There is no Radio Robins coverage of this match.

ALTY OLD BOYS

In Thursday night in Dublin they had 34 shots on goal against their Estonian visitors Kalju, who didn't manage a single shot on target, and played the last 25 minutes with 9 men.

BARRY BAGGLEY played the full game, and his team eventually scored the game's only goal in the 90th minute.

Also in the Europa Conference League Qualifiera, with SAM ROSCOE playing the full game, Linfield forced a goalless draw in Vilnius against Zalgiris in the first leg of their tieS.

Elsewhere, in the "I Had Trials Once" series, JORDAN HULME and Gaz Seddon discuss REGAN LINNEY and his prospects at Carlisle United.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Just four years ago Morecambe won promotion to League One for the first time in their history...

The Shrimps were put up for sale by owners Bond Group in September 2022, but a deal has still not been completed... Jason Whittingham, through Bond Group, took over Morecambe in May 2018... Whittingham was also part-owner of rugby union club Worcester Warriors, who eventually lost their place in the Premiership in 2022 having gone into administration..

In January, Whittingham said he 'could not wait' to get out of the club...

At the start of June as a consortium known as Panjab Warriors had their takeover bid approved by the EFL...

On 9 July, a 'last minute bid' was made for the club by an unnamed party which was later confirmed by Whittingham to be from a consortium led by an investor he said is named Jonny Cato".

FC Halifax Town confirm the signing of centre back Shaun Hobson following his departure from Oldham Athletic.

Playing youth football for Fletcher Moss Rangers, Hobson spent time in the academy at Burnley before joining AFC Bournemouth in 2016. Whilst with the Cherries, the defender spent time on loan at Eastbourne Borough... Chester and Eastleigh in the National League, and Weymouth...

Hobson’s next permanent move came in September 2020 where he joined Southend United in League Two. The defender made... over 100 appearances. In June 2023, the defender signed for Oldham and made 22 appearances last campaign".

Boreham Wood "announce the signing of experienced striker Luke Norris, who joins the Wood as a free agent following his departure from EFL League Two side Tranmere Rovers!

The 32-year-old forward brings a wealth of experience and a proven goalscoring pedigree across the Football League, having represented the likes of Gillingham, Swindon Town, Colchester United, and Stevenage. Norris is no stranger to Meadow Park, having enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Wood back in the 2012/13 season, in which he scored three goals in seven appearances as a young prospect from Brentford.

Norris began his career in the youth setups at Luton Town and Hitchin Town before earning a scholarship at Brentford, where he made his senior debut in 2011. He went on to enjoy productive loan spells at Northampton Town and Dagenham & Redbridge... before making a permanent move to Gillingham in 2014...

A physical and intelligent centre-forward, Norris offers hold-up play, experience, and natural finishing ability".

24 July 2025

ALTY GROUNDSMAN LEAVES

While a replacement is sought, the club are pleased to be able to confirm there will be no interruption to the important task of preparing the best possible playing surface in readiness for our opening Enterprise National League fixture of the new season against Aldershot Town...

An experienced former Premier League groundsman has stepped in to ensure work on the pitch continues, and he is being ably assisted by our ever-willing team of dedicated volunteers".

ALTY'S TOWN-CENTRE SHOP TO CLOSE

Over recent months, the board has been reviewing our retail plans to ensure we're making the most of the opportunities available to grow revenue and improve access to official Altrincham FC merchandise for supporters...

From the outset, the store was designed to be run by volunteers... That model, however, has made it difficult to maintain consistent opening hours, particularly during busy periods of the season.

As a result, our focus now turns to establishing a permanent retail presence at the J. Davidson Stadium. Work is already underway to create a new shop inside the ground, offering both matchday and midweek trading - this time with dedicated club staff ensuring regular opening times and a reliable experience for all fans."

SAM MACKENZIE INTERVIEW

ALTY OLD BOYS

JOEL SENIOR started for Bristol Rovers, but they lost 0-2 at home to Coventry City.

Meanwhile, AFC Fylde "announce the signing of midfielder CHRIS MERRIE following the expiry of his contract at League Two side Tranmere Rovers.

The 26-year-old has featured on the Wirral since 2021 after joining from Wigan Athletic...

He made his pro debut for the Latics in the EFL Trophy in 2017, before being loaned out to Southport and Altrincham.

Merrie returned to Wigan and played a huge role in their miraculous survival in 2021, playing 35 games that year.

He turned down a stay at Wigan to make the move over to Prenton Park in 2021, where he would clock up over a century of appearances... and played 32 games in last season’s late bid for survival, which saw them safe...

Merrie said... 'I've spoken to CRAIG MAHON a lot about the project and how the club needs to be at a higher level".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Moors - who opted not to participate last season - have joined the second instalment of the National League Cup for the new campaign...

Initially sceptical of the format of the competition, Eales says conversations with some of last season's participants convinced him of the benefit of being part of the competition.

'Last season we were unclear on how the competition format would operate,' he said. 'Having spoken to a number of clubs who did participate, the view was generally positive about the competition and the relatively flexible rules regarding team selection.

'On this basis, and with further development of the rules and the match schedule, one extra game per month pre-Christmas, we felt that participating was justified, especially in developing younger younger players.'"

23 July 2025

NEXT OPPONENTS: DARLINGTON

When Alty last visited Blackwell Meadows in August 2018, the club had changed its name back from Darlington 1883 during the previous year.

The change from its original name of "Darlington" to "Darlington 1883" had been enforced by the FA after the club had three times gone into administration in 2003, 2009 and 2012.

Their financial woes had been intensified by moving from their historical Feethams stadium to the massive 25,000 capacity Darlington Arena in 2003.

The inset picture, taken just 13 minutes later, shows Damian submerged beneath his team-mates after scoring his seventeenth goal of the season - his 13th in the Conference.

When they re-formed as Darlington 1883 in 2012, the club at first played at Bishop Auckland but they moved to Darlington Rugby Club's Blackwell Meadows ground in 2016 which, however, did not meet theground grading criteria for Northern Premier League football, so they joined the less stringent Northern League.

Having won that league at the first attempt and having upgraded Blackwell Meadows, they moved into the Northern Premier League Division One North in 2013.

Promotion to the NPL Premier Division came in 2015, from which they won a further promotion to the National League North in 2016.

They have remained at that level since then, consistently finishing each season between tenth and sixteenth position.

ALTY OLD BOYS

MAXI OYEDELE was in Strasbourg's starting lineup as they won 1-2 at Nancy.

Although Oxford United took a 23 man squad to Mansfield Town, OWEN DALE (right) wasn't one of them. Having spent the second half of last season at Wigan Athletic, it may be that he'll be given another loan shortly.

Another absentee was Scunthorpe United's ROSS BARROWS, who is still recovering from a bad injury and wasn't in the squad at Skegness Town.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR only came off the Grimsby Town bench in the 81st minute, as they beat visitors Lincoln City 2-1.

Both ALEX NEWBY and TYRESE SINCLAIR played the whole of York City's 2-2 draw against visitors Barnsley.

ALI SMITH came on for AFC Wimbledon after an hour, but visitors Millwall had already clinched a 0-3 victory by then.

Chester named seven trialists at Colwyn Bay, and although DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY (left) started, both JAMES JONES and TOM PEERS were missing as they won by the only goal.

Having spent big recently, ambitious Dagenham & Redbridge were given a rude awakening by visitors Colchester United, who ran in five goals without reply. New marquee signing Andy Carroll only lasted 41, but ASHLEY HEMMINGS made it to half time.

Boreham Wood substituted JEFF KING after 54 minutes at Maidenhead United. They did pull one goal back after that, but lost 3-2.

I was quite correct to observe that MONTEL GIBSON was missing from Hereford's squad on Sunday, but that was because he left the club last season, and joined Matlock Town.

Having had minor surgery in the close season, the Gladiators hope he will be available for their game with Mansfield Town this weekend. Tonight, visitors Buxton, captained by CONNOR KIRBY (right), beat them 1-4.

REGAN LINNEY was again on the score sheet for Carlisle United as they won 1-2 at South Shields.

Aldershot Town travelled to Eastbourne Borough without MATT PENNEY, and hit three goals without reply. (However, Aldershot Town do have an interview with Matt Penney on their website).

Neither JAMES BERRY nor JUNIOR QUITIRNA were in Wycombe Wanderers' squad at Barnet, but JOE HUGILL started for the home side. The game ended 1-1.

Radcliffe beat Altrincham on Friday in Douglas, but, starting without any Old Boys, they found themselves trailing 0-1 at the break against visitors Halifax.

They then brought on JORDAN HULME and BRAD JACKSON (left) but went further behind, before scoring a consolation goal to lose 1-2.

Southport were without DIOR ANGUS at Bootle, but LUKE BURGESS beat TONY THOMPSON to clinch a 1-2 win.

KEVIN ELLISON is still soldiering on for Vauxhall Motors, who were held 0-0 by visitors Marine.

Kidderminster Harriers brought DAN MOONEY off the bench after 65 minutes at Worcester City and he set up Kurt Willoughby to clinch a 1-2 victory.

Scottish League Cup: Kilmarnock brought MARCUS DACKERS off the bench after 64 minutes as they were taken to penalties at Kelty Hearts after the game ended goalless. The Premiership side had been 3-2 ahead in the shootout, but needing to convert the final kick to force sudden death, Marcus hit the post.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Shrimps Trust fans group says that is the reason for the cancellation of the club’s only planned pre-season friendly against Barrow...

Now the trust says that the players have effectively gone on strike until the ownership situation is resolved, with the National League club’s players and staff having allegedly not been paid for nearly four weeks...

The Shrimps Trust issued a statement on Monday... 'We understand that the fixture on Tuesday has been cancelled as the players as a group have decided not to play until the current ownership position is resolved,' the trust said....

There is now less than three weeks before Morecambe are due to start their National League campaign following last season’s relagation with an opening-day game at Boston United on Saturday, August 9".

Forest Green Rovers, widely recognised as the most sustainable football club in the world, reveals a bold new playing strip for the 25-26 season. Alongside Official Teamwear Partner, Reflo, both organisations have been working hard with the Vegan Society to create the world’s first fully certified vegan kit.

Both the home and away kits feature the same bold design; a striking leopard print pattern inspired by nature... [The selection of a carnivore-related image to adorn a vegan strip is an interesting one].

The vegan kit is emblazoned with Ecotricity across the chest, DPD on the lower back, Candriam on the left sleeve, and Smyths Toys on the back of the shorts.

Below the neck features the infamous Three Stars. This reflects the club’s long term ambitions to gain promotion into the championship.

As well as being vegan certified, the new kit is powered by Reflo’s pioneering Reloop™ technology — a fibre-to-fibre mechanical recycling solution that means every shirt is made from recycled mono-fibre materials and designed to be fully recyclable at end of life. When the kit reaches the end of its playing days, it will be broken down and remade into new products, giving fans and players a true circular alternative to landfill...

Dale Vince, Chairman of Forest Green Rovers, commented 'We like to push the boundaries on sustainability issues, including what our shirts are made from because the materials we use to make things really matters. In pursuit of the most sustainable football kit we’ve experimented in previous seasons with both bamboo and with coffee grounds.

'This season our new strip pushes the boundary again - we’ve created the world’s first fully certified vegan football kit, by making sure the dyes we use, which are an often overlooked ingredient, are plant-based. Our new shirt is also fully recyclable'".

Wealdstone "announce the permanent signing of midfielder Omar Mussa from Torquay United.

The 6 foot 24-year-old Belgian born midfielder boa[s]ts an array of technical and physical qualities, complimenting his position in the centre of midfield. ..

Omar was a youth player in the ranks of Anderlecht and then MK Mechelen, before moving over to England in 2019 to join League One side Walsall. Spells in the National League with Dover Athletic and Weymouth followed respectively, before making the move to Dagenham & Redbridge at the start of the 2022/23 campaign for an undisclosed fee...

Torquay United would be Omar’s next club, joining at the start of the 2024/25 campaign".

22 July 2025

NEXT: DARLINGTON

That last match beween the sides at Darlington was played in the Vanarama National League North on Saturday, 25 August 2018 and ended in a 3-0 win for Alty.

Right: James Jones (4), Jake Moult (6) and Sean Williams (8) keep a close watch on Darlington's Simon Ainge.

Without Hampson, Goulding, Richman, Poole, Peers and Harrison in their squad, and fielding two debutants in goalkeeper Elliot Wynne and winger Owen Dale, who was on loan from Crewe, Altrincham were good value for this win at Blackwell Meadows. Despite creating nine decent openings in the first 45 minutes, Alty had only one goal to show for a dominant first-half, and that came from the penalty spot rather than open play.

Johnston converted the spot-kick, which had been awarded for handball, after 30 minutes.

Altrincham's finishing improved after the break when Jordan Hulme netted twice in a ten-minute spell, each time with a low shot, after the home defence had opened up (51 and 61 mins). Darlington did not muster a serious shot on target till the ninetieth-minute when Wynne produced a magnificent save to push the ball onto the woodwork.

The only downsides to a fine performance, which resulted in Alty's first clean-sheet of the season and featured a fine midfield performance from Sean Williams, were an injury to John Johnston which led to his hobbling off early in the second half and Jordan Hulme's fourth booking in just the sixth game of the season, when he needlessly showed dissent with his side already three goals to the good.

ALTRINCHAM (All purple): 1. Elliot WYNNE, 2. Shaun DENSMORE, 3. Andrew WHITE, 4. James JONES, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Sean WILLIAMS, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. Josh HANCOCK, 11. Owen DALE. Subs: 12. Max HARROP, 14. Brendon DANIELS, 15. Bay DOWNING, 16. Liam GOULDING, 20. Tony THOMPSON.

PARKY, AFTER THE GAME

"All round, we dominated the game, which we should" said the Alty boss.

Phil was happy that "We've got no injuries" and that the trip to the Isle of Man "has allowed the group to come together" off the pitch.

Discussing the new signings this summer, the manager said "we've not recruited the finished article", such as Alex Reid, because we don't have the financial resources. He picked out left-back "Sam Reed [who] has been a standout performer".

NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He claimed sale agreements were due to be completed on Friday with a consortium led by Jonny Cato...

That was the fifth time in a fortnight that Whittingham had given assurances regarding a sale, but no further update was forthcoming...

Panjab Warriors had hoped to be in charge by now, having received EFL permission for a takeover in early June.

Following Whittingham’s Friday statement, they confirmed legal action had started against the owner.

A statement said... 'We have invited Bond Group to meet with us to resolve matters..

'We remain fully committed to the long-term future of Morecambe FC, its staff, supporters and community@">

The Lancaster Guardian had earlier reported that "The National League website’s ‘governance’ section contains a list of clubs under registration embargoes. It says that Morecambe were placed under such an embargo on Wednesday ‘for non-compliance with League Financial Regulations’".

"After Eastleigh’s win against Bournemouth in a pre-season friendly, [manager Kelvin Davis stated]...

'It was nice to see JOSH [LUNDSTRAM] on the pitch and... start to understand what we’re trying to do in terms of our philosophy and our way so yeah, a really good exercise...

'At the end of the day, we’re trying to develop a team that knows how to win and if you’ve got that power at the top end of the pitch, then we’ll use it.'”

Hartlepool United "manager Simon Grayson reacts to his first game in front of a home crowd as a last-gasp winner was the difference for his side against a Rangers XI.

The young Rangers team took a 2-0 lead before Danny Johnson grabbed a goal for Pools to make it 2-1 going into the break, before Adam Campbell and Alex Reid completed the turnaround in the second half.

The Pools boss said... 'We didn’t start the game like we should do or want to do, but sometimes you have to give the opposition credit for that...

'To be 2-0 down and then come back shows a mentality that we’re going to need throughout the course of this season...

'You can look at this Rangers team and compare them to a York or a Rochdale, Gateshead that play really high-risk football and handle the ball in good areas'".

Forest Green Rovers report that owner "Dale Vince and Dr Simon Opher MP are proud to announce a groundbreaking new initiative - Football on Prescription. In collaboration with a dozen surgeries across Stroud, Gloucestershire, the initiative makes football part of the treatment plan for mental health.

From this season, doctors and nurses can prescribe football if the patient and doctor feel it could help mental illness or feelings of isolation. It’s the first scheme of its kind in the UK—and maybe the world.

Dr Simon Opher said 'Research shows that physical activity improves mental and physical health. We also know that social isolation plays a major role in poor mental health—and that community, connection, and shared experiences can help people feel less alone. This initiative brings those two ideas together. It’s a form of social prescription — with football as the medicine.”

FGR Chairman, Dale Vince said... 'The leading cause of death in men under 50 is now suicide—and loneliness is often a key factor. If a Saturday afternoon at a football match can help someone feel more connected and less alone, then that’s a powerful first step.'"

Tamworth "brought their pre-season campaign home for the first time, with the visit of EFL League Two side Barrow...

Andy Peaks’s home squad [were] unbeaten in their four previous pre-season games...

With a recently re-crumbed pitch Peaks shuffled his starting eleven with new most recent signing Manny Duku starting the first half...

The visitors took the lead on 28 [minutes] ...

And from a Jackson corner on 50, Earing nodded the ball back towards goal and Tonks couldn’t prevent it going in to double their advantage. (0-2, 50 mins)...

Tamworth finished the game with ten men after DIGIE had to leave the field for treatment, but there were only seconds remaining until the whistle blew".

21 July 2025

ALTRINCHAM 3-1 FC ISLE OF MAN

Match report here.

In the final, Fleetwood Town "were crowned winners of the 2025 Isle of Man Summer Festival of Football on Sunday afternoon following a penalty shootout win over Radcliffe at The Bowl...

It was from the spot where the game was won, with Jay Lynch scoring the spot kick which won the game for the Cod Army" in a shootout, which they won 8-7, after a goalless draw in ninety minutes.

NEXT: DARLINGTON

BILL WELCOMES REGULATOR

Campaign group "Fair Game" has vowed to hold the new Football Regulator to account... and Waterson believes their involvement will be crucial...

'There is a step before we see the impact of the Football Ragulator and that is educating the fans... They need to understand its remit and what it can do.... and that it isn't there to just automatically distribute cash to clubs...

'I have the highest hopes it brings a much fairer outlook to football in general...

'Crucially, I think the impact of the Regulator will be to create a more level playing field. It should certainly help the have-nots'" he stated.

ALTY OLD BOYS

However, it emerged that LUKE WATERFALL had left Hartlepool (who were facing Glasgow Rangers) and instead of being involved there, he had joined Worksop Town and was in their starting lineup as they beat Hallam FC 2-1 at their home - The Windsor Foodservice Stadium.

Meanwhile Hereford drew 1-1 at Malvern Town. For the second friendly in succession they fielded half a dozen trialists but neither YUSIFU CEESAY nor MONTEL GIBSON featured in the squad.

On the cricket front, Ian Wilkinson informs us that after missing recent games, OLIVER BYRNE (right) is back in action.

He batted at no.6 for Timperley CC and scored 7 off 7 balls, an innings which included a six. So he recorded a strike rate of 100.00.

He also held two catches as Timperley, chasing 263, beat hosts Neston, on The Wirral, by two wickets and they now lie fourth in the table.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

As of midnight on Sunday no such update had been posted on the club website.

Carlisle United has a post-match interview with REGAN LINNEY "following our 2-0 win against AFC Fylde... after netting his first goal for the club, he said 'It went really well. Obviously [I'm] happy to get my first goal for the club'...

