31 October 2025

AT THE TWELFTH ATTEMPT?

The Robins will be making their twelfth successive attempt to win a game in any competition inside ninety minutes after their last eight league games have brought six defeats and two draws whilst three intervening cup games (two in the FA Cup and one in the Cheshire Senior Cup) have produced a draw, a defeat and an extra-time win against ten-men.

WOMEN'S FA CUP ODYSSEY CONTINUES

They have already travelled to Stockton Town in Co. Durham and to Penrith in Cumbria in the competition.

ALtrincham FC's "second round clash against the Northumbria-based tier five opponents will likely take place on Sunday, November 23rd with kick-off at 2pm.

So far this season the Robins, who play in the sixth tier North West Women's Regional League Division One South, have beaten Macclesfield, Atherton LR, Stockton Town and Penrith on their historic FA Cup run, under the guidance of first-year manager Daryll Abrahams.

On Sunday the squad return to Partington Sports Village at 2pm to take on fifth tier Crewe Alexandra in the first round of the Alliance Design & Print Cup - entry is FREE for everyone".

DAZN'S DECEMBER COVERAGE

Morecambe host Boston United at the Mazuma Stadium, now at 12.30pm on Saturday 6 December. Later that day, Tamworth’s trip to Scunthorpe United will now be available in the 5.30pm slot.

Fans in the UK have an amazing chance to catch plenty of action over the Christmas period with all National division games on Boxing Day, Tuesday 30 December and Saturday 3 January also available to stream on National League TV on DAZN wherever fans are in the world.

Every game in the Enterprise National League, and selected matches in Enterprise National League North and South, are available on DAZN, either live and/or on-demand. That’s over 600 games all in one place.

NLTV on DAZN is available on any device, including Smart TVs, mobile devices, tablets, streaming devices, games consoles, and, for viewers in the UK, your Sky box.

Confirmed DAZN picks for December:

• Saturday 6 Dec – Morecambe v Boston United (12.30pm)
• Saturday 6 Dec – Scunthorpe United v Tamworth (5.30pm)
• Friday 19 Dec – Altrincham v Rochdale (7.45pm)
• Saturday 20 Dec – Woking v Scunthorpe United (12.30pm)
• Saturday 20 Dec – Boston United v Aldershot Town (12.30pm)
• Saturday 20 Dec – Tamworth v Southend United (5.30pm)
• Saturday 20 Dec – York City v Truro City (5.30pm)
• Saturday 20 Dec – Yeovil Town v Forest Green Rovers (7.45pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – Brackley Town v Morecambe (12pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – Solihull Moors v Sutton United (12pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – Gateshead v Eastleigh (2pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – Braintree Town v Hartlepool United (2pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – FC Halifax Town v Wealdstone (4pm)
• Sunday 21 Dec – Boreham Wood v Carlisle United (4pm)

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

But the club says "You can still enjoy all the matchday excitement right here at Grosvenor Vale!

Our new majority shareholder Nick Semaca is inviting supporters to join him in The Vale Social Club to watch our National League fixture away at Yeovil Town on the big screen.

Nick will be buying the first drink for every fan who joins him in watching the match!

Come down early, grab your free drink, and enjoy the match on the big screens with fellow supporters. It’s a great chance to meet Nick, get to know his thoughts on the club’s progress and get behind the lads as they take on Yeovil!"

30 October 2025

NEXT: SLOUGH TOWN

And both teams are in poor form. The Berkshire club has lost five of its last six league games, whilst Altrincham have lost six of their last eight in the National League, with just two points culled from those eight fixtures. Those draws were both secured away from home.

For their part, Slough have conceded 21 times in those last six league matches. In chronological order the results were...

• LOST 4-2 at Torquay United
• LOST 2-5 at home to Hornchurch
• WON 1-3 at Hampton & Richmond Borough
• LOST 2-1 at Salisbury
• LOST 5-1 at Weston super Mare
• LOST 1-4 at home to Maidstone United

Slough Town summarised their most recent defeat, against Maidstone United, stating "Despite the margin of defeat, there were positives for the Rebels.

Davies’s stunning free-kick briefly brought the hosts back into the contest, while the continued emergence of young players such as Marin, Gough, and Anyanwu provided encouragement for the future.

The returning Greenidge and Dyce also offered some much-needed defensive reinforcement as Slough look to navigate a busy run of fixtures.

The defeat leaves Slough still searching for consistency in the league but with the chance to regroup quickly and channel their energy into a far bigger occasion next weekend — a huge Emirates FA Cup First Round tie against National League side Altrincham at Arbour Park.

With several senior players getting closer to returning, and a home crowd certain to rally behind them, the Rebels will be determined to produce a performance worthy of the occasion and continue their memorable cup run".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish Premiership : MARCUS DACKERS played the full game for Kilmarnock, but the only goal of the game was claimed by visitors Aberdeen.

NPL Division 1 West : RYAN BROOKE (right) scored at the end of the first half to put Runcorn Linnets two goals up at Avro.

SEAN MILLER was withdrawn at the interval, and Ryan eventually left the action after 69 minutes. Avro scored in added time but Runcorn won 1-2.

NWCL Premier Division : JOHN JOHNSTON put Irlam 0-4 up in the 52nd minute at West Didsbury & Chorlton, and, although the hosts reduced the arrears, Irlam went on to win 2-5.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 19-year-old shot-stopper and England youth international joined the Wood at the beginning of September and has made a huge impression during his loan spell...

Herrick recorded an impressive six clean sheets in 11 appearances for Luke Garrard’s side...

Following Fin’s departure, the Club have recalled club legend Nathan Ashmore from his loan with Enterprise National League North side Bedford Town. Nathan will return to Meadow Park immediately, having kept three clean sheets in his four appearances for the Eagles".

29 October 2025

APPRECIATING PHIL AND NEIL

Right: Phil and Neil are pictured here at Tamworth, with chairman Grahame Rowley, on 29 April 2017, the day after their appointment as the management duo at Altrincham FC.

