. The commentators are Luke Edwards, Ian Burke and Brian Flynn. The match summariser is John Edwards.

Coverage starts at 2.55pm & you can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at http://www.radiorobins.com/".

LADIES' TEAM PRESENTATIONS

At the end of a successful season which ended in promotion, Altrincham FC Ladies held their annual Presentation Evening at the Community Sports Hall on Friday evening. Above we see the squad with their Division One runners-up awards presented by the Cheshire Women's and Youth League.

Manager Keith Edleston compered the evening and announced the awards, which were presented by Altrincham FC first team's assistant manager, Neil Tolson. Keith's "Manager's Player of the Season" was Gail, whilst "Most Improved Player" was Chloe Brereton. "Sportswoman of the Year" was Heather, whilst Tracey (who was unable to attend) gained the "Top Goalscorer" award.

The "Players' Player of the Season" award was won by a one-vote margin by Georgia, just ahead of Gail. Sponsor Dave Grundy also nominated Georgia for the Blue Dog Bar award. There were special awards for physio Alan Ainsley and supporter Ian Langford, whilst Keith also honoured his management team of John McManus, Phil Taylor and Dave Grundy.

The evening drew towards its conclusion with Neil Tolson thanking Keith for his hard work throughout the season and Heather making a speech on behalf of the players to acknowledge the sponsors as well as the players and management. Richie Bentley Catering, Randalls Jewellers, The Blue Dog Bar, Impact Signs and Robinsons Preservation had all helped to sponsor the team throughout the season.



VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Myself, Darren (Edmondson) and Paul (Murray) we are determined to bring the right people to the football club. I was speaking to a couple of fans after the game on Saturday (at the Kendal game) and I still think there's a little bit of pessimism in that we should be signing top, top players. People have got to realise we are Barrow football club we are not Fleetwood, what we have recruited we are happy with, there are going to be a few gems in there and hopefully there will be a few more to come. At the end of the day we are going into this League as champions so we will have our chests puffed out and we are ready to embrace this league without a shadow of doubt'".

The National League reports that "Tranmere Rovers striker George Donnelly has left the Vanarama National League newcomers... after having his contract cancelled by mutual consent. Donnelly signed for Rovers in September 2014 for an undisclosed fee from Rochdale making five starts and seven substitute appearances for the club without scoring a goal.

Upon a change of manager early in the season, when Micky Adams took over from Rob Edwards... [and] despite goals in the reserve side, Donnelly was soon sent out on loan to Southport, playing fourteen times and scoring once.

Also leaving Prenton Park is Welsh goalkeeper Owain fon Williams, who has signed a deal with Inverness Caledonian Thistle... Williams spent four years at Prenton Park, making over 180 appearances".

"New boys Boreham Wood have announced the signing of experienced goalkeeper Preston Edwards on a season-long loan deal from National League South side Ebbsfleet United. Edwards started his career at Millwall... After rejecting a new deal at Millwall, Edwards signed for Grays Athletic at the beginning of the 2009/10 season. After just one season at Grays, he decided it was time to move on and subsequently signed for Ebbsfleet.

To date Edwards has amassed over 200 appearances for the Fleet, been selected for England C and... Despite signing a new deal with Ebbsfleet only last season, he is now deemed surplus to requirements and was available.

Edwards will arrive at the Wood to compete for the number one jersey with regular keeper James Russell, who has been in terrific form over the last few seasons and in fact made the Conference South team of the year. On the completion of the season-long loan, Wood boss Ian Allinson said, 'Preston was available at a price I felt we could afford. I've always liked him as a keeper, as a character and as a someone who commands his back four... Although I was happy to go with just one keeper in the Conference South, that is now not the case with the transfer window that operates in the National division.

I really do need two very good keepers at a certain level to compete with each other, Rusty Russell and Preston Edwards will give me that and I think they will both improve for the experience'".

From NL Pitchero we learn that "There have been two departures from Torquay United... Striker Ryan Bowman has joined league rivals Gateshead for an undisclosed fee after expressing his desire to move back up north for family reasons. The 23-year-old joined the club last summer and did well last term. [He netted a penalty against Altrincham at Plainmoor].

Meanwhile, a mutually beneficial deal has been agreed with a Sky Bet Championship club for the signing of rising star Levi Ives... There are various incentives in the deal for Torquay should he continue to make the progress that is expected of him.

Arriving is imposing defender Exodus Geohaghon on a one-year deal. The bustling 30-year-old started his career as a youngster at West Bromwich Albion before serving the likes of Sutton Coldfield Town, Bromsgrove Rovers, Redditch United and Kettering Town. It was his committed displays in the heart of the back-line that earned him a move into the Championship with Peterborough United."

At Forest Green Rovers "Initial plans for a new Forest Green Rovers stadium have been unveiled today as part of a 100 acre sports and green technology centre called Eco Park.

Located at Junction 13 of the M5, half of Eco Park will be dedicated to creating state-of-the-arts sporting facilities, including a 5,000 capacity all-seater stadium for FGR (capable of expansion to 10,000), training fields, 4G pitches, multi-disciplinary sporting area, as well as a sports science hub.

The other half of Eco Park will comprise a green technology business park with sustainably built commercial offices and light industrial units potentially capable of creating up to 4,000 jobs. A public consultation on the initial 'concept design' will now begin, including a meeting with the FGR Advisory Board tomorrow and 'drop-in sessions' at The New Lawn stadium in the coming weeks for fans to provide feedback on the plans."

NEW SIGNING

Anthony lived as a youngster in Huddersfield but, aged 16, he joined Halifax Town and later turned professional with Doncaster Rovers, in 2005. From Rovers, he was loaned to Oxford United, Darlington and Stafford Rangers, before arriving back at Halifax, on loan (2007-08).

He was signed by Port Vale for 2008-09 season and was Club Player of the Year in 2010. His success in the Potteries earned him a move up the ladder to Leyton Orient in summer 2012 but he returned to Burslem in March 2013, where he subsequently re-joined Port Vale for 2013-14. In all, he made more than 200 appearances for The Valiants, where he often played at right-back in his early years there. Next, after one game for Harrogate Town, came a move to Shrewsbury Town but he moved on to Carlisle United in January 2015.

LADIES' PRESENTATION NIGHT

LADIES' TEAM SIGNINGS

Also new to the squad is Judy Henson who has moved over to us from Chorltonians LFC, who play in the Manchester League and finished runners up just behind FC United in Division One. 'Chorlts' also made it through to the League Cup final beating Beechfield United 2-1 and Judy played a pivotal part in that victory. She can play midfield/defence and ,with her subtle array of passing allied to some extremely calm positional play, will definitely have some teams chasing the ball. Judy also works for the Community Sports Hall project at Altrincham FC and is instrumental in helping me design and print out our programmes that, hopefully, we will be offering at our home games next season.

The Gaffer".

Pictured below, with Keith, are (left) Jess Hartopp and, right, Judy Henson.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Our first league opponents this coming season, Forest Green Rovers report that "It was back up and at it for the squad this morning with a visit to the outdoor pool at Stratford Park Leisure Centre for a recovery session after last night’s game with Cardiff.

All of the players took part in a 30-minute session at the pool as they look to enhance their recovery before Saturday’s next pre-season test at Brimscombe & Thrupp. Fitness & Conditioning Coach, Neil Withington, led the session with the players made to take part in stretching, movement and swimming exercises. 'Last night it was their first game and they’ll be a little sore muscular wise. The body will have an inflamed response so what you want to do is just cool it all down', commented Withington after the session.

'So we’re using natural defences, which is themselves, and we’re aiding it by putting them into cold water and contrasting it with a warm shower. There’s more research coming out about cold therapy. There’s the cryotherapy chambers which Premiership teams now are taking on board which is [sic] extreme cold. Research from that is saying, by using that sort of treatment, you’re able to get more training sessions out of players which is what it’s all about it really. It’s active recovery. By flushing toxins out of the body you aid that recovery, you speed up the recovery process so they’ll be ready to go tomorrow'”.

According to the Boreham Wood Times, "Boreham Wood have made former Dagenham & Redbrige defender Scott Doe their fourth signing in two days and their second former Dagger.

The 26-year-old centre-back will join former Victoria Road teammate Luke Howell, as well as Charlie MacDonald and Billy Clifford, in joining the Wood this week. 'Wood boss Ian Allinson commented, 'Scott Doe is not only a fantastic footballer but he’s also a winner. I’ve spoken at length to people who know him and his signing will strengthen our squad. He is a leader, he is an organiser and he will be an asset to me both on and off the park. Again we’ve had to be very patient to get our man, the chairman has backed me once again and my squad is now coming along nicely... We are ensuring there is competition for places in every department'.

Reading-born Doe began his career with AFC Newbury before joining Swindon Town's Academy in 2005 along with Arsenal and England forward Theo Walcott. In July 2007 he made the switch to Conference side Weymouth on a one-year contract and was a regular in his two seasons with the Terras."

Our Cheshire neighbours, Macclesfield Town "are delighted to announce their match ticket prices for the forthcoming Vanarama National League season. Tickets for League matches in the new season are priced as follows:

Seating:

• Adults £17.00 in advance £19.00 at the match
• Concessionaries (65 & Over) £13.00 and £15.00
• Student £4 and £5.00
• U18: £4 and £5.00
• U12: £2 and £3.00

Standing

• Adults: £13 and £15
• Concessionaries (65 & Over): £9 and £10
• Student, U18 and U12: As seating prices

While there has been a slight increase in price from last season, General Manager Robert Stirling says the club feel the prices still represent fantastic value for money. 'For an adult to be able to come and watch a match for just £13 really is fantastic value and means that the club are still offering affordable football for supporters. "We also want to appeal to the fans of the future, which is why the prices for U12s, U18s and Students have remained the same. These are the supporters of the future and it is important that we appeal to them.

Hopefully these prices will entice the people of Macclesfield and the surrounding areas to get behind the club, and of course the best way to do that is for a supporter to buy a season ticket for the new season, and make significant savings on the prices above".

LEE SINNOTT ON WIGAN GAME

"Q: Was that the sort of work-out you were hoping for at this stage of preparations for the new season?

A: Yes, very much so. I was pleased with how it went, pleased with how the players responded to the challenge of facing a League One side and pleased with the outcome. Results aren’t the be-all in pre-season games, but you want confidence to build up as you go along, and it can’t do us any harm in that regard when you consider the quality of the opposition and the fact we were good value for the draw. It’s not just about fitness and sharpness in these games. You want to win them if you can, or at least finish level, and I think it’s fair to say we deserved the 1-1.

Q: It was a spectacular strike from distance that gave Wigan the lead. Any complaints?

A: Well, if I were to be hyper-critical, I would perhaps point a finger at the left side of our defence for allowing their number 33 to come off unattended and tee up the 10 for a strike at goal. Fair enough, he hit it well, but there was no pressure on the ball. We were perhaps a bit too deep, but you get that against professional teams from the League. Don’t forget, this is a team who were in the Championship last season, so you are going to find that sort of thing can happen. That transition from losing possession can cost you, because you have to regain your formation as quickly as you can. By and large, we did that well, but there were just one or two instances where we were caught out.

Right: Trialist Jordan Deacey.

Q: Michael Rankine’s first goal for the club brought us level, and it was down to more than just his physical presence, wasn’t it? Sheer strength may have created the opening, but a one-on-one with the keeper isn’t always the forte of big, bustling strikers like him.

A: I’d agree with that, but he took it with real aplomb. Michael is a really wholehearted, 100 per cent player, and that shone through. It’s funny, because he wasn’t too pleased with himself at Bamber Bridge on Saturday. He was a bit annoyed, because he was bounced off the ball on one occasion and he felt his touch wasn’t all it might have been. But he was a real handful tonight, and that’s what we want from him. A lot of perseverance went into that goal, the way he harried their defender to wrest possession off him, and there was a lot of that in general from us. We did that quite well for much of the game, putting them under pressure and stealing the ball from them. When Ranks did that, he was suddenly faced with the keeper, but he handled it really well. It was a cool, composed finish, slotting it inside the near post, and that can only be good for his confidence. Reevesie was on target at Bamber Bridge, and tonight it was Michael’s turn, and that’s a good sign. When you come to a new club, you want to get off the mark as soon as you can, and I thought he showed tremendous perseverance to carve out the chance and a cool head to convert it.

Q: Supporters tend to warm to players who show that level of commitment, don’t they?

