31 May, 2025

LINNEY DEPARTS

Altrincham FC stated that "Regan remained very much part of our plans for the upcoming season, and it was never our intention to sell. However, following growing interest over the summer, we received offers from a number of clubs in the Football League. During this period, Regan made clear his desire to pursue a move and specifically pushed for the opportunity to speak to Carlisle United.

We were clear that no permission would be granted for any discussions until an offer was received that met both our valuation and provided the right structure for Altrincham FC. Only once these conditions were satisfied did discussions progress.

While we are naturally disappointed to lose a player, retaining someone who was ultimately determined to leave would not have been in the best interests of the dressing room or the club. The decision to accept the offer was made in full consultation with Phil Parkinson, and he will now be fully backed with the necessary budget to replace and strengthen the squad ahead of the new season.

Footnote: Whilst team-mate Justin Amaluzor is rumoured to have moved up to League 2 Grimsby Town, Linney has opted to move sideways to join the relegated Cumbrian club, which also recently signed Alty's Director of Football, Marc Tierney.

The fees paid for this summer's two departing Altrincham players are unknown but both are 28 years of age, unlike last season's departing star Chris Conn-Clarke who was 22 at the time of his move so their fees are therefore likely to have been lower than the Northern Irishman's.

Linney spent two and a bit seasons at the J. Davidson Stadium, having joined in February 2023 from FC United of Manchester. His first season was affected by an eleven-game injury absence and he completed 2022-23 with 8 goals from 15(+5) appearances.

The 2023-24 season brought 24(+11) appearances and 15 goals, whilst last season was his most fruitful with 42(+6) appearances and 25 goals. Overall, therefore, he made 81(+22) appearances and scored 48 times.

CARLISLE WELCOME LINNEY

"We like the way he goes about his business, he's got flexibility which is important and he can play down the middle or from the left, and he scored a lot of goals from that position last season.

"We're getting him at the right time in his career, he's got real drive to continue his progression, we're excited that he is joining us on our journey."

Head of Football Operations, Marc Tierney said: "We are absolutely delighted to bring Regan to Brunton Park. He’s a prolific forward who plays with real intensity. Most importantly, he’s a player who will give everything for the shirt, and that’s exactly the type of character we want at this football club.

"We believe he can make a big impact here and we're excited to see him get started."

Footnote: It is the second time in recent years that Carlisle have signed an Altrincham player. In 2022, when still an EFL club, they signed defender Joel Senior.

REGAN NAMED IN TEAM OF THE SEASON

Selected by a vote of all member clubs, the Team of the Season recognises the standout performers across the division...

The competition for places in the Team of the Season was fierce, with players from seven clubs represented. Champions Barnet and runners-up York City both had three players included, reflecting their strong seasons...

Elsewhere in the team, Southend United’s Gus Scott-Morriss was recognised for an extraordinary season that saw him score an impressive 17 goals from right-back.

Rochdale’s Sam Beckwith was rewarded for an excellent debut season at Spotland, while Nick Haughton of AFC Fylde and Kyle McAllister of Forest Green Rovers were both deservedly named in midfield".

National League Team of the Season

• Harrison Male (York City)
• Gus Scott-Morriss (Southend United)
• Callum Howe (York City)
• Danny Collinge (Barnet)
• Sam Beckwith (Rochdale)
• Anthony Hartigan (Barnet)
• Kyle McAllister (Forest Green Rovers)
• Nick Haughton (AFC Fylde)
• Ollie Pearce (York City)
• Regan Linney (Altrincham)
• Callum Stead (Barnet)

ALTY GOALSCORERS

Now, Terry Rowley adds to that by observing that "John Rogers has a ratio of 0.57goals per game during his best season, whilst Chris Conn Clarke recorded 0.5 goals a game and Regan Linney 0.54 goals a game.

Although he did not exceed the twenty-goal a season barrier, Barry Whitbread scored 17 goals in 29 League games in 1979/80 so had a goal to game ratio of 0.58 goals per game".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Although Sharks managed to pull one goal back, an 87th minute strike gave Cannons a 4-1 win.

Leaders Heidelberg had racked up 10 straight victories, but an unexpected 2-2 draw at home against St.Albans, who were in the relegation places before kickoff, left Cannons only 4 points adrift in third.

However Avondale entertain bottom club Melbourne Knights tomorrow, and they should win to go a point clear.

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY served his suspension for accumulating yellow cards, and missed St.Patricks victory by the only goal at Sligo Rovers.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The fundamental ethos behind their investment is to build a bright and sustainable future for the club and Yeovil as a town under new leadership. Mr Prabhu assumes the role of Owner and Chairman. His wife, Bhavna, and son, Sahil, join him in this venture, forming a dynamic and dedicated ownership group committed to the club’s future development.

Mr Prabhu is a multi-faceted global leader and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in banking, retail, technology, travel, real estate, e-waste and wellness. More importantly, he has built one of the largest multi-sports youth platforms in India and the Middle East. His wife, Bhavna, is a seasoned leadership coach and business strategist, widely recognised for her contributions to entrepreneurship and wellness integration. Their son, Sahil, has a deep-rooted passion for football.

He has cultivated extensive expertise, having trained in Spain, Germany, the UK and UAE under prestigious league clubs. He has designed proprietary programmes for youth training. His academic focus in sports science at New York University strengthens his understanding of football analytics and strategy. The family now resides in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Mr Prabhu has spent considerable time in Somerset personally working with team members to validate his investment thesis. To reinforce this transformation, he has requested that Stuart Robins continue to be fully involved as Executive Chairman of the club. The two of them together will bring strong leadership and direction."

Gloverscast adds that "The Glovers’ Trust has welcomed the takeover of Yeovil Town by new owner Prabhu Srinivasan.

The group, which reformed shortly after the announcement former owner Martin Hellier was stepping down as chairman in April, published a statement on Thursday stating that "We welcome Inflection Holdings, the family office of Mr. Prabhu Srinivasan, as the new majority owner of Yeovil Town FC".

"Two-time National League promotion-winning defender Jordan Cropper is Boston United’s second summer signing.

The 25-year-old has linked up with the Pilgrims after leaving champions Barnet.

His title success with the Bees followed Grimsby Town’s run to glory through the National League play-offs in 2022.

The right-sided defender, who possesses a long throw, will link up with Graham Coughlan’s full-time outfit when they report back for pre-season training at the start of July.

Cropper’s arrival follows hot-on-the-heels of the acquisition of goalkeeper Rhys Lovett".

At Braintree Town, who have lost star man Kyrell Lisbie to Peterborough United, "Steve Pitt reflected... 'From the time I walked in the building I made it perfectly clear to Kyrell that he would be an essential part of my strategy for this football club and its future success.

"He and I set himself a target goals wise for the season and he pretty much achieved that. My view was that if Kyrell achieved our target we would stay up...

"Sadly my staff and I knew after the Rochdale game that Kyrell would be heading for a bigger stage but he now departs with our complete blessing in the belief that this is just the beginning of his journey in the game".

York City "welcome our first signing of the summer, Ollie Banks!

The 32-year-old midfielder will join the club on July 1st following his departure from Chesterfield FC.

Ollie started his career out at his boyhood club, Rotherham United, before joining Gainsborough in 2012. A spell at FC United of Manchester earned Ollie a first move to Chesterfield, where he went on to make over 80 appearances.

Permanent moves to Oldham, Tranmere, and Barrow followed before he re-joined the Spireites in 2022".

Rochdale "announce the signing of Bryce Hosannah. The defender has penned an initial one-year deal at the Crown Oil Arena, becoming our first summer signing.

A former Crystal Palace and Leeds United youngster, Hosannah was part of the Wrexham squad that achieved promotion from the National League in 2023...

'It’s a great club and they play a great style of play which suits me so once I heard the interest I wanted to get it sorted and I’m happy it is done... Hopefully I can bring something to the team'...

Hosannah joined the Palace Academy at an early age... He joined Leeds United in the summer of 2017, spending time on loan at League Two Bradford City...

In August 2021, the now 26-year-old joined Wrexham... Last February, Hosannah joined AFC Fylde, making 35 appearances in 15 months with the Coasters".

30 May 2025

KEATON'S MOVE TO ALTY

[After being released by Mansfield Town], the creative midfielder then made the decision to drop down to the National League North and sign for Kettering... 'My advice would be to just go to any level you can and play men’s football'...

[In 2024/25] Boston United... 'changed our style. We went from a team wanting to get on the ball and play the 'right way' but changed under Graham [Coughlan]. We learned to play another way, get in the opposition faces and be quick to second balls...

There has been much overhaul for Boston United... A minimum of seven players (including Ward) departed the club this summer, with six more still in negotiations as Coughlan looks to mould his side to fit his philosophy...

'I was offered a contract at the end of the season and was in talks with the club before it all went quiet... but ultimately the gaffer wanted a slightly younger option...

'I spoke to Phil [Parkinson] a few years ago when I left Mansfield but it was the wrong time for both of us... I spoke to him after the conclusion of this campaign and I felt ready. The way they want to play really suits me as it gives me the freedom to express myself'", he concluded.

ALTY OLD BOYS

SCOTT BURTON

Scott played a key role in helping us deliver a successful Seedrs investment round in 2021 and brought valuable insight and enthusiasm to the board throughout his tenure.

Having relocated from Canada to the Middle East, Scott is stepping back due to increased family and work commitments. We wish him all the very best for the future and thank him once again for his support and service to the club".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 24-year-old made 65 National League appearances in two seasons with the Shaymen and will join the League Two side as a free agent on 1 July after turning down a new contract with the West Yorkshire club.

Harrogate, who finished 18th in League Two this season, have not disclosed the length of deal the former Blackburn trainee has signed".

Brackley Town report that "George Carline and Danny Newton will both depart St James Park this Summer.

George Carline joined the Saints from Chesterfield in August 2022 and has gone on to become a lynchpin of the Brackley Town team...

George has made 136 appearances and scored 15 goals in a Brackley Town shirt...

Danny Newton re-joined Brackley Town in July 2023 from Boreham Wood and quickly became a fans' favourite with swashbuckling performances in a Saints shirt, leading the front line and his never say die attitude.

His first season back in a Brackley shirt saw him net 20 goals in 46 appearances, this season he was on track for another successful season until he sustained a broken leg against Darlington in November that saw him sidelined for over 4 months, he came back and led the line again, scoring in our final game of the season...

Brackley Town manager Gavin Cowan has this to say about George and Danny 'George and Danny have been magnificent servants to the football club and we hoped it would continue but they’ve decided it’s not to be'".

Amongst those reported to have signed new deals at Brackley are Gareth Dean, Zak Lilly, Matt Lowe and Morgan Roberts

Boreham Wood confirms its retained list...

The club says goodbye to five players who depart Meadow Park this summer...They include David Agbontohoma, Mo Sagaf, Josh Hare and Kwesi Appiah.

However, special recognition and huge thanks must also go to one of Boreham Wood FC’s greatest ever servants Tyrone Marsh who departs Meadow Park with 243 appearances to his name across six seasons and two spells in a Wood shirt, scoring 53 goals...

The club’s retained list has been published in full below:

• Under contract: Nathan ASHMORE, Jack PAYNE, Chris BUSH, Jon BENTON, Charlie O’CONNELL, Callum REYNOLDS, Charles CLAYDEN, Abdul ABDULMALIK, Matt RUSH,
• Contractual options triggered: Femi ILESANMI, Tom WHELAN, Erico SOUSA
• New offers made: Cameron COXE, Jayden RICHARDSON, Josef YARNEY
• Out of contract, leaving the club: David AGBONTOHOMA, Mo SAGAF, Tyrone MARSH, Josh HARE, Kwesi APPIAH

Forest Green Rovers report that 2024-25 "was a season that saw some personal best season’s as well as manager Steve Cotterill taking charge of his 1,000th game in management...

Rovers bagged an impressive 84 goals in 56 games... Christian Doidge topped the scoring charts with 15 goals in 50 appearances...

Our midfield produced an incredible season contributing to 93% of all goals scored this season with 78 goal involvements, scoring 41 and assisting 37...

Left-back, Robson and midfielder Adam May both started all 46 National League matches - a magnificent achievement..

During the season, Rovers managed to keep 19 clean sheets which were all shared out by four goalkeepers across the campaign".

Braintree Town report that their "Sixteen goal prodigy moves into League One.

The Club have reached an agreement with Peterborough United to transfer the registration of Kyrell Lisbie to the Sky Bet League One side. The 21-year old joined the Club a year ago from Isthmian Leaguers Cray Valley PM and scored 16 goals in his fifty appearances. Recognising the tremendous season he had enjoyed, Kyrell was named the Sportsbeat Young Player of the Year at the National Game Awards last week.

Chairman Lee Harding was pleased to see another player progress from the Club into the Football League... 'His record of 16 goals in 50 games played a major part in our securing our status in the National League. After the likes of Alex Revell and Sim Akinola, its rewarding to see another Braintree player stepping up into the League'".

29 May 2025

JAKE COOPER EXTENDS CONTRACT

Phil Parkinson rates him highly as a consistently dependable centre-back with a sure touch in possession".

John Edwards quotes manager Phil Parkinson as saying "Jake has been with us for a number of seasons now, progressing year-on-year...

He had a bit of a stop-start season last time... but the season before... he was outstanding, the mainstay of the team.

We believe Jake can hit those levels again, and, if he can, we will have an exceptional centre-half on our hands".

Cooper himself said, 'It's a great club to play for, and I can't wait for the new season to start'".

Footnote: Jake is the youngest of Altrincham's seven players with 100+ club appearances to his name after starting 87 times and being used from the bench on 14 occasions.

Centre-half Jake was signed from Rotherham United in the summer of 2022 but had finished the previous campaign (2021-22) at Moss Lane, on a one-month loan from The Millers which had started on 1 February 2022 and was extended till the end of the 2021-22 season.

Raised in Sheffield, he was a forward in the Sheffield United youth system before converting to a defensive role.

FIRST HOME FRIENDLY REVEALED

The match will kick off at 7.45pm.

The summer schedule announced so far is:

• Saturday, 12 July 2025: Warrington Town (A) 3pm
• Friday, 18 July 2025: Radcliffe (Isle of Man)
• Sunday, 20 July, 2025: Final or Third-Place Play-Off (Isle of Man)
• Tuesday, 29 July 2025: Port Vale (H) 3pm

NATIONAL LEAGUE 2025-26

The national division of non-League football was founded in 1979 and has undergone various identities. As things stand the National League has no main sponsor for 2025-26 after Vanarama opted to withdraw its sponsorship.

North and South divisions were created in 2004-05 and membership of the national division was expanded to 24 clubs in 2006-07.

Previous identities of the division have been...

• 1979-84 Alliance Premier League
• 1984-86 Gola League
• 1986-98 GM Vauxhall Conference
• 1998-2007 Nationwide Conference
• 2007-13 Blue Square (Bet) Premier
• 2013-14 Skrill Premier
• 2014-15 Vanarama Conference
• 2015-25 Vanarama National League

The north-south balance has markedly improved in recent years.

For 2025-26, Carlisle United, Morecambe and Scunthorpe United arrive at this level and there will now be at least eight clubs in the NL located north of Altrincham in 2025-26 season.

They are Gateshead, Carlisle United, Hartlepool United, Morecambe, York City, FC Halifax Town, Rochdale and Scunthorpe. Should Oldham fail to win the promotion play-off that number rises to nine.

As recently as 2020-21 there was just one club north of Altrincham at national level, that was FC Halifax Town.

The longest trip in 2024-25 will be to Truro City.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Lenell John-Lewis, otherwise known as the ‘Shop’, has confirmed that he will be leaving York after four seasons in North Yorkshire...

Whilst in the National League, John-Lewis became captain of York and scored 14 goals in their return to the fifth tier... Game time has become much more limited for the Shop this season, with the captain being restricted to only substitute appearances under manager Adam Hinshelwood...

Also confirmed to be leaving City will be defender Levi Andoh, whose time with York was heavily affected by injury.

Andoh joined the Minstermen under Morton at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, but an early spine injury in the season saw the right-back manage just four appearances all campaign...

For 2024/25 with York, Andoh was immediately sent out to National League North side Darlington to gain needed match fitness...

Andoh joined Askey at Truro City... He would end his season on-loan with Hereford in the National League North, where he played on 12 occasions".

Boston United "have completed the signing of goalkeeper Rhys Lovett, with current incumbent Cameron Gregory poised to move on.

Lovett, 28, has put pen-to-paper on an initial one-year contract, with a further one-year option.

He was Welling United’s outstanding performer and multiple player of the year award winner in National League South in 2024-2025.

Lovett will replace Gregory, who has not been able to commit to a full-time future with the Pilgrims. Shropshire-based Gregory is expected to join a club nearer home".

Following the failure to find new owners, Hartlepool United owner Raj Singh offered to extend his tenure, provided that supporters were in agreement, with a vote (survey) by supporters being arranged.

. Hartlepool United "confirm that the season ticket holder survey has now been completed, and that all data submitted online was collected and processed by an external independent source to the Club...

63% (almost two thirds) of season ticket holders who voted, have voted [for] Mr Singh to step in to support the Club.

The Club will now work with Mr Singh to implement funding and plans for the 2025/26 season, with the aim that Hartlepool United remains stable and competitive.

Mr Singh has confirmed that he will continue to engage with all interested parties around investment and takeover, without recent timescale pressures."

Morecambe's Shrimps Trust has issued details of its recent meeting. It includes discussion on "More improvement to ground- murals/ flags at back of terrace... Club are looking at murals inside the ground too...