His strike on the half-hour mark was a trademark Regan Linney goal, cutting inside from the left before finding the net...

Linney developed a particularly strong connection with Luke Armstrong in the first-half...

Regan continued 'The gaffer's really on us about the press, so we got that right in stages today. Obviously, the more we play together, the more that will come off'...

On his time in Cumbria so far, he explained 'I've settled in really well, all the lads have welcomed me in. I'm really enjoying it...

'This is the toughest pre-season I've ever had'" he added.

20 July, 2025

ALTRINCHAM 3-1 FC ISLE OF MAN

Adam Adebiyi put the hosts ahead in the fourteenth minute when he got the better of Owen German, who had been again deployed in the back line for the Robins.

The Isle of Man striker's first effort was saved by Hutchinson but the lose ball fell back to the striker who scored from close range.

Despite plenty of possession, Alty scarcely troubled the home keeper before the interval.

Alty had barely threatened again after the break before they were indebted to a headed own-goal by Maitland for an equaliser (58 mins).

Five changes just after the hour mark improved the Altrincham performance and the visitors took the lead when Ward looped in a header from a Banks cross in the 65th minute.

They completed the scoring in the first added minute when James Gale maintained his goal-a-game record with a headed goal from a Raymond and Osborne combination (90+1 mins).

Match report here>.

NEXT: FC ISLE OF MAN

On Friday, both sides lost their initial match in the Summer Festival of Football and now contest what is, effectively, a third-place play-off.

AWAY KIT REVEALED

That shirt comprised black and yellow vertical stripes as pictured, right...

The 2025-26 shirt (diagonal yellow "stripes" on a black background) also has as close a resemblance to the popular away kit of just two years ago, which was dark blue, rather than black, but with a yellow diagonal sash.

Just as the recent unveiling of the new home kit was likened to an Alty kit of the 1980s, it is stated that "the 2025/26 black and yellow away shirt, [is] marrying mid‑90s' nostalgia with modern performance.

Inspired by the famous kit worn during the Club’s FA Cup third‑round clash at Tottenham Hotspur’s White Hart Lane in January 1995, this new design is both a tribute to history and a bold statement of intent for the season ahead.

"Our designers and Puma have meticulously re‑imagined the iconic 1995 away colours—black with vibrant yellow accents—while ensuring today’s squad benefits from cutting‑edge kit technology. The distinctive Puma cat logo sits alongside a black‑and‑white twill club crest, achieving an elegant blend of durability and premium finish. This approach avoids traditional embroidered badges yet surpasses heat‑pressed alternatives in quality and feel...

Supporters can purchase the 2025/26 away kit from midday today at the Club Store in Altrincham Town Centre and online".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Wrexham had a squad of 24 players at Wellington Phoenix, but JAKE BICKERSTAFF (left) wasn't among them. I watched a lot of A-League football in the mornings, and the standard is barely League One. Phoenix were one of the poorer sides, so Wrexham need to pick themselves up from a 1-0 defeat.

JONNY MARGETTS played the second half for Gainsborough Trinity as they beat newly-promoted Scunthorpe United 1-0 at The Northolme.

Quorn were trailing at home to a lone Corby Town goal when ZAK GOODSON was withdrawn on the hour, but went on to win 2-1.

He's 35 now, but Robins Legend GREG WILKINSON returned to Colwyn Bay with Stalybridge Celtic. Many will remember that he scored there for Altrincham in the FA Trophy game that was abandoned when the referee was injured, but then repeated the feat when the match was replayed 3 days later.

He was joined in the Celtic starting lineup by KYLE BROWNHILL, while ELLIOTT ROKKA was on the bench. They trailed to their Welsh hosts twice, but emerged with a 2-2 draw.

REAGAN OGLE played the first 61 minutes as Oldham Athletic earned a goalless draw at Dundee United.

RON SITHOLE (right), as he is now known, was a 70th minute substitute for FC UNITED as they were turned over 1-4 at Broadhurst Park by Exeter City.

In the familiar surroundings of Mill Farm, REGAN LINNEY opened his Carlisle United account with the clincher, as AFC Fylde were defeated 0-2. Regan was substituted after 61 minutes.

He was a trialist earlier in the week, but {as noted below] MATT PENNEY has now signed for Aldershot Town, and started for them at Billericay Town.

He put in a 69 minute shift, and his side, who led 1-2 at that stage, went on to add another goal in the 87th minute.

JEFF KING started for Boreham Wood as they entertained Spurs U21, and played the first hour. It was 1-0 when he was substituted, and his side went 2 goals up before the young visitors struck twice to earn a 2-2 draw.

CONNOR TEALE (left) played the first 67 minutes against visitors Peterborough United (for who CHRIS CONN-CLARKE wasn't involved, having played the previous evening). Posh scored the only goal of the game inside the first 10 minutes.

MARCUS DINANGA started for Bromley against a visiting Chelsea XI. He was substituted after 63 minutes, and there were no more goals as his side won 2-1.

Both JAMES BERRY and JUNIOR QUITIRNA put in full shifts for Wycombe Wanderers as they won 0-3 at Cheltenham Town.

Chester were without JAMES JONES for their home friendly against Salford City, but TOM PEERS (right) played the full game, and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY came off the bench after 61 minutes. With KEVIN BERKOE in their starting lineup, the visitors comfortably won 0-3.

SAM HEATHCOTE wasn't in Macclesfield's squad, while DONTAI GABIDON was left on the bench. Visitors Halifax won 0-1.

There was no joy for JUSTIN AMALUZOR, who played the full game for Grimsby Town as they went down 2-0 to Rochdale at the Crown Oil Arena.

ALI SMITH was also on the end of a 2-0 score line as AFC Wimbledon were defeated at Sutton United.

A goal down to visitors Barrow at the break, Tamworth brought on KENNEDY DIGIE, but the visitors, with ELLIOT NEWBY playing the whole game, went on to win 0-2.

The only goal of Dagenham & Redbridge's win at Walton and Hersham was scored in the first minute by ASHLEY HEMMINGS (left).

There was a full shift for JOEL SENIOR as Bristol Rovers came from behind to win 1-2 at Yeovil Town, for whom KYLE FERGUSON was a 64th minute substitute. MATT GOULD stayed on the bench.

Whether a game between Witton Albion and Northwich Victoria can ever be described as a friendly is open to debate. Albion started MAX HARROP, JOEL BEMBO-LETA, and JAMES LAWRIE, but it was "The Trickies", as they're now referred to, who won the Vijay Anthwal Trophy. The match ended 1-1, and they won the shootout 5-4.

SONNY ALJOFREE has joined Notts County on a season-long loan from Manchester United and has been with County in Germany during pre-season.

Additionally, Aldershot Town "confirm the signing of MATT PENNEY for the 25/26 season!

Able to play anywhere down the left and in defence and midfield, the 27-year-old will bring versatility to the Shots.

Starting his career with Sheffield Wednesday, loans with Bradford, Mansfield and St Pauli followed, before joining Ipswich permanently and having further loans with Motherwell and Charlton.

Penney (above, right) has gained experience in the Championship, Scottish Premiership, 2.Bundesliga and League One and has recently spent time with Altrincham and Rochdale...

Assistant Manager, Hugo Langton said 'Matt has trained with us since we returned to pre season training and he’s impressed us staff throughout... Also he’s a good bloke who has fitted straight in with our existing players'...

Head of Recruitment, Jamie Hedges, added... 'He’s been in with us since the first day of pre season at his own expense, has shown great application and his fitted into the group seamlessly. He’s no doubt an EFL footballer who’s had a difficult year or two... He’s a left-sided defender, comfortable in possession, steps out well with the ball, and is a great communicator and leader'".

Footnote: Matt joined Altrincham in mid-February 2025 and went on to make three National League appearances from the bench for The Robins.

Elsewhere, Barnet "are thrilled to announce the signing of centre-forward JOE HUGILL on a season-long loan from Manchester United!...

After spells on loan at Altrincham, Burton, Wigan Athletic and most recently Carlisle United, Joe now joins us... <> When asked to describe his playing style, Joe said 'Similar [to] Jamie Vardy, I like to play on the shoulder in behind, using my pace in behind, like those poacher’s finishes in the box'...

Manager Dean Brennan had glowing praise for his new man 'We’ve been after this type of player for a long time. Even though he’s tall, his movements and attributes are all in behind.”

'He’s got pace, excellent finisher, very dynamic... He’s such an exciting player, he’s like a Jamie Vardy / Michael Owen type.'"

Footnote: Hugill scored just once for Altrincham in his ten appearances. His arrival was announced on 1 February 2023, on a season-long loan from Manchester United.. Hugill's Altrincham appearances comprised eight starts and two more from the bench.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Apart from a Swedish politician, no one of that name is produced by a Google search for "Jonny Cato", though Companies' House does list a John Cato who may or may not be this mysterious figure.

The Shrimpers' planned friendly with Barrow has now been cancelled.

Carlisle United "announce the signing of Bevis Mugabi on a two-year deal.

Mugabi, 30, arrives after a stint in Cyprus with Anorthosis, where he played 17 times and scored two goals.

Born in England, Mugabi represents Uganda internationally. He’s made 20 appearances for the Cranes, netting once.

The defender spent his youth career with Fulham and Southampton, before moving to Yeovil Town in the summer of 2016... where he went on to make 102 appearances...

Bevis then made the trip north of the border signing for Motherwell in 2019. He would go on to make 125 appearances for the Well over a five-year spell...

Head of Recruitment, Martin Foyle said... 'He has a fantastic attitude which will help to drive the standards even higher on and off the pitch.'"

York City "goalkeeper Rory Watson has joined fellow National League side Scunthorpe United on a season-long loan

The 29-year-old will join up with current City man Billy Chadwick, who joined the Iron on loan earlier this week.

Rory joined the club in the summer of 2023 following a short-term deal at Doncaster.

Since his arrival, he’s gone on to feature 15 times in the league so far, keeping 5 clean sheets".

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of forward Callum McFarlane who joins after being released by Fulham this summer.

Callum joined Fulham’s Academy in 2022 and made a couple of appearances on the bench for the Premier League side as well as spending time at Wealdstone on loan last season under Moors’ Boss Matt Taylor who told us

'Callum made a a really good impression when I worked with him last season: he scored three goals and was Player of the Month in his first month. Having gone back to Fulham and then been released I think he will have a point to prove and be desperate to do well here.

'He works hard, scores goals and now he has the perfect opportunity to come here, show everyone what he can do'".

19 July, 2025

ALTRINCHAM 1-2 RADCLIFFE FC

Match report here.

After the game, Brian Flynn spoke to Phil Parkinson in an audio interview for Alty TV .

OPPOSITION: FC ISLE OF MAN

In Friday's second match Fleetwood Town defeated FC Isle of Man 3-2 and the Cod Army will now face Radcliffe in the Final of the Festival.

The BBC explains that hosts, FC Isle of Man, "has just completed its fourth season competing in the North West Counties Football League, finishing 11th in the Premier Division...

About 1,000 supporters travelled to the island for the inaugural festival last year, featuring Chester, Lancaster City and Radcliffe...

The Ravens' first competitive match took place in July 2022, after the team's membership was suspended from the 2020-21 season due to the island's coronavirus border restrictions.

Starting out in the First Division South, the team secured promotion to the league's Premier Division in its first season, where the club has remained since 2022-23".

ALTY OLD BOYS

They remain fourth, as leaders Heidelberg, and 3rd placed Dandenong Thunder also won. Avondale, who are second, have a home game against Dandenong City later this weekend.

Back in England, in a Friendly, there were two Old Boys in opposition at The Walks, and MICHAEL GYASI fired hosts King Lynn ahead inside 10 minutes.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE set up a couple of decent openings for visitors Peterborough United, but nothing came of them. It was an unfortunate own goal on the stroke of half time that sent the sides in level. Michael was substituted after 56 minutes, and the game ended 1-1.

In the Summer Festival of Football on the Isle of Man Fleetwood Town beat FC Isle of Man 3-2. TOBY MULLARKEY was a used substitute, on the hour, for the Cod Army but HARRISON HOLGATE was not involved. They now face Alty's conquerors, Radcliffe on Sunday on the Final of the tournament.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Neither Jonny or his team have any connection to Jason or Bond Group of any kind and as before, nobody from the consortium has yet been named publicly...

Sales agreements will be completed today (Friday 18 July 2025) and will include a generous payment from the buyer to pay staff and players while the National League approval process is completed...

Further announcement to follow today [Friday].

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of Besart Topallaj on loan from Bromley until the end of January with an option for the move to be made permanent.

The 24-year-old defender spent last season on loan at Sutton United, playing 25 games in the National League and scoring once.

Coming through the Millwall ranks, the Kosovan has played over 80 games in the National League for Dagenham & Redbridge, Sutton and Bromley...

Pools boss Simon Grayson said, 'Bes has great experience playing in the National League for both Bromley and Sutton. He is a player who is very comfortable anywhere on the left-hand side of the team, something that will boost us massively.'”

Bromley add that "The former Millwall man made three league appearances for the Ravens during the 2024/25 season...He then headed out on loan to Sutton United".

Hampshire club Eastleigh have been active on the recuritment fron this week and they now "announce the signing of experienced defender Aaron Pierre following his departure from Shrewsbury Town!

After fighting off competition from EFL clubs, the 32-year-old centre-back joins the Spitfires with a wealth of experience across the English Football League and on the international stage with Grenada.

Pierre began his professional career at Brentford, signing his first senior contract in 2012. Following a loan move, he joined Wycombe Wanderers permanently in 2014, going on to make over 120 appearances.

In 2017, Pierre moved to Northampton Town, where he made 60 appearances... and he joined Shrewsbury Town in 2019. Across three seasons, he made more than 90 appearances and was once again named Player of the Season in his first year at the club.

Pierre later had spells with Sutton United and AFC Wimbledon, before returning to Shrewsbury Town in 2023.

Internationally, Pierre has been capped over 15 times for Grenada...

Manager Kelvin Davis commented on the signing, saying... 'It’s a position that we’ve been chasing for a little... He has a track record of being a real competitor and has the attributes to really push us on'">

Yeovil Town have provided "an update on the progress being made at Huish Park".

The new Yeovil Town owner is Prabhu Srinivasan and "It’s now a month since the Meet the Owners evening... Since taking ownership in May, we’ve been working hard to stabilise the club, forge new partnerships, and lay foundations for growth...

Naturally, much of the focus is on player recruitment. We completely understand some of the frustration around the perceived lack of transfer activity – but please be assured, that Mark and his coaching team are working tirelessly to bring in the right players...

So far, we’ve welcomed KYLE FREGUSON, Tahvon Campbell and James Daly...

We’ve also made a small change to the pitch dimensions at Huish Park, following analysis by the coaching team...

We’ve continued positive conversations with Somerset County Council regarding the long-term aim of buying back Huish Park for the club...

We’re building something honest and ambitious – rooted in Yeovil, powered by its community, and focused on delivering football to be proud of

News of two signings comes from FC Halifax Town where The Shaymen "confirm the signing of left back Thierry Latty-Fairweather, following his release from fellow National League side York City.

Coming through the academy at Nottingham Forest, the defender made the switch to Burton Albion in 2019. Between 2021 and 2023, Latty-Fairweather had spells on loan at Grantham Town, Guiseley, and Hereford...

Last season, the defender joined Maidenhead United on an initial one-month loan in August. He re-joined the Magpies on loan in October through to January which was then extended through until the end of the season. Latty-Fairweather made 39 appearances for Maidenhead last season including the fixture at The Shay in April.

And FC Halifax Town also "confirm the signing of midfielder Josh Hmami following his departure from National League North side King’s Lynn Town.

The midfielder spent time in the academies at Bolton Wanderers, Barnsley, and Accrington Stanley where he made his professional debut in 2017... In 2018, Hmami made the switch to The New Saints... before joining FC United of Manchester on loan.

The following season, Hmami joined Ramsbottom United in the Northern Premier League Division One North West... In June 2020, Hmami joined Marine permanently... before making the switch to Southport in July 2021.

The midfielder made over 100 appearances for the Sandgrounders before signing for King’s Lynn at the start of last season. Under manager Adam Lakeland, Hmami made 42 appearances last season".

18 July, 2025

RADCLIFFE FC 2-1 ALTRINCHAM

Alty had the better of the opening stages but Radcliffe grew into the game and levelled in the 24th minute with a finely taken twenty-yard goal by Taylor which curled into the top corner.

Altrincham created little after the mid-half drinks' break and it was Radcliffe who took the lead in the 45th minute. Alty right-back Tylor Golden got into a mess as Taylor threatened, slightly to the right of goal and the ball fell conveniently for Anthony Dudley who took his chance well from close range.

The second half was a non-event with Altrincham largely on the back foot. Having brought on Fallon in goal at the interval, eight outfield changes were made in one go during the second period but to no positive effect.

Report to follow

NEXT: RADCLIFFE

The winner's next opponents will be the victors in a match between FC Isle of Man and Fleetwood Town.

The match against Radcliffe is available by streaming as announced here

The game is also being covered by Radio Robins on Radio Alty

Right: James Gale netted on his debut last Saturday at Warrington.

Altrincham report that "We've a 22-strong playing squad plus backroom team who've travelled to Douglas, including latest new signing, loanee goalkeeper Luke Hutchinson.

Central defender Billy Sass-Davies misses the trip due to a knock picked up in training last week, whilst goalie Ethan Ross is with the squad in a coaching capacity as his injury rehab continues.

• Goalkeepers: Louie Fallon, Luke Hutchinson
• Defenders: Joel Bailey, Lewis Baines (c), Lewis Banks, Jake Cooper, Lucas Edwards, Tylor Golden, Sam Reed
• Midfielders: Tom Crawford, Owen German, Matty Kosylo, Isaac Marriott, Elliot Osborne, Remi Raymond, Keaton Ward
• Forwards: Olly Crankshaw, James Gale, Charlie Kirk (trialist), Jimmy Knowles, Kahrel Reddin, Lucas Weaver

ALTY'S FIRST LEAGUE OPPONENTS

In an informative profile of their first-day opposition, Aldershot Town report, a little generously, on "four-time Alliance Premier League champions and two-time FA Trophy winners, Altrincham FC...

Situated in England’s North West, the ~50,000 population town of Altrincham is the 11th largest settlement in Greater Manchester. Approximately 205 miles from the EBB Stadium, the 3h 45m journey will mark Aldershot’s 10th longest away journey of the upcoming league season.

In what is undoubtedly one of the world’s busiest footballing regions, the club staggeringly share their county with a further eight professional teams, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic and fellow National League members, Rochdale.

While competition for relevance against the Premier League behemoths nearby is an understandable struggle, their comparatively southern locality, combined with the likes of Chester and Macclesfield’s return to former glory pending, means that Altrincham FC currently serves as the closest place to see fifth-tier football or higher in much of neighboring Cheshire, including the residents of Northwich (45,000), Knutsford (13,191), and most notably, Warrington (165,456), granting the side what is technically among the more significant catchment areas in the division".

Above: The sides take to the field the last time the clubs met at the J. Davidson Stadium, on the Ides of March, 2025. Like Julius Caesar a few years earlier, Alty went under, as The Shots emerged 2-1 winners. Of the six Alty players pictured, just three remain at the club (Marriott, Reddin and Banks).