A: You could sense it every time he put himself about to try and win a challenge or a header. You could sense how much the crowd appreciated it, and that is usually the case. Michael said when he signed that Alty fans could rest assured he would give 100 per cent every time he pulled on the jersey, and he looks like being true to his word. Supporters love that, and rightly so.

Q: What did you make of the penalty that might have won it for Wigan in the second half, but for Tim Deasy diving to his right to keep it out?

Left: Released trialist Josh Green.

A: Well, Tim was adamant he hadn’t made contact and it wasn’t a penalty, so I guess the best way of answering that is to make sure it doesn’t go in. What particularly impressed me was the way Tim held his nerve, because the lad’s run-up was clearly designed to try and fox him and get him going one way early. Tim wasn’t having it, though. He didn’t fall for it, and pulled off a great save that will do his confidence the world of good.

Q: Were you relieved Jake Moult was able to walk off still in one piece after being clattered three times in the second half? The first, by James Perch (who was booked), looked the worst.

A: I’m thankful for Wigan coming to us and bringing a strong squad, so I don’t want to say too much. To be fair to Perch, there was real remorse. He was very apologetic and even went over to Jake to say sorry again as he made his way off after being subbed. Jake’s shinpad might have saved him, as did the fact he was airborne when contact was made. I think it might have been judged differently (by the referee) if it was during the season, but we’ll leave it at that. It was good to see a League One side like Wigan at our place, and it was a really good game enjoyed by all. It’s funny really, because, in the old days, it used to be the lower-ranked sides who were accused of putting in one or two choice tackles! The main thing is, though, Jake seems to be ok. Scott Leather has got a bit of a shiner, but that’s going to happen when you’ re a centre-half.

Q: You’re overall reflections, then?

A: There’s still work to be done, but I was pleased with the players. The pitch looks to be in fantastic condition – and, to be fair, it is in fantastic condition – but the grass is always a bit longer at this time of year. Once it is down to its normal season length, and there is a bit of zip about it, we should see a difference. At the moment, it’s just that bit harder to juggle with the ball, because it can get stuck under your feet, but I still felt there was a lot about the game that showed what we do well. We strung together some good passing passages and found some nice pockets, which is what we are about, so that was good to see. I never place too much relevance on results in these games, as long as there is evidence of progress being made, game by game. I’m happy with what I saw. Of course, positive results can only be good for confidence, going into the season, and that is important, because our aim is to score 20 goals more than last season and concede 20 less. We want to go into the campaign in a positive mood, and I feel we are heading in the right direction. We were feeling our way in a bit against Abbey Hey and Bamber Bridge, but you have to crank it up a few levels when you are up against League One opposition, and that’s what we did. We reacted to the challenge positively.

Q: Where are we up to with trial players, possible additions to the squad, etc?

A: Josh Green, Jayden Hall (above, right) and Jeff King were all involved in the first two games, but I spoke to all three of them yesterday and explained that we were not in a position to offer them anything. There are always difficult decisions to make at this time of year, but having made those decisions, I felt it only fair to inform them at the earliest opportunity, so they can try and get fixed up somewhere else. The two Jordans (Deacey and Sinnott) were involved again tonight, and the evaluation process goes on, as it does with one or two others who are under review. Any decision has to be right for the club and player and, of course, has to fit within the framework of our budget".

NEXT OPPOSITION: STALYBRIDGE CELTIC

Stalybridge Celtic report that they "won at Mossley for the first time in a pre-season fixture, and the first time at Seal Park since 1990! There were the usual half time switcheroos that make it difficult to gauge how the team would really perform, but the first half Celtic did look quite dominant, with Bohan Dixon strong in midfield, and Steve Tames and Chris Simm linking up well at the front.

Aidan Chippendale has continued from where he left off, and looked to have added a bit of muscle, whilst the back four looked immense, with [ex-Alty keeper] Tony McMillan mainly in place to catch crosses and command his area, which he did easily...

Celtic from: Tony McMillan, Oliver Crowley, Matty Regan, Jack Higgins, John Shaw, Dale Wright, Ben McKenna, Bohan Dixon, Chris Simm, Steve Tames, Aiden Chippendale; (subs: Callum Hill, Pete Wylie, Matty Hughes, Danny Wisdom, Adam Farrell, Arron Chalmers, Amor Ceaser, Brandon Windsor, Alec Johnson, Gyimah Yaw, Adam Niall).

WIGAN VIEWS

Gary Caldwell made wholesale changes throughout the second half, with six Development Squad players introduced alongside Lee Nicholls, James Tavernier, Chris McCann and Craig Morgan. Latics fans got their chance to see new signings for the first time, with Richard O'Donnell, David Perkins, Donervon Daniels, Max Power and Sanmi Odelusi all involved from the start.

It was a solid start for Latics against their National League opponents at the J.Davidson Stadium, with the link up play between Tim Chow, James Perch, Perkins and Power showing from the early exchanges to result in an opportunity for Martyn Waghorn which was squeezed just wide of the left post. The quartet impressed during the first 45 minutes, continually pushing Latics forward down the right side, but Altrincham held firm for the first 25 minutes.

Two minutes later and Mckay gave his side the lead, bringing the ball down perfectly on the edge of the box, before spinning his marker and curling a left footed shot into the top corner, the 880 in attendance stunned by the precision of the shot...

With Latics looking comfortable it looked like only a mistake could let Altrincham in, unfortunately it did. O'Donnell's pass to Jason Pearce slowed down as it reached the defender, allowing Rankine to muscle in and knock Pearce to the ground, from there the striker did the rest, sliding the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1 with eight minutes to go until half time... The game became unsettled due to the frequent changes, but began to settle down after five more changes on 62 minutes...

That's when the game sparked back into life, and it was Jennings causing all of the problems for the hosts... Jennings... was taken down again, this time by the Altrincham goalkeeper, the final man standing in his way after a clever flick from McCann found the winger in behind. Tavernier stepped up to take, but his confidence couldn't carry the ball in as he clipped the post with a slight touch from the keeper. As the full time whistle sounded, Latics could be pleased with their first half performance and encouraged by the use of their younger players in the second half".

and Wigan Athletic add that "manager Gary Caldwell admitted he was slightly disappointed at full time in last night’s 1-1 draw away to Altrincham at the J.Davidson Stadium, but praised the bright start made by his forwards and the dangerous wide play from his full backs in a game which stepped up fitness preparations.

'I’m a little disappointed in the end', he said, 'I think we started really brightly, the front players were causing a lot of problems and we had some good movement to create some good opportunities. Billy Mckay scored a great goal, but then we let Altrincham back into the game and we stopped doing a lot of the good things we had done early on.

The second half was a bit of a struggle and we looked a little leggy, but it’s pre-season and we’re still working the boys really hard, so it’s another step forward in terms of the physical progress and it’s another game under their belts as they head towards 90 minutes'...

Caldwell continued, 'The movement of the front players stood out for me. The wide players and their relationships with the full backs was impressive but I thought we tried to force it down the middle too much. I would have liked the players to use the threats we had out wide a bit more because I thought the full backs were on and in a lot of space. The wide players cutting inside caused problems as well, so it’s something we’ll work on...

Altrincham were a great test for us and Southport will be the same on Saturday, they’re physical opposition and matches like these will carry us on'".

Mike Ripley has images from the game here.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The group turned up on Monday afternoon and Harding said... 'Ultimately it will come down to what the police say but we’ll have a large disappointed and disaffected crowd of spectators who will have to walk a long way because they can’t park next to the ground if the travellers are still there. It’s just fortunate that the game on Monday when they came was against a Millwall development side and not the full Millwall first team because that would have seen a much bigger crowd with the two sets of people coming into contact.

If they’re still there on Friday, I’ll request a substantial police presence for the game against Southend and I won’t expect for the club to have to pay for it. There is a doubt about the game with them there but I hope they will be moved on in good time'".

The Boreham Wood Times tells us that "Billy Clifford has become Boreham Wood's third signing of a busy morning and their fourth since winning promotion to the National League. The former Chelsea youngster can play at right back or in midfield and has been on trial with the Wood in pre-season, catching the eye of boss Ian Allinson.

'I knew very little of Billy Clifford until last week but his pedigree is clearly evident', said Allinson. 'We invited him in to train, play a couple of games as I wanted to have a good look at him. I knew after the first training session that he was technically at another level but I needed to see if he was hungry and in truth he’s also been excellent in the games. So signing him was a no-brainer and sometimes players just need people to believe in them to rebuild their careers and with Billy Clifford we can help him get back on track very quickly'.

After loan stints with Colchester United, Yeovil Town and Royal Antwerp during the 2013/14 campaign, the 22-year-old midfielder was released by the Premier League giants. In August last year Clifford joined League One side Walsall after his contract at Stamford Bridge was terminated by mutual consent in an attempt to earn regular first-team football. However, after just 13 appearances for the Saddlers, he was freed in January".

And the BBC adds that "Boreham Wood have signed striker Charlie MacDonald and midfielders Luke Howell and Billy Clifford. Former Charlton trainee MacDonald, 34, was released by Barnet after captaining them to the 2014-15 Conference title, scoring eight goals in 30 league games. He has found the net 125 times in 407 league appearances for clubs including Ebbsfleet, Brentford and MK Dons.

Howell, 28, left Dagenham after making 127 league appearances and Clifford, 22, joins after leaving Walsall. 'I'm excited to be able to work with somebody like Charlie', Wood boss Ian Allinson told the club website. 'I've said since our promotion that we would need to be patient to get the players that I want at this club and the chairman has thankfully backed me with this deal. I will get a player who understands the level we're now at, a player who is still hungry to perform, a player with great experience and, having met him, I know Charlie will be a real asset to the team and his new team-mates'".

From the NW Evening Mail we learn that "Barrow AFC have landed Football League front-man Ashley Grimes. The 28-year-old was set to pen a two-year deal ahead of the Bluebirds' friendly against Lancaster City at Giant Axe.

'It's a good coup for the football club', said boss Darren Edmondson, who at the weekend also completed deals for Steve Williams and Paddy Lacey. 'He played a lot of games last year for Walsall and at Bury and Rochdale the years before and his goal record has been good'.

Grimes has extensive Football League experience, having been in the professional game since 2007. A Manchester United youth player, he has had spells with Swindon Town, Millwall, Lincoln City, Bury and Walsall, though he played the bulk of his league games at Rochdale...

Barrow continue to monitor a number of trialists".

NW NEWS

Adam Gyurcso struck a low shot into the far corner past Paul Harrison in the TNS goal. The second leg is on 22 July".

ALTRINCHAM 1 WIGAN ATHLETIC 1

Match report here

Right, Alty's players emerge for the pre-match handshakes.

BROADCASTING ACADEMY RECRUITS SOUGHT

"The Vanarama National League Broadcasting Academy

At the National League AGM in June, a new project sponsored by BT Sport and the Vanarama National League was announced, providing the opportunity for two people from each of the 24 member clubs for 2015/16 season to access training from BT Sport TV professionals to produce weekly film clips of games, which may then be shown on BT Sport's new National League highlights programme.

The two media trainees, from each of the 24 clubs involved, will attend a two-day training course on July 21st & 22nd at Barnet Football Club, whose stadium and facilities have been made available for this project, including practice matches for the trainees to film.

Trainees will receive tuition in operating the equipment, filming techniques, conducting post-match interviews, editing the footage and delivering it to BT Sport via file transfer. It is also hoped that the trainees will film some of their club’s pre-season friendlies, edit the highlights and send them back.

This opportunity is ideal for students involved in sports media studies, however is open to everyone. If you are interested in finding out more about this great opportunity to become involved with Altrincham Football Club, please contact Brian Flynn by phone on 07860 561011 or by e-mail.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The promising 17-year-old enjoyed a strong first season with Andy Blakeley’s Academy last campaign and has caught the eye of the first-team management who invited him to join them for pre-season training. He’s caught the eye in pre-season so far, too, with some impressive displays including a goal in last week’s 2-0 win at Bedworth United".

Elsewhere, "Eastleigh have added midfielder Andy Drury to their squad following his signing from Luton Town having departed the Sky Bet League Two side by mutual consent. Thirty-one-year-old Drury started his career at Sittingbourne before moving on to Gravesend & Northfleet then, following over 100 appearances, had moves to Lewes and Stevenage Borough... Following sixty-two appearances with 2 goals with the Tractor Boys, a loan spell at Crawley Town was followed by a permanent move making a total of fifty-four appearances with 8 goals.

Drury re-joined Luton in June 2014 in a move valued at £100,000 and during the past season appeared thirty-five times with 2 goals to his credit. He has signed a one-year deal with the Spitfires".