They watched the game from the back of the stand before taking over hands-on management for the start of the 2017-18 season. Already confirmed as relegated to the Northern Premier League, Alty lost the match to The Lambs, 2-1.

Altrincham FC state "When Phil Parkinson walked through the doors at Moss Lane in April 2017, Altrincham Football Club was at one of its lowest points in decades. Relegated to the Northern Premier League Premier Division, the mood around the club was flat, and the rebuild ahead looked huge. But for Phil, and for his long-time assistant Neil Sorvel, it was the start of something special.

Phil joined Altrincham just three days after his Nantwich Town side had fallen short in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division play-offs. In his two years there, he had transformed The Dabbers from relegation candidates into promotion contenders. Neil, his trusted assistant, had been by his side for that journey, bringing both experience and calm to the touchline."

One year later they were at Grantham, celebrating confirmation of the club's promotion back to the National North.

Above: Alty manager Phil Parkinson and assistant Neil Sorvel leave the pitch at Grantham on 21 April 2018

The next promotion, back to the National League itself in 2020, was sadly not witnessed by supporters as the game had to be played behind closed doors owing to the Covid pandemic restrictions.

Five seasons in the National League started with three respectable lower mid-table finishes (17th, 14th, 17th) with a part-time side before two top-ten finishes (4th and 9th) were achieved after the club had gone full-time in May 2022.

Sadly, 2024-25 did not go well, leading to a parting of the ways. But the duo left the club two divisions higher than the position it was in when they took over for the start of 2017-18 season.

Also Radio Robins commentator Laurence Howarth discussed the achievements of Phil Parkinson and Neil Sorvel on Radio Alty.

TRANSITION AT ALTY

A penalty shootout defeat to North West Counties League Winsford United, coupled with six defeats and a draw in their previous seven National League fixtures, proved the final straw for Alty’s board...

When an uncertain start to this season turned into a full-blown crisis, with Alty perilously close to the relegation zone after taking just one point from 21 since early-September, the board heeded growing calls for a change of manager from increasingly disgruntled fans...

Former Wealdstone boss Neil Gibson has been named interim manager, with Lee Jones as his assistant...

Gibson, who started with a 0-0 draw at Braintree on Saturday, said 'I’m proud to be here, and while the board focuses on the recruitment of a permanent manager, Lee and I will give everything to move this team up the table and build momentum as quickly as possible'".

NEXT OPPONENTS: SLOUGH TOWN

However, for Alty's hosts, it will be a fifth tie of the FA Cup campaign.

They entered the competition at the Second Round Qualifying in which they drew away at Welling United, 1-1, before winning the replay 1-0.

Another away draw followed in the Third Round Qualifying, this time at Bedfont Sports, whom they defeated 2-1.

For Round Three Qualifying they were assigned a home match against Enfield, which they won 3-2.

Slough Town has a complicated history. In 1890 a club called Slough FC was founded. It lost its stadium in 1936 and ground-shared at Maidenhead United before merging with Slough Centre FC, the new entity being called Slough United.

After World War Two, United instigated the formation of a new league named the Corinthian League. This action prompted the club nickname of The Rebels.

However, by 1947 Slough United had broken up into its constituent parts, with the former Slough FC element rebranding itself as Slough Town. Town retains the Rebels nickname to this day.

ALTY OLD BOYS

EFL Trophy : Already a goal up, Barrow brought ELLIOT NEWBY off the bench after 79 minutes, going on to beat visitors Nottingham Forest U21 2-0.

EFL Cup : JUSTIN AMALUZOR was an unused substitute as Premier League visitors Brentford hit 5 goals without reply.

National League Cup : LIAM HUMBLES (right) played the full game for Rochdale, but KEVIN BERKOE was substituted at half time. Visitors Manchester United U21 won 0-2.

League Two : CONNOR JENNINGS played the full game for Tranmere Rovers as they drew 1-1 at Accrington Stanley.

National North : Visitors Peterborough Sports were bottom of the table at kick off, and looked likely to stay there when Southport were 2-1 up in the 83rd minute, but then the Sandgrounders, who were without LUKE BURGESS, conceded twice, and the 2-3 defeat leaves them on the bottom instead.

NPL Premier Division : MONTEL GIBSON was substituted by Hednesford Town half an hour after they were reduced to 10 men in the 36th minute. Visitors Stockton Town had already levelled by then, and went on to win 1-2, leapfrogging the Staffordshire side into 4th place in the process.

NYAL BELL's 26th minute strike was enough to earn the points for Hyde United at Prescot Cables. Bell (right) was substituted after 73 minutes, as was captain JACK REDSHAW 13 minutes later after he'd been booked. New signing from Witton Albion MAX HARROP made his Hyde debut from the bench after 78 minutes.

Ashton United's Robins loanee OWEN GERMAN picked up a yellow card during his full shift at Warrington Town, where they lost 2-1. DONTAI GABIDON was an 89th minute substitute for Warringto Northern Ireland Premiership : SAM ROSCOE scored as Linfield earned a two goal half time lead at Coleraine, but the home side fought back after the break to earn a 2-2 draw.

NPL Division 1 West : The only Old Boys in action for Witton Albion tonight were JOEL BEMBO-LETA, and JAMES LAWRIE, who was booked in their 1-1 draw at Kidsgrove Athletic.

At Mossley both captains were booked - MARK LEES for the hosts, and JOE PIGGOTT for Atherton Collieries - while Collieries substituted SAM SHERIDAN after 64 minutes as they went down 3-0. Mossley were without MASON FAWNS.

KYLE BROWNHILL (left) was the only Old Boy in action for Stalybridge Celtic, who crashed 4-0 at Stafford Rangers.

By the time Vauxhall Motors introduced KEVIN ELLISON after 55 minutes, visitors Nantwich Town's BYRON HARRISON had already scored the game's only goal.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 1 NOVEMBER

Above: Altrincham defend a first-half corner against Alfreton.