Shrimps Trust have spoken with Blackpool Supporters Trust about our sale position; if the sale doesn’t conclude before the 7th June, we will contact members to gauge position in relation to any action (boycott etc)...

We are in conversation with the FSA in relation to the change to the National League and what changes we need to be aware of as a supporter's trust.

Fans' Forum will be in June; club will release date, hopefully with new ownership. Club had hoped to have that sooner, but hope this can take place after a sale has completed".

Back in late April, the BBC reported that "Morecambe's board of directors say that 'positive progress' has been made towards the sale of the club...

Owner Jason Whittingham, in charge since 2018, is very keen to sell the club and in a statement, the directors said, 'The process of selling the club is ongoing and, as things stand today, there appears to have been real, positive and recent progress'">

28 May 2025

REGAN'S JOINT RECORD

The only other Altrincham players to score more than 20 times for the club at in league games at national level were Ken McKenna, who struck 22 times in 1990-91, and Colin Little, who hit 21 in a struggling side in 2007-08.

Courtesy of Terry Rowley we learn that Ken McKenna scored 33 goals in all competitions in that 1990-91 season. In amassing his 22 league goals during that campaign, McKenna played in 39 of the 42 league fixtures.

Honorary mentions also go to both John Rogers in 1979-80 and Graham Bennett in 1984-85 as they each struck exactly 20 goals in those seasons.

Regan and Colin each scored their goals across 46-match seasons, whereas Chris played in a 47-match league campaign which included a play-off fixture. In Ken's top-scoring season, the campaign was one of just 42 games.

None of the trio actually played in every game of the seasons in question.

In terms of the record 23-goal haul, CCC's goals included three penalties, whereas Regan's included five spot-kick conversions. Ironically, Regan converted three penalties in 2023-24 which, had Chris taken them, might have increased the Northern Irishman's tally!

Regan's 23 goals in 2024-25 came in 36(+6) league appearances (comprising 3,091 minutes on the pitch), whereas Chris Conn-Clarke played 44(+3) league matches in 2023-24, a campaign which included a play-off fixture (his total pitch-time being 3,745 minutes).

So, in terms of non-penalty goals, Regan's 18 league goals from open play came at a rate of a goal every 172 minutes whereas Chris's 20 goals from open play came at a rate of 187 mins per goal.

ALTY DIRECTOR RESIGNS

On 23 January 2021, it was announced that Scott, a Canadian (pictured, right), had joined the board along with Australian-born Chris Parry. Parry resigned in May 2024.

Parry and Scott Burton were two businessmen based in Vancouver, Canada.

On appointment in 2021, Scott Burton was CEO of FansUnite Entertainment, a sports and entertainment company "focused on technology related to online sports betting".

The current Board comprises:

• Chairman - Bill Waterson (appointed to Board 23/2/17)
• Chief Executive Officer: Sam Mackenzie (appointed to Board as a director 15/5/21),
• Directors - John Coyne (appointed 24/1/20), Alberto Antonio Valdes (appointed 1/1/23), Mark Luby (re-appointed by 1/5/25, having resigned in January 2025)

The past year has seen Companies House record that six directors have departed the club, namely:

• 26 May 2025: Termination of appointment of Scott Anthony Burton as a director on 15 May 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Mark Peter Luby as a director on 21 January 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Neil Peter Faulkner as a director on 13 January 2025
• 27 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Robert Christian Esteva as a director on 19 June 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Andrew Mark Chapman as a director on 24 May 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Christopher James Parry as a director on 24 May 2024

In addition it was reported by the club at the start of May 2025 that co-chairman Lawrence Looney had stepped down.

KEATON INTERVIEWED

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Across three seasons and 155 games as Manager (three years prior as Assistant Manager under Pete Wild), Chris has led the team to two play-off finishes and a victory in the 2023 FA Trophy Final.

Chris has provided a memorable three years (six years in total) for the Shaymen and we wish he and his family all the very best for the future.

Chris Millington [stated] ‘After a great deal of soul searching I have decided to stand down from my position as Halifax Town manager...

'I am devastated that I will not be the man to lead Halifax Town back to the EFL but I believe the time is right for a change of manager at FCHT. The Club needs a manager to come and build on the solid foundation and positive reputation that has been built over the last 6 years'...

David Bosomworth, Chairman, [added] 'When appointing Chris three years ago to replace Pete Wild it was a leap of faith having gone through a quite intensive interview process... Within the budget constraints we work within, Chris, his staff and players have all given their best for the success for the Club...

To finish in the play-offs two years running is a wonderful achievement and Chris and all can be rightfully proud of that...

'We now have the task of securing the right replacement for Chris and he has agreed to help with the interview process'">

FC Halifax Town also announce that "following contract negotiations, Jack Evans will leave the club to obtain a move to the Football League.

The midfielder made 71 appearances for The Shaymen and was a key player over the last two seasons".

Elsewhere, more National clubs have issued heir retained players lists..

And Scunthorpe United report that "Three players will be leaving the club when their contracts expire this summer.

• OFFERED NEW CONTRACT AND CURRENTLY NEGOTIATING... ROSS BARROWS, Alfie Beestin, Andrew Boyce, Michael Clunan, Ross Fitzsimons, Michael Kelly, Maxim Kouogun, Callum Roberts, Joe Starbuck, Danny Whitehall
• OPTION ACTIVATED... Max Brogan, Maison Campbell, Tyler Denton, Joe Rowley, Carlton Ubaezuonu
• LEAVING THE CLUB... Sam Fishburn, Jason Law, Fin Shrimpton
• LOAN PLAYERS RETURNED TO PARENT CLUBS... Mo Fadera, Oli Rose
• UNDER CONTRACT... Mark Beck, Will Evans, Kian Scales

Scunthorpe United would like to thank all departing players for their efforts while with the club, and wish them the very best for the future".

At Forest Green Rovers "The Club would like to thank those leaving for their service and wish them all the best for the future.

Below is a summary of all players in the squad:

• Under contract: Ryan Inniss, Adam May, Sean Long, Harvey Bunker, Charlie McCann, Liam Sercombe, Tom Knowles, Kyle McAllister, Jamie Robson, Christian Doidge, Joe Quigley, Harry Cardwell, Cian Harries, Keon Sanniola, Will Merrett, Jose Marquez.
• The following players have been offered a new contract: Jordan Moore-Taylor, Fiachra Pagel.
• The following players will be released by the Club: Ben Tozer (retired), Teddy Jenks, Jordon Garrick, Emmanuel Osadebe, Tyrese Omotoye, Jamie Searle.

Sutton United "confirm the signing of Italian midfielder Mo Dabre.

The 22-year old, who is of Burkinabè descent, is the second player to sign from Tonbridge Angels this summer following last week’s confirmation of Liam Vincent’s arrival at Gander Green Lane, and will add some much-needed quality in the centre of the park ...

Dabre began his career in his native Italy and shone in the youth ranks at Calcio Lecco 1912, before making the move to England where he joined the Volenti Academy in 2018. This was followed by a move to League One side Swindon Town in 2021, making his senior debut the following month...

Loan spells to Chippenham Town, Banbury United and Worthing followed for the midfielder in 2022... A two-year stint in Wiltshire soon came to an end though... and saw him drop into non-league permanently with a move to Chelmsford City.

He spent a little over a year in Essex before signing for Tonbridge in November 2023, and has become an ever-present".

27 May 2025

ALTY OLD BOYS

The charismatic striker has agreed terms for next season, which will be a sixth campaign at the club for Ryan.

His signing by former manager Calum McIntyre in summer 2020 proved to be an inspired move, broken only by a shortlived switch to Warrington Rylands.

The now 34-year-old from Holmes Chapel, who made 29 EFL One appearances with Oldham Athletic at the start of his career, has formed a strong bond with the club and its fans...

His [haul has taken] him past record holder Mark Houghton onto 77 goals...

Ryan said 'Delighted to be staying, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. Time to repay the faith that the gaffers have shown in me'".

Footnote: Ryan spent 2012-13 at Altrincham before being released. After trials with Stockport County, he initially joined Curzon Ashton in 2013. Spells with Nantwich Town (2013-16), Curzon again (2017-19) and Mossley (2019-20) followed before he joined the Linnets in 2019. His Altrincham appearances comprised 9(+30)games in which he scored 6 goals.

NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

Vanarama National League Promotion Play-Off Final

Sunday 1st June, 3pm

• Oldham Athletic v Southend United

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

This decision follows a number of challenges that have made continuing in their roles increasingly difficult. In particular it has not proved possible for Neil and Lee to relocate from Wales to Ruislip given the current cost of living...

Additionally, the club has taken the difficult but necessary decision to reduce the first team playing budget for the 2025/26 season in order to ensure long-term sustainability...

Both parties recognise that in light of these financial constraints, it would be increasingly difficult to meet shared ambitions on and off the pitch. As such, it was agreed that a mutual parting of ways was in the best interests of both the club and the management team.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to Neil and Lee for their commitment and professionalism during their time at Wealdstone FC. We congratulate them on securing our National League status for the 2025/26 season".

The BBC reports that "Southend United and Oldham Athletic have confirmed that their respective ticket allocations for the National League play-off final at Wembley have been increased.

Both clubs have been given an allocation of 21,500 tickets for the final, which takes place on Sunday, 1 June, having first been granted 17,500.

An initial reduced allocation had been given to both clubs due to the closure of Wembley Park station due to engineering works taking place...

Southend said, external that the previous allocation 'did not come close to reflecting the scale of demand' from their supporters... The Shimpers said they could 'sell in excess of 35,000 tickets' if they were allowed".

At FC Halifax Town there is "Some very welcome news, as the project for the replacement of the current pitch commences.

It has been a project three years in the making and has been dependent on the support of various agencies.

First of all we are extremely grateful and thankful to The Football Foundation who have approved a project grant of £400,000 to FC Halifax Town Ltd and Calderdale Council as the Stadium owners. This will cover the installation of an all new ‘hybrid’ pitch with accompanying sub-structure including new drainage, new layers and a ‘Hero’ carpet which equates to a 95% grass and 5% synthetic pitch structure. This provides for a more robust pitch than a standard installation, increased capacity for games to be played and has the approval of the EFL for entry into their League, should FC Halifax Town achieve promotion.

On top of the £400,000, the remaining cost of the project will be shared by Calderdale Council, Halifax Panthers and FC Halifax Town. To all these partners a sincere thank you...

A West Yorkshire based local company Chappelow Sports Turf Ltd has been awarded the contract who will be seeking to start immediately. The plan is for the major groundworks works and re-fill to be completed by the latest 30th June allowing then time for the seed to establish and produce a thick grass sward to facilitate fixtures being played in the early part of the football season.

David Bosomworth: Chairman – FC Halifax Town [exclaimed] 'What a relief we have reached the conclusion we have. Hopefully the anxiety of looking at weather forecasts days out from forthcoming matches, rainfall permutations, travelling arrangements of Clubs will be a thing of the past'".

At Forest Green Rovers "Experienced defender Ben Tozer has announced his retirement from professional football.

He made 34 appearances in all competitions for FGR this term with just under half of those wearing the captain's armband.

The 35-year-old has enjoyed an excellent career, winning four promotions, and making 640 career appearances".

After an EFL career that took in Swindon Town and Newcastle United, he joined Northampton Town. Yeovil Town, Newport County and Cheltenham Town followed in his CV before, "In August 2021, Tozer signed for Wrexham... Tozer joined FGR in June 2024".

26 May, 2025

ALTY'S FIRST SUMMER SIGNING

Keaton will be familiar to Alty fans after his 78th-minute strike last September sparked an unlikely comeback for 10-man Boston at The J.Davidson Stadium, as they overturned a 2-0 deficit to force a 2-2 draw...

Above: Keaton Ward (no.7) celebrates his goal at Moss Lane last September.

[Phil Parkinson] said 'He is a player I have monitored for a number of seasons now after first becoming aware of him when I was looking at Ali Smith at Mansfield. He caught me eye during that period, and I have watched him develop and grow ever since...

'He is a really threatening, attacking centre-mid who has goals and assists in him. He will fit us perfectly and bring us a different dimension to what we have had in that position previously. He is very tenacious and aggressive, a real ball-winner, but, above all, he has excellent qualities.

'He is a bit of a set-piece specialist from free-kicks and corners as well. A lot of the assists he created during his time at Kettering Town and Boston were from corners and free-kicks, so this signing is one that can really enhance our overall play and improve our goal threat on a number of different fronts'..

After working his way through the youth ranks at his home town club, Keaton spent two years with Barnsley before returning to Field Mill in March 2021, going on to make 15 appearances for the Stags before signing for Kettering... ..

An imposing six-foot-tall presence in central midfield, the 25-year old moved on to Boston in the summer of 2023 for an undisclosed fee...

He recently informed staff at the Jakemans Community Stadium that he was ready for a fresh challenge".

Footnote: Although Keaton made 44 league appearances last season, just 18 of them were as a member of Boston's starting eleven. His game time amounted to 1,887 minutes, the equivalent of 21 full games of ninety minutes.

ALTY'S LATEST ACADEMY GRADUATES

Keeper Louie excelled on loan at Witton Albion last season to such an extent he was named supporters' player of the year and midfielder Remi consistently took the eye for our Academy side in the National League.

Right: Louie made his National League debut in February 2025, when he replaced the injured Ethan Ross in the home game against Braintree Town. Here he is pictured during that game, with Lewis Banks.

'I've been working hard for the last two years', said Remi [son of Alty player in the early 1990s, Steve Raymond]..

Louie .... [said], 'I'm thankful for the opportunity the club have given me and hopefully I can show it's the right decision1".

Phil Parkinson observed that 'Remi has had a really eye-catching, progressive season with the Academy and is going to be a really exciting prospect for us'...

'Louie has had a superb loan at Witton Albion and is probably a year ahead of a lot of the Academy lads that we take on'...

'He has been getting a lot of attention from Football League clubs but has chosen to stay here to continue his positive progression and hopefully enhance his career with us'...

Academy manager Paul Fay [explained that]... 'Louie came over to us at under-16 level from Stockport Dynamoes... He grabbed his opportunity at Witton Albion with both hands. It was only meant to be short-term while their keeper was recovering from an injury, but he did so well that they kept him for the rest of the season... I'd say he is probably as good with his feet as many outfield players'...

He added that "Remi (left) was at Oldham as a youngster before coming to us for a trial at under-16. He broke his leg in a schools match and didn't kick a ball until the following season. We did rehab with him and got him back on the pitch in late-September... He's another great lad who is very level-headed. He maybe needs to believe in himself a bit more, but that will come with being around the first team'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

TOM HANNIGAN was Player of the Season, while TONY THOMPSON won an award for Inclusivity - he apparently does sterling work with the Bootle Bucks junior teams.

Tony and Tom are pictured on the Bootle Facebook page

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Greg Olley has missed all but a couple of games in the 24/25 season with a broken leg injury. After spending 288 days on the sidelines, the decision to move away seems to be a personal one...

With a National League North title and an FA Trophy under his belt, Olley will be an attractive addition to many teams at the National League level... With 41 goals and 15 assists to his name across 220 appearances at Gateshead, he has cemented himself as one of the top playmakers at this level...

There are two major contenders in Hartlepool and Carlisle... A team that also suits the Durham-born midfielder; York City. Adam Hinshelwood’s York dominate possession, averaging 63% per game throughout the season".

In their chairman's statement, Gateshead add that "an extension to [Olley's] contract] has not been able to be agreed".

The club has also recently lost chairman Neil Pinkerton who stepped gown for personal reasons following the collapse of a proposed takeover of the club.

The Heed's retained list comprises the following contractd players, Akinola, Booty, Brooks, Grayson, Horton, Malcolm. McGowan, Newton Nouble, Pani, Richardson, Rutledge, Sheaf, Thompson and Williams.

Optional extensions have been activated for Adom, John and Shelvey, whilst contract offers have been made to Bond, Butterfield and Haunstrup. Discussions are ongoing with Bartley, Colkett, Hannant, Tinkler and Worman.

Aldershot Town confirm that "Jack Barham will be leaving the Club following the expiry of his contract after the striker has agreed a deal with National League South side, Chelmsford City.

Jack was offered a new deal with improved terms but informed the Club of his desire to move closer to home with his family and two young children.

We’re disappointed to see Jack leave but extremely thankful for all of his efforts during his two and a half years with the Shots in which he became a Shots Centurion...

Tommy Widdrington said.. 'When fit and available Jack has been a constant in our side and has been pivotal in some very memorable games. His enthusiasm and boyish approach behind the scenes and on the training ground made me smile more than he’ll ever know'".

At Carlisle United manager Mark Hughes... spoke... following the announcement that he would remain at Brunton Park.

Mark said 'Obviously, there’s been a lot of changes at the club in terms of behind-the-scenes. But yeah, I was more than comfortable with it.

'I knew what was going on, I was fully informed'...

[Ex-Alty Director of Football] MARC TIERNEY qas recently appointed as Head of Football Operations, the gaffer spoke about him... saying, 'I’ve not come across him before, but I've had a number of meetings with Marc since his appointment, and yeah, I think he comes across as very proactive.

'He wants to get things done, change things around, and yeah, someone I'm sure I can work with...

'He's there to run the operations and make sure everything's in place to enable the team to function at its best level.... The key one clearly is recruitment'...

He discussed his main learnings from a tough campaign, stating 'I think we showed certainly towards the end that when we're all on the same page and we're all working exceptionally hard for each other, then we could get good results. ..