According to the London Evening Standard, "A Grimsby Town supporter has been found guilty of assault after wielding an inflatable shark 'like an axe' at a Football Conference match. 51-year-old Kenneth Meech saw the Mariners beat Barnet 3-1 at The Hive Stadium on 21 February, and assaulted Cgagi Gladyng as he celebrated the victory, heard Willesden Magistrates' Court.

Meech, who was one of roughly 1,000 fans that travelled to north London, denied a charge of common assault. However, Mr Gladyng told the court that he was hurt by the inflatable and compared the trio of blows that he received to his head Gladyng to 'like being hit by a roll of paper'. He also described the moment he became scared as a group of Grimsby fans surged towards the playing area. Meech was not handed a football banning order but was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £700 in costs, plus compensation of £100 and a victim surcharge.

Meanwhile, Meech went on to describe the entire trial as a 'waste of the taxpayer's money', but accepted the outcome. 'I'm a bit deflated, to be honest', he said. 'Very surprised and shocked by the verdict but got to respect what the court has said. I think if this didn't happen at football I wouldn't be here today, I'm sure of that', he added".

GATE-PEOPLE NEEDED!

ALTRINCHAM v WIGAN ATHLETIC: MATCHDAY COVERAGE

Brian Flynn advises that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, "is providing full live commentary of Tuesday night's game at The J.Davidson Stadium. The commentators are Ian Watmore and Stewart James. The match summariser is Paul Salt.

Coverage starts at 7.40pm & you can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at http://www.radiorobins.com/".

It's been a busy pre-season so far for Latics, with seven new additions to the squad: David Perkins, Richard O'Donnell, Craig Morgan, Donervon Daniels, Max Power, Sanmi Odelusi and Craig Davies. Gary Caldwell will be more than satisfied with his team's start to preparations ahead of the new Sky Bet League One campaign, after a week in La Manga improving their fitness, as well as collecting two victories in practice matches against Queen of the South and Hibernian. Following tonight's match, Latics will travel to Southport on Saturday, before a trip to Scotland to face Partick Thistle and Dundee...

Our only two professional meetings have come in the FA Cup with mixed results. Last time out Latics were eliminated from the competition in the second round after a 1-0 away defeat in 1994, seven years on from their 2-0 victory in 1987, which saw John Butler and Bobby Campbell hit the target...

Non-league meetings were much easier to come by, as Latics and Altrincham faced off 50 times in league matches from 1932 to 1978. The Robins just edge the head-to-head record in league competitions, with 18 victories to Latics' 17, along with 15 draws."

And the Latics also announced that "Striker Will Grigg joins Wigan Athletic from Brentford on a three-year deal."

OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

'It's a huge disappointment', Higgs told BBC Points West. 'A massive kick in the teeth for the football club, fans and the wider Bristol community and we have been let down big time'. Higgs revealed the legal process has cost them around £500,000 and the advice they have been given is to appeal the decision. 'The initial legal advice we have had is there is very strong grounds for appeal', he said.

'We've got no choice, we will find a way to afford to do it... We would be letting the club down if we didn't follow it through'. Higgs... said he was still hopeful of moving to a new 21,700-seater stadium in Stoke Gifford. 'We've entered into a contract which has been reneged, there has been numerous breaches and a decision has been made on a technicality', he added. 'I don't feel culpable, we've done everything in our power to try and bring the club a new stadium to offer sustainability. Clearly we can't stay where we are, clearly we can't keep losing money, there is a limit to how much money people will put into this club and we need to find a sustainable outcome and that is a new stadium'.

Higgs said the decision would not affect manager Darrell Clarke's playing budget and criticised the supermarket chain for their behaviour. 'I feel for the fans, council, mayor, MPs', he said. 'Sainsbury's have let down Bristol in a massive way. Bristol is the loser'. Sainsbury's agreed to buy the Memorial Stadium in 2011 and lease it to the League Two club while the new stadium was built. It argued that planning conditions over a new store were not met on time. The supermarket has said the sale is 'no longer commercially viable'".

From the Halifax Courier we learn that "FC Halifax Town striker Scott Boden has joined Newport County. The striker joined Halifax from Macclesfield last summer and scored 10 goals in 38 league games last season but failed to hold down a regular starting spot over the second half of the season and scored just twice in the league after October.

He will play under former England captain Terry Butcher at Newport, who have had to assemble a whole new squad after having their budget slashed this summer."

Another player moving up into the League is the subject of news from NL Pitchero which tells us that "Former England C goalkeeper Adam Bartlett has signed for Hartlepool United. The 29-year-old has been training with Pools during pre-season following his release from Gateshead at the end of last term."

NL Pitchero says that "Cheltenham Town have announced a new sponsorship deal that will see Whaddon Road re-named the `World of Smile Stadium` for the next three seasons. Based next to Wyevale Garden Centre on Evesham Road in Cheltenham, World of Smile are leading providers of conservatories, garden buildings, sheds, cane and rattan furniture. Their managing director, Jon Burke, is the great nephew of Robins' great Peter Goring, who went on to enjoy huge success at Arsenal after joining them for a fee of £1,000 in 1948.

A butcher in Bishop’s Cleeve, Goring went on to win both the league title and FA Cup with the Gunners. Burke said he was proud to continue the family’s association with the football club."

LADIES' PRESENTATION NIGHT

ALTY WIN TROPHY

Right: The season has not yet begun but Alty have already won a trophy as Community Sports Hall assistant manager Judy Henson and manager Stacey Rowley hold the cup awarded to the Club for the best float in the Altrincham Festival Parade, which took place on 4 July.

NEXT OPPONENTS: WIGAN ATHLETIC

Latics created the opening opportunity in the first half when Sanmi Odelusi forced Hibs keeper Mark Oxley into a smart save, only for Fyvie to strike moments later. Second half substitute Waghorn scored his first on the 70th minute mark when he clinically despatched Tim Chow's pull-back from just inside the area into the roof of the net. The winner came from a corner as Waghorn swept home Billy Mckay's knockdown, latching onto a loose ball inside the six yard box with just 90 seconds left on the clock.

Latics' manager Gary Caldwell declared himself to be satisfied with the week’s work in La Manga. 'The players have been terrific, they’ve shown a real good attitude. This game was played in pretty hot temperatures and was a step up in intensity from the other night.' Latics will end their camp in La Manga with a light recovery session before a cycling session ahead of their return.

Tuesday will see Caldwell’s side travel to Altrincham for the first pre-season friendly in the UK, with Southport away the following Saturday.

Starting XI: Nicholls, Perch Morgan, Daniels, Pearce, Taylor, Tavernier, Power, Flores, Odelusi, Trialist. Subs Used: Barnett, Chow, Perkins, McCann, Mckay, Jennings, Taylor-Sinclair, Waghorn". Profiles of Wigan's squad are here.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

After his Bantams' exit at the end of that campaign, he joined Macclesfield before moving onto The Shay for 2014/15. He started his career with his four years at Valley Parade and also spent a loan period at Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 12/13.

Meanwhile, [ex-Alty] midfielder Paddy Lacey has agreed full-time terms after his holiday in Thailand. The club have been in discussion with the player since the middle of May. Both players have signed one-year contracts with one-year options automatically exercised if they reach a specified number of appearances."

From the Lincolnshire Echo we learn that "Lincoln City have taken former Notts County striker Shaun Harrad on trial. The Nottingham born forward was released by the Magpies at the end of last season. He only featured a handful of times for the Meadow Lane outfit and spent the end of the season on loan at Cheltenham Town, who were relegated out of the Football League.

The 30-year-old has a wealth of experience, with his most prolific spell coming in a six year period at Burton Albion... Imps boss Chris Moyses has stressed he is keen to add more options to his attack... Harrad is expected to arrive on Monday".

The Gloucester Citizen reports that "Forest Green have suspended club physio Paul Maxwell for an alleged gross misconduct. A club spokesman said... 'FGR will not be commenting further until the process has concluded'. It is understood that Maxwell, who joined the club from Stoke City in January 2014, has denied the allegations. Rovers appointed Ian Weston as physio on Friday."

BAMBER BRIDGE 0 ALTRINCHAM 1

Match report here.

Pictured, right are trialist Jayden Hall, who was on loan at Chester FC from Burnley last season, and Alty captain, Shaun Densmore.

FRIENDLIES TO COME

Holders of 2015/16 Altrincham FC season tickets are reminded that they will be admitted free of charge to all of the Club's friendlies at the J. Davidson Stadium in pre-season.

For those paying at the turnstiles, the admission prices for the home pre-season games are the same as last year, namely...

• Adults: £7
• Concessionaries: £4
• Under 5s: Free.

The home friendlies are:

• Tue. 14.7.15 7.45pm WIGAN ATHLETIC
• Fri. 24.7.15 7.45pm CREWE ALEXANDRA
• Sat. 1.8.15 3pm PORT VALE

Later in the summer, Altrincham travel to Shawe View to play Trafford FC on 28 July. On Saturday Trafford won a pre-season friendly away to Brickfield Rangers (Wrexham), 4-0.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Times Series reports that "Barnet outcast Keanu Marsh-Brown is currently away with Forest Green Rovers for pre-season training in Ireland. The winger, who made just two league starts last term, has not been involved in either of the Bees’ pre-season friendlies and speaking after today’s 5-3 defeat by Crystal Palace, Martin Allen revealed... 'Keanu Marsh-Brown is away with Forest Green Rovers', stated Allen. 'He went away with them and will be away for a week with them training, so we will see how he gets on'.

Marsh-Brown was subject of a bid from the Green Army last season but the 22-year-old turned down the opportunity to join Ady Pennock’s men. There was also an offer from Championship side Blackpool but the Times Series understands that was turned down by chairman Tony Kleanthous. The former Fulham and Arsenal youngster spent time training with Peterborough United last season too but a move to London Road failed to materialise.

Marsh-Brown’s contract with the Bees had been due to end this summer but the club activated the one-year option they held in the hope of receiving a more substantial fee for his service... Allen revealed the wideman had not turned up for the second day of pre-season training as his car had a puncture. He said, 'Keanu needs a bit more work than most of the other players. He missed the last six weeks of the season with gastric flu so we never saw him for the last six weeks of the season. When he was available he could not train because he had a thigh strain. So in total he has been off now for nearly three, coming up to four, months. Then on Thursday he did not train because he had a punctured car tyre'"

The Halifax Courier says that "FC Halifax Town have confirmed the signing of midfielder Kingsley James from Chester. The 23-year-old scored twice in 40 league games for Chester last season and appeared at The Shay for England C. The midfielder was out-of-contract at his former club, but Town will be required to pay a fee for him, which will be determined by an independent FA tribunal."

I the Western Morning News we learn that "Torquay United have announced the signing of winger Shepherd Murombedzi shortly after confirming the arrival of Macclesfield Town striker Waide Fairhurst. Murombedzi, 20, scored a hat-trick in the Gulls' 9-0 demolition of Galmpton earlier this week and has now been brought in on a permanent basis.

'Shepherd is a player that I have been aware of for some time', Torquay United boss Paul Cox told the club's official website.. 'We have a player with bags of pace and power and an end-product to his game. This lad has masses of potential and I am delighted to have him on board here'. Murombedzi was a junior player at Manchester United before a two-year spell in the Reading Academy. In his time with the Royals he made it into the Under-21 team before being released."

BAMBER BRIDGE SIGN ORMEROD

In his 20-year-long playing career, Ormerod has previously played for Accrington Stanley, Southampton, Leeds United, Wigan Athletic, Preston North End, Nottingham Forest, Oldham Athletic, Rochdale and Wrexham. In September 2014, he signed for Padiham".

FRIENDS OF ALTY

• £100 Nigel Bunce *62
• £50 John Brennan *30
• £35 Steve Foster *10
• £15 Mark Embury *101

OLD BOYS

The BBC reports that "Blackpool have signed Morecambe striker Jack Redshaw for an undisclosed fee on a two-year deal. The former Manchester City trainee, 24, joined the Shrimps from Altrincham in 2012 and scored 38 goals in his 129 appearances. Redshaw is the Seasiders' seventh new arrival so far this summer.

The former Manchester City trainee, 24, joined the Shrimps from Altrincham in 2012 and scored 38 goals in his 129 appearances... 'I think the time is right to step up into League One. I'm confident in my own ability and want to be successful', he told the club website. The deal also includes the option on another year on his contract".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

'We are delighted to have finalised matters with Torquay United and both parties very much look forward to our joint venture', said Argyle chief executive Martyn Starnes. Torquay have been looking for extra ways to increase their income after a takeover was completed by a consortium of local businessmen last month. As part of cost-cutting measures, the Gulls closed their academy so had surplus space at Seale Hayne.