Indeed, Altrincham could have no complaints as Alfreton went home with all three points.

Throughout the 90 minutes, the Robins scarcely tested the visitors' keeper in a lacklustre display.

However, Altrincham had started quite well, before they lost the initiative. Alfreton won two corners and the unmarked Graham headed home the second of these to give the visitors a lead after 20 minutes. Alty lost Nicky Clee to injury to compound a wretched first half.

Altrincham again struggled to create chances in the second period but raised their game in the closing stages without ever really looking like scoring until Reeves's toe-ender span wide of the post in the closing stages.

Keeper Dawson became the Reds' hero as he saved Gillespie's injury-time penalty, a spot kick which the substitute had himself won.

ALTRINCHAM: 1 Stuart Coburn, 2. Shaun Densmore (c), 5. Gianluca Havern, 16. Tom Marshall, 6. Scott Leather; 4. Jake Moult; 25. Peter Cavanagh, 11. Nicky Clee, 7. James Lawrie, 10. Damian Reeves, 14. Kyle Perry, Subs: 8. Simon Richman, 9. Steven Gillespie, 15. Greg Wilkinson, 17. Dave Parton 18. Sean Williams.

NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP

Tuesday 21st October

Group A

• Solihull Moors 1-0 Blackburn Rovers U21
• Brackley Town 1-1 Everton U21 1, Everton U21 won 4-2 on penalties
• Tamworth 4-0 Burnley U21

Group B

• Braintree Town 2-3 West Bromwich Albion U21
• Forest Green Rovers 2-2 Leicester City U21, Leicester City U21 won 5-3 on penalties
• Wealdstone 0-2 Nottingham Forest U21

Group C

• Aldershot Town 3-3 Southampton U21, Southampton U21 won 4-2 on penalties
• Sutton United 3-3 West Ham United U21 3, West Ham United U21 won 4-3 on penalties
• Truro City 3-0 Brighton & Hove U21 0
• Woking 2-0 Fulham U21 0

Group D

• Halifax Town 3-0 Leeds United U21 0
• Gateshead 1-1 Sunderland U21 1 , Gateshead won 4-3 on penalties

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

His most notable role was as CEO of Coventry City from 2017-2024 overseeing a rise from League Two to the Championship and being a penalty kick away from the Premier League. He was also previously Chair of Worcester City, CEO of Newport County AFC as well as holding senior roles in the general administration of the game...

Dave said 'I am really excited about the opportunity that the Moors are offering me and excited to be back in the game. Darryl and the rest of the team have built a great infrastructure for the Club and the Training Ground is the envy of most League One and Two Clubs...

Myself and Darryl have been speaking about the possibilities for over 6 months and Darryl involved me in the process of appointing Chris Millington at the back end of September which gave me a great insight to how the Club operates and what great potential there is'".

At Forest Green Rovers "Sean Etaluku has completed his medical and signed his contract with the club, subject to league approval.

The signing of the 21 year old was announced in principle with Macclesfield FC on Sunday, 12th October 2025. Etaluku signed for The Silkmen in November 2024 from League Two side, Barrow, and has featured heavily throughout his time with the club.

The rapid winger had been on loan at Matlock Town and his performances caught the eye of then boss Robbie Savage - who Sean teams up with at Rovers once more.

A product of Burnley’s Academy, Etaluku’s speed and quality caused a number of problems for opposition sides in their promotion-winning 2024-25 season.

He was also named 2024/25 Northern Premier League Premier Division – Young Player of the Year".

28 October 2025

NEXT: SLOUGH TOWN

It is five years since Altrincham reached Round Two, by defeating York City at Bootham Crescent, 1-0. They met Portsmouth in the Second Round and lost to a late goal, 2-1, at Fratton Park.

ALTY'S INJUSTICE CITED IN "3UP" CAMPAIGN

The NL is claiming that three promotion places should be assigned to National League clubs each year. "As we count down to our Day of Action on Saturday 15 November, we’ll be sharing stories that give context to that claim. And where better to start than the painful, protracted process that finally led to our first promotion place, four decades ago.

Right: Altrincham with the Alliance Premier champions' trophy, which they had won for the first time in 1980

When Altrincham manager Sanders guided his side to the inaugural Alliance Premier League title in 1979, it was a moment of immense pride. But what followed was colossal frustration – not just for the club, but for anyone involved in English football who valued ambition and justice.

The Alliance Premier League – the forerunner to the National League – had been formed for the 1979-80 season, with a view to establishing a gateway to the Football League...

20 teams competed – and under Sanders’ stewardship, Altrincham rose to the top of the pile, playing football that was both attractive and effective, averaging more than two goals per game. Few could argue they hadn’t earned the right to take the next step.

It should have been a formality. Nevertheless, promotion wasn’t guaranteed – even for the champions. The tired old “election” process remained in place. At the Football League’s AGM, member clubs cast ballots to decide whether to re-elect the four bottom sides or to grant access to the sole representative from the Alliance. In the previous 21 years, only five struggling clubs had failed to win re-election...

On 6 June 1980, behind closed doors in the smoke-filled rooms of London’s Café Royal, votes were cast. Sanders and the Altrincham delegation were kept out in the corridor while others decided their fate. Altrincham missed out by a single vote – 26 to 25 – losing to a Rochdale side that had finished rock bottom of the Football League and were, by any measure, in crisis.

Salt was rubbed into the wound: two delegates who had allegedly committed to backing Altrincham missed the vote – one caught in traffic; the other in the wrong part of the hall and didn't get handed a ballot slip...

Altrincham kept their end of the bargain. They won the Alliance again in 1981 – by a wider margin – and Liverpool-born Sanders guided his team to the FA Cup third round for the third consecutive season, where he had the privilege of leading his side out at Anfield... Surely this time, the Football League couldn’t turn them away?