ALTY OLD BOYS

They will now meet the Estonian side Kalju in the next round.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Having promised supporters a statement last Thursday after saying a last-minute deal had been agreed with a new UK buyer, Bond Group Investments’ Jason Whittingham has broken a week-long silence this afternoon.

Whittingham’s latest comments come after the Shrimps Trust fans group named Jamie Alexander Hunter as the person it believed to be in dialogue with Bond Group over a deal.

They also come as former directors fear that the club has days left to safeguard its future, staff await the remaining two-thirds of June’s wages, an HMRC bill has to be paid, school events have been cancelled, the club is under embargo and their only home pre-season game is now behind closed doors".

The statement placed on the Morecambe site says "We can confirm that a take-over deal is near completion with a consortium of individuals headed by people with genuine football experience, to acquire Bond group’s interest in the club.

We can also confirm that despite speculation on the buyers’ identity, nobody from the consortium has yet been named publicly and recent guesses are not accurate.

We are grateful for the speed with which the new buyer has worked with their legal team on concluding their due diligence and negotiating the contracts, given the time pressures the club is facing.

The buyers have funds available to bring payments for the club up to date and we are working to conclude the transaction as quickly as possible.

We will issue a further update shortly".

Rochdale "will be using our pre-season friendly match with Grimsby Town as a test event with new systems in place for the 2025/26 season.

Firstly, we have introduced a new access control system on our turnstiles, providing supporters an easier way to scan their tickets to gain entry into the stadium. There will be turnstile operators on hand to assist on the day and they open at 2pm.

This will also be our first experience of our new matchday ticketing system with Fanbase. Supporters can purchase online up until kick-off which will be saved to your phone and can then be scanned at the turnstiles. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in-person at the Ticket Office and Club Shop on matchday and going forward there will not be an administration fee when buying physical tickets.

Furthermore, we announced a new agreement with CSG (Controlled Solutions Group) to be our official stewarding partner for the upcoming season. There will be a large stewarding presence around the stadium on Saturday, so we ask to be patient on the day".

Footnote: Altrincham supporters will be the first away fans to visit Spotland when they face Dale on 16 August.

Carlisle United "can now announce their new squad numbers ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Our first signing of the summer, REGAN LINNEY, will wear shirt number 10...

The squad numbers: 1 - Gabe Breeze, 2 - Archie Davies, 3 - Cameron Harper, 4 - Terell Thomas, 5 - Morgan Feeney, 6 - Aaron Hayden, 7 - David Ajiboye, 8 - Callum Whelan, 9 - Georgie Kelly, 10 - Regan Linney, 11 - Junior Luamba, 13 - Harry Lewis, 14 - Elliot Embleton, 15 - Sam Murray, 16 - Stephen Wearne, 17 - Ethan Robson, 18 - Jack Ellis, 19 - Sam Hetherington, 20 - Cedwyn Scott, 21 - Jordan Jones, 22 - Josh Williams, 23 - Charlie Wyke, 24 - Josh Grant, 25 - Freddie O'Donoghue, 27 - Jake Allan, 28 - Thomas Randall, 29 - Luke Armstrong, 30 - Jude Smith, 34 - Dan Hopper".

There is an interesting development at Yeovil Town where "supporters may have noticed a key change to Huish Park during last night’s pre-season friendly against Cardiff City - a noticeable shortening of the pitch...

Glovers boss Mark Cooper explained the reasoning behind the decision to adjust the dimensions:

'We had the biggest pitch in the league by a long, long way. So we wanted to make it a little bit smaller to give us a chance to be a little more front foot and to be able to really get after the opposition and into their faces.'

The change in size is part of a wider tactical approach for the upcoming National League season. By reducing the amount of ground to cover, the team aims to press higher and with greater intensity, making Huish Park an even more difficult place for visiting teams.

The revised dimensions are fully compliant with league regulations and were carefully considered in consultation with club staff and grounds personnel".

News of another Gateshead as "Regan Booty has completed a permanent transfer to Barrow for an undisclosed fee.

The Midfielder joins the FL side after spending two seasons at Gateshead, making 92 appearances and scoring six goals"

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of Alex Reid on a permanent deal

The centre-forward has over 200 appearances in the National League for eight clubs, including Solihull Moors, Oldham, Wrexham and Wealdstone.

Reid scored 16 goals in 30 league games for the Stones last season.

On joining Pools, Reid said... 'I’ve come in to score goals and get the Club as high as I can in the league and win games.'

Pools boss Simon Grayson said... 'He’ll bring something different to the team in terms of his pace and his attributes'".

17 July 2025

ALTY BOARD RESTRUCTURED

Mark Luby has been appointed as Executive Chairman, subject to the necessary approvals from the governing bodies. Mark is a successful local businessman who brings a wealth of leadership experience as the club enters a key phase in its strategic development.

Current Chairman Bill Waterson will transition to the role of Vice Chairman. Everyone at the club also extends their congratulations to Bill on his recent appointment to the National League Board of Directors, a significant recognition of his contribution both locally and within the wider game.

In addition, the club welcomes Gary Corbett to the board. Gary is a long-time colleague of recent investors Simon and Michelle Orange, and he resumes a familiar role at Altrincham, having previously served as a director between 1991 and 1994. Gary’s appointment is also subject to the necessary approvals from the governing bodies.

Following the earlier departures of Lawrence Looney and Scott Burton, the board is now made up of:

• Mark Luby (Executive Chairman – subject to approval)
• Bill Waterson (Vice Chairman)
• John Coyne
• Sam Mackenzie (Chief Executive Officer)
• Albert Valdes
• Gary Corbett (subject to approval)

The current board continues to conduct a strategic review across all areas of the football club. As this progresses, further changes may be made and communicated in due course.

The ambition remains clear — promotion to the EFL".

ALTY IN ISLE OF MAN FESTIVAL

It will be the third summer in eight years that The Robins have played a pre-season game on the Isle of Man, though not in this competition.

On Friday, the fixtures comprise:

• Altrincham v Radcliffe (3pm)
• Isle of Man v Fleetwood Town (7pm)

The winners then meet each other, as do the two losers, in games to be played on Sunday 20th.

• FINAL (3pm)
• THIRD-PLACE PLAY-OFF (11am)

Radcliffe took part in the competition last summer, beating Lancaster City and drawing with the hosts, Isle of Man FC.

Radcliffe's joint manager Anthony Johnson said that "last year’s visit to the island hadn’t been like anything he’d experienced before in his long career in football, but proved to be a great time away for the team to gel together and train while playing competitive football".

Boro' captain and former Alty striker, JORDAN HULME, opined that "as well as offering a chance for some pre-season minutes, it had also been a great bonding experience for the team as they ventured out to see some of the island and met with their fans for a great evening out in Douglas".

It is three years since Altrincham last visited the Isle of Man, when they played a friendly against FC Isle of Man, winning 5-1.

Altrincham also played on the Island in July 2018. On that occasion, Jordan Hulme was Altrincham's hat-trick hero in a 6-0 win against an Isle of Man XI.

Having joined the English football pyramid in 2021-22 season, FC Isle of Man continue to compete in the North West Counties Football League (NWCFL) with former Altrincham co-chairman Lawrence Looney recently joining the club's Board.

Promotion in 2022 saw the club promoted to the Premier Division of the NWCFL where they will continue to compete in 2025-26.

For its league games the Isle of Man club meets the travelling expenses of opposing clubs and of the match officials.

ALTY KICK-OFFS CHANGED

DAZN’s Multi Match Live also returns on the opening weekend of the season on August 9 and on Monday 25 August – with 12 games available over the midweek matchday on August 19 and August 20.

In addition, all National division games will be available to stream everywhere – including the UK and Ireland – on the opening weekend of the new season...

Confirmation of DAZN picks for August:

Saturday 16 August:

• Rochdale v Altrincham (12.30pm)
• Truro City v York City (5.30pm)

Saturday 23 August:

• Morecambe v Altrincham (12.30pm)
• Wealdstone v Carlisle United (5.30pm)

Saturday 30 August:

• Solihull Moors v Southend United (12.30pm)
• Brackley Town v Scunthorpe United (5.30pm)

LUKE HUTCHINSON INTERVIEW

The 22-year-old talks loan moves, experiencing senior football and what he's looking to get out of his spell with Alty".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Champions League Qualification : As happened in the first leg against Shelbourne, Linfield's SAM ROSCOE was left on the bench. Shelbourne scored early to extend their aggregate lead, and, although his team levelled the game on the night, they went out 1-2.

However, failing to qualify for the Europa League gives you a second bite of the cherry, and Linfield will travel to Lithuania a week today for a Europa Conference Qualifier against Zalgiris, whi were knocked out of the Champions League Qualifiers on penalties in Malta.

Following Phil's updates, in other news Boston United report on a former Alty trialist who has picked up an unusual reward for his performances.

In summer 2022, ZAK MILLS (right) was an Alty trialist. He was not signed by Altrincham but remained at Boston United where he has had a successful season in 2024-25.

The Pilgrims now report that "ZAK MILLS was named as the Pilgrims' player of the year in April – and visited Market Place-based ST Hopper earlier in the summer to collect the Cap Camarat Chronograph as part of his award package...

Among the most popular French watchmakers, Herbelin is one of the world's few remaining independent watch companies still in the hands of the founder's family...

All of its watches are designed, assembled by hand and inspected in the brand’s Franche-Comté workshops and promote the same philosophy: the creation of timepieces that are designed to last, all the while respecting artisanal knowhow and adding a touch of French elegance".

Many footballers make use of TikTok but few actually win one.

INITIATIVE AT ALTY TO ENCOURAGE FEMALE SUPPORTERS

Anne recognised the overwhelming male presence in the stands and saw an opportunity to shift the culture... As a result of this, Anne purchased 20 Altrincham FC season tickets and developed Match of the Dames – a season-long campaign set to encourage more women to attend live football games at their local National League club.

The initiative will give 400 women, who have never been to a National League football match before, the opportunity to attend a professional game during the 2025/26 season.

Spread across 10 home and 10 away fixtures, each matchday will see a group of 20 women come together to enjoy a curated football experience. From pre-match meet-ups and a communal walk to the stadium, to soaking up the atmosphere and watching the full match, participants will be supported to enjoy the event in a relaxed, inclusive and welcoming environment".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 21-year-old defender is a former England youth international having represented the Three Lions up until Under-18 level and joined the Hornets in February 2024 after spending his youth career at Nottingham Forest.

Clarridge spent the end of last season on loan with St Albans City and made 21 National League South appearances...

Head of Recruitment, Jamie Hedges, said... 'He’s a talented centre-half, with a good pedigree and upbringing... He’s comfortable on the ball, mobile and physically competent.'”

The Lancaster Guardian reports that "Two of Morecambe’s former directors fear the club has ‘days left’ amid the ongoing ownership saga at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium.

The Shrimps have been up for sale since Bond Group Investments’ announcement on September 2, 2022; the small matter of 1,048 days ago.

They have suffered two relegations on the field in that time as managers have come and gone, but the real dramas have taken place off it.... all while Bond Group’s Jason Whittingham reportedly wanted to sell up.

Weeks after Panjab Warriors were given EFL clearance to proceed with a buyout, the board of directors handed Whittingham a deadline of July 2 to sell up or watch the club be put into administration.

Whittingham responded by saying he would sack the board, only for them to resign en masse and leave the club without any company directors.

Having returned to facilitate a sale after Whittingham claimed terms had been agreed for completion of a sale on July 7, they again left when no such deal went through.

Whittingham subsequently said terms had been agreed with a new buyer, a development which left Panjab Warriors seeking legal advice last week.

This has all been played out while an HMRC payment was due and staff awaited the remaining two-thirds of June’s wages; the third time in a little more than two years that salaries have been paid late.

Speaking to football journalist Martin Calladine, Rod Taylor and James Wakefield – two of the directors who resigned, returned and resigned again – shared their worries as to the club’s future.

Taylor said... 'People are genuinely frightened'...

Nevertheless, the owner stubbornly maintains his grip on the club having previously seen the collapse of Worcester Warriors; another team he formerly co-owned alongside Colin Goldring...

Wakefield added... 'I cannot fathom or begin to understand why he’s operating as he [Whittingham] is... Taylor agreed, adding 'We have only days left, literally days'...

Morecambe’s off-field issues haven’t, however, deterred broadcaster DAZN from selecting their home match against Altrincham for coverage".

FC Halifax Town's playing surface at The Shay is not the only one to have summer problems as the Birmingham Mail reports that "Solihull Moors chairman Darryl Eales has apologised to supporters after The Arthur Cup match against Birmingham City had to be postponed.

Blues were due to play Moors at The ARMCO Arena on Wednesday evening only for the pitch to fail a pre-match inspection.

The warm weather has damaged Moors’ pitch and Blues, still bearing the scars of their game at Reading in February where two players suffered serious injuries on a poor playing surface, decided not to take any chances three weeks into pre-season. Scott Wright suffered a serious knee injury after his studs got caught in the turf against Reading and Lyndon Dykes picked up a calf injury that ended his season prematurely".

Eales added, “The Moors groundstaff have worked tirelessly to get the pitch ready but it is probably a week behind where it should be, after a delay in the annual maintenance of the irrigation system which has also been compounded by the hot weather... There were a couple of areas of concern and it would be foolhardy to risk injuries at this stage of pre-season".

16 July 2025

ALTY'S SATURDAY "ABSENTEES"

As is known, ETHAN ROSS is not going to have recovered from his ACL injury sufficiently to play till, in his own words, "October or November" but the Alty keeper is already fit enough after his surgery to put the two trialist keepers through their paces at Warrington.

Right, we see a cool-looking Ethan at half-time, warming up with trialist Shea Callister, who was to keep goal in the second half. Both Shea and first-half trialist keeper Chsrlie Casper kept clean sheets in a 3-0 win over Warrington Town.

Also not involved on Saturday was another keeper, LOUIE FALLON, who is in the first-team squad this season.

As for outfield players the most notable absentee was club captain and centre-back LEWIS BAINES.

Also not involved on Saturday was summer signing and fellow centre-back BILLY SASS-DAVIES. Hopefully, both of the missing defenders were simply on holiday and not injured.

The other eighteen members of the first-team squad played in the game against Warrington.

ALTY SIGN KEEPER

The Bury-born keeper met his new team-mates at Alty's Egerton training ground yesterday and [joins]... for the entirety of next season".

Manager Phil Parkinson explained that 'He is a young, up-and-coming keeper who has already gained plenty of experience from previous loans with Marine and Crawley Town. Currently, he has just signed a new two-year deal at Bolton, which shows how highly they regard him'...

Luke, who turns 23 at the beginning of September [said]... 'I feel the loan spells I've already had really benefitted me. The National League North, with Marine, was a great platform for a young keeper and gave me experience that should stand me in good stead for the coming season.

'There was a lot of pressure making my Football League debut, when I went to Crawley, but I really enjoyed it and felt I did well. I've been hoping for a loan here at Alty for a while now, because it's not far from where my home is but also because it's a really good club with a great fan base'...

Though he's still only 22, the 6ft 2in keeper has been in and around Bolton's first-team squad for the past five years... He was on the bench six times last season, as they narrowly missed out on a place in the League One play-offs".

Footnote: Alty fielded two trialist keepers on Saturday at Warrington Town, neither of whom was Luke Hutchinson.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Friendly matches : ALEX NEWBY and TYRESE SINCLAIR lasted 66 minutes of York City's match against visitors Sheffield United. At that point York had just reduced the arrears to 1-4, and they put an entirely fresh XI on the pitch. They actually reduced the arrears further, but eventually went down 2-6.

After troubled Morecambe had taken the lead at Ewen Fields, JACK REDSHAW equalised from the spot. Hyde weren't ahead for long, and lost 2-5.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE came on at the start of the second half at Peterborough Sports, with his Peterborough United side already leading 1-3. They went on to win 1-8.

It is also reported that MATT PENNEY is a trialist at Aldershot Town, having featured in their recent friendly against Metropolitan Police.

Get Football reports that "RC Strasbourg Alsace are set to sign MAXI OYEDELE (20, pictured right) from Legia Warsaw, after triggering his €6m release clause.

The Salford-born Polish international has completed his medical and will sign a contract lasting until 2030".

Footnote: Oyedele made 12(=3) appearances for Alty on loan in 2022-23 and scored four times.

United are reportedly set to receive £2.1 million from a 40% sell-on clause.

Closer to home Macclesfield FC "announce the signing of midfielder REGAN GRIFFITHS (left).

The 25-year-old joins us following a successful trial period and becomes our fourth summer addition.

A product of the Crewe Alexandra Academy, Griffiths signed his first professional contract with the Alex in 2018..

Most recently, Griffiths joined Marine at the start of the 2024/25 season before then going on to join Altrincham".

NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP 2025-26

The National League reports that "The National League Cup is a 32-team midweek competition, comprising of [sic] sixteen teams participating in PL2, and sixteen teams from clubs participating in the National League.

The competition will consist of a group stage (four groups of eight), with the two best-placed teams in each group advancing to a knock-out stage to determine the winner...

Group A: Blackburn Rovers, Burnley, Everton, Manchester United, Morecambe, Rochdale, Solihull Moors, Tamworth

Group B: Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, West Bromwich Albion, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Braintree Town, Brackley Town, Forest Green Rovers, Wealdstone

Group C: Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, Southampton, West Ham United, Aldershot Town, Sutton United, Truro City, Woking

Group D: Leeds United, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, Sunderland, Boston United, FC Halifax Town, Gateshead, Scunthorpe United

• Match Round 1 – 12/13 August
• Match Round 2 – 16/17 September
• Match Round 3 – 21/22 October
• Match Round 4 – 25/26 November
• Quarter Final – 27/28 January
• Semi Final – 17/18 February
• Final – 17/18 March

The cumulative attendance across the 71 Competition fixtures was 40,972, with a highest attendance of 3,681 (Rochdale v Manchester United).

There was an average attendance of 577 per game across the entirety of the competition, an average attendance of 507 during the group stages and an average attendance of 1,215 during the knockout stages including 3,062 at the Final.

There is a prize pot of £1m that only participating National division clubs benefit from. National League North and South clubs also financially benefit from this prize pot. PL2 clubs do not receive any prize money or participation fee for playing in the National League Cup."

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Cousins, 30, began his professional career at Charlton Athletic... He made his senior debut for Charlton in August 2013 and went on to make over 125 appearances in all competitions for the club. During his time at Charlton, he was named the club’s Player of the Year for the 2014/15 season.

In July 2016, Cousins joined Queens Park Rangers, where he made 70 Championship appearances across three seasons. He then signed for Stoke City in June 2019, going on to feature 39 times during two campaigns in the second tier.

In June 2021, Cousins signed a two-year contract with Wigan Athletic... After leaving Wigan in the summer of 2023, he joined Cambridge United, where he played during the 2023/24 and 2024/25 League One season.

Internationally, Cousins has represented England at youth level, featuring from U16 through to U20. He switched international allegiance to Jamaica, receiving a call-up in 2021 and earning senior international caps...

Cousins commented 'It’s been a long period of negotiating, but I’m glad that it’s all done and I can concentrate on the football'".

York City "confirm that Billy Chadwick has joined Scunthorpe United on loan.

The versatile player joins up with the Iron until January.

Billy joined the club back in January 2024 from Stockport County.