'In an ideal world, all our teams would train and play in and around Plymouth, the city they represent. That is our long-term ambition', Starnes added. 'Frustratingly, at the moment, this is not feasible. There is a dearth of facilities in and around Plymouth and we have experienced real problems trying to find training pitches to the standard our academy needs to help them develop our young players'" said Argyle."

At the other end of the country, Gateshead confirm that "Midfielder Paddy McLaughlin says that he is ‘over the moon’ to secure a one-year deal with Gateshead following a successful trial period. The 24-year-old departed the Heed’s league rivals Grimsby Town two months ago, following a two-year stay at Blundell Park.

The Northern Irishman, who started out in the game as a youngster at Newcastle United, began training with Malcolm Crosby’s squad just over a week ago".

Also Gateshead report that "Former Motherwell defender Simon Ramsden has become Gateshead’s second signing of a busy Friday, subject to international clearance. The 33-year-old has put pen to paper on a one-year deal with the club... Ramsden joined the Tynesiders on trial last week, having ended a three-year stay at Fir Park one month ago.

Born in Bishop Auckland, Ramsden has been taken aback by the Heed’s setup so far, and spoke of his happiness at being back in the region after over a decade away. He said, 'I’m delighted to finally sign. Obviously I’m a local lad, so to come back to the area is great, and the lads have made me feel very welcome. Luckily I knew a couple of them. I’ve played with the likes of Ben Clark, Jon Shaw and Sam Russell before. If you ask any player, you want to feel wanted first and foremost, and luckily I have felt that all summer. Both Gary and Malcolm were really keen to get me in here, and as a player you want to feel that the staff have that faith in you... but I have missed the area as well, and the atmosphere within the club has been spot-on from day one.”

We learn that Tranmere Rovers "midfielder Jason Koumas has retired from football at the age of 35. Koumas, who scored ten times in 34 international appearances for Wales, started his career in the youth system at Prenton Park and made 150 appearances for the Club, scoring 32 times... His form earned him a club record transfer to West Bromwich Albion for £2.5 million in 2002 and he went on to play more than a century of games for the Baggies.

He moved to Wigan Athletic for a fee in excess of £5.5m in 2007 and, after a spell on loan at Cardiff City, returned to Tranmere in 2013 after two years out of the game and he went on to make a further 57 appearances for the Club".

CHESHIRE NEWS

A Vics' spokesman said, 'We are delighted to be returning to the town and would like to put on record our sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone at Witton Albion for the way in which negotiations were carried out and concluded in a very understanding and professional manner. Northwich Victoria have found that the time spent away from its home town have proved extremely difficult and we are more than ready to return...

We would like to thank the Vics' supporters who have managed to travel with us during our enforced exile and welcome back those who for a variety of reasons were unable to make the journey but continued to keep Northwich Victoria close to their hearts we look forward to seeing you all and to creating the next chapter in a long and proud history'.

Witton chairman Mark Harris echoed these sentiments. 'We have been looking for partner to share Wincham Park for some time. In the modern era it makes total sense for competing clubs to share facilities, providing that the deal works for both parties, especially financially. This agreement will provide a sound basis on which to build the revenue necessary to invest in both the team and the stadium’s facilities. No club enters into a groundshare agreement lightly. We have carefully evaluated the ramifications in terms of extra workload for our volunteers, pressure on the playing surface and additional commercial opportunities that two local clubs playing in on stadium provides. We have also built in the necessary safeguards to protect the additional revenue that this agreement brings.

Witton Albion has a recent history of successful ground shares, both with Vics and Runcorn Linnets, so we know that they can work very well for both parties. We look forward to welcoming Vics to Wincham Park next season'".

JOIN THE PATRONS!

"For the bargain sum of £50, your name will appear throughout the season 2015-16 in the matchday programme for every home game and on the club’s official website as a Patron of the Football Club.

In August, every Patron will be entered into a prize draw with the winner being match sponsor for an appointed game along with 9 guests. Second prize will be hospitality for 5 people and third prize hospitality for 3 people in the Sponsor Lounge; the value of the 1st prize is £550.

If you are interested in becoming a Patron again this season or joining for the first time please forward a cheque payable to “Altrincham FC” for £50 for the attention of Grahame Rowley.

If you require further information, please speak to me on 07720-606897 or e-mail me.

We need your support even more for the forthcoming season, as we look to 'push on' in the Conference National, so please help the club through the close season by joining up today."

Thank you".

CHESHIRE COUNTY CUPS: DATES

• Prelim Round, By W/Ending 7th November 2015, W/C 02/11/15
• 1st Round, By W/Ending 16th January 2016, W/C 11/01/16
• 2nd Round, By W/Ending 13th February 2016, W/C 08/02/16
• Semi Final, By W/Ending 12th March 2016, W/C 07/03/16
• Final, April 2016, Provisional

The dates for the Cheshire County FA District Youth Cup are

• Sunday 06th/ 27th September 2015
• Sunday 11th / 25th October 2015
• Sunday 8th November 2015
• Final, March / April 2016, Provisional

YOUTH TEAM LEAGUE DATES

• 16/08/15 @ 14:30 ALTRINCHAM FC v SALFORD CITY at HALE COUNTRY CLUB & SPA
• 23/08/15 @ 14:30 PRESCOT CABLES v ALTRINCHAM FC at SUTTON SPORTS ACADEMY
• 30/08/15 @ 14:30 ALTRINCHAM FC v WARRINGTON TOWN YOUTH at HALE COUNTRY CLUB & SPA

Cup draws, with unspecified dates, as yet are:

• ALTRINCHAM FC v SKELMERSDALE UNITED YOUTH at HALE COUNTRY CLUB & SPA - NEIL THOMASON CUP (PREMIER DIVISION)2015-16
• ALTRINCHAM FC v BARNTON YOUTH at HALE COUNTRY CLUB & SPA - OPEN CUP
• SALFORD CITY v ALTRINCHAM YOUTH (U-17) at ECCLES SIXTH FORM CENTRE - OPEN CUP

OLD BOY

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Kitscha is manager Gary Johnson's 11th new signing of the summer and won Histon's player of the year award for the 2013-14 campaign".

Elsewhere, "Torquay United are to offer a contract to defender Exodus Geohaghon after the central defender went on trial at the club. Geohaghon, 30, who is a free agent, played under Gulls boss Paul Cox when he guided Mansfield to the Conference title in 2013. 'He's one I'd like at the football club', Cox told BBC Sport. But Cox says he does not expect out-of-contract teenager Levi Ives to stay at Plainmoor for the forthcoming season.

Ives, 17. who came up through the club's youth ranks, would command a fee from any club hoping to sign him. 'Speaking to his representatives, as the club has for a number of days now, they see his future away from Torquay which is fine', Cox added. 'Everyone wants to do things at the highest level, we respect that, and we'll make sure that if that happens we'll be compensated accordingly'.

Geohaghon played in Torquay's first pre-season friendly earlier this week and impressed his former manager. 'He's not fully match fit, but you can see the presence that he has, the throw that he possesses and the assists you get from that are massive. He's one we've spoken to, he's one we'll make an offer to, but it's a case of us cutting our cloth to fit accordingly. He's a good lad, he's still hungry at 30 years of age. He was hungry to come all the way down here to play in a trial game, when some people who were in the same position as him might say "I'm looking for something permanent before I come on trial" and that I like', Cox added.

So far this summer Torquay have signed defender Dan Butler, striker Tyrone Marsh and right-back James Hurst".

According to the Daily Post "Wrexham manager Gary Mills has revealed he is mulling over whether to offer terms to trialist Danny Racchi after he turned in a couple of impressive performances in his side’s opening pre-season friendly matches. The 27-year-old has featured for 45 minutes in each of the Dragon’s first two summer fixtures, including a 7-1 win over Lex XI and Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw against Colwyn Bay at Llanelian Road.

The midfielder started his career at Huddersfield Town after progressing through the youth ranks before joining Bury, who he played for in the League Two play offs during his first season. He previously signed for Wrexham on non-contract terms in August 2010, but left to join York City the following month on a three-month loan before eventually signing a permanent deal in January 2011. Racchi was released by then York manager Mills in April 2011 after a disagreement over the amount of playing time he was given and has since had spells at Kilmarnock, Icelandic club Valur and most recently signed for Hyde in January 2015.

However after bringing him to Wrexham on trial during pre-season, Mills has been full of praise for his performances.. He said, '“Danny was better than anyone last night, he controlled the ball, he looked sharp and his passing range was good. We’ll certainly look at him again on Saturday and there will come a time when I have to make a decision but, if he keeps playing like that, then I would certainly like to bring him in'".

On Tyneside, the Sunderland Echo reports that "Gateshead boss Malcolm Crosby hopes that Newcastle United’s visit tomorrow night could be the start of a beautiful friendship. Crosby welcomes old pal Steve McClaren to the International Stadium for a pre-season friendly.

It will be the first game in charge of their respective clubs for both men... who first worked together at Oxford United before McClaren appointed Crosby as his reserve-team manager when he was at Middlesbrough... Crosby said, 'They’re bringing the first team over, which is fantastic for us and the players to be up against Premier League players'...

It’s not just the game tomorrow that Crosby has his eyes on, however, with the 60-year-old believing closer links with the Magpies could help him out over the course of the season. Crosby is hoping to loan a few players from Newcastle, or either of his former sides Boro and Sunderland to help Gateshead’s bid for promotion... ' I’m very fortunate that I’ve got great connections at Middlesbrough from my time there, and they’ll help if they can. Sunderland, obviously, I’ve got good connections with Paul Bracewell and Kevin Ball. They’ll be the same. And Newcastle are trying to create some kind of alliance with us. What you can’t do in this league is play too many kids. It’s a man’s league – it’s a tough league – and if they come to the club they’ve got to physically manage that'".

From the Lincolnshire Echo we learn that "Tony Diagne is set to join Macclesfield Town on a six-month loan deal. The Lincoln City defender was made available for transfer at the end of last season.

The Frenchman joined the Imps last summer, with former City boss Gary Simpson signing him on a two-year deal. However, he struggled with his fitness and spent four months on the sidelines. He returned to action for the final games of the last campaign, but was told he was no longer in the plans of current boss Chris Moyses. He was put on the transfer list along with striker Jordan Burrow, who left to join FC Halifax Town."

ROY GIVES HIS SERVICES TO ALTY

Altrincham FC is pleased to announce that former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland star, Roy Keane, a local resident, has very kindly agreed to be the guest speaker at a Sportsman's Dinner at the Community Sports Hall on September 18th. Very generously Roy has donated his services to help to raise funds for the residual CSH building costs and the Club is extremely grateful for his kind gesture. Please see the above poster, (click to enlarge), for details of how to reserve your place(s) at what is certain to be a very popular event.

Altrincham Today adds that "The former Manchester United captain will take part in an interview session and a Q&A at the event, to take place at the Moss Lane venue on Friday, September 18th.

Robins' chairman Grahame Rowley said that almost half the tables had already been sold, only a day after tickets went on sale. He added that the initial approach to Keane had been made by the manager of one of the club’s junior sides, for whom Keane’s son plays.

'People forget that money is still outstanding on the Sports Hall and it’s hard to fundraise for something that’s already built', he said. 'We needed to have a big fundraiser so we had a brainstorm and came up with the idea of approaching Roy. The manager of his son’s team made the approach and I was absolutely delighted to hear that he was happy to do it. He’s not just going to nip in either; he’s told us he’s happy to stay as long as we want'.

The £750,000 hall was officially opened by Keane’s former manager Sir Alex Ferguson in December and is a well-used space for everything from yoga classes to Slimming World. Although the majority of the funds was secured through grants, there’s still an outstanding amount which the club must cover.

The Hall holds a capacity of 200, with tickets available at £40 and a table of eight priced at £300. Tickets are available by calling 0161 928 1045 or by e-mail.

LEE PLEASED WITH "FIRST STEP"

Many excellent images from the game are on Michael Ripley's website.

John Edwards, joint Press and Media Officer at the J. Davidson Stadium, writes that, "The countdown to the new campaign is officially underway for Altrincham after a goalless draw Lee Sinnott described as a useful workout at Abbey Hey on Tuesday night.

A highly competitive Abbey Hey side had the better of a low-key first half, but a completely changed Alty line-up bossed the second 45 minutes and went closest to scoring when James Lawrie hit the post late on.