'We were playing exceptionally well towards the end of the year. Unfortunately, the teams in and around us were going on runs as well themselves...

'My view is that we'll be one of the stronger teams in the [National] League. I think that's a given...

'If we do everything we know we're capable of in terms of preparation... and make sure physically that we're right at the peak of our powers, then a lot of the teams won't be able to deal with that'".

As reported here at the weekend, Adam Senior has left FC Halifax Town. Now Barnet FC welcomes "Defender Adam Senior to the Club...

Adam spent the last two seasons with National League side FC Halifax Town, alongside Ryan Galvin, who also joins the Bees in July.

He featured in every league game for The Shaymen last season with 46 appearances...

Barnet manager Dean Brennan said, 'Adam’s a leader of men. Being as young as he is and Captain of Halifax tells you everything you need to know. This is a guy who’s been on our radar for several years.

He’s a fantastic age and he’s gonna bring a lot of quality; a lot of leadership to Barnet Football Club... He had many, many offers and the fact that he’s come to us tells you we’re looking to go in the right direction'".

25 May, 2025

FIRST FRIENDLY ANNOUNCED

Admission will cost £10 for adults, £6 for concessions (students and pensioners) and £2 for those under 16.

Warrington were relegated ihis season back to the Northern Premier League Premier Division after one season at National North level.

Warrington Town issued its retained and released list in midweek. It read as follows...

• Currently under contract for the 2025/26 season: Dan Atherton
• Players that have agreed terms for the 2025/26 season: Murphy Bennett, Sam Gill
• The club has offered terms or is in discussions with the following players: JOSH AMIS, Bohan Dixon, Evan Gumbs, Jay Harris, Matthew Makinson, Matty McDonald.
• To complete rehab from injury at the club and be invited back for pre-season: Jack Hont, Elliot Morris, ANDY WHITE
• The following players have departed the club: Dana Amaral, Peter Clarke, Mo Doro, Devarn Green, Mikey O'Neill, Joe Rodwell-Grant, Ollie Southern

The friendly with Alty in July is a repeat of last summer's fixture played on Saturday, 20 July, 2024.

In a competitive match Alty could easily have been down to ten men for virtually the whole game after Joel Bailey's early error led to his protracted rugby tackle on the hosts' striker. But, being a friendly, there was no sanction against the defender beyond a freekick.

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

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

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

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

ALTRINCHAM STARTERS, 1. Ethan ROSS (45" Louie FALLON), 12. Trialist (Tylor Golden), 5. James JONES (capt), 4. Joel BAILEY, 3. Trialist, 6. Trialist (Ben Kershaw), 7. Owen GERMAN, 8. Max HAYGARTH, 10. Lucas WEAVER, 23. Joe NUTTALL and an unnumbered right-winger (Kahrel REDDIN).

LAST THIRTY MINUTES 1. Louie FALLON, 2. Lewis BANKS, 15. Jake COOPER, 16. Lewis BAINES (capt), 14. Eddie JONES, 20. George WILSON, 11. Elliot OSBORNE, 18. Matty KOSYLO, 17. Alex NEWBY, 9. Tom CRAWFORD, 19. Regan LINNEY

"BABY CRANKSHAW"

The star, 30, took to her Instagram page on Thursday to reveal she is expecting her first child - a baby girl - with her footballer boyfriend OLLIE CRANKSHAW (right).

She penned in a caption as the pair showed off their scan: 'Half of me half of you. We can't wait to meet you. Baby Crankshaw coming November 25...

Altrincham winger Ollie, 26, sweetly posed with her and put his hand gently on her bump".

ALTY OLD BOY

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Players under contract for 2025/26: Tom Parkes, Sam Folarin, Luke Charman, Adam Campbell, Adam Smith*, Nicky Featherstone* (*contracted to a Player/Coach role).

Players who have had options activated and therefore remain under contract for 2025/26: Jamie Miley, Jack Hunter, Campbell Darcy, Louis Stephenson

Players who have been offered new contracts: Mani Dieseruvwe, Joe Grey, Nathan Sheron, David Ferguson

Players who remain in ongoing contract discussions with the Club: Dan Dodds, Josh Mazfari

Players who will depart the Club upon expiry of their current contracts: Jack Robinson, Max Storey, Joel Dixon, Gary Madine, Emmanuel Onariase, LUKE WATERFALL, Anthony Mancini, Kieran Wallace, Gregg Sloggett, BILLY SASS-DAVIES has chosen to depart the Club in order to be closer to family commitments."

At FC Halifax Town 'The club can confirm that, following contract negotiations, Adam Senior will leave the club to obtain a move to the Football League.

The defender made 120 appearances for Town and captained us for parts of the 2024/25 campaign.

Thank you for your service and good luck for the future, Adam.

24 May, 2025

ALTY OLD BOYS

Disney (left) intimated that his role at the club would change following our 2-1 defeat to TNS in the JD Welsh Cup Final in an emotional interview with S4C and we are delighted to officially confirm his new role with the club.

Disney played over 300 competitive games for the club and has won almost everything available to him as a player within the Welsh pyramid, picking up the JD Cymru Premier title twice, the Nathaniel MG Cup twice, the JD Cymru Premier Playoffs, a runners up medal in the Scottish Challenge Cup and last season led the team, as captain, to only our second ever JD Welsh Cup triumph.

Disney originally joined The Nomads from Hednesford Town in January 2016 and left the club briefly in May 2017 before a brief spell at Altrincham Town [sic] and Bala Town, but would return to The Nomads in 2018...

Disney completed his UEFA B Licence through the FAW... and soon took on a coaching role in the U18s whilst completing his UEFA A Licence which he would complete in 2024".

The National League South team of the season for 2024-25 includes former Alty forward DANNY CASHMAN (right) of Worthing whilst the National North team includes ASHLEY HEMMINGS of Kidderminster Harriers

On X, Chester FC announce "that top scorer TOM PEERS has signed a new contract.

And in terms of continuing action in the 2024-25 season, Phil Jordan reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON was in the Oakleigh Cannons lineup as they helped their playoff prospects with a 3-1 home victory over Green Gully.

And in the Irish Premier Division, BARRY BAGGLEY received a late yellow card as his old club, Waterford, earned a 2-2 draw at St.Patricks.

Phil adds that "Whilst 46 year old KEVIN ELLISON is almost certainly the oldest Alty Old Boy still actively playing - at Vauxhall Motors - SCOTT LEATHER'S Nemesis Jefferson Louis, who older fans will remember being instrumental in Brackley Town ending our playoff hopes a few years ago, is also apparently still up to the mark.

Jefferson is exactly one day older than Kevin, and was still knocking them in this season for Thame United in Southern League Division 1 Central".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Thank you for your service and good luck in the next stage of your career!".

Footnote: A defender, Galvin made seventy appearances for FC Halifax Town, a club he joined in 2023.

Brackley Town Chairman Francis Oliver writes that "The 2024-25 season will certainly go down in the history books as one to remember!

Our men's first team made the step up to the National League crowned as champions of National League North after a six-game winning run set up a final day denouement of tension and excitemen...

This was quickly followed by Brackley Town Ladies also winning their league to gain promotion before adding both cup competitions to claim a unique treble of NWGFL Premier Division champions, NTFA Ladies' Cup winners and NWGFL League Cup winners!...

It has been another truly remarkable season at the club with unprecedented success on the pitch and further strides taken as a club off it".

Boston United "midfielder Keaton Ward will leave the Jakemans Community Stadium this summer.

The 25-year-old had been in discussions regarding his future but will now depart as the Pilgrims continue their transition to full-time football.

United chairman David Newton said 'It has been mutually agreed that Keaton will leave the club. He played a key part in the promotion to the National League, scoring a hugely important goal in the promotion final against Brackley.

'He was then a very influential player in helping keep the club in the National League this season. He handled these contract negotiations with the same professionalism that he portrayed during his whole period with the club, and he leaves with our very best wishes.'”

Woking "confirm that midfielder Dale Gorman unfortunately sustained an ACL rupture during April's victory against Aldershot Town.

He has since undergone surgery, two weeks ago, with the expected recovery time for the injury being nine months.

'It’s a huge setback for Dale and the Club in terms of how we now structure our recruitment', said Director of Football, Jody Brown.

'[Club physio] Dan Rowe and the other medical staff along with the strength & conditioning coaches will be closely working with Dale moving forward. 'We must ensure he gets time away from the Club with his family, and support him mentally the best we can, too. This kind of injury and the rehab process challenge you in all kinds of ways'”.

Rochdale have issued their retained list, with the following remaining under contract:

• Kyron Gordon, Finlay Armstrong, Ryan East, Ethan Ebanks-Landell, Tarryn Allarakhia, Harvey Gilmour, Devante Rodney, Tobi Adebayo-Rowling, Aidan Barlow, Jake Burger, Connor McBride, Corey Edwards, Sam Beckwith, Ian Henderson

Out of Contract but to be engaged in Negotiations: Liam Hogan

Out of Contract Players Leaving the Club:

• Kairo Mitchell
• Brad Kelly
• KYLE FERGUSON
• Courtney Senior
• Charlie Weston

23 May 2025

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE TITLE SPONSORSHIP TO END

We have been incredibly honoured to work with Vanarama since 2014, making this the second longest running sponsorship in the League’s illustrious history...

One hundred and twenty-five teams have competed across the three National League divisions during Vanarama’s sponsorship, with almost 40,000 goals scored and more than 19 million supporters clicking through the turnstiles

The 2024/25 season – and Vanarama’s sponsorship - is not quite over yet – we still have a mouthwatering Promotion Final to come at Wembley on Sunday 1 June...

We would like to say a huge thankyou to Vanarama for their support during the last 11 years".

ALTY WOMEN MAKE APPOINTMENT

He continues, "Mihai will officially begin his role on 1st July 2025...

Born in Romania, raised in Spain, shaped by Scotland, and now coaching in England, Mihai brings a truly international perspective to his role. With a professional background in enterprise IT and AI transformation, Mihai blends analytical thinking, leadership, and a growth mindset...

Since 2018, Mihai has coached across multiple age groups in the UK. He most recently led Macclesfield FC U14s Elite in the Junior Premier League (JPL) and Sale United Phoenix, guiding them to consecutive league titles in the FA Timperley & District Junior Football League after taking over as U15s coach...

The Elite U18/Reserve Team will serve as a vital stepping stone between youth football and the senior game...

Mihai’s philosophy is simple but powerful 'put the person before the player'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Portuguese forward BRUNO ANDRDADE (now 31, pictured right) made his mark as he scored the only goal for Altrincham in a 1-1 draw against 1874 Northwich on 11 October 2023 in the Cheshire Senior Cup. He went on to convert the decisive penalty in the resulting shoot-out to clinch a win for the Robins.

That was his sole appearance for the Robins, before he returned south and joined Chesham. This summer he has enjoyed promotion with Bedford Town who will be in the National League North next season after winning the Southern League Premier Central division in 2024-25 season.

22 year-old midfielder HAYDEN LINDLEY was a team-mate of Andrade in the above-mentioned Cheshire Senior Cup tie on 11 October 2023. Later that month he signed for Darlington having also made just the single appearance for Altrincham.

Hayden had started out at Blackburn Rovers as a child of six, before being recruited by Manchester City in 2010, where he spent nine years.

In 2019 he joined Aston Villa who released him in June 2023.

After his move to Darlington, the Quakers loaned him to Pontefract Collieries, after which he joined FC United of Manchester where he made 18 appearances. He now plays for Emley in the in the NPL Division One East, a club he joined in 2025.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

But Maher found the tension too much to bear ahead of Gus Scott-Morriss’ decisive spot-kick... 'I was watching the guys up in the directors' box to see their reaction and to see their elation was just an unbelievable feeling...

'All I know is that we found a way to win it'...

The Shrimpers took the lead early in the second half with Ben Goodliffe on target but the hosts hit back with Ryan Inniss heading home to take the tie to extra time.

Just four minutes into the additional period, Emmanuel Osadebe nodded Forest Green in front and appeared to have ended Blues’ hopes of promotion.

However, Jack Bridge scored with just four minutes remaining to take the game to penalties where Southend triumphed 4-2...

'Make no mistake we're going to the final to win', stated the Southend boss.

FC Halifax Town "confirm the following players have had the option in their contract exercised:

• Florent Hoti, Jamie Cooke, Angelo Cappello, Jack Jenkins, Zak Emmerson, Nat Ford

The following players will not have the options in their contracts extended and will be released:

• Adan George, Jimiel Chikukwa, Frankie Sinfield, Ted Lavelle

Contract offers and discussions are ongoing with all the remaining players where applicable.".

At Hartlepool United "Club Owner Raj Singh has provided the following comment in relation to the Club statement of yesterday...

"I made the decision to step aside in early March in response to some of the fan base wishes for a change of ownership... I would fund the Club until the end of the season and there would be ample time for any new owner to come in at the end of April or early May to hit the ground running for the new season...

" At this time there is no party in a position with funds to immediately take over the Club. That is not for a lack of trying... A significant number of people have asked me to reconsider my decision and to step in to support the Club.”

I think it is only right that I do so if supporters on the whole want me to, and I feel I must respect the wishes of the supporters. As such I have suggested to the Board that they formally get supporter feedback..

I am simply trying to help ensure that Hartlepool United continues to exist and it remains an attractive proposition to prospective investors".

Tonbridge Angels "confirm the departure of Liam Vincent, who will be joining National League Sutton United for the upcoming season.

The Angels first welcomed Liam to the club in January 2024 on a month’s loan from Portsmouth, which was later extended for the rest of season 2023/24. On his release from Pompey at the end of that season, he signed on a permanent basis for 2024/25.

Liam’s attacking qualities as a left-sided wing back made him a firm fans’ favourite and brought him 10 goals from 45 appearances last season bringing him a total of 61 appearances for the club.

As Liam is under the age of 24, the club will be due a compensation payment from Sutton United".

Forest Green Rovers "were defeated on penalties as Southend United progressed to the National League play-off final...

Southend took the lead after the break when Ben Goodliffe headed Oli Coker's lofted free-kick into the bottom corner.

Ryan Inniss levelled the game just after the hour mark after McAllister's deep free-kick was met powerfully by the towering centre back...The tie went to extra time.

Rovers took an early advantage in the fifth minute of extra time when Emmanuel Osadebe's [?effort] squirmed underneath the goalkeeper.

The visitors pushed for a level and got one deep into extra time when Jack Bridge found the bottom corner from 18-yards to send the game to penalties".

So it is fifth versus seventh in the play-off final.

22 May 2025

BANKS STAYS FOR THIRD SEASON

The talented right-back was one of eight players listed as 'in talks'... yesterday (Tuesday)...

Manager Phil Parkinson [said] 'I'm really pleased that Banko has decided to commit with us for a further season. He has become a mainstay of the team, a firm fans' favourite and a real consistent performer who has shown growth and improvement since coming through the door'...

The 28-year old Potteries-born defender, who captained his home club Stoke City at under-21 and under-23 level, joined Alty from Arbroath in the summer of 2023...

Lewis said... 'I've really enjoyed my first two seasons at Alty - it's a fantastic, ambitious club with a great management team, staff, volunteers and supporters'".

Footnote: Lewis made more appearances than anyone else for Altrincham last season, 51 starts anmd five more appearances from the bench. He also amassed more league pitch-time than anyone else in the squad.

His career total at Alty is now 96(+7) appearances and he has weighed in with six goals as well.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Dubai City play in the third tier of football in the United Arab Emirates.

Phil Jordan adds that Haygarth "has made 5 appearances for them, scoring 1 goal".

PROMOTION PLAY-OFFS

Wednesday 21st May:

• Forest Green Rovers (3rd) 2-2 Southend United (7th)(Despite missing the first penalty of the shootout, Southend won it 4-2. They finished 15 points behind FGR in the regular season.).

The Promotion Play-Off Final

Sunday 1st June, 3pm

• Oldham Athletic (5th) v Southend Uited (7th)

The play-offs had already provided other shocks...

York City (2nd) 0-3 Oldham Athletic (5th) - York had finished 23 points ahead of Oldham

Rochdale (4th) 3-4 Southend United (7th) - Dale had finished 6 points ahead of Southend

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

City finished second in the table with 96 points, 23 points ahead of fifth-placed Oldham, to give them home advantage, but the Latics proved too strong in a one-sided play-off semi-final at LNER Community Stadium.

They opened the scoring after 23 minutes when York goalkeeper Harrison Male's ill-judged throw was miscontrolled by Alex Hunt and the ball fell for Oldham striker Joe Garner to fire a first-time effort into the bottom corner.

Oldham doubled their lead four minutes into the second half when Mike Fondop played a neat pass into Vimal Yoganathan and he drilled the ball into the bottom corner.

Joe Pritchard flicked home a header from Garner's teasing cross shortly afterwards to seal victory and Oldham's spot at Wembley on 1 June, when they will face Forest Green Rovers or Southend United for a place in the English Football League (EFL)."

The BBC also reports on Wednesday's game in which "Southend booked their place in the National League play-off final against Oldham at Wembley by beating Forest Green 4-2 on penalties.

The Shrimpers' Jack Bridge swept home four minutes from the end to cancel out Emmanuel Osadebe's extra-time header to make it 2-2 and force the shootout, with Gus Scott-Morris scoring the spot-kick which secured victory.

Osadebe had come off the bench just before the match finished 1-1 in regulation time and, within four minutes of the restart, headed down Liam Sercombe's cross to the far post.