He’s gone on to feature more than 40 times for the Minstermen so far, scoring four times in the league".

Over several seasons, FC Halifax Town's pitch at The Shay, which is shared with the town's rugby league club, has caused the football club problems.

And even before the season starts, On X (twitter) Wealdstone FC report that "Our National League fixture away at FC Halifax Town on Saturday, 16th August is under discussion due to issues our opponents have with their pitch.

We are laising with FC Halifax Town to resolve this as quickly as possible to give our supporters clarity"

Hartlepool United announce the signing of Cameron John on a season-long loan from York City

The 25-year-old defender came through the Southend United academy before moving to Wolves in 2015.

Spells at Doncaster Rovers and Rochdale followed before making the move to York in 2024, making 33 appearances and scoring twice.

John has over 60 appearances in the National League as well as over 70 appearances played in the Football League...

Pools boss Simon Grayson said... 'He is certainly one we want for the long haul with a possibility this may turn into a permanent contract down the line.’"

But another player is heading for the exit door at Hartlepool United as Pools are "disappointed to announce that Joe Grey has departed the Club.

Every effort was made to retain Joe, offering much-improved terms in which negotiations spanned several months.

We can also confirm that Joe has accepted an offer to join York City on a permanent transfer, with the fee due to be set via a tribunal, having rejected their only offer.

Grey joined the Pools Academy in 2019... The 22-year-old has made over 150 appearances for Pools in all competitions, scoring 24 goals".

The Halifax Courier reports that "Adam Lakeland insists there is no need to panic as The Shaymen continue their search for reinforcements.

Town have signed six players since Lakeland took charge, the latest being striker Will Harris, but still have gaps in the squad...

Lakeland told the Courier, 'Patience is quite an important trait to have as a manager.

'I think I know what we need and I'm certainly not going to jump into signing just anybody because others around me panic'...

Lakeland says no further additions to his squad are imminent 'But we've got multiple enquiries for players in certain areas where we feel we need to strengthen, and those areas are centre-back, left-back and centre-forward, they're our priority areas'".

York City "announce the signing of attacking midfielder Greg Olley.

The 29-year-old arrives in North Yorkshire after departing Gateshead at the end of the 2024/25 season. Olley’s footballing journey started in Newcastle United’s youth system, where he remained until 2015...

He headed to Yorkshire to join Hull City... His time with the Tigers lasted three years, before a new adventure began not too far from home, at Gateshead... Olley would go on to spend seven seasons at the Gateshead International Stadium...

The 29-year-old was looking for a bright start to 2024/25, but sustained a serious injury on matchday two that restricted his appearances for the rest of the term, after netting a hat-trick on opening day".

Truro City "announce the permanent signing of striker Luke Jephcott, on a two-year deal.

The 25-year-old joined the Tinners on loan in January from then parent club Newport County, scoring six goals in 17 appearances...

Prior to his spell in Wales with the Exiles, Jephcott plied his trade for Scottish outfit St Johnstone and SkyBet League Two side Swindon Town.

He joined the Robins from Plymouth Argyle in 2022 after making over 100 appearances for the Greens, whilst finding the net 37 times...

Jephcott’s return to Truro and Cornwall earlier this year, the area where he spent most of his formative years, was met with universal acclaim from City supporters".

15 July 2025

FOUR ACADEMY GRADUATES MAKE THEIR MARK

Owen German: Pictured, left, the midfielder started the game, but not in his accustomed role. Instead, he operated throughout the first half as a centre-back and performed capably in an abnormal role

Joel Bailey: Joel had an unhappy start to last season's Warrington friendly when he would have been sent off for a last-man foul in the opening stages had it been a competitive match. However, in the 2025 encounter, in which he played for the second half, there was an assured display but there were no such alarms as he played in the back line.

Remi Raymond: Remi (pictured, right) almost got on the goalscoring list in the first half as he jinked into the box but he rolled his shot narrowly wide.

Lucas Edwards: Defender Lucas put in a solid performance in the second half of the match.

All four have been included in Phil Parkinson's first-team squad for the 2025-26 campaign, along with Academy keeper Louie Fallon, who was not involved in Saturday's game.

NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A graduate of Crewe Alexandra’s academy, Lundstram began his career with the Railwaymen in 2017 and gained senior experience during loan spells with a number of non-league clubs, including Kidsgrove Athletic, Nuneaton Borough, and Altrincham, where he played a key role in their successful National League North play-off campaign in 2020, before returning to Crewe and making over 25 appearances in League One.

In 2022, the 26-year-old rejoined Altrincham permanently and enjoyed a standout season, starting every league match and scoring three goals in the 2022/23 campaign. His consistent performances earned him... the prestigious National League Player of the Season honour at the North West Football Awards.

Lundstram moved to Oldham Athletic in the summer of 2023, where he continued to impress. Despite a knee injury in pre-season, he returned to full fitness and made over 60 appearances during the 2023/24 campaign, scoring five goals...

Lundstram said 'I’ve had really good conversations with the manager. The vision here is to try and get the club into the Football League which hopefully, I can be a part of!'".

Footnote: In 2019-20 season, and unusually for a loanee, Josh became an ever-present starter at Altrincham and, after eight full 90-minute games for Alty, his loan was extended to 24 March 2020 but the season was then curtailed by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, in common with rulings elsewhere, Josh was permitted to play in the July play-off campaign when football resumed.

Josh went on to every minute of every Altrincham league game in 2022-23, a season in which he was also awarded his first England C cap. He often captained the side in the absence of Jordan Hulme.

After lifting all three of the end of season's major awards for the club, Josh departed to fellow National League team Oldham Athletic, a move announced on 6 June 2023.

His Altrincham appearances comprised 66 games, all of which he started, and he netted three 3 goals.

Brackley Town "announce the signing of experienced defender Michael Nottingham from Scottish Premiership side Livingston, in what marks a real statement of intent...

Nottingham brings a wealth of experience and leadership to St James Park, having played at the highest level in Scotland and boasting an impressive record across the English Football League. Nottingham... made over 60 appearances for Livingston...

Manager Gavin Cowan said 'Notts is a real coup for the football club. We have someone who will not only bring a wealth of experience but is still physically a high achiever due to peaking at a late age. .. Michael is also an elite human being which is high on our recruitment requirements!'

Nottingham has previously featured for the likes of Blackpool, Salford City, and Accrington Stanley".

Forest Green "announce the signing of forward Kairo Mitchell on a free transfer following his release from Rochdale earlier this summer.

The 27-year-old spent two seasons at Spotland, scoring 14 league goals in both the 2023-24, and the 2024-25 campaigns... Mitchell only missed two league matches last term.

Mitchell has made 164 appearances at National League level, scoring 43 goals and providing 10 assists with previous experience at the likes of Eastleigh, Notts County and Chesterfield.

He came through the ranks at Leicester City and has also been capped 19 times by his country, Grenada".

Southend United head coach Kevin Maher was pleased to give his players an important run-out in our first pre-season fixture..

The Shrimpers faced Sky Bet League One outfit Cardiff City, with the Bluebirds taking a 3-0 win...

Despite the result, Maher was pleased with the intensity his players were able to work at..

'Since the play-off final, this is our first game,' Maher explained. "[We're] against a really tough opponent who have just come out of the Championship and are probably 10 or 12 days ahead of us in terms of pre-season...

'It's really good in terms of a fitness hit because we spent a lot of time without the ball, which is good. That's our next step in the pre-season stage, we're still in the fitness stage....

'It's great to be abroad [in Spain]. It's hot and tough conditions, but it's brilliant for the lads to do things like this and bring so many fans with us.'.

The match gave Maher the opportunity to get his first look at three new faces at the club, with Slavi Spasov, Sam Austin, and Harry Boyes all pulling on a Southend United jersey for the first time".

Truro City "Assistant boss Stewart Yetton praised a ‘very professional performance’ from his Truro City side as they started pre-season with a 5-0 win over Tavistock...

'It was a very worthwhile exercise to get 45 minutes in all the players’ legs,' Yetton [said] ... 'They have had a very tough week and so therefore will have the weekend off, because the game against Tavistock was a perfect exercise for us. ...

'Results aren’t that important in pre-season as it is more about the players’ attitude, in terms of what they do on and off the ball. We are very pleased that all the lads had the right level of attitude'...

There were further positives for City with Seidou Sanogo making a playing return for the first time since September, after he suffered a broken leg in a freak training ground incident".

York City "announce that Paddy McLaughlin has been granted a testimonial year in recognition of his outstanding service to the club.

Now entering his tenth season with the Minstermen, Paddy has become a familiar and respected figure at the heart of the club...

A testimonial committee has been formed and is organising a series of events to celebrate Paddy’s contribution...

York City Manager Adam Hinshelwood added 'Paddy has been a true professional and a role model for our younger players. While he hasn’t featured on the pitch as much as he would have liked, he’s played a vital role in our preparations and has set high standards in training'">

14 July 2025

ALTY TRIALISTS

Of that total five were new signings and seven were trialists, if Joe Nuttall is included in that latter category, having been a loanee last season and not reportedly having signed with the club.

TRIALISTS. Top row, left to right: Charlie Casper, Teddy Collis, Max Thompson, Devarn Green; bottom row, left to right Shea Callister, Charlie Kirk, Joe Nuttall.

Three trialists started the game; goalkeeper Charlie Casper, striker Joe Nuttall and winger Charlie Kirk.

Second-half starters included four more trialists in 'keeper Shea Callister, Teddy Collis, Max Thompson and Devarn Green.

Before the match, acting captain Tylor Golden shared a joke with the match referee, Mr Ade Soneye, at Warrington Town.

Trialists, who were named on the match teamsheet:

1. No.1. Charlie Casper: A 20 year-old Burnley keeper, who was originally a midfielder, he kept goal at Warrington in the first half but had very little to do.

   He has had loans at Bamber Bridge and FC United.

2. No. 12. Teddy Collis: A striker with Needham Market, who had a season (2024-25) in National League North but were relegated back to the Southern League Premier Division Central for this season. He had joined the Suffolk club from Brightlingsea Regent early in 2025.

3. No.14. Max Thompson: His identity is not certain but he may be the Max Thompson who is Macclesfield-born, but has been playing in Scotland for Queen's Park.

4. 16. Devarn Green: He played on the right wing in the second half at Warrington, having most recently actually played for Warrington Town.

   Now 28, he started out at Hednesford Town and his later clubs include Tranmere Rovers, Southport, Scunthorpe United and AFC Telford United before he made 41 appearances for Oldham Athletic in 2023-24.

5. No. 17. Charlie Kirk: Charlie played on the left-wing at Warrington.

   After five years at Crewe, he moved to Charlton Athletic (2021) from where he had loans at Blackpool and Burton Albion. He returned to join Crewe in 2024 and last season had a loan spell at Barrow.

6. 21. Shea Callister: A goalkeeper, who played the second half against Warrington Town.

   In October 2024 he had joined Hull City's academy. Like fellow trialist keeper Charlie Casper, his career started on Merseyside as a midfielder.

   As a goalkeeper, he joined Tranmere Rovers, before spells with Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers. He spent four years at Ewood Park, before having a year at Burnley.

   Time with Morecambe, Salford City and a loan at 1874 Northwich followed before he joined Burscough ahead of his signing at Hull.

7. No. 22. Joe Nuttall: Joe spent 2024-25 at Altrincham on a loan from Oldham Athletic which expired over this summer. He was then released by the Latics.

   However, he now appears to be in contention to join Altrincham having started the pre-season game at Warrington and scored the first goal of the match.

NEXT: RADCLIFFE FC

Before that, on Tuesday, Radcliffe entertain a Crewe Alexandra XI.

Last Saturday, at Squires Gate, Radcliffe won 6-0.

Radcliffe list several familiar faces in their squad, with ex-Alty men JORDAN HULME (right) and JUDE OYIBO amongst them. Stalwarts Lois Maynard and Callum MacFadzean are also numbered in their squad. They are managed by Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson.

Their latest signing is experienced goalkeeper "Mark Halstead, who joins on a one-year deal with an option at the Neuven Stadium".

Right: Jordan Hulme.

Radcliffe FC add that "The 34-year-old arrives at M26 on the back of an phenomenal title-winning campaign with Widnes in the NPL West Division, making 47 appearances and keeping 23 clean sheets, as well as winning their Supporters’ Player of the Season award and featuring in the league’s 2024/25 Team of the Season.

Hailing from Blackpool, Halstead made his league debut for his home-town club back in 2011... in his only Premier League appearance, before joining Shrewsbury Town...

After a three-year stay at the Croud Meadow, Halstead signed for Southport, and then arrived at Morecambe a year later. Following another three-year stint with the Shrimps, he swapped the west coast for the south coast by becoming the new number one at Torquay United.

Just over a century of appearances later, Halstead moved back to the North West with Widnes".

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The new ownership group will appoint Mr. Youseph al-Sharif as Interim Chairman, supported by the club’s former captain, Anwar Uddin MBE, who joins as a Non-Executive Director. They will be joined on the board by investors bringing extensive expertise in football data and finance.

Mr. Al Sharif stated, 'This is a club with deep roots and real meaning. I’ve followed English football closely for years, and I know what clubs like Dagenham represent to their communities. We’re stepping into something that matters to people’s lives, and we don’t take that lightly. We’re here to contribute properly and earn our place. This will take time, but we’re committed to building with care, ambition, and respect for everything Dagenham & Redbridge FC stands for.'"

And Dagenham & Redbridge add that former Newcastle United striker "Andy Carroll is a Dagger", having signed for the club as a player.

The BBC explains that "Carroll has joined sixth-tier Dagenham & Redbridge on a free transfer.

Carroll has signed a reported three-year deal with the National League South club after leaving Bordeaux last month...

Carroll said in an interview with Sky Sports... 'It doesn't matter the level, or anything, as long as I get on the pitch and play football, that's all that matters, coming here and showing people I am just playing for the love of football rather than the money and the level is something I wanted to do'...

On the day they signed Carroll, Dagenham & Redbridge also announced a deal to sell the club to a consortium of private investors from Qatar. The Daggers were bought by Club Underdog, a subsidiary of US-based company North Six Group, in May 2024."

13 July, 2025

WARRINGTON TOWN 0-3 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here.

Right: Joe Nuttall, in Altrincham's new home strip, set the ball rolling with Alty's first goal at Warrington in a 3-0 victory.

We will have more on the trialists in tomorrow's update...

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish League Cup: Kilmarnock left MARCUS DACKERS on the bench as they won 0-2 at Brora Rangers. Meanwhile Livingston left MYLES WELCH-HAYES out of their squad as they won 1-2 at East Fife.

Friendlies : ELLIOTT DURRELL (left) was part of Stamford's second half lineup, as they hoped to do something about being 0-2 down to visitors Doncaster Rovers. Alas, they couldn't, and lost 0-5.

Altrincham's next opponents, Radcliffe, named BRAD JACKSON and JORDAN HULME in their starting XI at Squires Gate, and Jordan scored their third as they built a 0-5 half time lead. The whole team was replaced at the break, and only one further goal was added. None of the other three Old Boys were involved, and JOSH HANCOCK has left the club. The others may have done likewise.

Chesterfield and Nottingham Forest ground out a goalless draw. RYAN COLCLOUGH came on for the home side after 62 minutes.

JUSTIN DONAWA started for Brackley Town in their 0-3 win at FC Isle of Man.

Chester travelled to Gigg Lane, and JAMES JONES started for them. In front of a crowd of 1,678 they trailed 1-0 at the break. A completely different second half lineup got off to a good start when DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY equalised within two minutes, but neither he nor TOM PEERS (right) were able to stave off a 3-1 defeat.

SAM HEATHCOTE started for Macclesfield, while DONTAI GABIDON was a second half substitute. The first match of the post-Savage era ended in a 0-2 defeat at the hands of visitors Mansfield Town.

Shortly after AFC Wimbledon had gone ahead at Vicarage Road, ALI SMITH was substituted - and Watford immediately equalised to force a 1-1 draw.

Tamworth won 0-3 at Worksop Town, with KENNEDY DIGIE scoring their second.

Meanwhile, Cumbria's News and Star quotes a former team-mate of REGAN LINNEY as saying "'Why I know Regan Linney will be a hit for Carlisle United'...

Josh Galloway played with Regan Linney at FC United and is confident his old team-mate will 'thrive' at Carlisle United.

'He’s got so many similarities to Jamie Vardy,' says Josh Galloway when he thinks of Regan Linney, the former team-mate'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The score [was] level at 3-3...

A club statement read 'York City Football Club are horrified to learn of allegations of racial abuse aimed at Salford City players in this evening's pre-season match.

'York City condemns racism in all forms. We stand with Salford in condemning this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. The club is now working with North Yorkshire Police to investigate the allegations'">

FC Halifax Town "confirm that, following contract negotiations, Festus Arthur will leave the Club.

The defender made 38 appearances for the Shaymen over the last 3 seasons"

Sutton United "confirm that Vinnie Tume has departed the club by mutual consent.

The young striker has opted to resign in order to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

Tume first earned a place in the first team squad in March 2024...

The 2024/25 campaign... saw two further league appearances in the fifth tier with cameos against Rochdale and Ebbsfleet United, but Tume otherwise found opportunities primarily come in the newly established National League Cup.

Three starts among five appearances saw him feature in all but the final two rounds of Sutton’s run to the final".

Gateshead "confirm the appointment of Jacob Butterfield as player-assistant-manager... Alan Armstrong's number two... on a one-year contract extension which will also see him remain as a member of the club's first-team squad.

The 35 year-old initially joined The Heed ahead of the 2024/25 campaign and went on to make 22 appearances... before his season was cut short due to a long-term injury in November 2024.

The midfielder will now combine playing duties with a coaching role on Tyneside, having previously done so during Ben Clark's stint as interim manager in October 2024".

Butterfield stated "Alun has got all his ideas; we're very much aligned on a lot of things and I think he trusts me to implement detail and put a lot of the pieces of the puzzle together".

12 July, 2025

WARRINGTON TOWN 0-3 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here

Right: James Gale

ALTY OLD BOYS

They found themselves a goal down after only 3 minutes, but CONNOR HAMPSON equalised within 2 minutes, and they took the lead fairly soon afterwards, only for Knights to level before the break, and the regain the lead just after the hour.

Cannons salvaged a 3-3 draw, but will definitely see this result as 2 points lost. Unfortunately, they seem to have developed a glass jaw against struggling teams of late.

Friendlies : In Albufeira, all the goals were scored before the break as Rotherham United beat Bromley 2-1.

MARCUS DINANGA played the second half for Bromley, but was unable to reproduce his outstanding midweek performance when he scored four times.

It isn't clear whether JOHN DISNEY has hung his boots up now that he is manager at Connah's Quay Nomads, and one would think that 33 is quite early to retire, but he wasn't in the squad for the visit of Denbigh, who were no match for the hosts, going down 9-2.

KOLE HALL started for Chorley as visitors Bradford City forced a goalless draw.

It was also a draw at York City - the difference being the small matter of 6 goals. ALEX NEWBY and TYRESE SINCLAIR played just the first half as their team took a 2 goal lead by the 22nd minute.

Visitors Salford City reduced the arrears, and after bringing KEVIN BERKOE (left) off the bench they went 2-3 ahead, but only 2 minutes later the hosts equalised and held on to the draw.