Alty step up their preparations at Bamber Bridge on Saturday, and manager Sinnott said: ‘It was a strange result, because you don’t get many 0-0s in pre-season games, but there were chances at both ends. We had four or five opportunities to score.

‘But overall it was a useful exercise that certainly served its purpose. If you think you’re going to be at the level you need to be first time out, you are deluding yourself. It’s about getting minutes under your belt and getting into game mode, and the players will feel the benefit of that.

‘There was a little bit of rustiness, but that is only to be expected. We were able to try a few different things and look at one or two (trialist) players in a game situation, and that was good.

‘For instance, we had Michael Rankine alongside Damian Reeves up top in the first half with one just behind, then one up top with two behind in the second. There’s the makings of a good partnership between Michael and Reevesie but, equally, we played one up front quite often last season and it is good to have those options.

‘Being right for August 8 is the priority, and it is pleasing to have taken the first step towards that.’

On plans to strengthen his squad, Sinnott added: ‘You hear of people being available all the time, but it is a case of bringing players in who are going to fit the bill for what we require.

‘It’s not going to be half-a-dozen, but it will probably be three or maybe four new faces, depending on the budget. We are keeping a very close eye on it, because it is important we make the right decisions.’"

PITCH PERFECT FOR NEW SEASON

The pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium is ready for the pre-season games, with Wigan Athetic the first visitors, next Tuesday. As shown above, courtesy of Grahame Rowley, the pitch has once again been prepared superbly by groundsman Neil Brown.

BRETT ORMEROD TO FACE ALTY

Michael Barnes, Joe Booth and Dave Hankin have all joined Brig over the closed season. Former Blackpool striker Brett Ormerod, who was most recently at Padiham, is also training with the club. Brig have been dealt a blow ahead of Saturday’s game as both Barnes and defender Glenn Steel will miss the friendly but Crowe admits Ormerod will feature.

'It’s a bit of a blow but nearly everybody will miss some part of pre-season', Crowe said. 'It’s the holiday season and it’s understandable. Brett Ormerod is looking sharp in training and he will most definitely feature on Saturday. I’m looking forward to getting back and watching the lads play football. We’ve got a good squad and we’ve brought in lads that we wanted to'.

[Former Kidderminster Harriers and Chester] defender Hankin nears a return to training. The fullback missed all of last season, when he was at AFC Fylde, due to injury. But after a lengthy spell of rehabilitation, Hankin is expected to resume training in the next 10 days. Aside from Hankin, Brig have no new injury worries and Crowe is pleased with how his squad reported back.

'Everybody looks in good shape,' he added. 'People look sharp and it’s good to see'".

OLD BOYS

Returning to Moor Lane from last season... [is] full-back Cavell Coo... Craig Dootson... takes on the role of goalkeeping coach and will also be signing on as a player."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Pennock said, 'The boys completed two days of fitness and fat testing at Brimscombe-based Inside Football last week. We gave them a programme over the summer and they have returned in good shape, so I am really pleased, but you would expect that of professionals'.

Pennock is now watching his side fine tune their aerobic conditioning with triple training sessions over a gruelling five-day period. He added, 'The boys are training each day at 7am, 11am and 4pm. They're responding well and the time away is good for team spirit as it certainly proved last year in Scotland'...

'I was pleased how we finished the second half of the season and we moved on very quickly from the disappointment of Bristol Rovers [in the play-offs] and I am really looking forward to the new season'.

Rovers open the new National League season with an away clash at Altrincham on Saturday, August 8".

From NL Pitchero comes news that "Former Burton Albion midfielder Jimmy Phillips believes that he is firmly in ‘the right place’ after completing his move to Gateshead. The 25-year-old put pen-to-paper on a one-year deal at the International Stadium, having been released by the Brewers at the end of the last campaign."

Elsewhere "Paul Carden, manager of Southport, has signed Andrai Jones [an ex-Alty loanee]. Carden has agreed a two-year deal for the 23-year-old former Bury, Barnsley and Gateshead player. Jones arrives at the Merseyrail Community Stadium after impressing Paul Carden in pre-season and in his performances last season. Carden said, 'I am delighted to have signed Andrai, he is a real prospect. He can play in a number of positions, I see him in my midfield. He has great energy and real ability. He is an athlete and I am sure will develop quickly at Southport'".

The Lincolnshire Echo reports that "Lincoln City have denied they are facing a winding up order to the sum of £200,000. And they also said that a petition put forward in error by HMRC to the Companies Court in May to wind them up was dismissed... According to the club's acting managing director Kevin Cooke the rumour is just nonsense.

'It's the first I have heard of it,' said Cooke. 'Unless there is a letter that has gone missing somewhere under my desk, it is complete and utter nonsense'... Cooke stressed the matter was a mistake by HMRC, who later asked for the order to be dismissed when it went before a judge. 'HMRC said we owed them money,' said Cooke. 'It was a pay roll issue and we didn't feel we did. We put it in the hands of our accountants who dealt with the matter... Our accountants managed to resolve the matter and we do not owe the HMRC anything, but the petition stood until the judge could dismiss it.'

The only organisation the club owes a significant sum of money to is the Co-operative Bank. The club operate an overdraft of up to £300,000 with the bank and also have a mortgage of £80,000 on the Playzone activity centre. The Bank has not called the debt in, but is in discussions with the club at how they move forward".

NW NEWS

Wilde wrapped up his hat-trick early in the second period to put the Welsh Premier champions out of sight... Substitute Matty Williams made it 4-0, before Lukasz Cieslewicz netted a late consolation, but it tailed to take the shine off a fine night for TNS who won both legs of a Champions League tie for the first time... Torshavn offered little, apart from some crunching challenges".

ABBEY HEY 0 ALTRINCHAM 0

Alty fielded completely different elevens in each half on a good surface but, particularly in the second half, in difficult, wet conditions. In the first 45 minutes, in addition to last season's regulars Coburn, Densmore, Griffin, Leather and Reeves, Altrincham deployed trialists Josh Green and Jayden Hall, as well as new signings striker Michael Rankine (right) and midfielder Josh O'Keefe. Also starting for the visitors were Youth team graduates centre-back Sam Heathcote and midfielderJeff King, who spent much of last season at Kendal Town.

The two trialists both had spells at Chester FC last season. One of them, midfielder Jayden Hall (b.1994) was on loan there from Burnley, while 20 year-old Josh Green was on loan from Fleetwood Town.

For the second half, Tim Deasy took over in goal, with players from last season (Clee, Marshall, Richman, Moult, Sinnott, Lawrie) plus trialist forward Jordan Deacey (ex-BPA and AFC Telford United), reserve striker Joel Swift and youth team graduates David Brown and Rhain Davies.

Match report here.

JOIN THE PATRONS!

"For the bargain sum of £50, your name will appear throughout the season 2015-16 in the matchday programme for every home game and on the club’s official website as a Patron of the Football Club.

In August, every Patron will be entered into a prize draw with the winner being match sponsor for an appointed game along with 9 guests. Second prize will be hospitality for 5 people and third prize hospitality for 3 people in the Sponsor Lounge; the value of the 1st prize is £550.

If you are interested in becoming a Patron again this season or joining for the first time please forward a cheque payable to “Altrincham FC” for £50 for the attention of Grahame Rowley.

If you require further information, please speak to me on 07720-606897 or e-mail me.

We need your support even more for the forthcoming season, as we look to 'push on' in the Conference National, so please help the club through the close season by joining up today."

Thank you".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A short statement of the DAFC website said, 'We are disappointed to announce that the start of construction for our new stand will not now begin until the end of the forthcoming season. We have now received final planning approval from the council and can shortly begin to apply for grant funding, which is required before construction can begin'.

The Family Stand was due to be redeveloped, orginally scheduled to be this summer, in time for the start of this coming season. The work is still expected to go ahead, where there will be an extra 140 seats added, with dedicated viewing areas for disabled supporters also being made available and extra toilet facilities built."

We learn from NL Pitchero that "New boys Cheltenham Town have signed former Reading left-back George McLennan on a one-year deal. Scotland under-19 international McLennan joined the Royals in 2012 after leaving Gillingham... [He] signed his first professional contract at the Madejski Stadium in July 2014.

The 19-year-old, who is from Ashford in Kent, spent time at Hayes & Yeading United last season, tasting senior first-team football for the first time. He impressed Robins boss Gary Johnson in a trial match at Winchcombe School last week and has now agreed to join Cheltenham, becoming the club's tenth new signing of the summer."

FIRST FRIENDLY: ABBEY HEY

Last season the two clubs also met in pre-season on 5 July 2014. Alty included only six of last season's regular starters but secured a comfortable 6-1 win against a young, but spirited, Abbey Hey side. There were impressive debuts for Alty's summer signings Sean Williams and Ryan Crowther, whilst trialist midfielder Wade Joyce (ex-Barnsley and St Johnstone and son of Warren Joyce) was another new face. Four goals came from Damian Reeves. For the second half Altrincham deployed five substitutes, all, like keeper Josh Samberg, Alty youth graduates.

Pictured right, we see Ryan Crowther in the game at Abbey Hey last year.

RADIO ROBINS

A summary will be here on the website on Tuesday night and a match report will be provided on Wednesday.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The BBC also says that "Wrexham manager Gary Mills admits he is unlikely to sign any more players before the start of the new National League season. Mills succeeded Kevin Wilkin as Wrexham manager and has recruited 10 new players during the close season...

'I never say that's going to be it, but I've got nothing in the pipeline at the moment', Mills said. 'Every week, every day and every game that you are in this job you always think "Can I get better, can I improve?'" But I've also got a lot of good players now and I'm delighted at the way we are looking'".

In the Worcester News we learn that "Former top-flight French forward Amadou Alassane has returned to the game on trial with Kidderminster Harriers, six years after retiring with a heart defect. The 32-year-old impressed in the top two divisions across the English Channel for Le Havre from 2006 until 2009 with 18 goals in 72 league games after playing at a lower level with AM Neiges.

Alassane's performances attracted interest from the likes of Hull City and he had an unsuccessful week-long trial with Scottish giants Celtic, when he was valued in the £1.5million bracket, before leaving the professional game. The 6ft 2ins French-born Mauritanian forward surprisingly returned as a substitute with Harriers to net in the 2-0 win at Northern League side Romulus, where [manager] Whild otherwise fielded a mainly young XI in their opening pre-season friendly".

News of Altrincham's first opponents this season comes from the Stroud News which says that "Former Forest Green striker Lee Hughes has left Kidderminster Harriers. The 39-year-old is being chased by Vanarama National League and SkyBet Football League clubs as he looks to continue his playing career. Hughes returned in January after an 18-year break when his contract at Forest Green Rovers was cancelled by mutual consent, taking a large pay cut in the process.

But with manager Gary Whild’s playing budget reduced by half to £250,000 for the 2015-16 season, the Harriers felt they could not offer the experienced goal-getter a new deal. Hughes is currently training with Port Vale while he’s looking for a club. He re-joined with Kidderminster still in the play-off hunt but financial instability derailed their efforts.

'I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Harriers, it’s a great club with brilliant fans,' Hughes told the Kidderminster Shuttle. 'It was unfortunate during my time there were problems behind the scenes, I’ve never seen players not get paid before. But I must say the manager was brilliant with me, he was honest and up front about the situation at the club and I respect that. “I would have loved to have stayed but there was never any offer on the table, I know the money situation at the club is tight.

I definitely still feel I can go on playing and now I’ve come back from holiday I will see what offers there are'. Striker Danny Wright, who Whild had been hoping to persuade to stay, has joined Cheltenham Town."

Forest Green Rovers also report that "The temperatures may very well have been soaring but that didn’t stop the squad’s progress as they returned for pre-season training at the end of last week. Fitness & Conditioning Coach, Neil Withington, and new assistant manager, Jamie Day, led the players through a challenging first session at Inside Football in Brimscombe, as preparations begin for the new season.

The squad was split in half over Thursday and Friday with the players who travel from a further distance in for Thursday’s session, and the more locally based players back in on Friday. [Ex-Alty loanee] Sam Wedgbury came out on top on Thursday in the much maligned yo-yo test, while youth team graduate Louis McGrory, on his first day as part of the senior squad, impressively lasted the longest in Friday's corresponding session. An agility test also pushed the players and they also participated in a range of different conditioning tests to see how they had reported back to training...

The squad have now travelled to Northern Ireland for a week long pre-season training camp as we get set for our first pre-season tie with Cardiff City at The New Lawn on Wednesday 15 July."