In a fairly uneventful first half Southend's Keenan Appiah-Forson hit the crossbar from the edge of the area, and it was not until the 54th minute that the deadlock was broken when team-mate Ben Goodliffe's header looped over the goalkeeper at the near post.

But the lead lasted just eight minutes as Kyle McAllister's cross was nodded in by Ryan Innis to take the game to extra time".

21 May 2025

"GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL TOUR" FOR MND

As previously reported numerous Altrincham players and staff, past and present, are participating in the "Grassroots Football Tour" for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation on 6th-8th June. More than 100 people will be walking from Trafford to Altrincham (see poster, above)

Taking part are Stephanie Houghton, Chris Kirkland and other ex pros.

Fans, players and officials from Trafford FC will also participate in the event.

James In particular, Altrincham fans will remember former players Mark Maddox and George Melling who both fought bravely against MND.

If you cannot take partin the event, you can make a donation here .

ALTY OLD BOYS

York City were clear favourites to win the playoffs, having comfortably finished second in the regulation season but they never laid a glove on visitors Oldham Athletic in the first semifinal, going down 0-3 without registering a single attempt on target.

TYRESE SINCLAIR was one of a triple substitution around the hour mark. REAGAN OGLE put in a full shift for Latics, but JOSH LUNDSTRAM was left on the bench.

From an economic viewpoint, we must hope that the winners of the other semifinal between Forest Green Rovers and Southend United can beat the club who are one of our most lucrative opponents.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PROMOTION PLAY-OFFS

Tuesday 20th May:

• York City 0-3 Oldham Athletic

Wednesday 21st May:

• Forest Green Rovers v Southend United

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Changes proposed will see all current areas of the EBB Stadium designated to away supporters (The South side of the East Bank, the Away Terrace Uncovered and the East side of the South Stand Seating) now designated to home supporters.

The West side of the South Stand Seating will now become the seating area for away supporters with the Slab now becoming the Away Terrace. This will also apply to segregated games and further details will be communicated once plans are approved.

The Club already faces a high stewarding bill and with costs increasing further, we have had to look at all possible ways of reducing expenditure. The current setup of away fans entering via Redan Hill utilises significantly more stewarding than would be needed under the new proposal and therefore will save the Club money.

We understand that this will mean some of our loyal supporters will have to change where they support us and we apologise for this inconvenience...

We ask that these supporters are patient as we will communicate any developments as soon as possible".

Relegated Carlisle United "are delighted to announce that Mark Hughes will remain at Brunton Park.

Hughes joined the Blues in early February and quickly built a strong relationship with the club's supporters...

The Cumbrians suffered only one home defeat at Brunton Park under Hughes and also secured three consecutive victories for the first time in over two years...

Mark said 'I'm thrilled to be staying at the club... The support I've received from the fans has been exceptional; thank you...

Chairman, Tom Piatak added... 'Mark brought the squad together during the closing stretch of the season and gave us a fighting chance. His leadership, composure, and connection with the players was clear, and we’re confident in his ability to lead us forward'">

20 April 2025

ALTY'S RETAINED LIST

The headline is the departure of Justin Amaluzor who has accepted "the chance to play in the Football League next season [rumoured to be at Grimsby Town].

Defenders James Jones, Eddy Jones and Matt Penney, midfielders George Wilson, Remi Thompson and Regan Griffiths and keepers Harvey Randle and Rob Lainton have all been released, and the club would like to thank them for their contribution during their time with us".

The main surprise is the release of George Wilson which could indicate he has had an alternative offer elsewhere.

Said manager Phil Parkinson, "Special mention from myself for James, Eddy and George. All three have been fantastic servants to the club and, more importantly. to myself.

"Brilliant players, all three of them, and brilliant people. They will be sorely missed by myself and the football club moving forward".

The remaining loanees have all returned to their parent clubs, namely Caleb Ansen, Charlie Olson, Joe Nuttall, Jake Bickerstaff, Callum Dolan and Brandon Powell.

The players who remained on Alty's books at the end of 2024-25 season are listed below with their new status noted...

• Justin AMALUZOR - departs to the EFL after 25 (+4) league appearances in 24-25 season
• Joel BAILEY - extension option triggered; he spent last season on loan at Witton Albion
• Lewis BAINES - extension option triggered
• Lewis BANKS - in negotiation with AFC
• Jake COOPER - in negotiation with AFC
• Oliver CRANKSHAW - in negotiation with AFC. Long-term injury meant that he made just 2(+3) league appearances and 2(+2) cup appearances last season after just two starts in 23-24
• Tom CRAWFORD - contracted
• Louie FALLON - offered terms
• Owen GERMAN - extension option triggered; he spent much of last season on loan, latterly at at Alfreton Town
• Tylor GOLDEN - in negotiation with AFC
• Regan GRIFFITHS - released; was a short-term signing, made 1(+4) appearances in all competitions
• Eddy JONES - released; made 10(+3) league appearance in 24-25 before ACL injury sidelined him
• James JONES - released; James was the club's senior professional with 191(+18) appearances to his name
• Matty KOSYLO - in negotiation with AFC
• Rob LAINTON - released; was a short-term signing to cover Ross's injury and then got injured himself
• Regan LINNEY - contracted
• Isaac MARRIOTT - in negotiation with AFC
• Alex NEWBY - in negotiation with AFC
• Elliot OSBORNE - contracted
• Matt PENNEY - released; was a short-term signing who made 0(+3) appearances
• Harvey RANDLE - released; made 1(+1) league appearnces and a further 4(+1) in cup matches
• Kahrel REDDIN - contracted
• Remi RAYMOND - offered terms
• Ethan ROSS - in negotiation with AFC
• Remi THOMPSON - released; made one brief asub appearances in league and 3 more from the bench in cup games
• Lucas WEAVER - contracted;
• George WILSON - released; made 15(+14) league appearances last season and in two seasons made 39(+24) appearances in all competitions.

ALTY OLD BOYS

NPL Division 1 West : Bootle have released SEAN WILLIAMS, despite him having made 41 appearances in all competitions in his only season at the Berry Street Garage Stadium, chipping in with 8 goals. TONY THOMPSON has been retained.

Irish Premier Division: Although it had been suggested that BARRY BAGGLEY would be suspended for the trip to Shamrock Rovers, he was in the St.Patricks starting lineup, but Rovers wrapped up a 4-0 win just a minute after his 69th minute withdrawal from the action.

NEW OPPONENTS: TRURO CITY

Joining after relegation from the EFL are Carlisle United and Morecambe.

In the opposite direction, coming up from the regional leagues are Brackley Town and Scunthorpe United from National North and from the South come Truro City and Boreham Wood.

Of these six clubs, Altrincham have met five previously in league competition.

The exception is Truro City, who will be the first team from Cornwall to share the same league as Altrincham. It is also the first time that a team from Cornwall has operated at National League level.

A return trip of some 644 miles will be entailed when the clubs meet, hopefully not for a midweek fixture!

Truro City first reached Conference (National League) South in 2011 but were relegated to the Southern League in 2013. Two years later they regained National South status, in 2015.

After four seasons, they again dropped into the Southern League in 2019 before returning to National South in 2023 via the play-offs.

After finishing 16th in 2024, they won the division in 2025 to reach the National League itself.

Truro City's chairman is Eric Perez, a Canadian, who until recently also owned Cornwall Rugby League FC but has now sold his interest in them.

In April 2025 Cornwall RLFC announced that "Regrettably, the club will be withdrawing from Betfred League 1 with immediate effect... nor will the club fulfill its remaining 2025 fixtures".

NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

The Promotion Play-Offs Semi-finals

Tuesday 20th May, 7.45pm

• York City (2nd) v Oldham Athletic

Wednesday 21st May, 7.45pm

• Forest Green Rovers (3rd) v Southend United

The Promotion Play-Off Final

Sunday 1st June, 3pm

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

UNDER CONTRACT: Olly Green, Jacob Hazel [new contract], Dylan Hill Frankie Maguire

NEW TERMS OFFERED: Cameron Green, Jake Lovelace, Jordan Richards, Jai Rowe, Jacob Scott, CONNOR TEALE, Keaton Ward

DISCUSSIONS ONGOING: Dan Adshead, Cameron Gregory, Zak Mills

RELEASED: Michael Bostwick, Kieran Coates, Tom Leak, Adam Marriott, Brad Nicholson, Mitch Roberts.

Carlisle United "confirm that Greg Abbott has today left his position as Head of Recruitment.

Greg joined United in May 2022 having previously managed the club between 2008 and 2013.

The club would like to thank him for all his work and commitment, and we wish him all the best for the future.

19 May 2025

ALTY OLD BOYS

Back in England in the National North in a scrappy game of 14 yellow cards, Scunthorpe United joined Boreham Wood in getting back to the National League, beating visitors Chester by the odd goal in three after extra time.

Chester were not helped by the failure of the appallingly inept referee to show a second yellow card to Scunthorpe's Denton after a very poor challenge. Frankly the match was so poor that neither side deserved the win. For Chester, TOM PEERS (right) worked hard with very little service, but blazed a shot over when he should have passed to a better placed colleague.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY contributed little before being replaced in the 92nd minute by DAN MOONEY, who also blasted a chance over. All three Old Boys were among those cautioned. On this evidence, Scunthorpe will struggle next season.

PROMOTION PLAY-OFF FINALS

• National South: Boreham Wood (5th) 1-0 Maidstone United (7th)
• National North: Scunthorpe United (2nd) 2-1 Chester FC (4th), after extra time

The make-up of the National League for 2025-26 is now almost completely known; just the departure of the play-off winners is to be determined.

At the othe end of the table, the identity of the four promoted clubs to replace the relegated quartet of Dagenham & Redbridge, Maidenhead United, AFC Fylde and Ebbsfleet United, is now known.

They are the top two finishers in National North; Brackley Town (1st) and Scunthorpe United (2nd) and from National South, the champions Truro City and fifth-placed Boreham Wood.

NEW FACES IN FEEDER LEAGUES

The National League North will have six new members in 2025-26. As well as relegated AFC Fylde, five clubs have been promoted, only two of which have previously been at that level. They are AFC Telford United and Worksop Town.

The three neophytes are Bedford Town and phoenix clubs Macclesfield FC and Merthyr Town.

The National League South also welcomes six new members, three having been relegated from the National League, namely, Dagenham & Redbridge, Ebbsfleet United and Maidenhead United.

In addition three promoted clubs join the division; they include old foes in Dover Athletic plus Sussex club Horsham and Hampshire's AFC Totton.

In the Northern Premier League Premier the two relegated clubs joining the division are Warrington Town and Rushall Olympic. Four promoted clubs are also joining the division. They are Cleethorpes Town, Hednesford Town, Stocksbridge Park Steels (from Yorkshire) and Widnes.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

One party that the Club has been working with recently progressed into a due diligence stage however they have not been able to meet an agreed deadline for full deposit of funds.

At this particular stage no party has deposited the required proof of funds to a level to be able to operate the Club next season, which will be a requirement for the National League and any takeover.

The Club will continue to proactively work with all interested parties and is hopeful to reach an agreement for takeover in due course.

The Board will be looking to continue Club operations in a business-as-usual manner and will be starting to implement some planning for next season given the timescales.

The current owner Mr Singh has agreed to additionally fund certain critical items that are imminently essential to preparations for next season, including a planned pitch refurbishment next week. As such our thanks are on record for his further support...

Your support and pledges through season tickets are needed more than ever. All season ticket money has been ringfenced in a Club account and is for use on Club operations only".

Sutton United "announce the signing of Edon Pruti from Slough Town...for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old becomes Steve Morison’s first signing of the summer... and will add a towering presence at the heart of the Head Coach’s backline.

Born in Chelsea, Pruti was on the books of Stevenage as a teenager before spotted by Premier League side Burnley... He subsequently spent time on loan in the North West Counties League First Division South with a brief stint at Abbey Hey... before dropping into non-league permanently with a move to Hanwell Town following his release from the Clarets, and subsequently enjoyed spells at Loughborough University and a first stint with Slough.

A move to Brentford then came about in 2022... before making the switch to League Two side Hartlepool United after just five months... Pruti made 21 appearances during the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign... before spending the majority of the 2023/24 season on loan at Farnborough."

Relegated Carlisle United "confirm the retained and released list...

Players already contracted for the 2025/26 season: Luke Armstrong, Gabe Breeze, Archie Davies, Elliot Embleton, Cameron Harper, Aaron Hayden, Jordan Jones, Georgie Kelly, Harry Lewis, Will Patching, Ethan Robson, Cedwyn Scott, Jude Smith, Terell Thomas, Stephen Wearne, Callum Whelan, Josh Williams and Charlie Wyke

Players with clauses activated for the 2025/26 season: Jack Ellis

Players offered new deals: Matthew Dennis and Kadeem Harris

Players released: Ben Barclay, Taylor Charters, Anton Dudik, Paul Dummett, Callum Guy, Sam Lavelle, Dylan McGeouch and Josh Vela

Scholars who were offered and have accepted professional deals: Jake Allan, Sam Hetherington and Dan Hopper".

Truro City "can confirm its retained list...

Striker Andrew ‘Rocky’ Neal will be leaving the club after a second spell with the Tinners, which spanned five years and two promotions. Along with Neal, defender Jamil Roberts, goalkeeper Dan Lincoln and midfielder Faren Simons will also be departing the Truro City Stadium...

Under Contract: Ben Adelsbury, Zach Bell, Yassine En-Neyah, Tom Harrison, Tyler Harvey, Dan Lavercombe, Tylor Love-Holmes, Sam Sanders, Seidou Sanogo.

Option to Extend Contract Exercised: Will Dean, Jaze Kabia, Ryan Law, Connor Riley-Lowe.

Contract Offer Made: Dominic Johnson-Fisher.

In Discussion with Truro City: Billy Palfrey, Dan Rooney.

Leaving Truro City: Dan Lincoln, Andrew Neal, Jamil Roberts, Faren Simons"

Morecambe report that their "retained list has been confirmed.

Gwion Edwards remains contracted while Harry Burgoyne, Luke Hendrie, Harvey Macadam, Jamie Stott, Ben Tollitt, David Tutonda and Tom White have all triggered one-year contract extensions.

Lee Angol, Adam Lewis, Paul Lewis and Yann Songo’o have all been offered one-year contract extensions.

Players who have not been offered new contracts and will therefore leave the football club are Saul Fox-Akande, Callum Cooke, Hallam Hope, Ross Millen, Stuart Moore, George Ray, Ryan Schofield, Jordan Slew and Max Taylor.

Two U18 players and one U19 have been offered professional contracts; they are Lennon Dobson, Adam Fairclough and Alfie Scales".

18 May, 2025

MARK LUBY'S RETURN TO THE BOARD

In a Q and A, it was pointed out that the club has had "a whirlwind few weeks... We've had a co-chairman stepping down, a challenging end to the season and the recent changes in the football staff".

Mark responded by saying "I'm delighted to be back involved with the football club. I didn't want to leave, but one of the driving factors to me stepping away last year was selling my business. I knew I wouldn't be able to give the time needed while that process was ongoing, but it was always my intention to return...

I've been away from the club for a season, but my involvement remained as a fan".

Asked about the departure of Marc Tierney as Director of Football, Mark confirmed that "Presently we are not looking to recruit a Director of Football... Ultimately we've decided it's the manager who will have the final say on the recruitment of the playing squad" a process in which he is working over the summer with Phil PArkinson.

He insisted that "the focus of the manager, squad, board and absolutely everyone involved with the club is reaching the EFL.".

Mark also revealed that "We'd like to put an away fan zone in to drive new revenue for the club. We're also looking at fixing up the Pop Side so it's back to full capacity... I recently sold my business, so that has freed up a lot of my time I didn't have previously. I absolute love being involved with the club, I've a huge enthusiasm for it and have followed the club as a fan for many years...

I'm local resident. I've lived in the Altrincham area my entire life. It's my local football club and it's my town. If I can give something to the club to help then I'm more than willing to do that."

Footnote: It was on 11 November 2022 that the club originally revealed that Mark Luby had joined the Board. The club stated at the time that "Mark Luby is the Managing Director of EBS Aftermarket Group Limited and brings extensive international business experience to the club. He has made a significant investment already in Alty and is now our single biggest shareholder". Mark is aslo a former Altrincham Grammar School for Boys pupil.

ALTRINCHAM FC STATISTICAL REVIEW PART 4

ALTY OLD BOYS

One would surmise that AFC Wimbledon would hope to keep him, given that he has only missed one league game this season, chipping in with 6 goals. In Saturday afternoon's playoff semifinal 2nd leg, he again put in a full shift as the London club booked their Wembley place against Walsall, winning 1-0 (aggregate 2-0) against visitors Notts County.

Meanwhile to the sound of willow on leather, Ian Wilkinson reports that after being on holiday last week, OLLIE BYRNE was back in action for Timperley CC on Saturday, at home to Widnes CC.

The former Alty keeper was promoted to opening the timpeley innings and hit a characteritically quickfire 17 off 16 balls, an innings which included a six and two fours.

Timperley secured a victory by 4 wickets. Chasing a 50-over total of 266-9, the hosts scored 267-6 off 45.4 overs and currently sit fifth in a league table of twelve teams in the Cheshire County Cricket League First-Eleven ECB Premier League.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

Tuesday 20th May, 7.45pm

• York City (2nd) v Oldham Athletic (5th)

Wednesday 21st May, 7.45pm

• Forest Green Rovers (3rd) v Southend United (7th)

The Promotion Play-Off Final

Sunday 1st June, 3pm

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Given the player had received the offer of a new contract only days before sustaining the injury, United have honoured their commitment to Hazel and he has subsequently penned a new one-year deal, with a further year option in the club’s favour.