Information was in short supply at Sittingbourne, but we do know that ASHLEY HEMMINGS was on the Dagenham & Redbridge bench at the start, and that his team won by the only goal.

Off the pitch we learn from Leicestershire County Cricket Club that former Altrincham CEO JOHN WILLIAMS "will be leaving his position as Commercial Director at the end of August.

Since joining the club, John has formed part of the Senior Management Team whilst playing a key role in driving significant commercial growth, helping to transform the club’s off-field performance and laying strong foundations for future success...

John Williams said, 'I’ve been able to build a talented and committed team that’s delivering across all areas. I genuinely believe I’m leaving the club in a much stronger place than when I arrived'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Cumbrians’ youth set-up will see its central funding reduced if United are out of the EFL for more than one season.

Carlisle will retain all their funding from the EFL for the 2025/26 season but, if they fail to gain promotion, that amount will be halved the following season – and will vanish completely after that".

Clibens also bemoaned "the lack of compensation guaranteed to National League clubs if a player they have developed are [is] signed by a club higher up the pyramid".

He added, “In the current position, when we sign a player, even if they're nine years old, and they subsequently go to another club, all the way up to 18 we receive prescribed compensation, and it's from a matrix of what we get. If you're not part of the EFL structure with the Premier League, after that second season [below the EFL], then you don't get any compensation...

And Carlisle United also "announce the signing of Josh Grant on a one-year deal with an option.

Grant, 26, arrives at United having turned down a new contract with Wealdstone at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Born in London, the midfielder spent his entire youth career at Chelsea... He went out on loan to Yeovil and Plymouth to gain EFL experience.

He left Chelsea at the end of the 2019/20 season and headed to Bristol Rovers where he signed a three-year deal with the then League One club...

After leaving Bristol Rovers, he joined National League side Wealdstone where he spent last season, making 25 appearances and scoring one goal.

He has spent time on trial with United during pre-season".

Rochdale "announce the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff.

The England Under-18 international joins on a season-long loan.

After linking up with Dale, the highly rated stopper commented ,'I wanted to move into men’s football. I think I’ll gain a lot of experience. Rochdale came in a while ago and it’s been a long process, but I knew straightaway that I wanted to be here...

'Coming in during pre-season, I can get to know the lads, how everyone plays and we can start to build bonds together.'

Whatmuff joined City at Under-8s level, progressing his way through the Academy ranks at the Etihad Stadium... The highly rated youngster has been a regular in the England setup throughout the age groups...

He also played regularly in City’s Premier League 2 and UEFA Youth League team towards the back end of last season".

Solihull Moors announce that for this season "All adult prices [for season tickets] have been reduced, plus we have teamed up with club partners to provide some amazing new benefits for buying a season ticket for the coming campaign including a free pre-match pie for adult season ticket holders at every game and a free home or away shirt for junior fans.

Adult season ticket prices are just £253 (plus booking fee) - that’s almost a £100 reduction on last season’s full price. Over 65s can watch all 23 league games for £196 (plus booking fee) and 16-24 year-olds pay just £150 (plus booking fee) : that’s £8.52 and £6.52 per game respectively. Under 16s are priced at only £100 (plus booking fee).

New for this season we've introduced a discounted Family Ticket to allow families to come and enjoy a day out at the football. These are located in the Day Out With The Kids stand, with each junior fan receiving a home or away shirt.

Season ticket holders guarantee their place for all National League games and have priority access for any All Ticket/Cup/Play-off games as well as priority for seasonal car parking and official away travel bookings.

But that’s not all. We’ve teamed up with some outstanding local businesses and the SMSA and each adult season ticket also receives;

• A FREE Eric Lyon’s pie, pasty or sausage roll at each home league game*
• A FREE Day Out With The Kids annual pass worth £30 giving you huge discounts at attractions across the country
• 10% off meals at The Forest, Dorridge**
• A FREE coffee and bacon bap at Eric Lyon’s in Knowle on Tuesdays before 10am
• Enrolment as a Solihull Moors Supporters Association (SMSA) member

*available until 75 minutes before kick off from the Eric Lyon’s hot food outlet next to the Club Shop. ** upon presentation of a season ticket QR code (drinks not included)

Meanwhile a rival club has signed a "hungry" footballer who might have enjpyed a free pie before every game. The club is Wealdstone who "announce the signing of talented midfielder Dylan Kadji from National League South side Weston-super-Mare, on a 2 year contract.

The 21-year-old central midfielder arrives at Grosvenor Vale following an impressive 2024/25 campaign with Weston-super-Mare, where he made 43 appearances in the National League South...

Kadji brings a wealth of experience despite his young age, having progressed through Bristol City's highly regarded youth academy before signing his first professional contract in November 2021. During his time with the Championship club, he made four first-team appearances...

His development path has taken him to Bath City in the National League South, spells in League Two with Swindon Town and Forest Green Rovers and National League outfit Aldershot Town, before his permanent move to Weston-super-Mare last summer.

Born on 1st September 2003, Kadji is a technically gifted central midfielder who possesses the versatility to operate in multiple positions, including centre-back when required...

Wealdstone manager Sam Cox said... 'Dylan is exactly the type of player we've been looking to add to our squad - young, hungry and with excellent technical ability. His versatility will be valuable to us'".

Altrincham are not the only National League team playing in the Isle of Man this summer as Brackley Town announce that "Next up for Gavin Cowan's men is a trip to the Isle of Man.

Brackley Town will return to the Isle of Man for a training camp and play a pre-season friendly against FC Isle of Man on Saturday 12th July.

The team will be based on the Isle of Man from Friday 11th July to Sunday 13th July and we would love to see as many Saints supporters as possible over there.

This game will take place at the Ballacloan Stadium in Ramsey."

The Boreham Wood Chairman welcomes his club's "very good friends and long-time partners from Arsenal Football Club...

For Arsenal’s youth it’s often here at Meadow Park that they sit their embryonic football exams from 15/16 years of age in the AFC FA Youth Cup squads, then through promotion to the Development Squads and then the ultimate dream, a call up into the first team squad and beyond.

Trust me as a club and an environment, we are very proud of our small involvement in that process and love the fact we have been involved with AFC for more than 30 years. Today though we also celebrate... the signing of two new 10 year contracts with both AFC and AWFC.

Our involvement with AFC and AWFC came from very humble beginnings back in the 90s. In truth I backed the Arsenal Women (previously known as Arsenal Ladies) back then and if I’m honest they didn’t really have two pennies to rub together back then haha.

As such, I am very proud as an individual and as a club to have been involved in some small way at the very start of the AWFC journey, and... our Arsenal Women have now proudly won two European Cups...

I hope everyone can see the investment, improvements and progress that we’ve made collectively here. As I enter my 27th season in the Chair I’m just relieved after our relegation 12 months ago, to have bounced back with a promotion and be back sitting at the top table of non- league once again".

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of Max Kouogun, penning a two-year deal at the Prestige Group Stadium, subject to approval.

The 28-year-old defender played a part in Scunthorpe United’s promotion-winning season, playing 47 games out of 48 and scoring three goals in the National League North.

Kouogun has National League experience from his spells at Harrogate, Wealdstone and York City, from which he also gained promotion from the National League North.

Hailing from Ireland, the half-Cameroonian started his career at UCD in the second tier of Irish football...

Pools boss Simon Grayson said 'I’m delighted to have signed Max, he will add aggression, athleticism and extra competition to our defensive unit'">

11 July, 2025

NEXT: WARRINGTON TOWN

Tickets can be purchased in advance here

Warrington Town have made at least half a dozen new signings over the summer, with Scott Butler, Reece Daly, James Melhado, David Morgan, Matty Waters and goalkeeper Liam Isherwood all joining.

Their retained list included former Alty striker JOSH AMIS (right) as well as Murphy Bennett, Bohan Dixon, Sam Gill and Evan Gumbs

Invited back for pre-season were Matty Makinson, Elliot Morris and ANDY WHITE.

ALTY OLD BOYS

It has been apparent for some while that the Irish club have a goalscoring problem - their current league form shows 6 games without a win, and only 1 goal scored - and tonight they needed an 81st minute penalty to give them the edge despite having 25 goal attempts.

Europa League Qualifier: MAXI OYEDELE wasn't in Legia Warsaw's squad for the home leg against Aktobe from Kazakhstan, which they only won 1-0 despite 8 of their 18 shots being on target.

Pre-season Friendly: Gainsborough Trinity opened with a 0-1 win at Thorne Collieries, and JONNY MARGETTS returned to their side (he had 3 loan spells with them some years ago).

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

'When the fixtures come out it gives everyone that anticipation and reality that football is not too far away,' Maher explained. 'Our last regular season game was Gateshead and now it’s our first this year, so it’s a long one to start the season off and then going to Truro which will be a new one. With the makeup of the league this season there’s going to be a lot of travelling, but that’s part and parcel of it....

'The number of season tickets we’ve sold already tells you how incredible following is'...

Maher has been able to secure the services of two new players. Wing-back Harry Boyes joined the club the day before pre-season after his departure from Sheffield United, while Ben Goodliffe made the permanent move from Colchester United after spending the last part of the previous campaign on loan at Blues. Up to four summer additions, the gaffer is pleased with the way his squad is shaping up...

'It’s important that the players are in each other’s pockets for the week [in Spain] and they’re going to be working really hard. Treble sessions are going to be on so we can really ramp up pre-season'".

The problems continue at Gateshead where the pre-season "fixture at home to Doncaster Rovers has been cancelled due to issues with the playing surface at Gateshead International Stadium.

In order to allow work to start as soon as possible on the repairs required to the pitch... the decision has been made to cancel the fixture following this weekend's game against Sunderland switching venue to Hebburn Sports Ground....

The fixture will now be played hehind closed doors".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the permanent signing of Jayden Clarke following his release from Gillingham earlier this summer.

The 24-year-old finished as the Gills’ top goalscorer last term having featured 33 times in the 2024/25 League Two season.

The wide man arrived at the Priestfield Stadium back in January 2023 and went onto make 81 appearances scoring nine goals.

Clarke came through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur’s academy and has also had spells with Dulwich Hamlet, Bedfont Sports and Hendon".

Also joining Forest Green Rovers is "Isaac Moore on loan from Coventry City until the end of the season.

The midfielder returned to fitness towards the end of the 2024-25 season following two lengthy spells on the sidelines... but was included in four of Frank Lampard’s matchday squads in the Championship last season...

Moore has also recently signed a new three-year deal with the Sky Blues"

Truro City "announce the season-long loan signing of Max Kinsey from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.

The 20-year-old defender joined the Cherries in 2021 after spending six years at recently relegated top flight outfit Southampton...

Born in Guildford, Kinsey... made the Cherries’ matchday squad on 14 occasions in 24/25.

He also played a lead hand and captained Bournemouth as they won Group South of the Professional League...

'I have been looking for a loan for a couple of years,' Kinsey told trurocity.co.uk... I feel like I am used to football on a full-time basis and ready to make that step in the National League. There are a few boys at Bournemouth that have come down to Truro and they have spoken nothing but high praise for the club...

'I am good on the ball and I can play, but if you have to stick it in row Z, I can also do that'">

Rochdale "announce the signing of Joe Pritchard.

The 28-year-old versatile player has joined on an initial one-year deal, having spent time last season in the National League with Oldham Athletic.

Pritchard, who made over 100 appearances for Accrington Stanley earlier in his career, stated... 'The big thing to me was staying around the Manchester area, and Rochdale showed interest. It was a really easy decision and I feel like it’s a great fit'...

Born in Watford, Joe’s youth career began at Tottenham Hotspur where he spent five years... He then moved north with Bolton Wanderers securing his services for the 2018/19 season. Joe made his debut in the Championship in early 2019...

League One side Accrington Stanley then signed the midfielder...

Pritchard made a total of 112 appearances at the Wham Stadium, scoring 18 times before a transfer to Milton Keynes Dons last year.

He made seven appearances for the Dons, then going on to join Oldham Athletic in February... netting two goals in big playoff wins which contributed to the Latics earning promotion".

10 July 2025

ALTY'S HOME COMFORTS?

By August, therefore, nine of the last ten first-fixtures of the season for Altrincham have been at home and, until last season, Altrincham had failed to win any of them! Ironically, they did win the single away fixture in this sequence, at Torquay in 2021.

In fact, despite 13 of their last 19 first-day games having been at home, before 2024 they had last won a home fixture on the opening day 18 years previously in 2006, winning 2-1 against Stevenage!

Whilst the home record on opening day is pretty dreadful, away from home, perversely, Alty have won 50% of their opening day fixtures in the same period. One of the three away defeats, however, was in 2014, at Aldershot Town, who are Alty's guests next month to kick off the 2025-26 season.

Here we see ten of Alty's players defending their goal early in the second half of that game.

The overall record since 2007 is:

• Home:P13 W2 D6 L5
• Away: P6 W3 D0 L3
• All: P19 W5 D6 L8

The details are as follow:

1. 10.8.24 H WOKING 3pm 1-0 att. 1,548 WIN
2. 5.8.23 H DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE 3pm 1-1 att.1,779 DRAW
3. 6.8.22 H MAIDSTONE UNITED 3pm 1-1 1,717 DRAW
4. 21.8.21 A Torquay United 3pm 3-1 2,599 WIN
5. 3.10.20 H WEYMOUTH 3pm 0-0 BCD DRAW
6. 3.8.19 H YORK CITY 3pm 1-3 1,879 LOSS
7. 4.8.18 H LEAMINGTON 3pm 2-2 1,047 DRAW
8. 12.8.17 H STAFFORD RANGERS 3pm 0-3 811 LOSS
9. 6.8.16 H DARLINGTON FC 1883 3pm 2-2 1,506 DRAW
10. 8.8.15 H FOREST GREEN ROVERS 3pm 0-1 975 LOSS
11. 9.8.14 A Aldershot Town 3pm 1-3 1,964 LOSS
12. 17.8.13 A Worcester City 3pm 3-1 714 WIN
13. 18.8.12 H BRACKLEY TOWN 3pm 1-4 716 LOSS
14. 13.8.11 A Harrogate Town 3pm 2-3 587 LOSS
15. 14.8.10 A Luton Town 3pm 1-2 6,665 LOSS
16. 8.8.09 H EBBSFLEET UNITED 3pm 1-1 914 DRAW
17. 9.8.08 A Woking 3pm 2-1 1,645 WIN
18. 11.8.07 H EXETER CITY 3pm 1-4 1,318 LOSS
19. 12.8.06 H STEVENAGE BOROUGH 3pm 2-1 1,035 WIN

ALTY OLD BOYS

MATT GOULD and KYLE FERGUSON started for Yeovil Town at Sherborne Town, but both were withdrawn at half time with the game still goalless. The hosts led briefly, but the Glovers eventually won 1-2.

Champions League Qualifier : SAM ROSCOE was left on the bench as Linfield lost their first leg across the border at Shelbourne by the only goal.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A last-minute bid came through from a UK Buyer after learning about the club’s situation. That buyer has worked over the last 24 hours to turn around a payment to his solicitors for wages to be paid and agreed contracts pending approval of the sale by the National League.

He has already started preparing documentation for National League to give their approval for the sale and confirmed his financial support for the club this coming season, provided his takeover is approved.

This buyer will make their own statement shortly to introduce themselves and set out their plans for the club over the coming seasons.

Further announcements to follow tomorrow [Thursday].

Jason Whittingham, Bond Group Investments LTD

Solihull Moors "announce the appointment of Terry Connor as Assistant Coach to the Men's First Team. Solihull Moors are delighted to announce the appointment of Terry Connor as Assistant Coach to the Men's First Team.

After a distinguished his playing career where Terry made over 400 senior appearances including spells at Leeds United and Portsmouth, he switched his attention to coaching... Terry joined the coaching staff at Wolves in 1999 where he became an integral part of Mick McCarthy's backroom team...

Chairman Darryl Eales added 'After last season’s disappointing campaign and, especially our run of injuries, we talked a lot about the balance of the first team staff and when we knew Terry was available, it was obvious to all of us that he was top of our list. He still has such energy and passion for the game, he is very highly qualified, and it's an exciting appointment that I think, alongside our player signings this summer, really indicates our intentions for the season ahead.'"

Boston United "have secured the long-term loan signing of Hull City youngster Rocco Coyle.

The 19-year-old will join the Pilgrims on loan until the January transfer window... Coyle is capable of playing in a variety of midfield roles... and has been included on the bench in Championship action.

He has trained with the Pilgrims over the opening days of pre-season and becomes Graham Coughlan's 12th signing of the summer".

Southend United "welcome Ben Goodliffe back to the club on a two-year contract following a free transfer from Colchester United.

The defender spent the second half of last season on loan with the Shrimpers...

In his 22 appearances for Blues, Goodliffe... won the National League Player of the Month for April 2025...

After starting his senior football career with Boreham Wood, Goodliffe was snapped up by Wolverhampton Wanderers in July 2017. After a loan spell at Dagenham & Redbridge during the 2018/19 season, he headed back south to join Sutton United...

He went on to make a total of 182 appearances across five seasons in Amber, before joining Colchester United...

Blues head coach Kevin Maher... said... 'His attributes are something we need. He’s aggressive in both boxes, he’s got leadership qualities... He’s an old school centre half'">

York City "confirm that Dipo Akinyemi has left the club to join Derry City on a permanent deal.

The forward ends his two-season spell with the club to join the side sitting second in the Irish Premier Division.

Dipo joined the club in the summer of 2023 and played a vital part in the club’s survival that season, scoring 15 goals in 40 league matches, earning him the club’s golden boot award for the 2023/24 season...

In total, the 28-year-old featured over 70 times for the Minstermen, bagging 19 goals in the league and FA Cup as well as registering 16 assists.">

At Boston United "Midfielder Greg Sloggett has put pen-to-paper to join Boston United on a permanent basis.

The popular 29-year-old has signed an initial one-year deal following his departure from National League rivals Hartlepool United.

Sloggett enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell with the Pilgrims in March and April - establishing himself as a key cog in United's survival mission.

He made nine appearances in total - including six from the start2.

Brackley Town report that "Tuesday's pre-season game v Nuneaton was postponed just hours before the scheduled kick-off due to circumstances beyond the club's control.

The game was due to be played at a ground in Hinckley as Nuneaton's home ground in Bedworth is under-going instalment of a new artificial pitch. Upon arrival at the ground the pitch was deemed completely unplayable and would have been a danger to players.

Remedial works were not possible and so regrettably the match was postponed with the news being disseminated via social media by both clubs as quickly as possible.

Some supporters were inevitably already travelling to the game. The club wishes to apologise for the inconvenience caused. Nuneaton FC have apologised unreservedly for this situation, refunds for pre-purchased tickets have been made but any supporter with a query re. refunds should contact Nuneaton for a refund.

In lieu of the postponed game yesterday the club has designated this evening's training session as open to supporters".

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of striker Will Harris following his departure from National League North side Spennymoor Town.

Coming through the youth systems at both Hebburn Town and Burnley, it was at the latter he signed his first professional contract. Whilst with the Clarets, Harris spent time on loan at Nelson, Colne, and Warrington Town. In 2020, the forward made the switch to Sunderland...

In January 2022, Harris signed for Barrow on loan for the remainder of the season, before signing permanently for Gateshead in the summer of that year. After just one season with the Heed, Harris joined Spennymoor Town...