They could – and they did. The League closed ranks. Halifax received the fewest votes of the clubs up for re-election, yet their 41 easily eclipsed Altrincham’s paltry 15.

The pattern repeated year after year, to increasing derision. There wasn’t even a pretence of fairness. It was a closed shop...

But towards the end of the 1985-86 season, when the pounding on the door had become deafening, the Football League finally found its moral compass. At an extraordinary meeting held on 28 April 1986, members voted to abolish re-election – a 19th-century tradition finally consigned to history. Automatic promotion and relegation would begin in 1986-87.

And so at the following month's AGM, Enfield would become the last club to suffer the indignity of a pantomime vote: seven points clear at the top of the Alliance but handed just 7.5 election votes. Torquay, six points adrift at the Football League’s nadir, collected 61.

If the triumph at the extraordinary meeting was too late for Enfield, it was certainly much too late for Altrincham – and for Telford, Bath, and Maidstone (twice), who had all applied for League status in vain in those seven years.

Under a young Neil Warnock, Scarborough became the first club ever to be automatically promoted into the Football League in the summer of 1987...

Our Day of Action is coming on Saturday 15 November. The history books will forever show our games kicking off at 3.03pm, as we draw attention to the 3UP campaign – a small gesture that’s captured the imagination and prompted the question: why are we waiting?".

BRAINTREE'S VIEW

First chance of the match came after just ten minutes when Chay Cooper tried his luck from the edge of the 18 yard box but his effort crashed against the crossbar before ricocheting over. George Langston tried his luck on 39 minutes but visiting keeper Fallon palmed the ball wide.

The visitors did better after the break. Debutant keeper Jack Thompson, on loan from Derby County, was equal to James Gale's 48th minute header for the visitors.

Thompson had to be alert on 54 minutes when he pushed Kahrel Reddin's cross onto Langston before catching the rebound. In time added on Aidan Francis-Clarke had to [be] alert to block substitute Oliver Crankshaw's close range effort before the five minutes added expired and the game finished all square".

THE JDS IN DAYLIGHT

Above: The sun shines on the Popular Side and the former British Gas communications pylon which towers above the J. Davidson Stadium (JDS).

Altrincham are currently into a period of a full month between daytime league games at the J. Davidson Stadium.

Following the league game against Woking on 18 October, the next ENL match with a 3pm kick-off at Moss Lane is not until 15 November when Brackley Town renew their acquaintance with the stadium after the Northamptonshire club's return to the top flight of non-League this season.

ACADEMY UPDATE

On Wednesday, 15 October, at Egerton Sports Club, Knutsford, the U-19s lost 0-3 to the Steven Gerrard Academy NWC 1 team.

The following Wednesday (22 October) they hosted Burnley FC's SYT NWC team and secured a 1-1 draw at Egerton Sports Club.

The squad comprised in a/z order, Theo Bunting, Harry Cain, Rafael Fereday, Josh Herreaman, Kian Leckey, Kian Mattison, Benjamin Mensah, Joshua Obamwonyi, Theo Bunting, Archie Rowlands and Jimmy Taafe, who were the starers and substsitutes Charlie Hough, Callum McCormack, William Molloy and William Sneyd.

Alty led at the interval through a goal from Herreaman before the visitors levelled in the 70th minute.

TRAFFORD TURMOIL

Its largest non-League club, Altrincham, is currently sitting in the lower reaches of the National League, and its second club, Trafford FC, in even deeper trouble.

A model of stability since their foundation in 1990, Trafford FC is currently experiencing an horrendous season in the Northern Premier League Division One West in which it finished, like Alty in the National League, in ninth place last season.

After fifteen fixtures this campaign, however, Trafford have won just once and following Saturday's games found themselves nine points from safety as the bottom club in the 22-club division.

On Sunday they announced "the departure of manager Karl Marginson with immediate effect.

"This outcome has been reached by mutual consent...

"Karl was appointed when the team were struggling in October 2023 and he guided us to safety by the end of the 20223-24 season.

"Last season Karl led us to a highly respectable ninth-place finish.

"Unfortunately, the current campaign has seen us unable to build on last season".

After that, Trafford FC "appointed Tom Baker as the club’s new manager.

"Tom is of course well known at Shawe View having been in charge from 2015 to 2020...

"In 2020 Tom stepped down following the abandonment of football due to Covid. During his five years at the helm, Tom brought silverware to Shawe View in the form of the Northern Premier League Cup in 2019. He also guided the team to a place in the League Play-offs in 2018.

"Under Tom’s leadership the club never finished outside the top ten in the league. He also led us to two Manchester Premier Cup Finals...

"Since leaving the role five years ago, Tom has focused on his family and his business, whilst keeping in touch with the non-league scene by carrying out scouting, most recently for Altrincham FC".

Footnote: Tom Baker was a former Barnsley player who also played in Neil Brown's Altrincham FC Reserves before, more recently, scouting for Alty under Phil Parkinson's management.

CHESHIRE NEWS

"Following the weekend's result, the Board of Directors would like to provide an update to supporters.

We are all disappointed with the poor start to the season and understand and share the concern and frustration you have expressed.

Immediately after full-time on Saturday, we held extensive discussions with Manager Calum McIntyre and his coaching staff regarding the team’s performance...

Calum, his staff, and the players are united in their belief that they can deliver the results and performances needed to rectify the current situation, and in wanting the opportunity to do so.

The unanimous view of the Board of Directors is that the significant contribution Calum and his staff have made to the football club over three-and-a-half years is deserving of this opportunity.

All parties have therefore agreed clear targets for our upcoming league fixtures, and are in agreement that it is essential these are met to retain the best chance of achieving our expectations this season...

Your backing makes a huge difference and we ask that you continue to get behind the team, starting with Saturday’s visit to Cambridge United in the FA Cup First Round".

Chester have on their books ex-Altrincham men James Jones, Tom Peers and former Alty loanee Dylan Mpttley-Henry.