According to the Shropshire Star "AFC Telford United defender Neill Byrne’s stay-or-go saga is set to end with him signing for Macclesfield, as boss Steve Kittrick lost out on midfield target Andrai Jones.

The Bucks have also agreed an undisclosed fee with another club for the sale of Byrne, but the Silkmen are favourites to land the former Ireland Under-21 international as he has chosen to join them, albeit for a lesser salary.

'We’ve agreed an exit strategy for Neill, and I think he’s going to Macclesfield for an undisclosed amount but with a hefty sell-on fee', said Kittrick. Byrne will become the second cash exit in a week after the sale of Adam Farrell to Stalybridge Celtic. Kittrick has mixed feelings about the departure of a player who he had earmarked as his new captain when the 23-year-old said he was staying last month.

'He wanted to leave and put himself on the transfer list, then he wanted to stay and he’s had an offer at the last minute', he said. 'I understand he wants to play full-time football but the to-ing and fro-ing has been frustrating. He doesn’t want to play part-time and we don’t want anyone here who doesn’t want to play for Telford. He’s going to Macclesfield on a lot less money but I think he’d have been better staying here until January and getting another 20 games under his belt then having a look, because he’s hardly played under me'.

Meanwhile, Gateshead midfielder Andrai Jones has agreed to join Southport after turning down Telford. 'We offered him a good deal but he’s decided to go to Southport', said Kittrick".

Last season's part-time high-flyers Dover Athletic announce that "Supporters are being offered the opportunity to travel in style to our away matches at Barrow, Gateshead and Torquay United, by purchasing a seat on the airplane making the long trips across the country.

Our trips to Barrow (Saturday 8th August), Gateshead (Saturday, 3rd October) and Torquay United (Tuesday, 6th October) will see the return of DAFCAir, our charted aircraft, helping the side prepare in the best possible way for these matches. Supporters and sponsors are able to purchase a ticket to travel with the team, with pricing set at £500 per match, per person. The likely departure airport is Biggin Hill, with departure and return times confirmed closer to each match. The ticket includes transfers to the ground and back to the airport.

Payment is required in advance of travel and spaces are limited so".

NW NEWS: WELSH CLUBS IN EUROPE

• Champions' League: B36 Torshavn (Faroes) 1-2 The New Saints
• Europa League: Airbus UK Broughton 1-3 NK Lokomotiva (@ Bangor, att. 548)
• FC Differdange 03 (Luxemburg) 3-1 Bala Town
• Newtown AFC 2-1 Valletta (att 1420)

Return legs:

• Tue 7 Jul 2015 / Park Hall / 19:00 The New Saints v B36 Torshavn
• Thu 9 Jul 2015 / Rhyl / 19:00 Bala Town v FC Differdange 03
• Thu 9 Jul 2015 / Kranjceviceva Stadium / 20:00: NK Lokomotiva v Airbus UK Broughton
• Thu 9 Jul 2015 / Hibs Stadium / 20:45: Valletta v Newtown AFC

ALTY ON WATERSTONE'S MURAL

The Waterstone's book shop in George Street, Altrincham has placed a mural on its staircase which shows the main landmarks in Altrincham, such as the Market Hall and the iconic station clock at Altrincham Interchange. As the image, above, shows, Altrincham AFC also features as an integral part of the town's make-up.

TRAFFORD FRIENDLY

• Adults £5
• Juniors/OAPS £3

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He did perform the role on a full-time basis in two of the club’s previous Conference Premier seasons, but his own practice has built up since then. Riley turned round the club’s medical record keeping and injected a new level of professionalism into the treatment of injuries. His links with a Consultant Surgeon at Preston meant speedy treatment for Barrow players.

Riley said, 'I would like to thank all of you for your help and support during my time at the club and wish you all the best in your new challenge in the top flight of non league football'... Dan Anderton, having been given the green light by the FA, will take up the full-time role of Head Therapist."

NL Pitchero has a list of National League signings made over the summer. so far as our early-season opponents are concerned, the details are:

Forest Green Rovers

• Darren Jones – Newport Co
• Aaron O`Connor – Newport Co
• Delano Sam-Yorke – Lincoln C

Grimsby Town

• Padraig Amond - Morecambe
• Nathan Arnold – Cambridge Utd
• Omar Bogle – Solihull Moors (Undisclosed Fee)
• Danny East - Portsmouth
• Josh Gowling – Kidderminster
• Marcus Marshall - Morecambe
• Andy Monkhouse – Bristol R
• Richard Tait – Cambridge Utd

Guiseley

• Will Hatfield – FC Halifax
• Adam Lockwood - Oldham

Woking

• Jack Caprice – Lincoln C
• Nick Hamann – Braintree
• Ismail Yakubu – Newport Co

ALTY MAKE AN IMPACT AT FESTIVAL

Altrincham FC's Community Sports Hall and its multitude of activities was the focus of the club's float in Saturday's Altrincham Festival parade through the town.As the float showed, all ages are catered for by the Club's community ventures. Above (left, click to enlarge) we see the float, kindly supplied by Atlantic Scaffolding and (right) we see the Alty Under-9s with their trophy. The team accompanied the float from The Downs to Timperley, collecting funds on the way. Many thanks go to them, to the other collectors and to everyone else who helped to make a success of the day.

The float certainly drew plenty of attention as it passed through Altrincham, much helped by the music relayed by Alty supporter Peter Scotson, who is seen near the back of the lorry. Better images from the day will appear on Mike Ripley's website, if they are not there already.

LEE'S RADIO INTERVIEW

Lee reiterated that he thought we could have finished some four places higher last season had we performed consistently. The Alty boss was asked about budgets and said that he believed that we were in the bottom eight in the National League though he would never make an issue of that. The manager was also asked about new signing Michael Rankine, whom he described as a "gentleman but a tough footballer, who knows his craft".

Lee also discussed formations and hinted that a two-striker formation might figure more often in the coming season than the 4-2-3-1 set-up which garnered the most points for Alty last season. However, the squad will have a variety of formations in its armoury. For this second season back at the national level, Lee said that "We now know what this league is about". Lee also answered questions about motivation and the pre-season schedule. He said of the latter that he is looking for sharpness rather than results. He hinted that no one would play more than 45 minutes in the opening match at Abbey Hey on Tuesday night.

As regards his own career, Lee felt his main achievement was not playing in an FA Cup Final or playing in the top flight with Watford, but actually having a long career of 19 years, with more than 600 games under his belt. As for the managers under whom he had played, Lee admitted to taking something from most of them rather than modelling himself on any one of the bosses. He had great admiration for his manager at Watford, Graham Taylor, who was a "master of detail". As for Neil Warnoock, under whom he also played, Lee said that "you would run through a brick wall for him but only ask the reason why afterwards"!

Speaking of his long journey from Hull for every training session and home game at Altrincham, Lee said "It's my choice. I enjoy managing the club and seeing its progress". As regards 2015-16 and beyond, Lee is convinced that the current squad "is capable of more" and he looks forward to seeing them progress. The interviewers reminded Lee that he had a very good "win ratio" as a manager, in the region of 40%, something the Alty boss hopes to maintain or improve upon.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Jones played 20 games in the Conference Premier for Gateshead last season, helping them to finish 10th. Now he is on the radar of Telford, but they face competition from two Conference Premier clubs.

Liverpool-born Jones played for Everton and Preston as a youth-teamer before getting his Football League break with Bury in 2013, playing 19 times in the League. From there he was loaned to Altrincham where he played once before being snapped up by Barnsley in a permanent deal in January 2013.

He played twice for the Tykes in the Championship and had loan spells out of Oakwell with Tranmere, playing two games, and Alfreton where he added a further 10 appearances before joining Gateshead last summer.

'He’s six foot tall, athletic and he gets around the pitch and the gaffer has spoken to him but I think there’s two other clubs in for him as well', said assistant manager Chris Holland. 'If he wants to get back into the Football League then we can give him the platform because there are always plenty of scouts here.'

Telford are also trying to land an experienced centre-half to cover the loss of Byrne, who has been given a deadline of today to decide his future. Boss Steve Kittrick spoke to the 23-year-old yesterday, as he continues to struggle to reach a decision on where he wants to play. Byrne, who has a year left on his contract, went on the transfer list earlier this summer and attracted a lower wage offer to go to an un-named Conference Premier outfit. Then he decided to return to the Bucks and trained on Tuesday but didn’t turn up on Thursday.

'I’ve been on the phone to him and he doesn’t know what to do so we’ve given him until today to decide', said Kittrick. Through a current Bucks player, Telford have lined up an un-named replacement for Byrne who has been playing in the Conference Premier but wants to go part-time. Farrell’s transfer to [Alty's pre-season opponents] Stalybridge Celtic will see him link up again with the man who signed him for Telford, former Bucks boss Liam Watson".

At Welling United "Loui Fazakerley has signed Michael Chambers on a permanent deal from Crystal Palace. The 21 year-old centre-back has had two loan spells at Park View Road and had hinted at the end of the season that Park View Road could become his destination for this season. Chambers has penned a one-year deal. Chambers signed for Palace from Dulwich Hamlet and also had a loan spell at Harrow Borough before impressing for the Wings last season."

FC Halifax Town "are delighted to announce that goalkeeper Matt Glennon has agreed to stay for another season at the Shay. The former Huddersfield Town and Carlisle United shot stopper joined Town in 2012 and has been first choice goalkeeper for the last three seasons."

4 July 2015

ALTY AT THE FESTIVAL

Please come along, bring the family and join in the activities!

FIXTURES

YOUTH CUP DRAW

SEASON STARTING EARLY?

2015/16 SEASON BOOKLET

Assistant Manager of the Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, Judy Henson, has been writing to more than 300 local businesses and groups inviting them to secure an advert in a forthcoming new booklet of Altrincham FC 2015/16 fixtures and business pages of the area. Judy says, "It's to replace the old calendar wall charts we give out each season at the first game".

In her letter to local businesses, Judy says, "I am writing to you with a proposition to promote your business in our new 2015/16 season booklet. In recent years we have made and distributed wall planners and sold boxes to companies around the edges of our calendar. This year we are making an A6 booklet (A5 folded landscape), with the option to buy a full or a half-page spread (as shown, right). You may wish to add text, images or even money-off/savings coupons.

We decided a wall planner wouldn't be of use to many people, whereas a handy booklet would be. We will include a 2015/2016 calendar, Altrincham FC match fixtures and business pages. This booklet will be handed out to all fans at our first home game of the season and also to local businesses, which will be an advertisement to over 1,000 people at the very least, who will see a copy. If you are interested or would like to know more, please reply by July 17th 2015".

If your business would like to be part of this initiative, please contact Judy as soon as possible to secure your space by e-mail or phone (0161 928-1045).

In summary, this is an

• Advertisement opportunity for local businesses or groups.
• It is an A6 booklet with fixtures, club information and business pages.
• Cost of an A6 full page is £200 (or A7 half-page £125).
• The deadline is Friday 17th July.
• Please contact Judy on 0161 928 1045 or e-mail her
• Remember that the booklet going out to all fans at the first home game of the new season, potentially over 1,000 people.

Pictured above is the cover for the new booklet and the various formats it will contain.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He also has two promotions out of the National League (Conference) on his C.V. having helped both Accrington Stanley and Fleetwood Town to the league title in 2005-06 and 2011-12 respectively. The forward has also had spells with Blackpool, Bury, Forest Green Rovers and Wrexham.

Manager Gary Brabin spoke of his delight at the signing, 'I’m really pleased to be able to sign Andy. He has just been a part of a side that has won promotion into League One but he also knows this division well. He is a natural goalscorer, a local lad and a good character so I’m sure he will fit into the squad very well'".

At one of the player's former clubs, Forest Green Rovers say that "In a similar draw to last season, The New Lawn will host two home fixtures after the opening away game, with the Welling match followed by the visit of Barrow AFC on Saturday 15th August, before Rovers play Boreham Wood at Meadow Park in Hertfordshire on the Tuesday...

Forest Green manager Ady Pennock said, 'It's always tough starting the season away from home. We had two draws against Altrincham last season, so it will be a challenge having them first up. As for Barrow, Boreham Wood and Bromley, they’ll be buzzing after promotion last season. They were three teams that deserved to come up, so it will be a difficult opening month".

NL Pitchero says that "Truro City have announced the dual signings of Martin Rice and Aaron Dawson, both from National League neighbours Torquay United".