Last season, the striker had a brief spell on loan at Scunthorpe United where he made four appearances".

Yeovil Town state that "we have made the decision not to enter this season’s National League Cup. With the new campaign approaching, our focus is firmly on the league and other key competitions. After reviewing our priorities, we feel it is in the best interests of the club to concentrate fully on our primary objectives for the season ahead.

We are aware that the National League Cup has not been a priority for many clubs in recent seasons, and we know our supporters are fully focused – like us – on achieving success where it matters most".

9 July 2025

NO NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP FOR ALTY

With the Enterprise National League fixtures released today and round dates for the National League Cup included, we can now confirm the Robins will not be participating".

Footnote: Last season, the National League Cup meant that six additional fixtures had to be played on the pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium, adding more than 25% to the pressure on the playing surface compared with the league season's home fixtures alone.

So far, Carlisle United and Yeovil Town have also opted not to participate in the competition in 2025-26.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES 2025-26

The season starts at home to Aldershot Town on 9 August. Midweek games in the coming season are assigned to either a Tuesday or a Wednesday night, to accommodate DAZN's streaming plans.

ETHAN ROSS INTERVIEW

In the interview, Ethan indicated that his target is to return to action in the October/November period.

In the interim he is busy both with his rehabilitation and in his coaching role which started last season.

His aim is to play as many games as he managed to play last season before his injury. For the record, he started 32 games in 2024-25 season.

PRE-SEASON OPPONENTS: DARLINGTON

Darlington explain that "Goalkeeper Pete Jameson has decided to leave us for a full time role at Gateshead, but he will be returning to us on loan.

Pete's contract with us ended at the end of June, and he has now signed a full time contract at Gateshead which enables him to play for the Tynesiders as well as being their goalkeeping coach under our former manager Alun Armstrong. We are happy to support Pete in whatever he is doing.

Pete played 49 games for us last season... which means that in his two spells with us covering ten years, he has made 180 appearances for us in all competitions.

The loan which is for the full season and has a recall clause, is subject to finalised paperwork".

Gateshead further explain that Jameson's role will be as a player-coach at the International Stadium.

ALTY OLD BOYS

MARCUS DINANGA (right), having missed most of last season with injury, returned with a bang at Bromley. Coming on at the start of the second half with visitors Spurs U21 leading 1-2, he made up for last time by hitting all four goals as the hosts ran out 5-2 winners.

ELLIOT NEWBY played the second half of Barrow's 1-0 defeat against Huddersfield Town at the Canalside Training Centre.

RYAN COLCLOUGH scored the goal that sent Chesterfield in at the break with a 3-0 lead over visitors Burton Albion, and was then substituted as his team went on to win 5-0.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR came on for the second half as Grimsby Town continued their low-key build up at neighbours Grimsby Borough. Both goals in the 1-1 draw had already been scored

JEFF KING played the second half as Boreham Wood, already trailing, went down 0-2 to visitors Watford.

It was a difficult night for SEAN LAWTON (right) and HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS, as Newcastle Town were soundly beaten 1-7 by visitors Crewe Alexandra.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was introduced for the second half by Peterborough United, who already led 0-4 at Stamford, and he scored the final goal as they cruised home 0-6. Although he is believed to still be at Stamford, ELLIOTT DURRELL was not involved.

And finally, Carlisle United have started their pre-season fixtures. After a single-goal defeat, by a penalty, at Motherwell behind closed doors, Mark Hughes opined, "I have to say I'm really pleased with what we produced there, they're up against the Scottish Premier League team who are a couple of weeks ahead of us... We're only seven training days in'...

Mark discussed the combination between Luke Armstrong and REGAN LINNEY, explaining 'They're going to be a threat obviously, I mean they were up against Scottish Premier League defenders today and didn't look out of place at all, causing problems and yeah, I was really pleased'".

ALTY MONTHLY DRAWS

June 2025:

• £500 cash | 373 Mr Dolan
• £75 cash | 465 Russell Neil
• Hospitality for Two | 206 M. Partington
• £25 cash | 106 Ian Gordon
• Bottle of Alty Gin | 546 Jim Thompson
• Scarf & Pin Badge | 458 Mike Searle

May 2025:

• £500 cash | 295 Helen Prole
• £75 cash | 123 David Jennings
• Hospitality for Two | 472 D. George
• £25 cash | 359 Mrs Rowland
• Bottle of Alty Gin | 473 G. Peters
• Scarf & Pin Badge | 123 David Jennings

Congratulations to all the winners!

LAWRENCE LOONEY'S NEW ROLE

Lawrence [left], who recently stepped down as [co-]chairman of Altrincham FC after seven successful years, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in football strategy and sustainability.

Vice-chairman Lee Dixon expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating 'We’ve had numerous conversations, and it’s an easy call to make.

'Lawrence has agreed to join the board and come into the club and he’s going to be a fantastic asset to help guide us through, hopefully, the next phase for the club.'

Lawrence arrival marks a pivotal moment for FC Isle of Man as the club aims to transition from short-term challenges to long-term planning.

Lee added 'We recognise that we need to go to the next phase, to build a strategy that will make us more sustainable, where we can plan three, five, ten years ahead'.

While stepping away from from his previous club, but wanting to remain in football, Lawrence said that the chance to do that and support his home club in our plans to grow is an exciting next step for him to take.

He said 'My job is to do a full review, take on as much information as possible, and build out a three-year plan'".

Footnote: On 21 March 2018 Lawrence Looney, former Chief Executive at Lancaster City, joined the Board at Altrincham.

Following the retirement from the Chairman's role of Grahame Rowley, a joint chairmanship of Bill Waterson and Lawrence Looney was announced on 1 June 2020. Lawrence resigned on 15 May 2025.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

After consulting internally with the football department, 1921 Directors and representatives from the Carlisle United Supporters Trust, the club has decided not to enter this season's National League Cup.

Chief Executive, Nigel Clibbens said 'The board held discussions internally and reached the view that given the nature of the competition and previous experience in the EFL trophy, the right choice was not to enter.'

Eastleigh "announce that we have completed the loan signing of defender Archie Harris from AFC Bournemouth on a season-long loan!

The 20-year-old defender joins the Spitfires ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, having already gained valuable first-team experience during spells in the National League and National League South.

Born in Weymouth and raised in Bournemouth, Harris came through the ranks at AFC Bournemouth... before impressing with a highly successful stint at Torquay United in the National League..

He then joined Truro City for the final weeks of the 2023/24 season...

Rochdale "announce the signing of midfielder Casey Pettit. The 22-year-old joins on a two-year deal from Maidenhead United.

Pettit, who has featured in over 90 games for the Magpies during the last two years, commented... 'I’ll give 100% every week, I leave everything out there for the fans and the club.

'I’m looking forward to getting on the ball, being creative and this different playing style will hopefully suit me.'

Pettit began his career in West Ham United’s youth ranks before a spell at Millwall. He then joined Luton Town at the age of 16...

In January 2022, the midfielder joined Isthmian League Premier Division Lewes FC on a one-month loan before an appearance on the bench for the Hatters’ First Team in the Championship.

Maidenhead United sealed his signature in the summer of 2023... The Essex-born man featured in every National League match for the Magpies last season".

The Maidenhead Advertiser adds that "Casey was one of three Maidenhead players under contract for the coming season so the Magpies will at least be compensated for the move, however, it takes the number of players to have left the club this summer to 22...

A huge rebuild job is therefore underway at York Road following the club’s relegation from the National League... The following players have been retained, Harvey Collins; Kane Ferdinand; Jayden Mitchell-Lawson; Remy Clerima; Sam Barratt; Joshua McMenemy; Jadyn Dundas; Will de Havilland. While Cochrane and Stewart remain under contract for next season.

Seven players have also been signed in recent weeks, with Ryan Bartley and Matt Robinson announced as the players returned to pre-season training. They join Jordon Ragguette, Asher Yearwood, Corie Andrews, Jordi van Stappershoef and Manny Onariase....

The following players have departed the club: Tyrese Dyce; Kevin Lokko; Ruben Carvalho; Nathan Ferguson; Shawn McCoulsky; Brad Keetch; Craig Ross; Tobi Sho-Silva; Christian Johnson; Tristan Abrahams; Alan Massey; Chris Wreh; Jamie Davies; Ricky Korboa; Joseph Ajose; Brendan Kiernan; Reece Smith, Casey Pettit; Thierry Latty-Fairweather; Joshua Johnson; MILES WELCH-HAYES; Sam Howes."

Gateshead confirm that "official communication has been received from FIFA and we are all good to go with registering our new summer signings".

Gateshead have now confirmed "the signing of defender Callum Johnson on a one-year deal with an option.

The right-back arrives... after spending 2024/25 season with League Two side Bradford City, making 14 appearances...

The 28 year-old boasts a wealth of Football League experience having racked up over 200 appearances across the third and fourth tiers of English football with 150 of those coming in League One for Accrington Stanley, Fleetwood and Portsmouth after graduating from Middlesbrough's academy system".

8 July 2025

ALTRINCHAM'S NEW KIT

The accompanying text says "The new kit pays homage to the mid-to-late 1980s era, reintroducing a bolder black element into the shirt — a nod to classic Robins kits of the past, refreshed with modern design touches. The result is a look that celebrates our proud history while setting the tone for the future.

The launch shoot took place on location in the heart of our community — with scenes captured in Altrincham town centre and at The J.Davidson Stadium. We wanted the visuals to reflect what the shirt means to us: it’s more than a kit — it’s home...

The new home kit is available to purchase online now".

WARRINGTON TOWN: THE LAST TIME

This time around Alty will face a Warrington team which was relegated last season from National North

Back on 20 July 2024, Alty arrived unbeaten in their three previous summer friendlies but this was their toughest test to date, against a Warrington side just one tier below them in the non-League pyramid.

For the first sixty minutes of this game, Altrincham deployed a team which included only three players who had played any National League football for Altrincham in the previous season, (Ethan Ross, James Jones and Max Haygarth).

New signings Joe Nuttall and Lucas Weaver were also starters, alongside four trialists and Academy graduates Owen German and Joel Bailey. Young keeper Louis Fallon joined the game at the interval in place of Ross.

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

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

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

The only change at the break saw young keeper Louie Fallon replace Ross but, around the hour mark, Alty introduced ten first-team substitutes and the performance unsurprisingly went up a few notches.

It took just seven minutes for Matty Kosylo to put Alty ahead from forty yards out on the right wing, scoring into an unguarded net, after a defensive mix-up between the Town keeper and a defender.

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.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Wilson joins the club having left National League side Altrincham in the summer, where he made 29 league appearances last term...

After coming through the academy ranks at Blackburn Rovers, Wilson moved on to Loughborough whilst studying at University, before moving over to Sweden for a year... before moving back to England, where he spent a year at Coalville Town in 2022...

The midfielder made the move to Altrincham in 2023 as one of the brightest prospects in the Non-League pyramid. Wilson, who can also operate defensively, has made over 50 appearances for Alty before arriving at Mill Farm this summer....

Head Coach CRAIG MAHON added, 'We’re really pleased to bring George to the club. He’ll add a different dimension to our midfield, and he gives us a unique quality that will complement the group and strengthen our options moving forward.'”

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Wakefield writes that the above-named five of them "have just met and agreed that we must remove ourselves as directors of Morecambe FC this evening, given that we stated publicly on Tuesday 1 July 2025 that unless a sale completed that day, administration was regrettably the only responsible option left to us.

We have also agreed with the owner that we will be on standby to rejoin the club as directors tomorrow to facilitate the sale should it be ready to complete, subject to being invited by the owner to do so".

The BBC explains that "Morecambe's owner says he is committed to selling the club despite the deal not going through as planned, with the Shrimps' board of directors later stepping down as directors.

The deal between Jason Whittingham's Bond Group Investments and Panjab Warriors was set to be formally completed on Monday.

But in a statement, Whittingham said he expected to need more time on Tuesday to complete the deal...

His statement also contained a pledge to ensure staff are paid 'as soon as possible' and that the club would avoid administration.

The delay follows a turbulent seven days which saw the board threaten to place the National League club into administration if Whittingham did not complete the sale last Tuesday".

Solihull Moors "confirm that Jack Stevens has completed a permanent move to Oldham Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

Chairman, Darryl Eales added 'I’ve known Jack since he was a youngster on the fast track when I owned Oxford United. His talent was always evident.

'I was delighted when we managed to sign him from Banbury as I knew Jack should be playing at a much higher level. He has been a top performer at Moors...

'I’m truly delighted that Jack now has his opportunity in the EFL and wish him every success in the future'">

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of Jermaine Francis from League Two side Barnet for an undisclosed fee. The forward spent the majority of the 2024-25 National League season on loan at Braintree in between brief cameos for the champions, playing 34 league games overall.

Francis scored eight goals in the National League – one against Pools for Braintree at the Cressing Road Stadium.

The 23-year-old has represented Grenada at international level 15 times, making his debut in September 2023...

Manager, Simon Grayson said 'I’m really pleased to have beaten off competition to sign Jermaine. He’s a versatile young player who we feel will only improve and also add a different dimension to the squad, with being able to play in any attacking role'".

Last week, Carlisle United's "U15, U17, and U19 squads took part in their annual heart screening sessions at Brunton Park – a vital step in safeguarding the health and future of the club’s young footballers.

Every year, Academy players are screened using either an ECG (electrocardiogram), which monitors the heart’s electrical activity, or an echocardiogram – an ultrasound that provides a detailed look at the heart’s structure and function.

The results are carefully reviewed by a specialist FA Sports Cardiologist, with any concerns promptly shared with the club’s medical team. If an issue is flagged, a thorough follow-up process begins, involving the player – and their parent or guardian if applicable – and further assessment with a cardiologist is arranged.

Victoria Borrill, Lead Academy Physio said 'The heart scans are a vital part of us being able to ensure the safety and well-being of our players in the Academy.

'Over the years, the tests have identified numerous players across clubs who require further tests and monitoring. However, hopefully by doing these tests early, it ensures the players safety is paramount, and actions can be taken to support the players if needed.'".

7 July 2025

FIRST FRIENDLY: WARRINGTON TOWN

Managed by Paul Carden, Warrington have recently announced "Three new signings... revealed at the Summer Social event held in the town centre on Saturday.

Midfielder David Morgan, defender Matty Waters and goalkeeper Liam Isherwood were all introduced to fans in the packed out Gravity Social as part of an event that also saw the club’s new away kit launched for the new season.

David Morgan - Midfielder, who turned 31 on Friday, adds vast experience to Paul Carden’s side, having made 189 appearances for Southport across two spells. He featured 35 times in the National League North last season and ended the campaign as the club’s caretaker manager, following the departure of Jim Bentley.

After trying to secure Morgan’s capture during that campaign, Carden has finally got his man... Morgan came through the ranks at Nottingham Forest and featured for Lincoln City, Scottish Premier League side Dundee and Tamworth on loan, before joining Ilkeston Town and then Nuneaton Town.

He moved to AFC Fylde for a five-figure sum in 2017 before moving to Southport, and he had a spell in the Football League with Accrington Stanley in between his two spells at Haig Avenue.

Liam Isherwood - Goalkeeper, 22, joins the Yellows following the expiration of his contract at Football League side Accrington Stanley, where he made five appearances in League One.

The new number one spent time on loan last season at Clitheroe, and has experienced the Northern Premier League before on loan at Stalybridge and Marine.

Matty Waters - Defender... has played in the National League and National League North with Chester, Curzon Ashton and Buxton.

He has spent much of the past two seasons with Marine, having initially joined them on loan from Buxton. The left-back made 20 appearances in the National League North last season ".

Tickets for the match against Altrincham on Saturday (3pm) are available here.

Prices:

• Adult £10.00
• Concessions (Students & OAPs) £6.00
• Juniors £2.00

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Truro City "is delighted to announce the signing of Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain on a two-year deal...

The 27-year-old, brother of former Premier League winner Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and son of ex-England international Mark Chamberlain, joined City on an initial three month loan from Kidderminster Harriers in August 2024.

Making his debut in the season opener against Dorking Wanderers, Oxlade-Chamberlain missed just one game throughout Truro’s dramatic National League South title triumph, after signing two loan extensions in November and January...

And after he was released by Kidderminster Harriers last month, Oxlade-Chamberlain has come City’s third new signing this summer, along with Harry Kite and Lirak Hasani.

'After what we achieved last season, it was only right to carry things on into the new league to see what we could do,' Oxlade-Chamberlain told trurocity.co.uk...

'(Promotion) certainly wasn’t on my bingo card, but it was a great way to finish the season and then the party afterwards, with the bus parade, was just fantastic. The fans – and I don’t know if it is a Cornish thing – seem to appreciate anyone who comes down here and gives it their all and I have had a great time with everyone.

'Next season, we will have some tough games against some really good teams and nice stadiums, with some very long away days'" he concluded.

Boston United report that "Former Aston Villa and Leicester City midfielder Arjan Raikhy has become Boston United's latest summer signing.

The 22-year-old has joined the Pilgrims on a two-year deal after leaving King Power Stadium.

He made three first team appearances during his time with the Foxes, under the guidance of current Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.

Raikhy has enjoyed loan spells with Grimsby Town, Stockport County and Tamworth at various stages of his fledgling career.

He trained with his new team-mates for the first time on Saturday morning".#

6 July, 2025

ALTRINCHAM: "ONLY ONE TEAM IN CHESHIRE"?

The Borough of Warrington is described as "a unitary authority area with borough status in the ceremonial county of Cheshire".

And now, the Sale & Altrincham Messenger reports that "It’s a town that’s become the jewel in the crown as one of the most affluent parts of Trafford, where property prices have soared as parents vie to send their children to its high-performing grammar schools, and where people visit from miles around to experience its booming bars and restaurants.

Altrincham FC's Moss Lane location.

Of course, Trafford is in Greater Manchester, but ask many people frequenting Altrincham’s thriving town centre, and they will argue the town is in Cheshire.

Yet, Altrincham left Cheshire 51 years ago when Ted Heath’s then-Conservative government redrew the local government boundaries and committed what some believe was the heinous sin of lumping the ‘posh’ little market town in with ‘dirty old’ Manchester...

Many people in Bolton, Wigan, Bury, Oldham and Rochdale still regard themselves as Lancastrians, and Stockport, which is also in Greater Manchester, was once in Cheshire.

To add to the confusion, Lancashire County Cricket Club’s home ground is at Old Trafford, right next to Trafford town hall in the heart of Greater Manchester.

Some are adamant that they are die-hard Cheshirites [Cestrians, surely!!] while others think being linked to the big city of Manchester is a much preferable option. Some don’t care.

Perhaps understandably, it’s the people of more advanced years who are in the Cheshire camp."

ALTY OLD BOYS

A versatile and attack-minded full-back, King’s senior journey began in non-league football, turning out for the likes of Altrincham, Nantwich Town and Witton Albion, before catching the eye of Bolton Wanderers. His professional debut came in the 2017/18 season...

Following a brief spell in the Scottish Premiership with St Mirren, King made his mark in the National League, enjoying standout campaigns with Halifax Town and Chesterfield. At Halifax, he was named Player of the Season and earned a place in the division’s Team of the Year in 2020/21, an achievement he would repeat two years later at Chesterfield after a string of commanding performances...

A true specialist from wide areas, his delivery and positional awareness have become hallmarks of his game. After his success with the Spireites, King joined Swindon Town in League Two for a short spell before making the switch to York City late last year...