27 October 2025

BRAINTREE HIGHLIGHTS

ALTY WOMEN PROGRESS IN WOMEN'S FA CUP

Altrincham FC's Ben Edwards reported that "First half goals from Georgia McKnight, Milla Jacobson and Kira Saycell were enough to seal victory on a wet afternoon in Cumbria for the Robins, who've now won four ties in this season's competition, the last three being away from home.

The deadlock was broken for the visitors after just 85 seconds. Milla Jacobson played an excellent ball through to Georgia McKnight, who beat the offside trap and produced a composed finish...

Just 12 minutes later, Altrincham’s advantage was doubled, as Lawson’s clearance was picked up by Jacobson in midfield. Her turn beat three players incredibly, as the right-winger drove forward and converted one-on-one into the left-hand side of the goal...

The Robins’ were rewarded for standing firm defensively, as Kira Saycell chased Ireymika Bammigboye’s long ball forward, and was dragged down by a defender with the referee point to the spot. Having won the penalty, the number seven stepped up to take the spot kick, and although it lacked power, Lawson was rooted to the spot as Saycell placed the ball into the bottom right".

Penrith pulled back two goals in the second half but Alty held on to their win.

WOMEN'S MANAGER INTERVIEWED AFTER WIN

NEXT: SLOUGH TOWN

It will be almost thirty years since Alty last played in the town when bboth clubs were on the Conference in August 1996. SLough Town are currently fourth bottom of the National League South so, like Altrincham, are currently struggling to avoid relegation worries.

Since then Slough Town has relocated to Arbour Park Community Sports Stadium.

The Football Ground Guide adds that "Arbour Park still has that ‘shiny new’ look, having been opened in late 2016. Normally most new builds nowadays are fairly boring affairs, but pleasingly Arbour Park is a little different, mainly down to the smart-looking Main Stand on one side of the pitch...

With no supporting pillars to contend with and with the rake of the stand being quite steep, then supporters can enjoy fine views of the playing action. Even the team dugouts are located on each side of the stand rather than the normal in-front position...

The opening of Arbour Park in December 2016, was a major milestone for the Club, finally returning to their Slough hometown after an absence of 13 years. They had vacated their former Wexham Park ground in 2003 and had been forced to groundshare elsewhere until Arbour Park was built.

The pitch at Arbour Park is one of 24 FIFA-approved pitches in the UK to use 3G instead of natural turf. The stadium hosted a number of games at the 2018 CONIFA World Football Cup...

If segregation is in place then visiting supporters are mostly housed in the South Terrace at one end of the stadium. This covered terrace comprises six rows and has a capacity of around 700. In addition, several seats which are also undercover are made available to away fans in the East Stand".

PRE-CHRISTMAS GAMES

Owing to the streaming requirements of DAZN, all twelve fixtures in the Enterprise National League have been moved away from their original Saturday afternoon 3pm timing.

The 12 fixtures now share seven different kick off times. One match is on Friday evening, two are on Saturday lunchtime, two on Saturday tea-time and one on Saturday evening. The other six games have been switched to Sunday with four at 2pm and two at 4pm.

Amongst the longer trips for away fans are Carlisle United supporters getting to Boreham Wood for a Sunday 4pm kick off, Eastleigh travelling to Gateshead for 2pm on a Sunday and Truro's fans facing a 5.30pm game at York on the Saturday.

The new times are;

Friday, 19 December

• 7.45pm Altrincham v Rochdale

Saturday, 20 December

• 12.30pm Boston United v Aldershot Town
• 12.30pm Woking v Scunthorpe United

• 5.30pm Tamworth v Southend United
• 5.30pm York City v Truro City

• 7.45pm Yeovil Town v Forest Green Rovers

Sunday, 21 December

• 12 noon Brackley Town v Morecambe
• 12 noon Solihull Moors v Sutton United

• 2pm Gateshead v Eastleigh
• 2pm Braintree Town v Hartlepool United

• 4pm Boreham Wood v Carlisle United
• 4pm FC Halifax Town v Wealdstone

ALTY OLD BOYS

NATIONAL LEAGUE'S NEW FACES

Rather than being dominated by clubs seeking to regain a previously held higher status as is the case in the National League proper, the North and South Divisions are led by a preponderance of clubs which have never tasted football at a national level.

So in both National North and South only two of the current top seven have ever played at a higher level.

In the North only AFC Fylde (2nd) and Kidderminster Harriers (7th) have ever tasted national competition. Likewise in the South, just two of the top seven have competed in a national league; fifth-placed Torquay United and sixth-placed Maidstone United.

So the other ten clubs in the regional divisions' top seven would all be newcomers should they achieve promotion in 2026.

In the North division those clubs are South Shields (1st), Radcliffe (3rd), Scarborough Athletic (4th, a different club from the former Scarborough), Buxton and Spennymoor Town (6th and 7th).

In the South those aspirants who have only ever played regional football are Hornchurch (1st), Weston-super-Mare (2nd), AFC Totton (3rd), Hemel Hempstead Town (4th) and Horsham (7th).

So, at this early stage of 2024/25 season it seems probable that there will be some new faces competing in the National League in 2026/27.

26 October 2025

BRAINTREE TOWN 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

Nevertheless, securing a point at a ground where Altrincham had comfortably lost on all three of their previous visits indicated some progress, as did recording a first clean sheet in their last nine league outings this season.

Neil will hope to build on this performance when the Robins face Slough Town in Round One of the FA Cup next Saturday.

Match report here

NEIL GIBSON, POST-MATCH

Neil declared himself "really pleased with the players' efforts". He said that he had found the Alty players to be "a special group... the best group I've walked into [as a manager]... they have taken on board the information" that I gave them quickly.

Asked about his change to Alty's customary 4-3-2-1 formation Neil said he thought that a "tweak" would help to change the mindset and the performance. He singled out Jake Cooper's performance, considering it was his first league game of the season.

He agreed with Laurence's observation that Kahrel Reddin had been pushed further up the pitch after the interval and that gave him more impact on the proceedings.