OLD BOY

The former Norwich City and Shrewsbury Town ‘keeper starred for Maidenhead, now managed by ex-Braintree Town boss Alan Devonshire, in their 1-1 draw with the Clarets in March. Devonshire recently signed Iron keeper Nick Hamaan to join him at York Road, allowing Timms to team up with Hawkes’s side for the 2015/16 season.

He currently resides in Nottingham, serving Conference North side Boston United in January 2014 before leaving by mutual consent, paving the way for his move to Hyde and then the Magpies.

And Timms admitted it was tough to keep the lid on his move to the Clarets after rejecting some offers from the league above... 'I’m really happy to be here and hopefully add to the team that they’ve already got... As the manager knows, I’ve turned down a couple of National League sides who play full-time to be here. They’ve got a great set-up, a good stadium and a great fan base, so I want to bring stability and I’ve got a lot of experience. There’s a lot of travelling but my missus is a wedding planner. We live in Nottingham, which is quite a way, but she travels to London every weekend. At a weekend it’s not a problem and we get to spend more time together. From where I’m from there’s not a lot of traffic so it evens itself out and training won’t be too difficult'".

FIXTURES

Last season Alty faced a marked imbalance of away midweek games but this season we have been allocated four home Tuesday games and three away and none of the latter is further than Lincoln City. For the second season running the campaign ends at Braintree Town.

• 1 Sat.8.8.15 H FOREST GREEN ROVERS 3pm
• 2 Tue.11.8.15 A Guiseley 7.45pm
• 3 Sat.15.8.15 A Woking 3pm
• 4 Tue.18.8.15 H GRIMSBY TOWN 7.45pm
• 5 Sat.22.8.15 A Dover Athletic 3pm
• 6 Sat. 29.8.15 H TRANMERE ROVERS 3pm
• 7 Mon.31.8.15 A Southport 3pm
• 8 Sat.5.9.15 H CHELTENHAM TOWN 3pm
• 9 Sat.12.9.15 A Wrexham 3pm
• 10 Tue.15.9.15 H EASTLEIGH 7.45pm
• 11 Sat.19.9.15 H BRAINTREE TOWN 3pm
• 12 Tue.22.9.15 A Lincoln City 7.45pm
• 13 Sat.26.9.15 A Boreham Wood 3pm
• 14 Sat.3.10.15 H BARROW 3pm
• 15 Tue.6.10.15 H FC HALIFAX TOWN 7.45pm
• 16 Sat.10.10.15 A Aldershot Town 3pm
• 17 Tue.13.10.15 H KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS 7.45pm
• 18 Sat.17.10.15 A Gateshead 3pm
• 19 Sat.31.10.15 H TORQUAY UNITED 3pm
• 20 Tue.10.11.15 A Macclesfield Town 7.45pm
• 21 Sat.14.11.15 A Bromley 3pm
• 22 Sat.21.11.15 H BOREHAM WOOD 3pm
• 23 Sat.28.11.15 A Forest Green Rovers 3pm
• 24 Sat.5.12.15 H WREXHAM 3pm
• 25 Sat.19.12.15 A Cheltenham Town 3pm
• 26 Sat.26.12.15 H CHESTER 3pm
• 27 Mon.28.12.15 A Tranmere Rovers 3pm
• 28 Sat.2.1.16 A Chester FC 3pm
• 29 Sat.9.1.16 H GATESHEAD 3pm
• 30 Sat.23.1.16 A Grimsby Town 3pm
• 31 Tue.26.1.16 H WOKING 7.45pm
• 32 Sat.30.1.16 H DOVER ATHLETIC 3pm
• 33 Sat.6.2.16 A Welling United 3pm
• 34 Sat.13.2.16 H LINCOLN CITY 3pm
• 35 Sat.20.2.16 H GUISELEY 3pm
• 36 Sat.27.2.16 A Torquay United 3pm
• 37 Sat.5.3.16 H MACCLESFIELD TOWN 3pm
• 38 Sat.12.3.16 A Barrow 3pm
• 39 Sat.19.3.16 H ALDERSHOT TOWN 3pm
• 40 Sat.26.3.16 A FC Halifax Town 3pm
• 41 Mon.28.3.16 H SOUTHPORT 3pm
• 42 Sat.2.4.16 A Kidderminster Harriers 3pm
• 43 Sat.9.4.16 H BROMLEY 3pm
• 44 Sat.16.4.16 A Eastleigh 3pm
• 45 Sat.23.4.16 H WELLING UNITED 3pm
• 46 Sat.30.4.16 A Braintree Town 3pm

The opening day fixtures on Saturday, 8 August are:

• ALDERSHOT TOWN v GATESHEAD
• ALTRINCHAM v FOREST GREEN ROVERS
• BARROW v DOVER ATHLETIC
• BOREHAM WOOD v FC HALIFAX TOWN
• BROMLEY v WREXHAM
• CHESTER v BRAINTREE TOWN
• KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS v GRIMSBY TOWN
• LINCOLN CITY v CHELTENHAM TOWN
• SOUTHPORT v EASTLEIGH
• TORQUAY UNITED v MACCLESFIELD TOWN
• TRANMERE ROVERS v WOKING
• WELLING UNITED v GUISELEY

GETTING FIT

That commences a sequence of eight games in 26 days... 'We have one or two players training with us, who we are planning to take a look at in the early friendly games and it's likely that the next couple of weeks will be a busy time for a lot of clubs as many players' contracts finish' said Altrincham manager, Lee Sinnott, following Tuesday's training session....

Sinnott is hoping for a more positive schedule than last season when the Robins' supremo was unhappy that his team started and finished its campaign with away matches.

'I'd like to think that we can start and finish our campaign at home this time to redress the balance of last season'", he said."

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

For the above activities, bookings are now being taken over the phone (0161 928-1045), e-mail or in person at the Club. Please click on the image to enlarge it.

OLD BOY

The 33-year-old midfielder had agreed to move to the Sandgrounders on a player-coach role for the season. He will take a role coaching the academy at the Premier League side as part of Roberto Martinez's staff. 'I'm obviously disappointed to lose Peter but I understand his decision,' said Southport boss Paul Carden."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Signed in February, he had been offered a deal at the end of last season, and has finally accepted the opportunity to continue his stay at The New Lawn.

The 22-year-old impressed in the eight appearances he made in a FGR shirt in the back end of last season and, were it not for an injury picked up in our final home league game, would have featured as part of the back line in our play-off ties against Bristol Rovers.

Agreeing a deal till the start of January, the former Colchester United and Millwall defensive man was pleased to sign. He said, 'I’m happy to finally get the deal done and dusted. It was never a case of me wanting to leave the club really; it was more to do with things off the pitch. Every professional footballer wants to stay full time. Unfortunately some have to go part time and I’m just lucky enough the gaffer wanted me here and I’ve got the chance to stay full time'.

Bender had joined the club from Dartford earlier this year and is a Wales under 21 international".

According to the Football Conference, "Torquay United have announced the signing of defender Dan Butler. Butler joins the club after leaving Portsmouth where he made numerous first-team appearances.

Butler also spent time on loan with Havant & Waterlooville and more recently with Aldershot Town whilst with Pompey.

'It was a no-brainer really,' said manager Paul Cox... 'He's another footballer that we want to put on a stage and help us in our fight to build up this football club. He has tremendous experience for a player his age. I’m sure that will tell in what is going to be a very tough league'".

Chester FC "announce the signing of Jordan Chapell on a one-year deal following his release from Torquay. Chapell, 22, had spells with the Gulls and Grimsby last season, after starting his youth career at Sheffield United.

Jordan can operate on both wings, and is Steve Burr’s sixth summer signing. The Blues boss said,'Jordan took our eye in the home game with Torquay earlier last season. I tried to get him in January but he opted for a move to Grimsby, which I can understand as they were going for promotion.

'Once we knew his contract was coming to an end with Torquay, we held several discussions with him and were chuffed that we’ve been able to get him to sign. He’s another player that we’ve managed to bring in that’s young, but got experience already in this league. He had a great start at Torquay last season, and I thought they were one of the best sides to come to our place lasts season.

He certainly shone that night and, although when we played them at their ground, I thought he had another great game that night. 'Jordan can operate on either wing and can play almost anywhere in midfield... He gives us a lot of options which is a bonus, and that’s important when we’re working with a relatively small squad'".

According to the BBC "Businessman Stewart Donald has taken a 10% stake in League Two Oxford United. Donald will remain owner of National League club Eastleigh and cannot take a seat on the Oxford board.

However, he will sponsor the women's academy teams, having previously been an informal investor. 'The simplest way to look at it is like having two children. You try not to love one more than the other and try to do your best for both of them', he told BBC Radio Oxford...

Football League regulations cap interests in more than one club at 10%. And, despite being a lifelong Oxford supporter, Donald stressed he will continue to fulfil his obligations at Eastleigh. 'Everybody at Eastleigh knows I'm an Oxford fan and the fact I'm taking 10% and not any more shows I'm retaining my interest there. Eastleigh is my prime club financially and I'm just as committed as ever to make sure they have a successful season'...

Donald cited one of the priorities for Oxford United is securing their own ground in the long-term... 'When you hear 2,000 season tickets go towards paying the rent, it's obviously a leveller in League Two and we wouldn't have that handicap to getting out of the league'".

NL Pitchero says that "Hemel Hempstead Town have announced the signing of Jamie Slabber. The striker, who won the league with Bromley last season, finished the campaign superbly and was a major factor in the Ravens promotion".

ALTY'S PRESENCE AT ALTRINCHAM FESTIVAL

Altrincham FC and its Community Sports Hall will be participating in this Saturday's Altrincham Festival. As usual there is a parade from the town to the showground in Timperley. Pictured above are volunteers of all ages helping to pack 500 "goody bags" to be distributed during the parade and the events on the showground.

Stacey Rowley, General Manager of the Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, writes that "Altrincham Football Club Community Sports Company will be entering Altrincham Festival on behalf of Altrincham Football Club, and also attempting to promote, and increase awareness of the Sports Hall.

We are looking for anyone who is available to help out for the Festival on the 4th July, to get in touch with me, Stacey Rowley either by e-mail or by phone on 0161 928 1045.

Helpers would be appreciated to walk with the float through the town centre, or on Beech Fields, Timperley, where there will be demonstrations of all the activities that occur in the Sports Hall, as well as a tombola. Any donations of chocolate and sweets for the tombola would be greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at the office in the Sports Hall during opening hours of the Hall".

ROBINS' REVIEW: YOUR SUGGESTIONS WANTED

That's our aim, anyway, and discussions have already been held over ways of supplementing established favourites like Shaun Densmore's 'Captain's Chat' with new items and features that will provide even more of an insight into all matters Alty. But we are mindful it is YOUR Robins Review, YOUR guide to what is going on at the club, both on and off the field.

That being the case, we are inviting you to have your say on how you think the pages should be filled for the coming campaign. Is there something you have always wanted to read while waiting for the teams to come out, something you feel would improve the Review? Let us have any ideas/suggestions/thoughts/requests you may have, and we will give each and every one our full attention. Each will receive a personal reply, and we will endeavour to use as many as we can. This is your opportunity to have an input into the 2015-16 Robins Review.

If you want to take it, please email your suggestions to Chairman Grahame Rowley and, if possible, copy in joint Press and Media Officers John Edwards and Brian Flynn.

JOIN THE PATRONS!

"For the bargain sum of £50, your name will appear throughout the season 2015-16 in the matchday programme for every home game and on the club’s official website as a Patron of the Football Club.

In August, every Patron will be entered into a prize draw with the winner being match sponsor for an appointed game along with 9 guests. Second prize will be hospitality for 5 people and third prize hospitality for 3 people in the Sponsor Lounge; the value of the 1st prize is £550.

If you are interested in becoming a Patron again this season or joining for the first time please forward a cheque payable to “Altrincham FC” for £50 for the attention of Grahame Rowley.

If you require further information, please speak to me on 07720-606897 or e-mail me.

We need your support even more for the forthcoming season, as we look to 'push on' in the Conference National, so please help the club through the close season by joining up today."

Thank you".

OLD BOYS

Having started out at Welsh Premier outfit The New Saints between the ages of 17 and 21, he then made more than 100 appearances for Altrincham during two seasons between 2009 and 2011. During his stint at Moss Lane he also represented the Welsh under-23 side. Following Altrincham’s relegation from the Conference Premier he linked up with AFC Telford United, who had just won promotion to non-League’s top flight.