With over 100 appearances at National League level and professional experience in both England and Scotland, Jeff’s arrival adds real pedigree and depth to the Wood back line".

Many "old boys" were in action in Saturday's competitive or pre-season friendly games and their activities have been monitored by Phil Jordan as follows.

His review starts Down Under in the NPL Victoria where, with a three-point deficit to catch up on their hosts, Dandenong Thunder, Oakleigh Cannons certainly couldn't afford to lose the match,but they trailed 3-0 by the 25th minute.

However, from that point, CONNOR HAMPSON and his colleagues took control, eventually forcing a 3-3 draw with an 82nd minute penalty.

Pre-season friendlies: JEFF KING made his debut for Boreham Wood at the start of the second half, with his team already a goal down to visitors Luton Town, and he was unable to change the course of events as the League One side notched two more goals.

Meanwhile, over at Leicester City's training ground, CHRIS CONN-CLARKE also came on for the second half with the game still goalless.

Leicester struck first, but it was Chris who levelled for Posh after 75 minutes. However, there was to be no happy ending as a youthful Foxes lineup went on to win 3-1.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR (left) played the first half of Grimsby Town's friendly just a mile or so along the road at Cleethorpes Town. He appears to have had a successful enough debut (some positive comments on the club's Twitter feed) and the Mariners went on to win by the only goal.

JOHN DISNEY got his managerial career off to a successful start, as Connah's Quay Nomads easily beat visitors Mold Alexandra 5-2.

Although JOEL TORRANCE made a few decent stops, Clitheroe won at Bala Town after he was beaten by a deflection.

Both KYLE FERGUSON and MATT GOULD (right)came on for the second half of Yeovil Town's visit to Exmouth Town, although their team had scored the only goal of the game as early as the 8th minute.

MICHAEL GYASI made his King's Lynn debut at Fakenham Town, and he gave them an 18th minute lead. The hosts levelled before the break,

at which point Michael was substituted. His team went on to win 2-5.

Having provided the assist for Barrow's opening goal at Holker Old Boys, ELLIOT NEWBY was substituted at the break. His side went on to win 0-3.

JOSH OLLERENSHAW bucked the pre-season trend as he played the whole game for Curzon Ashton at Liversedge, and was rewarded with a clean sheet in a goalless draw.

SAM ROSCOE started for Linfield as they won 1-7 at Newbuildings.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Donnelly netted 50 times for the Yeltz... He now makes the move into full-time football".

Also, Boston United "have bolstered their defensive ranks by signing left-sided Alex Lankshear from EFL League One side Blackpool. The 22-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a two-year contract... after leaving Bloomfield Road at the end of last season.

Lankshear began his career in the non-league game with St Alban's City and has enjoyed loan spells with Dorking Wanderers, Welling United and Ebbsfleet United during his time at Blackpool...

Lankshear, whose younger brother Will plays as a striker for Tottenham Hotspur, is Graham Coughlan’s 10th new signing of the summer".

GAteshead "confirm Kenyon Richardson as the club's new captain.

[He] becomes Gateshead's first ne captain since 2021, taking on the role permanently having previously acted as stand-in skipper to prior captain Greg Olley in recent seasons.

[The 26 year-old has made] "94 appearances since his arrival in the summer of 2022".

Richardson said "We 've ben written off before a ball has ven been kicked every season i@ve been here and we've proved people wrong and we'll continue to do so".

Carlisle United have an interview with new "first-team coach Frankie McAvoy...

He said 'I'm absolutely delighted to be honest and can't wait to get started...

'I started coaching at Dunfermline. It was my first professional team as a youth coach. Then I moved to Hamilton Accies as a youth coach, became academy director and then first team coach for a small stint... with Alex Neil. Alex and myself have had a good number of years together with one another. We went from Hamilton Accies to Norwich City... and then we moved from Norwich to Preston North End...

Then I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity to go to Hearts... Once we left there, I went into AFC Fylde for probably eight weeks. I worked with David Longwell who was the head coach at the time and we tried to see if we could save them to stay in the National League but unfortunately we weren't able to do so".

5 July, 2025

MATTY KOSYLO AND HIS NEW ROLE

In the coming season Matty, who saw two red cards last season, hopes to display "a little bit of better discipline" especially now, as a coach, he beleives that "I've got to set an example".

A LOAD OF BALLS

As well as the ball in play, nine additional balls will be required for every National League match next season when, also, a new Mitre ball comes into use for National League fixtures.

With the start of the new season little over a month away on August 9 a multiball system has been put in place for clubs competing across all three Enterprise National League divisions. The IFAB Laws of the Game state: 'Law 2.3: The Ball – Additional balls which meet the requirements of Law 2 may be placed around the field of play and their use is under the referee’s control.'

From this season there will be 10 match balls allocated for each fixture:

• One ball in play
• One ball with the fourth official
• Eight balls distributed around the pitch. The eight balls will be placed on cones around the pitch next to a ball retriever – split as two along either touchline and two either side of each goal.

The use of the multi-ball system would be managed by the referee and, if deemed necessary, the multiball system can be deactivated for the remainder of the fixture.

If an additional ball enters the field of play during the match, the referee will stop play only if the additional ball interferes with play. The referee shall have the additional ball removed at the earliest opportunity.

As announced earlier this week, all Enterprise National League clubs will be using the Mitre Ultimax match ball for the coming season following the launch of our new partnership with Official Match Ball provider Mitre".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Right: Ali Smith

In a Scottish Friendly: MARCUS DACKERS played the first hour for Kilmarnock. A single goal was sufficient to see off visitors Ayr United.

Irish Premier League : BARRY BAGGLEY was substituted in the 80th minute as St.Patricks continued their winless run with a goalless draw against visitors Bohemians.

International Friendly (technically): All the goals in Nantwich Town's 2-2 draw at Gresford came before half time. It was only then that BYRON HARRISON and AIDY ROXBURGH got to stretch their legs.

CHESHIRE NEWS

He said 'Absolutely devastated, the best man I've ever known. RIP Dad our hero'.

Liverpool businessman Vaughan's spell at the Deva Stadium proved to be a turbulent one and ultimately led to the club being liquidated in 2010.

The Vaughan family purchased the club out of administration but problems continued to mount on and off the pitch and Chester were expelled from the Football Conference in February 2010 before being wound up in the High Court a month later. A phoenix club, Chester FC, was established in May that year.

Vaughan's career also spanned boxing promotion, directorship at rugby league club Widnes Vikings, and chairmanship at Barrow. His family was also involved with Bangor FC".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

All we can promise is that we will do everything in our powers to make it happen, get wages paid, and begin at last to look forwards".

An hour earlier, the Morecambe website had carried a "Public Statement on Behalf of Jason Whittingham, Bond Group.

Bond Group Investments Ltd and Panjab Warriors Sports LTD have today agreed final terms for the transfer of ownership and sale of Morecambe Football Club Limited, subject to contract, and intend to complete the sale of Morecambe Football Club Limited on Monday 7th July 2025.

Bond Group have invited former Morecambe FC Directors back to the Board of Directors to support the final stages of the sale process. At time of publication, Bond Group is awaiting confirmation of the Directors.

Panjab Warriors will now engage with the National League to deal with closing steps of the sale process, in particular to convey their plans for the 25/26 season and provide evidence that the club will be in a stable financial position moving forward.

Final documentation is being prepared for the completion, which will to take place on Monday 7th July 2025.

A further update from Bond Group will follow on Monday 7th July 2025".

Earlier the Lancaster Guardian reported that "Staff are still awaiting the remainder of June’s salaries".

Elsewhere, Hartlepool United "are delighted to welcome Danny Johnson to the club.

The experienced striker returns to Pools on a permanent basis following his most recent spell at Walsall.

Upon signing, Danny stated... 'I can’t wait to get going in the blue and white shirt I remember fondly as a youth player'...

Pools Manager Simon Grayson said... 'His record speaks for itself scoring over 200 goals in his career'".

The Chronicle Live reports that "Gateshead have suffered a tumultuous summer but want to press on with new signings

Gateshead remain confident they can ensure a FIFA registration ban imposed on them can be lifted before the new National League season gets underway next month.

The Tynesiders have endured a difficult summer after several key figures departed from the International Stadium since last season came to a disappointing end after the likes of chairman Neil Pinkerton, manager Carl Magnay, club captain Greg Olley and head of recruitment Luke Clark all left the club.

A rebuilding process is being led by new chairman Bernard McWilliams and he has been joined by newly appointed vice-chairman Lawrence O’Halleron..

With new manager Alun Armstrong now in place, the Heed are keen to press on with strengthening a squad that has been depleted by the departures of experienced heads such as Luke Hannant and Robbie Tinkler.

Further exits were confirmed over the last week".

Rochdale "announce the signing of Emmanuel Dieseruvwe.

The striker, who has scored 39 National League goals in the last two seasons, has penned a two-year deal....

The 30-year-old commented, 'It’s been in the making for a little while now... There’s been a lot of back and forth between myself and the gaffer. He’s outlined his philosophy, the way he sees the game and how he sees me fitting into the team.

'With the gaffer and the core of players being here for the last two seasons, now is the time to really kick on. There are foundations in place... and I think this season could be a special one.”

Dieseruvwe, born in Leeds, progressed through the ranks with Sheffield Wednesday...

Loan moves to Hyde United, Fleetwood Town and Chesterfield followed, with the six-foot-five striker signing permanently with the Spireites in 2015.

He spent time on loan with Mansfield Town the following season, before signing for Kidderminster Harriers in the summer of 2016... He had a loan spell at Boston United, with a permanent move to Salford City in 2017.

Dieseruvwe spent four seasons at the Peninsula Stadium...

In the summer of 2021, he moved to Tranmere Rovers but spent the majority of the season on loan at Grimsby Town...

The 2022/23 season was spent at FC Halifax Town, before playing the last two seasons at Hartlepool United, leading the club’s scoring charts in both campaigns".

4 July, 2025

PARKINSON "RE-ENERGISED"

Right: Phil Parkinson is looking forward to the new season, his ninth at Alty alongside his assistant Neil Sorvel.

Parkinson admitted he was still on the lookout for a keeper, while Ethan Ross recovers from injury, but announced himself completely satisfied with the five new signings who have bolstered Alty’s defence, midfield and attack.

'None of them are risks,' said the Alty boss... 'They are young and hungry, but they also come here with experience at this level, and I truly believe we have found players who fit the jigsaw and will help us move forward...

'I feel as excited as when I started my first season with the club, probably more so after the comings and goings of recent weeks.

'We identified the areas that needed improving, particularly up front after losing Regan Linney, Alex Newby and Justin Amaluzor, and I genuinely believe the lads we have brought in possess the quality to get us the goals we would otherwise be missing.

'We need a goalkeeper, and ... there could be one more slot for a centre-forward or a winger. There are a number of interesting candidates popping up right now.... I feel re-energised, because we are in a really good spot and have as good a chance as anyone in the division to push for those play-off positions, which has to be our goal'".

HARRY WOOD R.I.P.

Writing on the Altrincham FC website, Brian recounts Harry's involvement with the club which extended back for more than 60 years as a supporter and latterly, a hard-working volunteer.

As Brian says, Harry "was immensely proud to be awarded the highly prestigious ‘Club Person of The Year’ in 2024 for his tireless work behind the scenes...

Harry’s funeral and burial will be on Tuesday 22nd July at 12.45pm at Altrincham Crematorium, followed by a wake at Altrincham Football Club. Harry requested no mourning clothes and a final drive by the ground, so the funeral cortege will pass by The J.Davidson Stadium around 12.05-12.10pm, with a brief stop outside. Rest in peace, Harry".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A technically gifted footballer, Henry’s professional journey began at Charlton, where he made his debut at just 16-years-old...

Still just 21, Henry has already accumulated valuable senior experience across the National League and EFL. His first taste of Step One football came during a loan spell with Wealdstone in early 2022...

Further spells in the EFL with Crawley Town, in the National League with Rochdale and a return to Wealdstone added to his development...

Now, following the conclusion of his time with boyhood club Charlton Athletic, Henry embarks on a new chapter, one that will see him pull on the black and white of the Wood...

Luke Garrard is quietly building a competitive squad for the long league campaign ahead, and Henry’s blend of EFL pedigree, National League experience, and set-piece prowess add real firepower to the midfield engine room".

"Malachi Dotse will leave Eastleigh FC after agreeing to terminate his contract.

Eastleigh Football Club and Malachi Dotse have mutually agreed that Malachi’s contract with the Club will terminate with immediate effect.

After spending several years at the club, Malachi Dotse rose through the academy before signing his first professional deal with the club in February, 2024.".

Rochdale "is delighted to announce the signing of attacking midfielder Anthony Gomez-Mancini.

The 24-year-old has signed an initial one-year deal after departing Hartlepool United in the summer.

Gomez-Mancini, who spent the last two seasons in the North East, commented... 'I had a meeting with the Head Coach, and he... explained to me about how we were going to play and where he was going to put me in the squad, and it sounded good.

'I am a midfielder, and I like to attack. I’m a technical player, creative, and I like to make things happen'...

Born near Lyon, France, Gomez-Mancini spent time in the youth setups at Saint-Priest, Olympique Lyonnais and Tours, before moving to now Ligue 1 club Angers... Burnley brought Gomez-Mancini to England in 2020, initially on a loan deal which was soon made permanent... before joining Accrington Stanley.

After a short spell with Stanley, he moved to Hartlepool in the summer of 2023, making 39 appearances".

Forest Green "are excited to announce the signing of goalkeeper Luke McNicholas on a permanent deal from Wrexham...

Born in County Mayo, Ireland, the 25-year-old began his career with local side Manulla, before joining for Sligo Rovers... The shot-stopper had loan spells with Finn Harps and Cliftonville before returning to Sligo in the summer of 2022.

He joined Wrexham in August 2023 and made the move permanent in January 2024. McNicholas signed for Rochdale on loan last term keeping six clean sheets in nine matches".

Altrincham travel to Darlington for a pre-season game and the Quakers have recently signed two players from Gateshead.

Most recently, Darlington have "signed attacking midfielder Will McGowan for the third time on a season long loan from Gateshead...

Will, who is 22, had two spells on loan with us last season. He joined us in September and scored twice on his debut against Southport, but was then recalled by Gateshead in November after he had played eleven times.

He joined us for the second time in March, and again scored on his return debut, away to Warrington. In total, he made 17 appearances for us, scoring four times.

Darlington manager Steve Watson said 'We’ve been trying to find a way to get Will back in a Darlo shirt and it hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it...

'I feel the squad is really coming together, we hope to have a goalkeeper secured this week, again something we’ve been working very hard on.'"

Earlier Darlington had also signed Aidan Rutledge who had recently left the International Stadium.

3 July 2025

CRANKSHAW INTERVIEW

Injury has meant that Crankshaw has made just eleven appearances (including six starts) over two seasons, since joining the club in August 2023.

Alluding to how the club has handled his ACL injury Olly emphasized that "I want to play for the gaffer. I appreciate what he's done for me".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Football legend Robbie Savage chatted with fellow Welshman and Punchline Editor Mark Owen...

He said... 'I want to change the perception – I want to create a young and hungry squad with dynamic pace and power...

'My philosophy is that when you cross that white line for that period of an hour and half, you give me everything... We will work hard with the balls pre-season, but football has changed and empathy is important'"

Savage indicated there would be three new signing in his first 48 hours and "After that, the squad will be taking a train to Germany as a repetition of last summer's successful team-building exercise. In a venue near Munich, they will play two practice games...

He added that he had already given up eating meat and preferred oat milk to cows' milk in tea, saying he was 'all in' on the club's philosophy....

On coming to live in the Cotswolds with the new job he said, 'It's a beautiful place'".

And now Savage has brought three of the Macc playes to FGR.

Macclesfield FC announced that "Laurent Mendy, Neil Kengni, and Tre Pemberton have all completed permanent transfers to Enterprise National League side Forest Green Rovers, for significant undisclosed fees.

All three players have made a combined total of over 450 appearances for the Silkmen and have played a massive part in where the Club is today".

And Macclesfield FC "confirm John Rooney as our new First Team Manager.

John will be supported by Nigel Keogh, PETER BAND and Anthony Curran...

In John Rooney, we have someone who is a vibrant advocate of our football philosophy and how this should be executed...

Further to this, we are thrilled that Nigel, Peter and Anthony have all agreed to stay at the Club as part of John’s Coaching Team.

All three are incredibly talented, knowledgeable and well-respected individuals"

Todd Johnson, the Chairman of Woking Football Club has issued a "pre-season message" to supporters "o share with you some of the things going on behind the scenes at the club...

"We’re pleased with the progress we’ve made since taking over the club last December, during what was, as many of you know, a precarious period for the club...

The team responded brilliantly. Over the final 24 games or so, we finished with around the 5th-best record in the National League during that stretch. That strong finish, combined with the re-signing of a number of our key players from last season—as well as some promising new ones, gives us every reason to feel encouraged heading into the 2025-26 season...

We’ve also had to turn our attention this off-season to several long-overdue updates, repairs and improvements throughout the Laithwaite Community Stadium... The most glaring issue last season was the condition of the pitch itself.. We hired a new full-time groundskeeper who oversaw a complete renovation of the pitch...

One thing that bothered me in my first season was seeing the entire Chris Lane Terrace—which offers some of the best views of the pitch— allocated exclusively to away fans. Whether there are 1,500 away supporters or just 15, not a single Woking FC fan is permitted along the entire side of the pitch. That just didn’t sit right with me, and so we’re actively exploring solutions that could potentially give us the flexibility—depending on the match—to allow Woking fans to use a portion of the Chris Lane Terrace..

We currently don’t offer supporters in the away section the full range of beverage options that are made available to away fans at virtually every other ground you visit. To that end, we’re working on plans to create a second 'Fan Zone' specifically for visiting supporters...

There are additional upgrades and improvements around the ground that we hope to launch this season, including:

• The installation of a digital screen in the “Home” Fan Zone area, where you’ll be able to read the latest team news, as well as catch up on the latest football results at half-time and full-time.
• On the food front, we are looking to add traditional pies, pasties and sausage rolls options to our matchday menu.
• Revamping and tidying up the interior of the club shop

As a tenant of our stadium, we are able to use it 24-hours a day, 365-days a year. Yet as a football club, we mostly just use it to put on around 30 football matches or so each season. We need to do a better job utilising our facilities beyond matchdays—to grow our non-football revenue at the club.

That means positioning Woking FC as a go-to destination for a wide variety of events —birthday parties, engagement celebrations, wedding receptions, community gatherings, religious functions, business meetings, and more".

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of defender Oscar Rutherford who joins the club from Dagenham and Redbridge for an undisclosed fee.

Having moved to Plymouth to join their Academy as a youngster, Oscar made... over 70 appearances in his two-year stay... He then moved to Dagenham...

Head Coach Matt Taylor [said], 'Oscar is a fine athlete and has a very bright future. We know there was a lot of interest from other clubs, including those in the EFL but it speaks volumes for where we are as a club that he chose to come here'...

Oscar said 'I came and looked at the facilities, met the Manager, and knew straight away that this is where I wanted to play my football. There is so much positivity around the whole club this summer and it’s exciting to be joining@".