United chairman David Newton commented 'It is a huge blow to lose Jacob’s services, but he has given the club brilliant service during his two seasons here – helping us earn promotion and then spearheading our survival bid – so it is important to look after him'...

Hazel netted 16 goals during the Pilgrims’ first season back at National League level".

Referring to the National Cup Run of the Year at the National Game Awards, Tamworth report that "we have received a national award, rounding off what has been one of the most memorable and hard-fought seasons in the club’s history...

This season, Tamworth FC faced top-class opposition, stood tall under the spotlight of national media attention, and showed what can be achieved through hard work and belief. The unforgettable FA Cup performance against Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur was a true testament to that — holding them to a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes, under immense pressure and in front of a much wider audience, was a proud moment for the entire Tamworth family...

Receiving this award is not only a reflection of results, but of the strength of the club culture and the dedication that powers it".

Southend United this week rewarded head coach Kevin Maher with a testimonial which they describe as "a celebration of a man who has played a huge role in the story of Southend United, first as a player and now as a coach. Across three spells and more than 20 years, Kevin has given more to this club than most will ever fully know.

In a sport where change is constant and continuity increasingly uncommon, Kevin has been a steady hand and a reassuring presence through some of the most turbulent chapters in the club’s history...

We hope tonight is a fitting celebration of someone who has given so much of himself to this club, and that he and his family feel the love and respect of the Southend faithful who have watched Kevin grow from a composed midfield general into a respected coach and leader".

York City "take a look at some of the attendance numbers throughout the season.

A gate of 6,249 for our final home game of the season pushed our average attendance figure over 6,000 for the first time in over 50 years, beating last year’s figure of 4,857.

Across the campaign, a grand total of 139,167 fans passed through the LNER Community Stadium turnstiles; we only broke through the 100,000 mark for the first time in 30 years in 2023...

Our highest home crowd saw 7,918 people attend our Easter Monday score-draw with Oldham Athletic, also a club record at our current home...

A combined number of 16,142 supporters have backed us on the road, a simply sensational amount across 23 league games.

Our 2024/25 away-from-home average stands at 702".

17 May, 2025

REACHING THE PROMISED LAND

In fact, the dominance of ex-EFL clubs in Step Five in recent years is illustrated by the fact that only one truly non-league club (i.e. a club that had not previously been in the EFL) has won the National League title since 2012. That was Sutton United in 2021 and they soon returned to Step 5.

From 2013 to date the other Step Five champions have all been former EFL clubs returning to that level; Mansfield Town, Luton Town, Barnet (twice), Cheltenham Town, Lincoln City, Macclesfield Town, Leyton Orient, Barrow, Stockport County, Wrexham and Chesterfield.

Indeed, of the 45 winners of the Step Five (nowadays National League) championship since the inception of a national division below the Football League in 1979-80 season, just seven clubs whose previous history was previously non-league before they won the championship, remain at that level for 2025-26 season.

They are Wycombe Wanderers (who have now been a League club for some 32 years), Barnet (who have since been up and down several times), Burton Albion, Cheltenham Town (also an up and down club like Barnet), Stevenage (Borough), Crawley Town and Fleetwood Town. The only truly northern club in that list is Fleetwood Town, though Midlands club Burton Albion did reach the EFL by switching to the North division.

Some clubs, which had reached the EFL after histories as non-League entities, have since sunk down the pyramid and, in several cases, have suffered financial meltdown in the process; they are Scarborough, Maidstone United, Macclesfield Town, Kidderminster Harriers, Rushden and Diamonds, Boston United, Yeovil Town and Dagenham and Redbridge.

As for the Play-Off Finals winners, just five of the truly non-League victors in the 22 promotion finals to date will still be in the EFL in 2025-26 season. They are AFC Wimbledon, Newport County (albeit a phoenix club of a former EFL club), Salford City, Harrogate Town and Bromley.

Right: Oxford United are one of the former league clubs to have won the promotion play-offs from Step Five. Here we see Robbie Lawton, Anthony Danylyk and Shaun Densmore in action against Oxford United in 2008.

Promotion Play-Off Final outcomes are shown below, with the winners shown in capital letters...

• 2003 Dagenham & Redbridge 2-3 DONCASTER ROVERS
• 2004 Aldershot Town 1-1 SHREWSBURY TOWN, Shrewsbury Town won 3–0 on penalties
• 2005 Stevenage Borough 0-1 CARLISLE UNITED
• 2006 Halifax Town 2-3 HEREFORD UNITED
• 2007 Exeter City 1-2 MORECAMBE *First promotion to EFL
• 2008 Cambridge United 0-1 EXETER CITY
• 2009 Cambridge United 0-2 TORQUAY UNITED
• 2010 OXFORD UNITED 3-1 York City
• 2011 AFC WIMBLEDON 0-0 Luton Town, AFC Wimbledon won 4–3 on penalties *First promotion to EFL
• 2012 Luton Town 1-2 YORK CITY
• 2013 Wrexham 0-2 NEWPORT COUNTY *First promotion to EFL since club reformed
• 2014 CAMBRIDGE UNITED 2-1 Gateshead
• 2015 BRISTOL ROVERS 1-1 Grimsby Town, Bristol Rovers won 5–3 on penalties
• 2016 Forest Green Rovers 1-3 GRIMSBY TOWN
• 2017 FOREST GREEN ROVERS 3-1 Tranmere Rovers *First promotion to EFL
• 2018 Boreham Wood 1-2 TRANMERE ROVERS
• 2019 AFC Fylde 0-3 SALFORD CITY *First promotion to EFL
• 2020 HARROGATE TOWN 3-1 Notts County *First promotion to EFL
• 2021 Torquay United 1-1 HARTLEPOOL UNITED aet, Hartlepool United won 5–4 on penalties
• 2022 Solihull Moors 1-2 GRIMSBY TOWN aet
• 2023 NOTTS COUNTY 2-2 Chesterfield, Notts County won 4–3 on penalties
• 2024 BROMLEY 2-2 Solihull Moors, aet, Bromley won 4–3 on penalties *First promotion to EFL
• 2025 To be determined

So, in the 22 play-off finals upto 2024 inclusive, just seven of the promoted clubs through the play-offs were entering the EFL for the first time; they were Morecambe, AFC Wimbledon, Newport County, Salford City, Forest Green Rovers, Harrogate Town and Bromley. Two of these clubs have since returned to non-League; Morecambe and Forest Green Rovers. So only five truly non-League clubs who won the play-offs remain in the EFL for 2025-26 unless FGR win through this year.

Overall, therefore, in the 46 seasons of potential promotion from Step Five to the EFL there have been 45 Step Five champions (1980-2024) and 22 play-off winners (2003-24), i.e. 67 clubs. In fact, just 13 clubs have earned a first promotion from non-League to the EFL in that period, and are currently still there; they comprise eight Step Five champions and five play-off winners.

However, three other non-League clubs who were Step Five champions were also denied promotion, either through the re-election process or for ground-grading issues and, subsequently, have never reached the EFL; they are Altrincham (twice), Enfield (twice), Runcorn and Wealdstone.

ALTY WOMEN'S NEW TEAMS

Right: The aim is for players to enjoy the game as well as be successful; here we see Alty Women players lining up before their Cup Final win last Sunday

The Elite under-18/Reserve team will serve as a vital stepping stone between youth football and the senior game... The programme is designed to prepare players technically, tactically, physically, and mentally for the demands of women’s football, all within the framework of Altrincham Football Club’s values and vision...

Newly appointed women’s first team manager for the 2025/26 season, Daryll Abrahams, expressed his excitement for the future... 'The Elite U18/Reserve Team creates that much-needed bridge for players to continue their development and prepare for the demands of senior football.

'But it’s more than just football. We’re developing well-rounded individuals...

To further support the youth development model, the club is also planning to recruit a small number of experienced players who can offer valuable leadership, guidance, and quality to complement the promising young talent coming through...

We are hosting an open evening/recruitment event on Thursday June 5th for current, interested and new players to learn about our upcoming plans, meet staff and take part in some team activities."

ALTY OLD BOYS

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY picked up a yellow card just 10 minutes into St.Patricks home game against Cork City, and he will miss Monday's visit to Shamrock Rovers as a result.

However, only 4 minutes later he was credited with the assist for the opening goal. Cork equalised after 56 minutes, and then took the lead with a penalty seconds after Barry had been substituted in the 78th minute. However the Dublin side came back with goals after 90 and 96 minutes to win 3-2.

League Two : Already trailing by two goals from the home leg of their playoff semifinal, Chesterfield went further behind at Walsall 6 minutes after RYAN COLCLOUGH came off the bench in the 75th minute. <> The Spireites reduced the arrears in the 94th minute, but Walsall went straight back up the field and restored their 3 goal cushion, winning 2-1 (4-1 on aggregate) to earn a Wembley final against ALISTAIR SMITH and AFC Wimbledon (provided THEY don't throw away their one goal advantage when Notts County visit them on Saturday lunchtime).

Phil also reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria it was a bad day at the office for CONNOR HAMPSON and his Oakleigh Cannons team mates as they crashed 3-0 at Avondale, who remain 2nd just a point behind leaders Heidelberg. As their season enters its second half, Cannons look a fair bet for a playoff place, but are now 6 points behind the leaders.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Essex side was blighted by legal battles, transfer embargoes and docked points before a takeover deal was completed in July. On one occasion, Maher said he had to drive the kit van home because he feared it would be repossessed, while another time, the club could not afford washing powder..

'We sailed close to the wind a number of times," the 48-year-old said....

The head coach said the club's dire situation began to take a heavy toll on his family while he carried the stress...

Becoming tearful, he said 'There's times where you're fed-up, you're going 'I can't do this anymore'. "Whether you're tempted to move on or not, I don't know. There were one or two offers, but I didn't think it was right....

The weight was lifted after a consortium led by Australian businessman Justin Rees completed a takeover of the club in July 2024."

The Ealing Times reports that "Braintree Town’s Kyrell Lisbie was bursting with pride at being named the Sportsbeat Young Player of the Year at the National Game Awards in association with Isuzu.

The 21-year-old, who joined the club in the summer of 2024, has been an integral part of Steve Pitt’s side, scoring 13 times in the National League this season as The Iron finished 17th in the table...

Having previously been with Cray Valley PM, Lisbie [said]... 'Honestly, it is an amazing feeling... to make the jump up to Braintree this season and then win this award, it feels good, and I am so grateful'".

16 May 2025

ALTRINCHAM FC STATISTICAL REVIEW PART 3

TIERNEY NOT TO BE REPLACED

The 39-year old former Bolton Wanderers left-back, who arrived at Alty at the end of August... has moved to Carlisle as head of football operations...

Alty are not looking to replace him, with manager Phil Parkinson continuing talks with out-of-contract players...

The news of his departure was widely welcomed by Alty fans, after they held him at least partly responsible for the Robins’ play-off campaign crumbling towards the end of an up-and-down season.

When keeper Ethan Ross (right), an integral part of Alty’s promotion push, suffered a season-ending injury in February, Tierney announced he had recruited unproven 19-year old Norwich City prospect Caleb Ansen on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

A torrid start for the teenager, including a calamitous mistake that allowed Oldham Athletic to fight back for a 2-2 draw on his debut at Boundary Park and two more errors in a home defeat to AFC Fylde, marked the start of a decline Alty were unable to arrest as they ended up ninth in the table".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

Thursday 15th May, 7.45pm

• Rochdale (4th) 3-4 Southend United (7th)

ALTY OLD BOYS

In the National League, while Wednesday night's first quarter-final effectively ceased to be a contest after only 12 minutes, the second match at the Crown Oil Arena was quite another matter.

After Devante Rodney had scored a superb opener for Rochdale, Southend United equalised but parity only lasted 6 minutes, and when Rodney scored again from the penalty spot 11 minutes after the restart they were looking a good bet for a semifinal trip to Forest Green Rovers.

However, Southend had other ideas, and, having struck twice to force extra time, took the lead for the first time 3-4 after 101 minutes, and hung on to win. While KYLE FERGUSON was an unused substitute for Rochdale, JACK KINGDON wasn't available, as his loan has been completed and he's a free agent since Manchester United promptly released him. Apparently he has attracted interest from 4 Championship Clubs : Derby County, Millwall, newly promoted Wrexham, and newly relegated Leicester City.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

FC Halifax Town report that their "season finished with a play-off eliminator 4-0 defeat away at Oldham Athletic.

Town backed by 1893 travelling fans at Boundary Park, welcomed back Club Captain Sam Johnson for his first appearance since injury in the league match at Oldham back in March.

However, the travelling fans who were in good voice prior to the game were met by three goals in a 12-minute period which saw the tie effectively finished.

It started with an early corner for the home side following a deflected shot and it was a Oldham’s Joe Garner heading home for the opening goal of the game. Oldham had a chance to make it 2-0 shortly afterwards... They did make it 2-0 with a... set piece. The ball into the box was met by the head of Mike Fondop at the far post and he headed across goal for Mark Kitching to have the simple chance to head home on the goal line.

Another chance and another goal soon followed, a cross from the right-hand side was headed home unmarked by former Town striker Mike Fondop.

Town boss Chris Millington made two substitutions to try to stem the tide with Jack Jenkins and Tom Pugh replaced by Adam Adetoro and Zak Emmerson...

The home side started the second half on the front foot [but]...

Oldham were not to be denied a fourth goal with Town losing the ball in midfield, a simple pass from Yoganathan into Joe Pritchard’s path and he fired past Johnson from the edge of the box."

Rochdale report that "Southend United will contest the National League Playoff Semi-Final after coming from 3-1 down to defeat Dale 4-3 in extra-time...

Devante Rodney’s brace including a second-half penalty and Jay Bird’s header at the Crown Oil Arena had Dale ahead before a late Southend comeback thwarted Dale as the Essex side went on to edge the tie in extra-time.

The Dale boss Jimmy McNulty switched five of his team around from our last outing with Kyron Gordon, Tarryn Allarakhia, Harvey Gilmour, Tobi Adebayo-Rowling and Aidan Barlow making their way back into the eleven...

Devante Rodney had his side ahead after eight minutes on the clock...

Southend skipper, Nathan Ralph... made no mistake as he stooped low to head in Scott-Morriss’ cross from the right, finding the top corner to level up proceedings.

This did not affect Dale’s confidence though, as they found themselves back ahead six minutes after the equaliser. Tarryn Allarakhia’s cross was met by Bird, who sent a glancing header into the bottom corner...

Dale looked hungry once more after the interval, and just ten minutes after the restart were given a golden chance to extend their lead. Gordon was tripped in the box and McNulty’s side were awarded a spot-kick.

Rodney stepped up and made no mistake, powering his shot down the middle to give Dale a two-goal cushion...

Kevin Maher’s side pulled one back in the 74th minute... Leon Chambers-Parillon, at the back post, poked home their second equaliser with ten minutes of normal time to go...

The head of Charley Kendall... found the back of the net to make it 4-3 from close range in the 101st minute."

15 May 2025:

ALTRINCHAM FC STATISTICAL REVIEW PART 2

WOMEN'S SUCCESSFUL SEASON

In the league, they finished third in the Premier Division of the Cheshire Women's & Youth Football League with 30 points from their 16 games. The title was won by Nantwich Town who amassed 45 points

COLTS COMPLETE CAMPAIGN

The title was won by AFC Fylde Colts with 40 points despite having three points deducted.

ALTY OLD BOYS

REAGAN OGLE played the full game, but JOSH LUNDSTRAM only joined the action in the 88th minute.

NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

Wednesday, 14th May, 7.45pm

• Oldham Athletic (5th) 4-0 FC Halifax Town (6th)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Pilgrims contested 46 matches in the National League, two in the Emirates FA Cup, three in the Isuzu FA Trophy and four in the National League Cup.

Rowe played in all 55 – with 52 starts and three substitute appearances (against York City, FC Halifax Town and AFC Fylde).

The next highest tallies were Jacob Hazel (53), Dylan Hill (51) and Cameron Green (50).

Hazel, meanwhile, ended the campaign as the only Pilgrim in double figures in terms of goals scored, with 16 strikes to his credit".

Southend United "head coach Kevin Maher is keen to take his team’s good form into our Vanarama National League Play-Off campaign.

The Blues finished the season with just one defeat in our previous seven matches... The achievement of a seventh-place finish is made all the more impressive when considering the Shrimpers were down in 15th as recently as January...

'We took a while to get going with the embargo and then losing a couple of players,' Maher said... 'but we’ve built momentum as the season has gone on...

'We’ll take big numbers to Rochdale of course. They’ll have a big crowd behind them as well... There’s not been much between the two teams... They’re really well-organised, well-coached... It’ll be two good teams in decent form.'”

Yeovil Town "confirm that Marcus Stewart has departed his role as Head of Player Development.

Marcus rejoined the Glovers in June 2022, becoming an integral part of our football operations... As a former Glover and a highly respected figure in the English game, Marcus brought with him a wealth of experience from a distinguished playing career, including memorable spells at Ipswich Town and Sunderland...

In September 2022, Marcus bravely shared the news of his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a moment that touched the hearts of supporters across the footballing world. Despite facing this immense personal challenge, he continued to serve the club with dedication and resilience.