Overall he judged that "a draw was a fair result".

As for next week's FA Cup tie at Slough Town, Neil confided that he knew "a bit about them", from "managing down South [at Wealdstone] last season"

NEXT: SLOUGH TOWN

The sides last met in the 1996-97 season at the end of which Altrincham were relegated from the Conference for the first time. The following season saw Slough follow them out of the top flight and whereas Altrincham have returned to the national level on four subsequent occasions, Slough have never made it back to that level.

The Berkshire club have played a total of six seasons at national level, spread over two spells. Their first spell comprised four seasons which amidst three finishes of 19th or lower in the 22-strong division, strangely included a fifth-place finish in 1993.

After a season back in the Isthmian Premier in 1994-95, Slough returned to the top flight in 1995 for a further three seasons in which they finished 17th, 16th and 8th in 1998. However after failing to make mandatory ground improvements, Slough Town were demoted to the Isthmian League Premier at the end of that season.

So their last season in the same division as Altrincham was 1996-97 when both sides lost their home fixture 1-0!

In six games played by Altrincham at Slough, they have never lost, winning five times in that sequence and drawing on the other occasion. Bizarrely, at Moss Lane, Alty only won two of the six encounters and in 1991-92 season suffered a humiliating 3-7 defeat at home!

However, it is modern-day Slough Town who have suffered two humiliating scores this week. On Saturday they lost 1-4 at home to Maidstone United in National League South.

Last Tuesday they crashed 5-1 away at Weston-super-Mare. In fact they have lost their last three league fixtures having previously being beaten 2-1 at Salisbury City.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : ALI SMITH (right) played the full game for AFC Wimbledon, but they were made to pay for missing a first half penalty against visitors Burton Albion who scored the only goal of the game early in the second half.

CARL PIERGIANNI was booked as Stevenage, behind after just 3 minutes to visitors Bradford City, came back to earn a 1-1 draw.

All the serious action at Adams Park was over by the time JUNIOR QUITIRNA came off the bench in the 85th minute, Wycombe Wanderers taking full advantage of Huddersfield Town striker Andy May's 25th minute dismissal to score three times without reply.

League Two : Having sneaked ahead against the run of play when Walsall's veteran defender Aden Flint put through his own goal in the 92nd minute, hosts Cheltenham Town immediately withdrew JAKE BICKERSTAFF to bring on a defensive midfielder, and hung on to win 1-0. They pull clear of the relegation places, but a real dogfight is developing with only 7 points separating the bottom 11 clubs.

Crawley Town remain in one of those spots despite thrashing Bristol Rovers 4-0 at the Broadfield Stadium. Rovers, without the injured JOEL SENIOR (left), went down to 10 men with the game still goalless. Crawley missed the resulting penalty, but broke the deadlock in the 9th added first half minute, taking full control after the break. DANNY CASHMAN was missing from the squad, and may well still not be fully fit.

Fleetwood Town were another side to miss a penalty, but were already 2-1 up on visitors Accrington Stanley. There were no further goals. HARRISON HOLGATE played the full game, but TOBY MULLARKEY wasn't in their squad.

Manchester United loanee JOE HUGILL is still missing for Barnet, who were held 2-2 at Barrow, for whom ELLIOT NEWBY played throughout.

Another United loanee not involved recently is SONNY ALJOFREE, who wasn't in the Notts County squad that won 2-1 at home to Cambridge United.

MARCUS DINANGA (right) came on after 86 minutes, though Bromley had already turned things around against visitors MK Dons and held on to win 2-1.

Grimsby Town were level 2-2 at Crewe Alexandra when they took off JUSTIN AMALUZOR after 80 minutes. He'd made his mark by then, earning the assists for both goals, but there was no happy ending for the Mariners as 20 year old Stoke City loaned Emre Tezgel completed his hat trick in the 87th minute to seal Crewe's win.

Oldham Athletic had to come from behind twice to earn a 2-2 home draw with fellow strugglers Shrewsbury Town. Neither REAGAN OGLE nor CHARLIE OLSON were in their squad.

Chesterfield were leading at Tranmere Rovers when hey took off JAMES BERRY after 70 minutes, but CONNOR JENNINGS, who had put in a full shift, scored in the 93rd minute to earn Rovers a 1-1 draw.

National League : ALEX NEWBY played the full game for York City who, despite having 22 goal attempts to only 5 from hosts FC Halifax, had to come from behind to draw 1-1.

JOE NUTTALL was withdrawn by Morecambe after 73 minutes at Eastleigh in the wake of the hosts going 2-0 up with a penalty. JOSH LUNDSTRAM played throughout for the Spitfires, who conceded late on, but won 2-1.

JEFF KING was booked after 57 minutes, and withdrawn by Boreham Wood 2 minutes later, as they lost 2-1 at Forest Green Rovers.

On loan from York City, TYRESE SINCLAIR (right) put in a full shift for Solihull Moors, but could do nothing to prevent them from losing 2-0 at Hartlepool United.

Brackley Town left JUSTIN DONAWA on the bench, as hosts Southend United left it late to beat them 2-0, scoring after 95 and 98 minutes.

Rochdale withdrew KEVIN BERKOE (left) after 71 minutes at Woking, while LIAM HUMBLES wasn't in the squad as they drew 0-0.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE claimed the assist for Carlisle United's equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Yeovil Town, where both he and REGAN LINNEY played the full game. In contrast, both KYLE FERGUSON and MATT GOULD stayed on the home bench.

Although Boston United were still without CONNOR TEALE for their visit to Tamworth, former Alty trialist ZAK MILLS returned to captain them to a 1-3 win. The home side substituted KENNEDY DIGIE after 77 minutes.

National North : CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde saw off visitors Hereford by the odd goal in three. RYAN COLCLOUGH, CHRIS MERRIE (booked and later withdrawn), and LIAM BROCKBANK started for the Coasters, while GEORGE WILSON was a 71st minute substitute.