Rochdale "announce the appointment of Jason Taylor as First Team Assistant Head Coach. A promotion winner with Dale in 2009/10, the 38-year-old joins Jimmy McNulty’s backroom staff with immediate effect.

We can also confirm that Kevin Gibbins has departed his role as Head Of Performance Services to join League One side Cardiff City.

Taylor, who has held a coaching capacity at League Two side Barrow since the summer of 2022, commented... 'Jimmy [McNulty] gave me a call to see if I would be interested, and I jumped at the chance'...

Taylor began his footballing career as a trainee at Oldham Athletic, before moving to Stockport County, where he became a teammate of our Head Coach. He moved to Rotherham United in 2009, from where he joined Dale on loan... The former midfielder made over 100 appearances for the Millers, which was followed by spells at Cheltenham Town, Northampton Town, Eastleigh and AFC Fylde.

In 2018, he joined Barrow, winning promotion to the EFL and clocking up over 130 appearances. He retired in 2023 to take a full-time coaching role with the Bluebirds".

No fewer than eight players/coaches have now left Gateshead in the week since 26 June.

Players Brandon Haunstrup, Ben Worman, Aidan Rutledge and Luke Hannant, along with goalkeeping coach Dale Walker, departed last week, And now, three more players have left the club.

They are Charlie Colkett, Harrison Bond and Ryan Bartley "following the expiration of their contracts".

The club explains that "Bond departs after two seasons... having made seven appearances... Colkett leaves Tyneside after making 23 appearances... following his arrival in August 2024, while Bartley departs with nine appearances to his name after joining the club in February 2025".

From Aldershot Town we learn of the "loan signing of Jed Meerholz who joins the Shots from Bristol City until January.

The midfielder has progressed through the ranks at Bristol City from the age of seven...

The 19-year-old also had a brief loan spell with Bath City towards the end of the 24/25 season...

Tommy Widdrington said 'Having been made aware that Jed was to become available, we moved quickly to try and add him to the group.”

'He will bring us more competition in a few areas where his left foot and combative nature has impressed us. We must acknowledge our continued excellent working relationship with Bristol City'...

Head of Recruitment, Jamie Hedges, added... 'Jed gives us added balance being left-footed. He’s primarily a midfielder, but can also cover in defence. He’s a good size and physically strong but also technically very proficient'">

The Morecambe saga has taken another twist as the current owner has now issued a statement "on behalf of Bond Group Investments & Jason Whittingham.

There is no doubt that the Club is in a precarious position and is at a crisis point. We also appreciate the stress this is causing for all connected with Morecambe FC...

Bond Group Investments has started the process to dismiss the Board of Directors with immediate effect in order that we can take control over the situation giving us the required additional time to ensure that the Club has the best chance to avoid Administration.

We hope the The Board of Directors put the interest of the club before any personal grievances and during this delicate time of negotiation to save the club, refrain from their propensity of issuing negative statements.

The notion that Bond Group Investments is stalling is not true. Bond Group Investments need to ensure that any transfer of shares, in a sale, is done in a way that holds no recourse for either the Club or Bond Group. The safety of the Club’s future is paramount.

Our focus today is to work to find solutions to resolve the matter of staff salary and the Sale of the Club to avoid Administration at all costs.

The staff, players and management team at the club have all been notified as have the National League. We will be communicating with the Supporters' Trust.

We are deeply sorry for the distress and uncertainty this is causing. Our next communication will be tomorrow morning to confirm the outcome".

Southend United "announce the signing of left wing-back Harry Boyes.

Boyes joins after leaving Sheffield United and puts pen to paper on a two-year contract...

The 23-year-old has made over 50 appearances in the EFL, featuring prominently during loan spells at Lincoln City, Wycombe Wanderers and Fleetwood Town.

'Harry’s someone that we’ve recognised from his time at Solihull Moors first and foremost, playing against him,' Blues head coach Kevin Maher explained... 'I'm grateful to the club for getting it done because he's the one that we wanted for that position...

Born in Barnsley, Boyes spent time in Manchester City’s youth system before joining Sheffield United, where he played under our assistant head coach Darren Currie in the Blades’ youth teams.

His first taste of senior football came on loan at Bradford Park Avenue, before a breakout campaign with Solihull Moors in the National League...

Boyes began 2022/23 at Sky Bet EFL League One outfit Forest Green Rovers, making 16 appearances... He was recalled by his parent club in January 2023 and sent to Lincoln City where he would make another 17 appearances...

A loan spell in Buckinghamshire with Wycombe Wanderers saw Boyes make another 29 appearances before another January switch, this time to Fleetwood Town where he saw out the remainder of the 2023/24 season.

Boyes continued his development with Sheffield United’s Under-21s team last season, scoring eight times in 30 appearances...

'I'm an attacking full-back that likes to get forward to create chances, score goals, and assist'" he said. Yeovil Town "announce the signing of winger James Daly from Harrogate Town.

The 25-year-old arrives at Huish Park with experience across both the EFL and National League, having represented Harrogate Town, Stevenage, Bristol Rovers, and Crystal Palace, where he began his professional career.

Daly is known for his pace, direct running, and relentless work rate on the flanks. Comfortable on either wing, his ability to stretch defences and contribute in the final third makes him an exciting addition...

Manager Mark Cooper said 'James is a lively wide player who brings great energy and tenacity. He’s quick, fearless, and always looking to drive forward. He gives us a strong option out wide'".

2 July 2025

AO EXTEND THEIR SPONSORSHIP AT ALTRINCHAM

The UK's most trusted electrical retailer has shown an unparalleled level of support and commitment since becoming a club partner last summer, including the funding of three supporter coaches for the long away trips to Yeovil Town, Woking and Dagenham & Redbridge, sponsoring the club's End of Season Awards and backing our free entry initiative for last November's National League Cup tie with Manchester United.

And now the company's nationally famous smiley face logo not only sits front and centre on the playing shirts of the entire club, but also prominently across men's first team training tops as part of a multi-year partnership.

Talking about the new sponsorship, Altrincham FC Commercial Manager Wayne Ashall said, 'I'm absolutely delighted that we have extended our fantastic partnership with AO. This commitment to the club is so valuable and having a partner that buys into the club's ambition and future plans really helps us to keep pushing forward'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We must emphasise that this is without providing the Board with any substantive or convincing reasons for us to responsibly delay triggering the administration process.

The Board of Directors have, this evening, informed Jason that administrators will be called, at the earliest opportunity, tomorrow morning.

Jason still has the chance to do the right thing, agree to sell his shares tomorrow morning, but that opportunity expires once and for all after that".

That came after a day of brinkmanship...

It started as Morecambe's Board announced that "Following multiple meetings with [owners] Bond Group throughout the weekend and yesterday, in several of which Jason Whittingham stated once again his desire and intention to sell his shares in the Club to Panjab Warriors, in line with the sale agreement reached and announced weeks ago, the Board of Directors met at 9am this morning to discuss the fact that, despite all parties apart from Bond Group doing everything possible to complete the sale yesterday, as of last night Jason Whittingham was again refusing to sell his shares in the club to Panjab Warriors.

Because Bond Group do not have the required funds to meet the club's full payroll commitment, despite being entirely responsible for paying wages until a sale completes and aware of that responsibility and the requirement, this means that wages cannot be paid until the sale completes.

Panjab Warriors do have the funds available to pay all wages, and are ready to transfer these immediately, but they are not able to do so unless the sale completes and they are the owners.

As a result, we have had no choice but to issue an ultimatum to Jason Whittingham at 9:52am this morning, Tuesday 1st July 2025, that unless Bond Group's shares are sold to Panjab Warriors by 4pm today, the Board of Directors will be left with no option but to begin the process of putting the Club into administration.

We have been crystal clear in spelling out what this might mean for all staff, for the Club, and for the whole community that is built around it, and we have left Jason Whittingham in no doubt as to the fact that his unwillingness to complete a transaction that he has repeatedly agreed to is the sole reason we are in this position".

At 4.30pm, Morecambe announced "New information has come to light, which is currently being investigated, therefore the deadline that was set for 16:00, has now been extended to 18:00.

We have been working diligently all day and are in communication with the current owner, Jason Whittingham and Panjab Warriors.

We will provide an update as soon as we possibly can".

And finally came the 9.30pm announcement quoted above ...

Yeovil Town "announce the signing of defender KYLE FERGUSON, who returns to Huish Park ahead of the 2025/26 season on a one-year deal...

Ferguson spent a brief period on loan at the club from Rochdale towards the end of the 2024/25 campaign, making four appearances and leaving a positive impression with his composed defending and physical presence...

Now joining Yeovil on a permanent basis, Ferguson adds strength and depth to Mark Cooper’s defensive options as the club continues preparations for the season ahead.

Manager Mark Cooper said 'Kyle settled in really well during his loan spell and showed us exactly what he’s about. He’s strong, intelligent on the ball, and a great character to have around the group'".

Scunthorpe United "is delighted to announce the acquisition of midfield maestro Oliver Ewing following his departure from EFL Championship side Leicester City.

The 22-year-old caught the eye of Andy Butler during his loan spell with National League North outfit Buxton FC last campaign and was made an immediate target for the Iron... The versatile midfielder made 19 appearances from February onwards when he joined the Bucks...

After coming through the ranks of the Fulham academy, the Welsh youth international made the switch to Leicester in 2019...

Ewing said... 'There's a good feel around the place. It's a massive club, and I'm here to help the club try and get back to where it belongs...

'I always give 100 per cent. I'm a technical player, I like to get on the ball, create chances and score goals@".

Another player arriving in Lincolnshire is the subject of a BBC report to the effect that "Grimsby Town have signed Truro City forward Jaze Kabia for an undisclosed fee on a two-year deal.

The 24-year-old Irishman scored 16 goals as the Cornish side won the National League South title last season.

'We've got a bright, young player, who we feel has a good chance to make a big impact in league football,' Mariners boss David Artell told the club website... We are hopeful he'll score a lot of goals for us@".

Essex's Daily Gazette reports that "Braintree Town have snapped up forward Freddie Hockey

The 19-year-old striker has signed for Iron, following his departure from Chelmsford City by mutual consent last month after four years at the National League South club.

Braintree boss Steve Pitt said 'Freddie is a young player who I have admired for many years, he has considerable senior experience despite his young age and has huge potential to contribute to our new look forward line. I have no doubt he is capable of making the step up to the National League and [will] learn from our experienced forwards at the club like John [Akinde] and Lewis [Walker].”

Hockey played in Colchester United’s academy before moving to Chelmsford City, before the 2021-22 season. The 5ft 9in striker became the Clarets’ second youngest player when just after celebrating his 16th birthday, he started against Maidstone United...in August 2021".

Hartlepool United "announce the signing of Jay Benn, who will join Pools upon expiry of his contract at League One Lincoln City.

The 23-year old right-sided defender makes the move to the Prestige Group Stadium having spent last season on-loan at League Two promotion winners Bradford City...

Known for being dynamic and astute in defensive lines, whilst maintaining energetic athleticism in attacks, Benn also brings handy National League experience to Pools, having played 27 games for a Solihull Moors side who reached the play-offs in 2023/24...

Benn said 'This is a fantastic football club which should not be at the level it is. I cannot wait to play my part in a team which hopefully helps it back to where it should be.'"

The National League has announced "Mitre as its Official Match Ball Partner in a three-year partnership, kicking off from the 2025/26 season.

The deal will see every fixture across the National League, National League North and National League South played with the Mitre Ultimax Match Ball...

This complements Mitre’s existing relationship with The FA’s competitions, including the Emirates FA Cup, Isuzu FA Vase and Isuzu FA Trophy, in which many National League clubs also compete.

To mark the new partnership, Mitre has crafted a bespoke Ultimax match ball. The design features The Enterprise National League’s revitalised brand identity and logo, with a palette of deep blue, striking red, and flecks of silver. Taking centre stage is the new title sponsor, Enterprise, with its logo integrated seamlessly into the design, symbolising a new era for one of football’s most cherished competitions.

A standout design feature is the 72 intricate dots that wrap around the ball, each representing a club within the league structure – a tribute to the unity and diversity of the National League...

Built from decades of knowledge, it features a unique four-panel design, reducing seams to create a larger sweet spot. This innovation ensures maximum power, improved control, and a better connection with every strike.

The ball is thermally bonded with HyperSeal technology, ensuring superb shape retention, durability, and zero water absorption. Its Hyperflow debossed grooves have been specifically designed for in-flight stability, ensuring consistency across all speeds of play. Inside, the Hyperfoam elastic cushioning offers optimal power, close control, and a responsive touch".

Boston United "have clinched the signature of experienced striker Lenell John-Lewis.

The 36-year-old, who began his career at Lincoln City, has joined the Pilgrims from National League rivals York City on a one-year contract, with a further year’s option.

John-Lewis... has also played for the likes of Grimsby Town, Newport County and Shrewsbury Town.

He will bring great experience to United’s new-look squad, as they transition to their new full-time model this summer".

Boreham Wood "are delighted to unveil our first signing of the summer, dynamic and determined 24-year-old left back Joe Newton! Newton arrives in WD6 after a strong, two-year spell with fellow National League contenders, Solihull Moors.

A local lad from nearby Hatfield, Newton’s performances with Royston Town early on in his career earned him a move to Coventry City in 2019...

He became a standout performer for Havant & Waterlooville... racking up 80 appearances in the National League South...

In the summer of 2023, Solihull Moors swooped in, and Newton delivered... tallying more than 70 National League appearances".

Also leaving Solihull Moors report on John Bostock that "after amicable and private discussions, we can announce that both parties have mutually agreed to terminate John’s contract early.

Chairman Darryl Eales said, 'John, as well as being a highly gifted player, is one of the most principled individuals you can meet and I’m delighted that we have reached an outcome which serves the best interests of both parties'...

John said 'It’s been an honour to wear the yellow shirt and represent Solihull Moors. This club has come a long way in such a short time, and I’ve no doubt it’s heading for even greater things'".

1 July 2025

ALTY OLD BOYS

The match was played on neutral territory at Leogang, in Austria, and Legia won by the only goal".

Back in the National League, relegated Dagenham & Redbridge report their "ninth signing of the summer. Former Daggers Striker, ASHLEY HEMMINGS, has agreed to join the club on a one-year deal from Kidderminster Harriers for an undisclosed fee.

Hemmings, born in Lewisham, London, began his footballing journey at Wolverhampton Wanderers.. and went on loan to Cheltenham Town, where he made his senior debut. He featured briefly for Wolves’ first team at the end of the 2008–09 season and signed a new two-year deal..

Hemmings had loan spells at Torquay United and Plymouth Argyle... After a permanent move to Plymouth fell through, Hemmings signed with Walsall in League One... he was loaned to Burton Albion in 2014 before being released that summer.

Above: In March 2019, Ashley Hemmings celebrates his goal for Altrincham in a 3-1 win over Farsley Celtic with Yusifu Ceesay (left) and Simon Richman.

He then joined the Daggers in League Two, where he enjoyed a productive spell, becoming a regular starter and scoring goals... However, he was released in 2016 following the club’s relegation to the National League. Hemmings then signed for Mansfield Town...

Hemmings dropped into non-league football with Boston United... He briefly joined Salford City before moving to AFC Fylde in search of more regular playing time. A short loan at Altrincham followed, before he signed with Kidderminster Harriers in October 2019. He went on to spend 6 seasons at Kiddy.

Last season, he enjoyed his most productive spell, scoring 30 goals, earning him both the National League North golden boot and player of the season awards!"

Elsewhere DANNY HIGGINBOTTOM is commentating on the Club World Cup for Channel 5.

NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Savage starts work immediately and will take training at the Candriam Training Centre this afternoon (Tuesday 1st July).

As head coach of Macclesfield FC, Savage secured promotion to the National League North at the club’s first attempt, winning the Northern Premier League collecting 109 points and scoring 109 goals.

As a player, Savage enjoyed an illustrious career at the top level...

Robbie said 'I feel I have an opportunity to develop a squad to create an attacking brand of football; an aggressive form of football to try and get Forest Green back into the EFL.

'I want a fast, exciting style but the most important thing is to win games.'"

Back in March Savage told BBC Sport, "Macclesfield is my club and it's not very often you can manage the club you've built from the first brick with your best friend. It would take an awful lot for me to leave".

According to the Lancaster Guardian, "It remains unclear as to whether Morecambe’s players and staff have been paid June’s salaries as fans prepare[d] to demonstrate on Monday evening.

A statement on Friday from Morecambe’s board of directors confirmed that month’s wages hadn’t been paid by the owner, Bond Group Investments Limited.

The statement also said that Bond Group ‘appear to be considering reneging’ on a deal to sell the Shrimps to Panjab Warriors, who had received EFL clearance for a takeover at the start of June.

Consequently, the 1920 Union fans’ group is calling on supporters to attend a peaceful demonstration of support for players and staff at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium at 6.30pm on Monday...

Following the Morecambe directors’ announcement, Panjab Warriors issued a statement in which it criticised Bond Group’s Jason Whittingham and outlined the money they claim has already been spent.

It said 'Since the English Football League granted clearance for the purchase of Morecambe FC almost a month ago, the Panjab Warriors team has been working tirelessly to progress and finalise the sale of the club. From our perspective, the final transaction, now in the hands of our solicitors, has been ready to proceed for over a week.

'However, despite repeated efforts to move things forward, it has become apparent that Bond Group, through their representatives, has adopted an uncooperative stance. This is now obstructing the completion of the sale. To date, a sum of £3,800,000 has already been paid to Bond Group, alongside an agreed sum of £630,000 to clear the outstanding loans against Morecambe FC.

'In addition, over the past 14 months, £1,700,000 has been loaned – interest-free – by the Panjab Warriors team to meet the club’s monthly working capital needs and ensure its ongoing survival. We now see no option but to publicly disclose the current situation, as the continued delays have become untenable.

'To be clear: the delay lies solely with Bond Group. It now appears they are deliberately jeopardising the very existence of the club in a last-ditch effort to alter terms that were already agreed upon and formally ratified by the EFL. This is a blatant attempt to extract additional funds from the Panjab Warriors team by using Morecambe FC’s future as leverage.

'Disturbingly, further proof of this emerged today when the Bond Group informed Morecambe FC’s Board of Directors that they are unable to facilitate the club’s payroll, due today, for players and staff – displaying a shocking disregard for the livelihoods of those who serve the club day in, day out'".

The Bolton News tells us that Bolton Wanderers "have agreed to loan midfielder Dubem Eze out to Scunthorpe United next season.

The former Chelsea youth is in the final year of his contract with the Whites, having joined the club from Norwich City in July 2024... He [has] spent time out on loan in National League North with Chorley, playing 24 games and scoring three times, followed by a spell in the National League with Halifax, which yielded another half a dozen games...

The midfielder has opted to play for Nigeria and reports there claim he has agreed a season-long loan deal".

Cumbria's News & Star reports that "Former Carlisle United midfielder Joe Riley will face the Blues next season...

The 28-year-old has signed for Tamworth ahead of the 2025/26 season... after his departure from relegated AFC Fylde". Riley said, "I've been talking to the gaffer for a few weeks and he's told me what he's looking for. [He wants] a midfielder that can get around the pitch, and that's me as a player".

The article explains that "Riley was one of nine players released by Fylde after they dropped to National League North. He had spent a season with the club following his departure from Walsall.

Before that the ex-Manchester United man spent two seasons at Carlisle from 2020 to 2022, making 84 appearances".