Everyone at Yeovil Town FC wishes to place on record our sincere thanks to Marcus for his contributions both on and off the pitch".

Woking "announce that Aiden O'Brien has signed a new two-year contract extension.

The forward, 31, has signed a new deal which runs until the end of the 2026/27 season....

Since departing Millwall, O’Brien has had spells at the likes of Sunderland, Portsmouth and Shrewsbury Town, where he was loaned to Gillingham and Sutton United, before joining Shelbourne in August 2024...

O'Brien has made 13 appearances for the Cards since arriving at the start of 2025, scoring four goals...

Said Director of Football, Jody Brown... 'The one concern was Aiden’s injuries, but we have seen how hard he works, and we’ve seen his output when fit - I’m sure we haven’t seen him fully fit yet, so that's exciting in itself... We are all very confident that Aiden is in good condition'".

STATISTICAL REVIEW 2024-25 PART ONE

Part One of the Statistical Review is now available as an MS Word document.

Part One covers Seasonal Outcome Comparisons, Goals For and Against, Clean Sheets, and League Sequences.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League Two : Salford City have issued their retained list. Both LIAM HUMBLES (right) and MARCUS DACKERS are released, although KEVIN BERKOE remains under contract.

Meanwhile, ELLIOT NEWBY is one of four players with whom Barrow "remain in conversation....about retaining their services". The situation at Fleetwood Town with HARRISON HOLGATE is similarly undecided, although CALLUM DOLAN has been released.

Another player released is Tranmere Rovers' CHRIS MERRIE, but his colleague CONNOR JENNINGS has had his contract extended for next season.

ACADEMY FINISHES ELEVENTH

Alty finished eleventh in the thirteen-strong NLFA North Division, which was won by Solihull Moors.

The Academy's Under-19 side in the National Football Youth League North-West Championship 1, lie sixth in the eleven-team division.

Recent results were:

• 30/04/25 away to the Steven Gerrard Academy NWC 1, Alty lost 4-3. The line-up was Max Beddow, Oscar Cooper, Jacob Hill, Charlie Hough, Ryan Knowles, Jacob Martin, Jimmy Taafe, Kyran Webster, Thomas Whyte, Noah Lavin and Harley Renshaw. Subs: Christopher Antoniades, Callum McCormack and Henry Watts. Martin, Knowles and Whyte were the scorers for the Robins.

• 23/04/25 Alty drew 2-2 at home to Tranmere Rovers at Egerton Youth Club, Knutsford. Lavin and Renshaw were the scorers.

  The line-up comprised Louie Fallon, Christopher Antoniades, Charlie Hough, Jacob Martin, Henry Shaw, Harry St Romaine, Jimmy Taafe, Henry Watts, Joe Weston, Noah Lavin, Harley Renshaw, with the bench comprising Jacob Hill, Ryan Knowles, Kian Leckey, Isaac Mannion, Thomas Whyte.

RESERVES' SEASON ENDS

Their last four results were:

• 10/05/25 Denton Town 6-0 Altrincham FC Res. (HT 4-0) Alty line-up Blyth Bywater, Theo Bunting, Kian Gonzalez-Moghaddam, Joe Harrison, David Howells, Kian Leckey, Isaac Mannion, Jacob Martin, Remi Raymond, Ben Taylor, Max Whittle, Joe Weston. Subs: Jack Chandler, Charley Jarrald, Harry Watson, Nathan Wood
• 03/05/25 Altrincham FC Res. 6-0 Broadheath Central. Alty: Theo Bunting, Kian Gonzalez-Moghaddam, Kian Leckey, Isaac Mannion, Jacob Martin, Kaiden Powell, Remi Raymond, Harry St Romaine, Ben Taylor, Max Whittle, Joe Weston. Subs: Blyth Bywater, Joe Harison, David Howells, Henry Murphy, Harry Watson. The scorers included Howells, Watson, Martin (2) and Whittle.
• 26/04/25 Vulcan FC 5-1 Altrincham FC Res. ALty: Theo Bunting, Jack Chandler, Lucas Edwards, Kian Leckey, Isaac Mannion, Kaiden Powell, Vladislav Shtyhlian, Harry St Romaine, Max Whittle, Harry Watson. Subs: Jacob Martin Henry Murphy, Ben Taylor, Joe Weston, Thomas Whyte
• 18/04/25 Eagle Sports 3 - 1 Altrincham FC Res. Alty: Benjamin Atkinson, Theo Bunting, Edson Cata, Kian Leckey, Kaiden Powell, Remi Raymons, Vladislav Shtyhlian, Ben Taylor, Remi Thompson, Max Whittle, Harry Watson. Subs: Ruaridh Iacovou, Jacob Martin, Henry Murphy and Joe Weston

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PROMOTION PLAY-OFFS

Wednesday 14th May:

• Oldham Athletic 4-0 FC Halifax Town

Thursday 15th May:

• Rochdale v Southend United

Vanarama National League Promotion Play-offs - Promotion Play-offs - Semi-finals

Tuesday 20th May:

• York City v Oldham Athletic or FC Halifax Town

Wednesday 21st May:

• Forest Green Rovers v Rochdale or Southend United

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Iron grew into the game and took the lead moments before the interval... Lisbie ... then steered the ball past Rochdale keeper Killian Barrett from close range for 1-0.

It was 2-0 ten minutes after the re-start. Chay Cooper's cross from the right was miskicked by Rochdale centre-half Jack Kingdon. The ball fell kindly for Lisbie who cut the ball back inside before sliding the ball inside the near upright to double the advantage.

Braintree controlled the remainder of the game to secure the three points that saw them move above both Boston and Yeovil to finish seventeenth in the final table".

FC Halifax Town "make the short trip to Oldham Athletic in the Vanarama National League play-off eliminator on Wednesday night...

The Shaymen finished the season in 6th position in the table and face 5th placed Oldham at Boundary Park.

Town have won 10 games away from home, 8 draws and just five defeats during the league campaign with the joint best defence in the league conceding just 22 goals in 23 games alongside York City.

Chris Millington’s side will be backed by over 1800 fans making the trip across to Oldham and the prize for both sides is a trip to York City in the play-off semi-finals on Tuesday night... Oldham have picked up 14 points compared to Town’s 8 points from the last 24 on offer.

The two sides have met three times so far this season, with the two sides drawing 1-1 at the Shay back in September, whilst Oldham won the return leg 2-0 in March. They also knocked Town out of the FA Cup with a 4-2 win back in October in the 4th qualifying round.

At Woking "Neal Ardley has been named Manager of the Month for April.

Woking picked up four draws and three wins in a successful month, accumulating to 13 points from those seven games with victories coming against Oldham Athletic, AFC Fylde and Aldershot Town.

Congratulations Neal!"

Tamworth proclaim that "Club-record finish, FA Cup magic, and Birmingham Senior Cup glory mark Tamworth FC’s greatest-ever campaign.

As the curtain falls on the most successful season in Tamworth Football Club’s history, we take a moment to celebrate the outstanding achievements across our men’s, women’s, and academy teams — on the back of a record-breaking campaign that saw us reach 10th place in the National League North with 64 points, enjoy an incredible FA Cup run, and lift the Birmingham Senior Cup at The Lamb. Not to mention academy league winners and an incredible cup run...

Men’s First Team Awards:

• Top Goalscorer – Dan Creaney (24 goals)
• Players’ Player – Jas Singh
• Manager’s Player – George Morrison
• Supporters’ Player – Tom Tonks

13 May 2025

ALTY'S DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL DEPARTS

Tierney, 39, joins United from his role as Director of Football at Altrincham. A former left-back, Tierney had a loan spell at Brunton Park during the 2004/05 season before going on to make over 200 appearances across the EFL with clubs including Shrewsbury Town, Norwich City, and Bolton Wanderers...

Following his retirement, Tierney worked as an independent scouting and recruitment consultant, supporting several clubs across the football pyramid in player identification, recruitment strategy, and the development of scouting networks. He joined Altrincham as Director of Football in 2024.

Chairman Tom Piatak said... 'Marc... brings a deep understanding of the National League player pool and strong relationships across the non-league landscape. That insight will be critical as we look to rebound quickly and return to the EFL'".

Footnote: Marc Tierney was announced as the new Director of Football at Altrincham on 28 August 2024. His connections with former club Norwich City recently brought goalkeeper Caleb Ansen to Altrincham on loan, following the injury to Ethan Ross.

PITCH WORKS

On X (twitter), Altrincham FC announce that "pitch renovations" are under way. The club has posted several images showing the work in progress at the J.Davidson Stadium.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Jack Barham got the party started, before Dan Ellison put the Shots in control, and Josh Barrett put both hands on the trophy for Aldershot.

Ahead of the game, gaffer Tommy Widdrington made just the one change to the squad...

It came in midfield, as Dejan Tetek slotted into a pivot alongside Theo Widdrington, with Cameron Hargreaves dropping out the squad.

The 17,000+ travelling Shots gave rapturous evasions [sic, ovations?] to Jordi van Stappershoef and Marcus Dewhurst as they came to warm up in front of them, and then the rest of the squad a few minutes later...

From Aldershot FC to Aldershot Town, from the Football League to setting FA Cup history at Swindon, once that whistle blew, for Aldershot, it was all worth it".

12 May 2025

ALTY WOMEN'S CUP WIN

As reported yesterday, Altrincham FC Women defeated Witton Albion 3-2 at the Swansway Stadium, Nantwich on Sunday, to win the Cheshire Women’s and Youth Football League Challenge Cup Final.

Match report here

Above: Altrincham's sixteen-strong squad lines up at Nantwich before kick-off.

ALTY DUO MAKE IMPRESSION AT WITTON

Joel Bailey (left) and Louie Fallon (right).

First year professional Joel Bailey and Academy keeper Louie Fallon spent time on loan at the U Lock It Stadium last season, and... [ex-Alty defender and Witton] manager Ben Harrison and the club's supporters were as one in acknowledging the Alty duo's role in safeguarding their place in the Pitching In Northern Premier League West Division...

Ben... went for talented centre-back Joel as Manager's Player of the Season, closely followed by Louie as runner-up.

When it came to the coveted supporters' award, it was highly-rated keeper Louie... who took the top prize, with Joel not far behind with the second-most votes...

Phil Parkinson said 'With Joel, it has been the most successful first loan for a first-year pro, and when you consider Louie is still in the Academy, it is an outstanding achievement by both of them...

'We've seen how well Owen German has done in his loan spell at Alfreton, and now we are focusing on what is a fantastic achievement by Joel and Louie'...

Academy manager Paul Fay provided an insight... saying 'Joel's background is that he was at Manchester United and Burnley as a youngster and we picked him up from Manchester Health Academy after I watched him playing there...

'Louie has been with us since his under-16 days. The first time I saw him play, what struck me was his ability with the ball at his feet'"

Paul praised "the positive effect of all the work put in by Academy goalkeeper coach Morgan Chilton and more recently by Ethan Ross shows the development that's in the lad... and a shout-out as well to Ben Harrison and his staff at Witton for giving a 17-year old goalkeeper a chance at NPL level".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Despite that, they went further ahead and shut up shop quite effectively to win 1-2. Cannons actually had only 3 goal attempts in the entire game, all of them on target.

They remain 4th, just 3 points behind new leaders Heidelberg, who took advantage of Avondale's surprising 5-2 defeat at Green Gully to leapfrog them.

Back in England in League One, in the play-off semi-final first-leg, JAMES BERRY was not in the Wycombe Wanderers squad against Charlton Athletic.

League Two, Walsall shrugged off their recent poor form, and were 0-2 ahead at half time in their play off semifinal at Chesterfield. RYAN COLCLOUGH was a 79th minute substitute for the hosts, but there were no further goals, leaving the Spireites with a tough challenge in the Black Country on Friday evening.

FA Trophy Final, having only played just over an hour's football off the bench in Spennymoor Town's last 4 matches, MITCH HANCOX was cup tied after playing for Chester in an earlier round, so could only watch from the stands as Aldershot proved too strong for the Durham side, running out 3-0 winners.

Over in the Polish Ekstraklasa, an accumulation of yellow cards led to MAXI OYEDELE being suspended for Legia Warsaw's penultimate home game against league leaders Lech Poznan.

Whether his absence was a factor in Legia's defeat by the game's only goal is debatable, but the result effectively ended the already tenuous aspirations of his club to compete in Europe again next season. It remains to be seen whether he will be in the Poland squad for their Euro qualifier match against Finland next month.

ISUZU FA TROPHY

• Aldershot Town 3-0 Spennymoor Town

In the FA Vase Final, Kent's Whitstable Town beat AFC Whyteleafe 2-1.

11 May, 2025

ALTY WOMEN LIFT THE CUP

Though Alty played 2024-25 season in a higher division, Witton had won promotion for next season from a lower division with an undefeated campaign.

With four goals in the first fifteen minutes the score was two apiece. Alty twice had to come from behind, with goals from Kira Saycell (penalty) and Elise Jones.

The winning goal came after 75 minutes through Natalie Lowe.

Match report here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

He seemed to jump clear of the challenge that led to a red card for County's Gambian striker Alassana Jatta, but he did what most professional players do nowadays and rolled over clutching his shin. He played the full game.

The London club will fancy their chances of a Wembley visit on the back of this win. Of course Alistair is still a Lincoln City player, so what happens next is open to conjecture.

One thinks Wimbledon would be keen to keep him after scoring 6 goals from midfield and only missing one league match - whether Lincoln want him back is the prime question".

Elsewhere, news comes from the Northern Premier League that "Matlock Town have confirmed that talented forward MONTEL GIBSON will stay with the club next season. The news comes following positive talks with manager Adam Clayton and owner David Hilton.

Last month, the Gladiators confirmed Gibson's departure just hours after their final game of the season against Lancaster City.

He scored seven goals in the final seven games of the campaign but was unable to help the club retain its Step 3 status.

At the time, Matlock said that striker Gibson's decision to leave would allow him to 'explore interest from a higher level'...

Matlock boss Adam Clayton said 'We all know what he brings to our team, not just the goals but his all-round contribution... Monts is a big part of our dressing room, with a real ambition to help Matlock Town achieve."

Gibson joined the club in September 2024 for an undisclosed fee from Hereford and went on to score an impressive 22 goals in 36 appearances.

He finished the season as the Gladiators' top scorer, scoring 15 times more than any other team-mate.

Earlier in his career, Gibson gained Football League experience at Notts County and Grimsby Town".

Ian Wilkinson reports that there were plenty of runs in the Bowdon v Timperley local derby cricket clash but OLLIE BYRNE did not play. He missed an exciting game in which Bowdon beat his Timperley side by one run. Bowdon hit 288 only for the visitors to fall short at 287-9.

BEHIND THE SCENES AT ALTY'S ACADEMY

A highlight of this season came when Academy keeper Louie Fallon (right) came on as a substitute and helped Alty to a National League win over Braintree Town.

NW NEWS

In front of more than 2,000 supporters at Sandy Lane, the Tigers confirmed their return to the league above, ending an 18-year absence from the National League North.

Headed goals from Burrow either side of half-time proved decisive for Craig Parry's side, who hung on to secure the win after Guiseley had pulled one back 15 minutes from time through Will Longbottom.

Despite only receiving a play-off reprieve less than 48 hours before the final after Stockton Town were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player during their play-off semi-final clash, Guiseley gave a good account of themselves away from home but were unable to find a late equaliser".

Promoted with second-placed Worksop as champions were Macclesfield FC.

10 May, 2025

ALTY TICKET PRICES FROZEN

• Adults (aged 22-64) £308 early bird then £320
• Concessions (65+/Students/NHS) £253 early bird then £265
• Young Adult (18-21) £140 early bird then £152
• Youth (12-17) £108 early bird then £120
• Children (5-11) £54 early bird then £60
• Under-5s £20 early bird then £23
• Disabled Person (+Carer) Prices as above

Our Early Bird pricing offers an extra 4% discount on top of the generous standard season ticket discount and will be available to purchase through to Monday, June 30th...

Season Ticket Benefits... Fantastic benefits below are available to all season ticket holders, too.

• Priority Ticket Access: FA Cup, FA Trophy & Play-offs
• Retail Discount: 10% in-store & online
• Stadium Room Hire Discount: 10% off
• Exclusive Competitions: Great prizes
• Instalment Options, Pay using Klarna

We're delighted to extend the offer of added benefits with our wonderful local partners to all 2025/26 season ticket holders".

Participating companies are Atlantic Timber, Blackstone Solicitors, Dynamic Chiropractic, Jardim Rodizio, Kangaroo Self Storage, Lane 7, Nell's Pizza.

Our Vanarama National League matchday prices are also unchanged...

We will also be continuing our tiered system with a small number of fixtures nominated as Category A where stewarding and policing costs are higher.

• Adults (22-64): £20 standard, £22 category A
• Concessions (65+/Students/NHS): £15 standard, £17 category A
• Young Adult (18-21): £12 standard, £14 category A
• Youth (12-17): £9 standard,£10 category A
• Children (5-11): £4 standard, £5 category A
• Under-5s: £1 standard, £2 category A
• Disabled Person (+Carer): Prices as above".

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

In "early 2025 the board entered an exclusivity agreement with a prospective new buyer...

Unfortunately, the parties concerned were unable to reach the final agreements required by the relevant governing bodies... As a result, we are no longer ... bound... allowing the club to move forward.

We can confirm... the board has received the resignation pf elected chaiman, Neil Pinklerton... for family an personal reasons...