However, after suffering a knee ligament injury before the start of the 2011/12 season he never made a competitive appearance for The Bucks. After regaining his fitness he was subsequently loaned to Altrincham and then Lincoln City, in January 2012, and saw out the end of that campaign at Sincil Bank. He moved to then Conference Premier side Hyde at the start of the 2012/13 season"

Elsewhere, Lee Casswell, manager of Leek Town, is in the process of re-building his squad after over half of last season’s successful team moved on to pastures new. However, several players have all agreed terms to stay at the club for the forthcoming season. Midfield dynamo, Anthony Danylyk, who was named players` and supporters` player of the year last season, is set to become only the fourth player ever to make more than 400 appearances for the Blues should he play just thirty-three games in the 2015/16 season".

UNITED RESERVES AT ALTY

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

On completion of the deal, Steve Burr said, 'There had been word that he’d signed with Telford but that wasn’t the case. I got in touch with him during the summer and, when we sat down, had a chat and I’m delighted that he’s chosen to sign for us. I watched Ian for Burton Albion earlier on in the season and he was very much a part of their great start to the season. He’s always impressed when I’ve seen him.

He got an injury at Burton and they continued to do well when he’d dropped out of the team so it was one of them where he wanted to get back in. We watched him on loan at Telford and it was no real surprise to me when he went in there and it helped turn their fortunes a bit, and he certainly improved them at the back. We do a lot of ground work before we go and sign a player. Sometimes it doesn’t work out but, from sitting down with him, I’ve got a great feel for Ian Sharps at this club'".

At Boreham Wood the club is "delighted to announce the signing of the versatile defender Danny Woodards. Danny joins the Wood with plenty of Football league experience having made over 250 appearances with spells at Exeter City, Crewe Alexandra, MK Dons, Bristol Rovers and Tranmere Rovers.

His career though began at Chelsea where he made over 70 appearances for the reserves without actually making a first team appearance. After being released by Chelsea he moved down to the South West and joined Exeter City. After two seasons at Exeter, he joined Crewe for a fee reported to be £30,000... He could play anywhere along the backline and in midfield. After his contract expired in 2011, he joined MK Dons and made 66 appearances before joining Bristol Rovers. After departing Bristol Rovers he signed a 6 month contract with Tranmere Rovers, where he made 5 appearances before suffering a metatarsal injury.

Danny will join us in July and combine his first-team footballing duties, with taking on a coaching role working and developing under Assistant Manager and Academy Director Luke Garrard within our hugely successful PASE Academy. On sealing the deal Wood Gaffer Ian Allinson said 'Danny’s pedigree is out there for all to see. His versatility and experience was important to me and he will have a big influence within the team. I needed to add men to our young squad and, in Danny, I’ve added strength and knowledge defensively and it will help us establish ourselves in the new National league'".

According to the Lincolnshire Echo, "Hamza Bencherif's second spell at Lincoln City is over after the defender joined Jordan Burrow at FC Halifax Town. The Algerian had been offered a deal for next season by Imps' boss Chris Moyses, but has instead decided to join one of their National League rivals.

After playing for the Imps on loan from Nottingham Forest under Peter Jackson, Bencherif was brought back to Sincil Bank by former manager Gary Simpson last summer. The 27-year-old played in defence and midfield last season under Simpson and his successor Moyses, making 42 appearances and scoring six goals."

At Kidderminster Harriers, "Boss Gary Whild has confirmed two changes within his squad... Winger Ahmed Obeng has been allowed to leave the club in order to join Hednesford Town...

Meanwhile, striker Reece Hales has penned a one-year deal at Aggborough... The youngster, who signed from Birmingham City last season, made six appearances for Harriers in 2014/15 and spent time out on loan.

Whild explained, 'Ahmed's situation was a little different as we had been expecting to begin the season with him as part of the squad but, in fairness to him, the interest shown in him from Hednesford was quite sustained and, having discussed it with him and with everything considered, this is the best option for him as a young player. Reece is someone we've seen a considerable improvement in, over the course of the last 12 months, and we're pleased to see him back in with rest of the group today'".

Over the Pennines, Guiseley "are delighted to confirm that young winger Luke Porritt has agreed a new one-year contract with the club... having been one of the standout players during the first few years of the club’s Academy.

The 19-year-old spent time on loan at neighbours Farsley Celtic last season, with Guiseley Academy manager Dave Currie eager to see more young players make the step up."

"Following speculation... the club wish to make clear its position in relation to Liam Craig, former captain of Hibernian FC. Extensive discussions did take place between the club, the player and his representatives. Having impressed both Liam and his team with our ambitions to progress both on and off the field, it seemed that a deal to bring Liam to Nethermoor could be agreed.

After spending some time with his family on holiday, Liam decided that, for domestic reasons and a wish at 28 to continue in the full-time game, he would not be joining the club. We, of course, respect his decision and wish him well for the future".

Meanwhile Grimsby Town "striker Padraig Amond becomes Paul Hurst's sixth summer signing, penning a one-year deal with the Mariners. The 27-year old started out at Irish side Shamrock Rovers... After a spell at Portuguese Primeira Liga side, Paços de Ferreira, he moved to England and signed for Accrington Stanley. He played in the same side as Toto Nsiala whilst at the Crown Ground.

After leaving Stanley, Amond went on trial with Morecambe and signed for the Shrimps in 2013."

JOIN THE SUMMER FUN AT ALTY!

Click on the images, to enlarge them. Bookings are now being taken for this summer's Fun Weeks.

FIXTURES' RELEASE DATE

The National League joins with the football family to extend its condolences to all those affected by the Event in Tunisia and requests all Clubs, Staff and Supporters to honour the nationwide one minute silence. Thank you.". National League had planned to release its fixtures this coming Friday 3rd July at 12noon".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Wrexham manager Gary Mills confirmed yesterday that the club has given ‘Well permission to talk to Moult and had made an offer the National League outfit was willing to accept. Moult came through the youth ranks at his local side Stoke City... He went on to make his Premiership bow against Burnley...

However, Moult struggled to hold down a regular first team place and he went out on loan to Bradford City, Accrington, Mansfield and Alfreton before joining Northampton in 2012. He was only at the Cobblers for a year before joining Nuneaton where he netted an impressive 17 goals in 36 starts for Boro, which earned him a move to Wrexham.

Moult started the 2014/15 season where he left off previously, hitting 16 goals in 39 league appearances for the Dragons. That alerted several clubs, including ‘Well, who have been watching the player for some time and after extensive discussions with Wrexham, the player was allowed to leave and has signed a three-year contract in North Lanarkshire...

Moult told Motherwell’s website, 'I’m delighted to be here and it is a massive step in my career and it wasn’t a move I could turn down. I’m here to score goals and hopefully I can do that. In two seasons I’ve scored 40 goals and I’m going to try and make that 60 in three, or even more if I can'".

The Holker Street Newsletter says that Barrow owner "Paul Casson has been telling with the Mail about how the plans are progressing for next season, and he tells us, 'Last year, I think we signed a fair amount of players early on because we were looking at a different basket. This year the basket contains candidates or targets that not only we are looking at, lots of other people will be looking at them and so they have choices. And so part of our role is to try and persuade them to come to Barrow...

So there are just lots of balls up in the air and eventually they will fall, some probably not until just before the start of the season'...

Dan Pilkington has signed on the blue-and-white dotted line for a one-year contract at Holker Street, and in the Mail, DarrenEdmondson tells us of his attempts to sign an unnamed Football League midfielder... 'He's played at centre-back, left-back, left-wing and in midfield... And at one point he was going to be a big thing, so this can be quite a good capture for the football club'.

The Mail adds, 'Edmondson is due to hold further talks with goalkeeper Aaran Taylor, who like Pilkington is in line to earn a newdeal but had yet to formally commit... And Edmondson adds, 'There are still (external) targets in a lot of positions - still in midfield, forwards, a wide player, right-back, centre-back, goalkeeper. So there are still lots of discussions going on, but there are still lots of discussions going on in-house to resolve what needs to be resolved. So hopefully all of the in-house issues will be resolved by the end of this week... By the end of this week we should know what's going on with all of our players. And then we can move very quickly on the targets'...

Barrow AFC have sold approximately 180 season-tickets for the 2015-16 season, around the same figure as this time last year, and Paul Casson... [said], 'The fact that we've essentially sold as many (season tickets) in May as we did in the whole of the off-season last summer hopefully says a lot about what our attendances will be next year'"

More comes from Barrow who "hope to cement a few deals over the coming days. Leaving the club is Izak Reid who has signed a termination agreement and is set to join AFC Telford. The switch to full-time has been not been possible for the Stafford-based winger. Meanwhile several of last season’s squad are likely to sign new deals tomorrow to switch to full-time. The club are also confident of a new signing,with a goalkeeper on their list of priorities."

The National League reports that "Cheltenham Town have signed former Forest Green Rovers striker Danny Wright on a one-year deal. The 30-year-old target man becomes the second front player brought to Whaddon Road by boss Gary Johnson in two days, following Billy Waters' arrival from Crewe Alexandra on Monday.

Wright has been on the books of Histon, Cambridge United, Wrexham, Forest Green, Gateshead and Kidderminster Harriers and has scored 88 goals in his senior career. He joined Harriers from Gateshead last January on a deal until the end of the season, but he was quickly identified as Johnson's primary attacking target early in the close season period.

Already based in Gloucestershire, Wright in Cheltenham's eighth new signing since the end of last term".

Elsewhere "Dover Athletic have announced the signing of striker Ricky Miller on a two-year deal and that midfielder Nick Deverdics has committed his future to the Whites for another season. The double signing means that manager Chris Kinnear's squad is now really starting to take shape ahead of the new season.

The return of Miller is a huge boost to the club’s attacking play. Whilst on loan at Crabble last season, Miller scored 5 goals in ten appearances before being recalled by parent club Luton Town and became an instant fan favourite. The club are aware of Miller's current personal issues and impending court case. The contract was agreed some time ago and with Miller pleading not guilty, the club believe it is right to apply the principle that he is innocent until proven guilty.

Miller has been turning up to training for every session and has a partner and child to support, so the club considers it fair to honour the contract, subject to the outcome of the impending court hearing. Deverdics's new deal means the midfielder will spend his second season with the club, following on from a successful first campaign at Crabble for the 27-year-old. Dover have also confirmed that midfielders Liam Bellamy and Chris Kinnear Jr have signed deals to keep them at Crabble for a further season." The BBC says that Miller is "charged with racially-aggravated assault, using racially threatening words, assault by beating and using threatening behaviour with intent to cause fear of violence".

According to NL Pitchero, "Experienced defender Kelvin Langmead has joined Kidderminster Harriers on a season-long loan from Ebbsfleet United. Langmead, who has played almost his entire career in the Football League, spent a short spell with the Fleet having left Northampton Town where he’d played more than 100 games and became a firm favourite with the Cobblers faithful. A commanding central defender standing 6`1”, Langmead actually began his career as a striker, spending a short spell at Aggborough on loan from Preston North End in 2004".

Bulls' News says that "Bristol Rovers have admitted holding talks with a Swiss financier over the sale of the club. Chris Samuelson was part of a group that tried to take over Reading, but says no deal has been done and any agreement is likely to hinge on the result of the Sainsburys court case. The Pirates have a debt of at least £7.5million including a £2 million short-term high-interest loan taken out to fight the court case."

But Bristol Rovers stated that "Following reports in the local media this morning regarding the possibility of a future take-over of the club, we would like to clarify our position. The board of directors have made no secret of their intention to secure investment in a bid to take the club forward and cement its long-term future...

At this moment in time there has been no offer. However, this situation may change in the future... We have spoken to Chris Samuelson. It was an informal conversation. Chris and the people he represents are looking at a number of clubs... But at this moment in time there is no agreement in place to sell Bristol Rovers".

The BBC says that "Grimsby Town have signed defender Richard Tait on a one-year deal. The 25-year-old left Cambridge United at the end of last season after two years with the U's... Tait is the second player to join the Mariners this week after former Morecambe winger Marcus Marshall signed a one-year deal on Monday. "

the same source tells us that "Tranmere Rovers have signed Fleetwood goalkeeper Scott Davies on a one-year contract. The 28-year-old spent time on loan with League Two sides Morecambe and Accrington Stanley last season".

Torquay United confirm that they "have appointed John Ramshaw as the new assistant manager... Ramshaw brings with him a wealth of experience in the non-League game and has worked with manager Paul Cox at both Eastwood and Mansfield Town...

Said Cox, 'He understands my mindset and we’ve had success together. It’s my best signing so far because I believe that working together in the future will lead to success for Torquay United Football Club'".