Captained by CONNOR KIRBY, Buxton ran riot against fellow Derbyshire visitors Alfreton Town, winning 6-0. Both LEWIS SALMON (withdrawn after 85 minutes), and HARRY PERRITT (left) started for Town, who never recovered from conceding 5 in 14 minutes by the time the game was only a third of the way through.

Although JAMES JONES was missing, both TOM PEERS and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY were in Chester's starting XI against visitors Bedford Town. Tom lasted 78 minutes, while DYLAN played the full game, but the South Midlands club, playing the Seals for the first time, took the points with a 1-2 win.

Chorley were reduced to 10 men after 39 minutes, and LUCAS WEAVER was sacrificed straight afterwards so that they could bring on an extra defender. It didn't help their cause, visitors Merthyr Town winning 0-2.

National South : The veteran Andy Carroll was the Dagenham & Redbridge scorer at bottom club Chippenham Town. ASHLEY HEMMINGS was withdrawn after 77 minutes.

Welsh Premier League : Although Bala Town only had a single attempt on target, JOEL TORRANCE (right) made three saves to earn them a goalless draw at home to Barry Town.

Northern Ireland Premiership : SAM ROSCOE picked up a yellow card, but Linfield beat visitors Ballymena 2-1.

FA Trophy : RON SITHOLE was handed a start by FC United in their home tie against Bamber Bridge, but, with the tie goalless, they withdrew him after 63 minutes, going on to score the only goal of the tie in the 90th minute. JOEL BAILEY played the full game for Bridge.

NPL Premier Division : DONTAI GABIDON was an 89th minute substitute for relegation threatened Warrington Town, who ripped up the form by beating Lancaster City 3-2. The visitors were knocked off the top of the league as a result.

PL Division 1 West : BYRON HARRISON came off the Nantwich Town bench to join AIDY ROXBURGH after only 17 minutes at Newcastle Town. The Staffordshire side had just scored, and added two more later to win comfortably.

REMI RAYMOND made his Congleton Town debut from the bench after 75 minutes at Bootle, after TONY THOMPSON had already been beaten by the game's only goal. The hosts withdrew TOM HANNIGAN after 87 minutes, as Bears keeper DAVE PARTON (left) enjoyed a clean sheet.

JOE PIGGOTT played the full game for Atherton Collieries at Darlaston Town, and was joined for the second half by SAM SHERIDAN, but the Midlands side ran out surprise 2-0 winners.

Trafford were without JEROME WRIGHT at Kidsgrove Athletic, and SEAN HIGGINS'S 80th minute goal came with his team 4-0 down. They pulled another one back later, but are now 7 points adrift at the foot of the league after Darlaston's win.

MARK LEES was booked, and MASON FAWNS substituted in the 90th minute as Mossley lost 3-1 at Shifnal Town.

Runcorn Linnets scored in the opening minute at Stafford Rangers, but eventually had to settle for a 2-2 draw. SEAN MILLER played the first 68 minutes, while RYAN BROOKE came off the bench 10 minutes later.

Vauxhall Motors had just gone 3-2 up when KEVIN ELLISON came on in the 69th minute, but visitors Bury equalised late on.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND put in a full shift for Wythenshawe Town at Ericstan Park, where they saw off Witton Albion 2-1. MAX HARROP (right) and JOEL BEMBO-LETA were substitutes in the latter stages, but JAMES LAWRIE remained on the bench.

NWCL Premier Division : SHERIFF NJIE rescued a point for Cheadle Town after they had trailed for the best part of an hour at Euxton Villa.

Player coach JOHN JOHNSTON gave Irlam a 14th minute lead at Longridge Town, but they only held it for 3 minutes and eventually crashed 5-1.

Premier League Two : DERMOT MEE got an outing for Manchester United U21 as they won 4-1 in their home fixture against their counterparts from Tottenham Hotspur.

25 October, 2025

BRAINTREE TOWN 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

Altrincham did create a chance after 13 minutes but Knowles failed to turn Reddin's feed into the net and Langston cleared off the line.

But Braintree continued to have the better of the game and dominated up to the interval but failed to turn their superiority into a goal, with Akinde missing a good chance shortly before the break.

Altrincham were the better side in the second half, and the game was more open, but there were no goals as a match between two struggling sides ended goalless. It was Altrincham's first clean sheet in nine league matches.

Report to follow

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Braintree Town 0-0 Altrincham
• Eastleigh 2-1 Morecambe
• FC Halifax Town 1-1 York City k.o. 12.30pm
• Forest Green Rovers 2-1 Boreham Wood
• Gateshead 2-2 Truro City
• Hartlepool United 2-0 Solihull Moors
• Scunthorpe United 2-1 Aldershot Town
• Southend United 2-0 Brackley Town
• Tamworth 1-3 Boston United k.o. 5.30pm
• Wealdstone 4-2 Sutton United
• Woking 0-0 Rochdale
• Yeovil Town 1-1 Carlisle United

TEAM NEWS

With Lewis Banks injured, Jake Cooper (right) started his first league game of the season after injury and captain Lewis Baines returned to the starting eleven, with the injured Barnes and Sam Reed dropping out.

On the bench, Kosylo came in but only six players were named the, with loanee Waters back at Oldham Athletic after injury.

ALTRINCHAM: 30 Louie Fallon, 23. Tylor Golden, 34. Dan Sassi, 5. Jake Cooper, 4. Lewis Baines (c), 22. Tom Crawford, 6. Elliot Osborne, 8 Isaac Marriott, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. James Gale. Subs: 7. Olly Crankshaw, 10. Keaton Ward, 14. Matty Kosylo, 21. Jack Hinchy, 40. Charlie Kirk, 41. Max Beddow (gk)

Braintree were hit by the loss of their loanee keeper Henry Gray on the eve of the match. Only signed on Tuesday, Gray was recalled on Friday by parent club Ipswich Town. He had been the loan keeper at Braintree for half of last season.