The board are delighted to announce the appointment of Bernard McWilliams as Chairman... Bernard has held the vice-chair position since 2020...

Supporters need to be reassured that the board consists of local businessmen and women who are dedicated and committed to the club and, as a collective, meet more than 85% of the financial burden of Gateshead FC".

As regards action on the field, Luke Hannant has won four awards at the club's End of Season Awards.

Dagenham & Redbridge "announce that it has reached an agreement with Manager Lewis Young to terminate his contract with immediate effect.

Lewis took up the role as manager in January 2025, having been appointed first team coach in March 2023.

Despite only one loss in the final 9 games of the season, it was not enough to prevent the club’s relegation to the National League South.

It was therefore agreed by all parties that a new approach was needed to guide the club back to the National League."

A little earlier Dagenham & Redbridge stated "Relegation is a hard and sobering outcome. It is not where the club should be, and it’s not good enough.

Let’s not dress it up; the season has fallen well short of expectations on and off the pitch. As a board and ownership group, we take responsibility for that and would sincerely apologise to our many loyal and respected supporters.

There is no doubt the club needs change and that may not be comfortable in the short term. We have learnt difficult lessons and are more determined than ever to restore the community family club image, whilst re-laying the foundation for long-term success.

Be assured, we are and will be engaging with those who have been part of our club for generations, and we are listening.

Please give us the chance to get things right, unite the community and enjoy success in the future! We value your continued support.

Let’s rebuild together".

9 May 2025

PARKY TO MEET NEW INVESTORS

Left: Phil Parkinson.

Simon and Michelle Orange, the majority owners of Sale Sharks rugby club, are the lead investors in Alty’s latest significant cash injection, though the announcement came with a downside as Lawrence Looney revealed he was stepping down as co-chairman and leaving Moss Lane after seven years on the board.

Bill Waterson becomes chairman, after previously sharing the role with Looney, while Parkinson is set to meet with the new investors to determine how much he will be armed with when he attempts to agree new deals with a string of out-of-contract players.

'These are really exciting times with the people who have come in, and I will hopefully speak with them next week to see what direction they want to go in,' said Parkinson...

'There is potential to take the club somewhere that we’ve probably never had before, but I’m under no illusions that there are a lot of things we have got to stabilise first.

'The ground is nowhere near what we need it to beand neither is the pitch, so there are lots of things we are going to have to invest in.

'On the playing front, there are lots of lads who are going to be out of contract and will have lots of options... If a reset is needed with the squad, we’ll do it. I’ve been here eight seasons and built many teams, so players coming here will know they can count on continuity and a manager who understands the club and what is needed to move it forward'".

ALTY WOMEN'S BIG DAY

Albion have already finished top of their league to be crowned champions in their inaugural campaign... Dean Meadows’s team defeated Vauxhall Motors Ladies 2-0 at the U Lock It Stadium to book their place in the showdown.

Waiting for them are an Altrincham side who play in a division above, the league’s top flight, and ended the campaign in third place.

This will, therefore be a big task for Witton who will go into the decider as underdogs.

However, Albion have already knocked out two Premier Division sides en route to the final...

Witton secured the Cheshire Women's and Youth Football League Championship West Trophy in February after winning 13 and drawing one of their 14 games.

They scored 82 goals and conceded only six along the way".

Kick off is at 3pm this Sunday, 10 May, at Nantwich Town FC

ALTY RECEIVE BILBAO VISITORS

Building on our relationship with the Bilbao club, originally forged through March's Non-League Day celebrations, CEO Sam Mackenzie, Director of Football Marc Tierney, Nigel Swinbank and Dom Aldcroft gave Jon and Josetxu a tour of our home of 115 years...

As well as Club Directors we've also welcomed Athletic Club fans to The J.Davidson Stadium in recent months".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Champions,Barnet have revealed "the retained list for the First Team Squad.

• Remain under contract: Nik Tavares, Myles Kenlock, Rhys Browne, Lee Ndlovu, Ryan Glover, Joe Rye, Joe Grimwood, Rohat Matyar, Jack Blower, Patrick Matejko, Bright Siaw
• Options triggered:: Anthony Hartigan, Zak Brunt, Callum Stead, Mark Shelton
• Talks ongoing: Jordan Cropper, Billy Clifford, Giosue Bellagambi
• Offered new contract: Daniele Collinge, Adebola Oluwo, Idris Kanu
• Released: Reece Hall-Johnson, Ben Coker, Richard Nartey, Harry Chapman
• Under contract but available for transfer: Joe Kizzi, Jermaine Francis, Finley Wilkinson".

Meanwhile, Eastleigh "can confirm the... following players remain under contract with the club:

Richard Brindley, Malachi Dotse, Luis Fernandez, Niall Maher, Paul McCallum and Tyrese Shade

The club have decided to activate the year option as stipulated in the contracts of: Lloyd Humphries, Jake Vokins and Angel Waruih

The following players have been offered new contracts and remain in contract talks with the club: Ludwig Francillette, Jake Taylor, Nathan Tshikuna and Connor Underhill

The following players have been released following the expiry of their contracts: Lee Hodson, Chris Maguire, Joe McDonnell, Solomon Nwabuokei, Corey Panter, Scott Quigley, Nathan Rogers, Jai Semenyo, Tommy Scott and Deji Sotona".

Relegated AFC Fylde "provide an update on the following players:

• Option Years Exercised for 2025/26: Nick Haughton, Lincoln McFayden, Jack Morris
• Released: Harry Davis, Owen Evans, Gavin Massey, Theo Richardson, Bryce Hosannah, Adam Long, Emeka Obi, Joe Riley, Chris Stokes

At another relegated club, Ebbsfleet United’s "retained list can now be made available for our supporters.

Six players remain under contract... and some are in talks regarding exiting those contracts. The club has agreed new deals with another three for 2025/26. Eight are engaged in ongoing negotiations with the club while 12 have not been offered renewed playing terms on the expiry of their contracts...

PLAYERS WHO REMAIN UNDER CONTRACT WITH EUFC: Elijah Anthony, Tom Dallison, Wes Fonguck (currently on loan to Monterey Bay in the USA until November 30th, 2025), Louis John, George Moncur, Josh Passley

PLAYERS WHO HAVE AGREED TERMS AHEAD OF THE 2025/26 SEASON: Mark Cousins, Toby Edser, Maxx Manktelow

PLAYERS CURRENTLY IN TALKS WITH THE CLUB WHO HAVE BEEN OFFERED NEW TERMS: Ben Chapman, Aaron Cosgrave, Franklin Domi, Harrison Firth, Alex Lankshear, Mustapha Olagunju, Dominic Samuel, Anthony Stewart

PLAYERS LEAVING THE CLUB ON THE EXPIRY OF THEIR CONTRACTS: Rakish Bingham, Greg Cundle, Callum Harriott, Jim Kellermann, Nathan Odokonyero, Luke O’Neill, Lewis Page, Dominic Poleon, Jephte Tanga, Kwame Thomas, Kymani Thomas, Jack Wakely (retired)...

Fleet boss Josh Wright said, “I want to personally thank those who have been a servant in a Fleet shirt whether it’s been for a season, or five. Days like today are one of the toughest during a campaign and decisions like this are not taken lightly. I wish all of those departing players the very best in the future..

The club can also confirm that we will be returning to the football model we previously had in the National League South. With that we can confirm that Colin Gordon has also left the club".

8 May 2025:

THE LOANEES' CONTRIBUTION

Above: Alty's Norwich City loanee keeper, Caleb Ansen, keeps his eye on a Tamworth corner, as the outfield players get to grips with each other, whilst looking the other way.

Altrincham have named nine loanees in matchday squads this season, with eight of them getting onto the pitch at least once.

In total in the National League only, they have made 108 appearances collectively, comprising 73 starts and 35 appearances from the bench.

In all competitions the loanees have made 94(+48) appearances and contributed seven goals in the league and 12 goals in all competitions.

Left to right: Caleb Ansen, Jake Bickerstaff, Callum Dolan, Liam Humbles, Joe Nuttall

Left to right: Charlie Olson, Kacper Pasiek, Brandon Powell, Kian Taylor

• Caleb ANSEN, on loan from Norwich City, 12(+1) appearances in all competitions, 11(+1) in league
• Jake BICKERSTAFF,on loan from Wrexham, 17(+16) appearances and 3 goals in all competitions; 12(+13), 2 goals in league
• Callum DOLAN, on loan from Fleetwood Town, 6(+5) appearances in all competitions; 4(+2) in league
• Liam HUMBLES on loan from Salford City, 7(+5) appearances in all competitions; 6(+2) in league
• Joe NUTTALL on season-long loan from Oldham Athletic, 17(+15) appearances and 5 goals in all competitions; 13(+12) 4 goals in league
• Charlie OLSON, on loan from Blackburn Rovers, 25 appearances and 1 goal in all competitions; 20 appearances in league
• Kacper PASIEK, on loan from Preston North End, 6(+4) appearances and 1 goal in all competitions; 4(+3) in league
• Brandon POWELL - on loan from Blackburn Rovers 0 appearances
• Kian TAYLOR on loan from Preston North End 4(+2) appearances and 2 goals in all competitions; 3(+2) and 1 goal in league

CHARLIE PUSHING FOR ROVERS' FIRST-TEAM

The 20-year-old defender made a huge impact at Altrincham after joining the National League side on loan in October and topped the fan poll as their star performing player under the age of 23.

Right: Charlie Olson keeps tabs on Tamworth's leading scorer, Dan Creaney, last Monday.

In his breakthrough season of senior football, Olson made 25 starts across all competitions, helping Alty finish ninth in the National League table, just four points off the play-offs.

He was presented with his award following Altrincham’s 1-1 draw with Tamworth on Bank Holiday Monday...

The centre-back has been with Rovers since Under-12s level and will hope to be part of Valerien Ismael’s first team squad when the players return for pre-season at the end of June".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"The 37-year-old in his playing days donned the jerseys of several clubs in the English Premier League like Sunderland, Everton and West Bromwich Albion.

Anichebe is currently worth around $14m and was rumoured to be interested in buying the club. The 11-capped retired Nigerian attacker even spoke with players, recruitement staff and coaches of the club in the dressing room several times, discussing promotion while he hadn't officially acquired the club.

It was initially claimed that a deal was imminent, but a full agreement is yet to be reached...

Gateshead are now at cross-roads as Anichebe is yet to go through with the acquisition of the club, and their failure to secure promotion will most likely put off other investors from buying the club".

In the National North, the BBC confirms that "Kidderminster Harriers have sacked manager Phil Brown following the club's failure to win promotion back to the National League.

Harriers were beaten in the semi-finals of the play-offs by Chester on Sunday, after defeat on the final day of the regular season at Southport cost them the title.

They had been top of National League North on goal difference, from eventual champions Brackley Town, but their 2-1 loss cost them dear as they finished third.

Harriers chairman Richard Lane said, external missing out on an immediate return to top-level non-league football was 'bitterly disappointing' adding 'now is the right time to make changes before embarking our future campaign'".

7 May 2025

ALTY'S SPRING SLUMP

Above: Alty defend a second-half Tamworth freekick. Left to right we see Joe Nuttall, James Jones, Elliot Osborne and Lucas Weaver.

Monday's draw with Tamworth was Alty's thirteenth draw of the season, eight of which have been at home.

It meant that Altrincham won just one of their last eight home games and results at the JDS were a major factor in the club falling to stay in the play-offs.

The high point of the season was sixth place which was achieved on three occasions during the campaign, the last being after the win at Hartlepool in match 31 on 18 February.

After that, the final 15 games yielded just three wins. There were nine defeats in the final 15 fixtures a run which yielded just 12 points.

Those nine defeats included losses against four clubs from the bottom seven, two of whom were relegated. The fourclubs were Wealdstone, Boston United, Dagenham & Redbridge and AFC Fylde. Paradoxically, two of the three wins were away from home at clubs which qualified for the play-offs (York City and FC Halifax Town).

The lowest point came in the penultimate match of the season, the 6-1 thrashing at Dagenham & Redbridge, a club which was to find itself relegated in its next game.

R.I.P. DOUG COUTTS

Doug Coutts was born on 3rd March 1942 at Banks o'Dee, Aberdeen.

Educated at the Kitty Brewster primary school in Dyce, Aberdeen, he played in the same side as Denis Law. He then went to Aberdeen Grammar School, winning a Scottish Schools cap. He was working as a civil servant in the tax office, when he was approached by Aberdeen

He decided to sign as a part-time professional for his local club, Aberdeen on 2nd February 1960.

In 1965 he job as a tax inspector took him to East Kilbride, which meant that his chances in the Aberdeen first team were limited and he was released at the end of the 1964/65 season.

He joined Scottish Second Division side, Berwick in May 1965 and had four good seasons and was made captain.

His job as a tax inspector, took him south, where he joined Wigan Athletic and was part of the side that won the Northern Premier League in 1970/71.

After three seasons at Springfield Park, Doug ended his career at Moss Lane, Altrincham, making his debut on the season's opening day fixture, at centre-half in a 1-0 defeat at South Shields.

He played his final game for the Robins in a 7-3 North West Floodlit League tie away at Runcorn. Doug then retired, after 22 games for Altrincham.

Condolences to his family and friends".

Terry has also provided Doug's career statistics:

Aberdeen: signed 20/02/1960, seasons played 1959/60 to 1964/65

• 1959/60 5 Scottish Division 1 League games (SL)
• 1960/61, 17 (SL) 1 goal, 5-Scottish League Cup (SLC), 2 Scottish FA Cup, 1 goal (SFAC)
• 1961/62, 6 (SL), 1 (SLC)
• 1962/63, 31, 1 goal (SL), 1 (SLC), 3 (SFAC)
• 1963/64, 28 (SL), 2 (SLC), 4 (SFAC)
• 1964/65, 11 and 1 goal (SL), 6 (SLC), 1 (SFAC)

Berwick Rangers: signed 15/05/1965

• 1965/66-68/69, 121(+1) 3 goals (SL), 19-1 goal (SLC), 10 (SFAC)

Wigan Athletic: signed June 1969

• 1969/70-71/72, 102 games 2 goals

Altrincham

• 1972-73, 11(+2) (NPL), 5 (FAC), 1 (LC), 1 (FAT), 1 (NWFL). Total 19+2

His debut was in the opening game of the 1972/73 season; his last game was in a 7-3 NWFL win over Runcorn on 27th November 1972

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PROMOTION PLAY-OFFS

Wednesday 14th May:

• Oldham Athletic v FC Halifax Town

Thursday 15th May:

• Rochdale v Southend United

Vanarama National League Promotion Play-offs - Promotion Play-offs - Semi-finals

Tuesday 20th May:

• York City v Team to be confirmed

Wednesday 21st May:

• Forest Green Rovers v Team to be confirmed

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Player Greg Olley has given a revealing and frank interview interview about what he describes as a "club meltdown".

He explains that the Heed has become a "feeder club" where players come in to showcase themselves and then move on to better things. He muses "why can't we keep good players?"

In short he explains that "losing players in January really has killed us" and "we don't know where the money goes" as there have been no big signings from the transfer fee income.

Greg expressed sympathy for manager Carl Magnay who "has been through the mill". Magnay has been abused on social media but "his hands are firmly tied... with no help from above".

Olley went on to discuss the proposed takeover of the club which "has been lingering over us for four or five months" and he feels that the players are "potentially being lied to about what's happening".

He revealed that the "new owner has been in the changing room when he hasn't taken over" and this had "unsettled the dressing room".

Olley himself is now out of contract, as are "ten or twelve lads" and, as for his own future, despite being seven years at the club, "there has been "not one single talk about continuing" at Gateshead.

He graphically summarised the siuation by stating "I'm being tret [sic] like something on the bottom of your shoe".

In short he concluded that "There's a very sour note in the air".

FC Halifax Town report that "Following discussions with the EFL and the National League, it is agreed that Halifax Panthers and Huddersfield Giants can play fixtures at the Shay Stadium, along with FC Halifax Town from the 2025-2026 season".

Last Tuesday, Leeds United lifted the National League Cup in the final at Gander Green Lane against hosts Sutton United.

Leeds United reported that "United Under-21s were crowned inaugural National League Cup winners after a superb victory over Sutton United in the final of the competition!

Goals from Diogo Monteiro and Harry Gray fired the young Whites to victory...

Backed by a fine travelling contingent in the capital, the Whites started on the front foot in glorious sunshine at the VBS Community Stadium... The opening stages were an even affair...

There was nothing [goalkeeper] Sims could do to prevent the opener... with Monteiro on hand to bundle a low finish into the bottom corner!...

Leeds emerged for the second half unchanged, whilst an alteration in personnel from former United striker Steve Morison brought Dillon De Silva into the action in place of Nana Boateng...

In a second period that was as electric as the first, United doubled their lead through striker Gray...

The hosts halved the deficit with just over 10 minutes remaining, as Simper smashed a powerful strike beyond Mahady and into the back of the net...

Sutton threw everything at an exhausted Whites’ defence in the dying moments ... but Gardner’s side defended heroically until Mulhall’s final whistle sounded, crowning Leeds United Under-21s inaugural National League Cup champions".

ALTRINCHAM 1-1 TAMWORTH

Above: Joe Nuttall heads clear against Tamworth.

Altrincham made five changes for this final match of the season before The Lambs went ahead after 15 minutes.

The goal arrived when Creaney's shot deflected off a defender to the left to find Fairlamb. From the bye-line his cross came to right-back Crompton beyond the back post and his chip over Ansen found the net towards the back post.

Tamworth also struck the bar in the first half after Ansen had flapped at a cross and the ball fell for Sundire, whose fierce shot from outside the box came back off the woodwork.

Alty levelled four minutes into the second half, just after Ansen had saved well from Ponticelli at the other end. Banks got forward on the right into the Tamworth box and laid the ball inside to Newby. His first-time shot had just about enough pace to beat a retreating defender and cross the line for the equaliser.

Both keepers made good saves in the second half but the score remained one apiece to the final whistle.

Match report here

END OF SEASON AWARDS

R. to L. Ethan Ross, Regan Linney, Alex Newby and Charlie Olson.

Altrincham FC report that at the AO End of Season Awards held after Monday's match, 23-goal Regan Linney was pipped for the Supporters' Player of the Season award. However, Regan did win the Players' Player of the Season award.

The winner of the Supporters' Player of the Season was goalkeeper Ethan Ross who, unfortunately, missed the last 14 league fixtures through an ACL injury. Before that he had made 27 league and 5 cup appearances for the club.

Charlie Olson was named Young Player of the Season and Alex Newby was the Manager's Player of the Season.

ALTY OLD BOYS

National League : Rochdale, already assured of a home playoff quarter final, went down 2-0 at Braintree Town. JACK KINGDON played the full game, but KYLE FERGUSON was left on the bench. Rochdale will now be at home to Southend United, who secured 7th spot with a goalless draw at Gateshead, who withdrew LIAM HUMBLES after 71 minutes.

Oldham Athletic will be at home to FC Halifax in the other quarter final. They rounded off the regulation season with a 2-0 home win over relegated Ebbsfleet United, REAGAN OGLE playing the full game. JOSH LUNDSTRAM was left on the bench.

Runners up York City had a 0-2 victory at Eastleigh, TYRESE SINCLAIR picking up a first half yellow before being withdrawn after 65 minutes.

MILES WELCH-HAYES played throughout Maidenhead United's 3-0 home win over Boston United. Had both Wealdstone and Dagenham lost, it would have been enough to keep them up, but those two teams won and drew respectively, so Wealdstone were the escapees, possibly helped by Halifax fielding a weakened side.

The Yorkshire club made 5 substitutions at half time.

rish Premier Division : Having been left on the bench in his side's 2-0 home win over Galway United on Saturday, BARRY BAGGLEY was restored to the St.Patricks Athletic starting lineup at Derry City, but was substituted after 63 minutes. His side fell to the only goal of the game, and lost the league leadership to Drogheda United as a consequence.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAUE NEWS

We'd like to thank them both for their hard work and professionalism during their time at Mill Farm."

5 May 2025

END OF SEASON OUTCOMES

The league's top seven team did not change on the final day. But at the bottom, Wealdstone's win over FC Halifax Town saved them as Dagenham & Redbridge could only draw.

Play-off Teams: York City, Forest Green Rovers, Rochdale, Oldham Athletic, FC Halifax Town and Southend United.

Relegated Teams Dagenham & Redbridge, Maidenhead United, AFC Fylde, Ebbsfleet United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

BOB ALLAN R.I.P.

For many years Bob and his wife Claire, who died in 2021, would attend Altrincham matches where they also were regular matchday sponsors.

Above, Bob (far left) and Claire [third from left] are seen preparing to give a post-match award to Altrincham's Anthony Danylyk [far right], following the game against Kettering Town in 2008

The thoughts of all who knew Bob will be with his daughter, Margaret and son-in-law Paul, at this sad time.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Chester won the match 1-2 thanks to a well taken goal by captain - and former Harrier - Declan Weeks. Substitute DAN MOONEY passed up two decent chances to widen the margin in the closing stages of the 10 added minutes. The Seals will hope that Tom can recover for the Final, away to Scunthorpe United, in 2 weeks time.

Welsh Cup Final: Although Connah's Quay Nomads took an early lead, they eventually lost to 2-1 at Rodney Parade to favourites TNS. JOHN DISNEY - as usual - played throughout".

TODAY: TAMWORTH

NPL PLAY-OFFS

• Worksop Town v Guiseley

Semi-Finals

• Worksop Town 2-1 Ashton United
• Stockton 1-0 Guiseley (Stockton removed after captain Adam Nicholson played in an earlier game when officially suspended).

NEXT: TAMWORTH

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil also reports ...

In EFL League One : CARL PIERGIANNI was substituted after 87 minutes, having been booked 5 minutes earlier, as Stevenage drew 1-1 at Bolton Wanderers, while Peterborough United substituted CHRIS CONN-CLARKE after 61 minutes of their 2-1 defeat at Rotherham United.

Already relegated Crawley Town went out with a 1-2 win, taking advantage of hosts Shrewsbury Town playing all but 4 minutes of the second half with 10 men. JUNIOR QUITIRNA was a 64th minute substitute, but TOBY MULLARKEY wasn't in the squad.

League Two : The only goal of the game at Accrington Stanley was sufficient to earn Chesterfield the last playoff spot, and a visit to Walsall. SONNY ALJOFREE played the full game for the hosts, while the visitors substituted RYAN COLCLOUGH after 79 minutes.

If the Spireites were to overturn the odds and gain a second successive promotion, they would meet Luton Town next season - and they were in the National League while the Bedfordshire club were in the Premier League last season. How quickly things can change in the football world!

Carlisle United bade farewell to the EFL by going 2-0 up at home to Salford City, before subsiding to a 2-2 draw. JOE HUGILL was a 63rd minute substitute.

ELLIOT NEWBY was withdrawn by Barrow after 62 minutes, and, despite being reduced to 10 men in the 76th minute, they clung on for a goalless draw at Colchester United.

ALISTAIR SMITH played throughout AFC Wimbledon's win by the only goal at Grimsby Town. The Mariners would have pipped Chesterfield to the last playoff spot had they won. The London club were already assured of taking part, and will meet Notts County.

Morecambe bowed out of the EFL with a 1-2 home defeat by Harrogate Town. MARCUS DACKERS was left on the bench.

At Rodney Parade, Tranmere Rovers went behind to Newport County midway through the first half, but levelled not long before the break, before going ahead 3 minutes after the restart. After the Welsh side had been reduced to 10 men, Rovers took control and went on to win 1-4. CHRIS MERRIE played the full game, and was joined by CONNOR JENNINGS in the 77th minute.

National North : Chorley were eliminated from the playoffs at Scunthorpe United 4-2. KOLE HALL scored both of their goals.

On the cricketing front, Ian Wilkinson advises that in the match at Timperley against Neston, the visitors won by 39 runs, scoring 283 against Timperley's 244. OLLIE BYRNE took three catches, displaying safe hands. He batted at no. 7 and scored 43 off 47 balls.

His innings included five fours and a six at a strike rate of 91 49.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

• Scunthorpe United 4-2 Chorley

National League South Play-Offs Semi-Final

• Torquay United 0-1 Boreham Wood

Sunday 4 May 2025 National League North Play-Off Semi-Final

• Kidderminster Harriers 1-2 Chester FC

National League South Play-Off Semi-Final

• Eastbourne Borough 1-2 Maidstone United

3 May 2025

NEXT: TAMWORTH

ALTY OLD BOYS

They eventually opened the scoring in the 69th minute - but within 12 minutes Heidelberg had reversed matters to win 1-2. That win enabled them to leapfrog both Cannons and overnight leaders Avondale and take over at the head of the table.

However Avondale don't play until tomorrow, and a draw at home to struggling South Melbourne, who have only 3 draws to show in their last 9 fixtures, will be sufficient to restore them to top spot.

In the Polish Cup Final, there was silverware for Legia Warsaw, as they shrugged off a goal ruled out by VAR, and a missed penalty, to overcome Pogon Szczecin 4-3. The match was played at PGE Narodowy, a neutral ground in Warsaw. MAXI OYEDELE played a full role.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

• Scunthorpe United v Chorley

National League South Play-Offs Semi-Final

• Torquay United v Boreham Wood

Sunday 4 May 2025 National League North Play-Off Semi-Final

• Kidderminster Harriers v Chorley

National League South Play-Off Semi-Final

• Eastbourne Borough v Maidstone United

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Wilkie, 19, joined Eastleigh FC in 2022... earning a place in our Elite Development Squad last summer.

The centre-back... after signing his pro-deal with QPR, said 'My time at Eastleigh FC has been a fantastic experience. The opportunity to train full-time and gain consistent match minutes played a key role in my development, both technically and mentally'".

2 May 2025

NEW INVESTMENT AT ALTY

The investment of £1.45m comes from a combination of existing and new investors with the vast majority arriving from local businesspeople. The lead investors in this round are Simon and Michelle Orange, the majority owners of Sale Sharks Rugby Club...

Left: Bill Waterson.

On conclusion of the fundraising, Lawrence Looney has decided to step down from the Altrincham Football Club board. Lawrence has served on the board for seven years, the last five as Co-Chairman.

In the immediate future Bill Waterson will take on the role of Chairman as the club undertakes a strategic review with its Board and the major investors. Existing shareholder Mark Luby, another of the investors in this round, will be rejoining the board in an executive capacity.

The club has changed beyond recognition during Lawrence’s tenure and the Board would like to extend its sincere thanks to him for his outstanding contribution....

Bill Waterson added 'On behalf of all at the club and from me personally I would like to thank Lawrence for all he has done for Altrincham FC. From day one he has been an incredible driving force for this club, and it has been a real pleasure working with him. What has been achieved is incredible by any measure'".

LOONEY DEPARTS

"When I joined the club after the two relegations, you may remember at my first fans forum, my aim was to get the club to become an established National League team and aspire to make the Football League. I also had the dream to turn the club full time! The fact that we are all so disappointed in missing out on the play-offs this season, shows that we all really believe that we can achieve the Football League and I have no doubt it will happen in the next few years".

ALTY SEEK NEW KEEPER COACH

This season Ethan Ross has been listed in the Robins' Review as a coach as well as goalkeeper. However, an ACL injury ruled him out for the latter part of the current season and, probably, into 2025-26.

NEXT: TAMWORTH

Following a 2-2 draw after extra time, Alty lost the shoot-out 3-1.

Above: Josh Hancock runs to celebrate his goal as the Alty bench shows its delight.

Having beaten Blyth Spartans on the preceding Wednesday by netting seven successive penalties in the shoot-out, as well as one in normal play, spot-kicks proved Altrincham's undoing at Chorley.

Altrincham had already lost talismanic striker Jordan Hulme to injury early in the second half only to take a 68th minute lead when Hancock scored impressively after a good move on the right.

But, just five minutes later, Hancock, Alty's leading goalscorer in the league, was sent off for a tackle in a challenge on Carver in midfield. Referee Swallow had also been the man who sent off Jordan Hulme against Stockport earlier this season.

So Alty's two top scorers were now out of the game for differing reasons. The ten men valiantly held their lead till the 83rd minute when Wilson tapped home at the back post after Meppen-Walter had nodded on Blakeman's long throw from the right.

Altrincham's ten men played very well in the half hour of added time to reach a second penalty shoot-out of the week.

First up in the shoot-out, Alex Newby, then a Chorley player, saw his effort saved by Thompson before Moult likewise saw Urwin stop his penalty. Next, Blakeman blasted his penalty over the bar before Densmore also failed to beat Urwin. After four misses in total, Meppen-Walter at last was successful for the hosts from the spot. James Poole then incredibly made it three missed Alty spot-kicks in succession as Urwin again saved the ball.

Next, former Alty loanee Elliot Newby made it 2-0 for Chorley before substitute Max Harrop converted his kick to make it 2-1. When Wilson beat Thompson to make it 3-1, it was all over in anti-climactic fashion for Altrincham.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony Thompson, 2. Shaun Densmore, 3. Connor Hampson, 4. James Jones, 5. Tom Hannigan, 6. Jake Moult (c), 7. John Johnston, 8. Sean Williams, 9. Jordan Hulme, 10. Josh Hancock, 11. Yusufi Ceesay. Subs: 12. Max Harrop, 14. James Poole, 15. Simon Richman, 16. Ben Harrison, 20. Elliot Wynne.

ALTRINCHAM FC GOAL AND PLAYER OF THE SEASON OLD BOYS

ALTY OLD BOYS

National North: With TOM PEERS in their starting lineup, Chester got off to a dream start in their playoff quarter final against visitors Buxton, going ahead after just 3 minutes. However Buxton, captained by CONNOR KIRBY, levelled 15 minutes later.

Tom was withdrawn after 62 minutes, DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY coming on to replace him, and DAN MOONEY also joined the action 14 minutes later. However, there were no more goals in normal time, and the extra half hour was needed. Chester regained the lead after 108 minutes, and 3 minutes later Buxton withdrew Connor.

However, there were no further goals, and Chester will now travel to Kidderminster Harriers in the semi final, while Chorley's 1-0 elimination of King's Lynn the previous evening has earned them a visit to Scunthorpe United.

National South: DANNY CASHMAN was on Worthing's bench for their playoff semifinal against visitors Maidstone, but only joined the action in the 90th minute. His side were already trailing to an early penalty, and conceded another in 94th minute to lose 0-2. So from being top of the league with two games left, the West Sussex club ended up empty handed.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS

• Chorley 1-0 King's Lynn Town
• Chester FC 2-1 Buxton

National South

• Boreham Wood 4-3 Dorking Wanderers
• Worthing 0-2 Maidstone United

1 May 2025

NEXT: TAMWORTH

Altrincham were relegated from the Conference in 2011 and when they returned to the National League level in 2014, Tamworth had likewise been relegated.

So the teams have not met at Moss Lane since a Blue Square Bet Premier match played on Saturday, 19 March, 2011.

Right: Stuart Bimson, Alty's Assistant Manager to Ken McKenna, relays his tactics to Damian Reeves and Robbie Lawton during a lull in proceedings in the game with Tamworth in 2011.

Altrincham won 2-0 in what was a dream return for Dale Johnson as his header, on the hour mark, which just crossed the line off the underside of the bar, sealed a 2-0 win - just three minutes after he had come onto the pitch.

Earlier Alty had taken a first-half lead in bizarre circumstances. Damian Reeves was tracking back after chasing down the Tamworth keeper. Mitchell had cleared the ball but it came straight back towards him from a Tamworth back pass but fell into the path of the Alty striker who coolly beat the keeper to make it 1-0 (36 mins).

Johnson also hit the post in the dying moments. Even without Nicky Clee (medial ligament), Greg Young, Shaun Densmore and Chris Denham, Alty kept a clean sheet meaning that Tamworth had yet to score at Moss Lane in five attempts.

Just 895 spectators watched the match which was refereed by Tony Harrington who has since risen to the tiop level of Premier League referees.

Alty's squad comprised: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. James SMITH, 5. Robbie WILLIAMS, 4. Marc JOSEPH, 26. Carl PIERGIANNI, 17. Wes BAYNES, 7. Robbie LAWTON (capt), 15. Ryan BROWN, 18. Steven CONNORS, 8. Damian REEVES, 9. Michael TWISS, Subs: 14. Dale JOHNSON, 30. Craig DOOTSON, 3. Jonathan BATESON, 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 19. Mark BEESLEY

MND WALK

Gary Scott, as a former team-mate of Alty's Mark Maddox who fought bravely against MND, is one of the main walkers on this fundraising journey.

So far signed up for the walk from Trafford FC to Alty are current player Matty Kosylo and former players...

• Stuart Coburn
• Chris Adams
• Ged Kielty
• Steve Aspinall

Also taking part are

• John Coyne - Ex pro and Alty Director
• Mark Tierney Ex Pro and Alty Director of Football.
• Grahame Rowley - President
• Plus many familiar faces.

We will be also joined by Stephanie Houghton, Chris Kirkland and other ex pros.

Fans, players and officials from Trafford FC will join us, advises Neil Faulkner.

If you cannot make it please make a donation .

THROUGH THE YEARS: 5 MAY

Before that you have to go back to 2001, when Alty won 3-1 away at Hucknall Town in the UniBond Northern Premier League.

ALTY OLD BOYS

"With 11 clean sheets in a largely up-and-down season, the skipper received his Player of the Season award from Bucks Inclusion icon, Alfie Butler".

And receiving two awarda was Tom Hannigan (right) as Bootle announce him as the "Committee Player of the Season and Players' Player of the Season"

"In the skipper's words, Tom has put his body on the line countless times for the Bootle cause this season and has had the cuts, bruises, scars and broken bones to show for it!".

Tony is now 30 years of age, while Tom is 37 years old in June.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Despite going behind against the run of play, we continued to dominate...

The dominance continued with Wanderers firmly in control, but despite heavy spells of possession, we went into the break a goal down and needing to overturn the deficit in the second half.

Then came the big turning point of the night... With just eight minutes gone in the second half, Dorking were back level. 1-1...

In extraordinary fashion, the turnaround was completed just fifteen minutes after the restart... The ecstasy of the second goal surged through Wanderers...

However, fortunes turned slightly on their head as Wanderers were reduced to ten men with twenty minutes still to play... Jimmy Muitt saw red for a second yellow following a cynical foul to prevent a Boreham Wood breakaway... With just eight minutes to play, Wanderers were back in the driving seat. 1-3.

But it was far from done. The Wood... [made it] 2-3.

The comeback would be completed moments later... 3-3.

With six minutes added on, both sides threw everything at the game... Femi Ilesanmi did just enough to control the ball and fire a fantastic half-volley into the top corner, sparking pure pandemonium in the stands behind the goal. 4-3.

It ended 4-3 to our hosts".