So Braintree hastily recruited Derby County teenage keeper Jack Thompson, meaning that both keepers today were eighteen year-olds.

BRAINTREE TOWN: 13. Jack Thompson, 2. Aidan Francis-Clarke, 24. Frankie Terry, 4. George Langston (c), 6. James Vennings, 17. Jacob Pinnington, 8. Marley Marshall-Miranda, 18. Sahid Kamara, 38. Terrell Works, 11. Chay Cooper, 14. John Akinde. Subs: 33. Olly Davis, 16. Goran Babić, 39. Elliot Thorpe, 5. Manny Omrore, 21. Regan Clayton.

NEIL GIBSON INTERVIEWED

He started by telling Tom Jolley that he was "over the moon to be coming in to the football club".

He outlined his background, firstly as a player, at clubs which included Tranmere Rovers and Sheffield Wednesday.

Then, as a manager, he took his hometown club Prestatyn Town from the third tier of football in the Principality to the Welsh Premier and also into European competition.

Niel has also coached at Tranmere Rovers "over different spells" and arrives at Altrincham with "more than 750 games in my managerial career" behind him. Neil obtained his UEFA Pro licence in 2018.

Altrincham "is 50 minutes from where I live" and is his nearest National League club. "I came to watch a lot of games" at Altrincham he stated.

In terms of the players at Altrincham, they "have been fantastic today in training".

Asked about the supporters he said the onus was on the staff and players to get the supporters behind the team. At his previous clubs he had always tried to "build a connection with the supporters" and aimed to do so here as well.

LEE JONES, ASSISTANT MANAGER

After making 39 appearances for Wrexham, Lee joined Liverpool, playing three first-team games for the Anfield club. Spells at Tranmere Rovers and Barnsley came before he moved back to Wales to represent Caernarfon Town and Prestatyn Town.

Off the field, he had a brief spell as joint caretaker manager at Wrexham towards the end of the 2014–15 season. After working at Wrexham's Academy, he returned to Tranmere Rovers to run their Academy.

In January 2025, he joined Wealdstone alongside Neil Gibson as the club's management team.

BEFORE THE GAME: BRAINTREE TOWN v ALTRINCHAM

Altrincham have never won at Braintree and have lost by two goals or more on all three of their previous visits. Their previous league results at Cressing Road have been defeats by 4-2, 3-0 and 2-0.

One member of Alty's entourage did, however, win at Braintree last season and that was new interim manager Neil Gibson who guided his Wealdstone team to a victory there.

Since his appointment as interim manager on Thursday, Neil Gibson will have had barely 48 hours before kick-off to devise his match strategy, select his team and boost morale after an appalling run of results.

Altrincham have lost six of their seven most recent league games and, including cup ties, have failed to win any of their last ten games inside ninety minutes, their only victory in that period being in extra time at lower-ranked, ten-man Harborough Town in the FA Cup.

Morale had been further sapped by the midweek defeat in the Cheshire Senior Cup of an Alty side featuring nine starters who were in their first-team squad by a Winsford United team from four levels lower in the pyramid.

For the match on Saturday Altrincham are likely to be without their almost ever-present defender Lewis Banks (left) who was reported to be undergoing an x-ray on suspected ligament damage.

However, another defender, Jake Cooper, who had not been fit enough to play this season until the Cheshire Senior Cup tie in midweek, is expected to be in the squad tomorrow.

Goalkeeper Ethan Ross and centre-back Billy Sass-Davies have missed the entire season so far through injury and their absence will continue on Saturday.

Replacement goalkeeper, loanee Luke Hutchinson, will also be missing under the 21-days' terms of the concussion protocol, so Louie Fallon is expected to continue in goal.

Team captain Lewis Baines has also been carrying a knock but he did play part of the game at Winsford in midweek.

ROCHDALE GAME SWITCHED TO FRIDAY NIGHT

This is the fourth Altrincham league fixture already this season that has been altered in timing and/or date for DAZN, including the reverse fixture at Rochdale.

• Sat.16.8.25 Away v Rochdale; kick-off moved to 12.30pm from 3pm for DAZN transmission
• Sat.23.8.25 Away v Morecambe; kick-off moved to 12.30pm from 3pm for DAZN transmission
• Sat.6.9.25 Home v Sutton United; kick-off moved to 12.30pm from 3pm for DAZN transmission
• Sat.20.12.25 Home v Rochdale; date changed and kick-off moved to 12.30pm from 3pm for DAZN transmission

RAYMOND LOAN SWITCHED TO CONGLETON

The 18-year-old academy graduate, who has already featured for the Robins in the Enterprise National League this season, goes straight into The Bears' squad for Saturday's Northern Premier League Division One West clash at Bootle".

Footnote: Remi has made two brief National League substitute appearances for Altrincham this season and was also named on the bench but not used as a substitute in five other fixtures.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Braintree Town v Altrincham
• Eastleigh v Morecambe
• FC Halifax Town v York City k.o. 12.30pm
• Forest Green Rovers v Boreham Wood
• Gateshead v Truro City
• Hartlepool United v Solihull Moors
• Scunthorpe United v Aldershot Town
• Southend United v Brackley Town
• Tamworth v Boston United k.o. 5.30pm
• Wealdstone v Sutton United
• Woking v Rochdale
• Yeovil Town v Carlisle United

ALTY OLD BOYS

Irish Premier Division: BARRY BAGGLEY was substituted after 71 minutes against his old club, Waterford, who forced a 1-1 draw at St.Patrick's.

Premier League Cup : JACK KINGDON captained Cardiff City U21 at QPR U21, as they recovered from being two goals down at half time to earn a 2-2 draw.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

It means a mammoth 10 to 12-hour journey on a bus on Friday, interspersed with a training session at Championship side Derby County.

'When I signed for Truro I never thought in all honesty I'd be going to Gateshead away,' Tinners captain Connor Riley-Lowe told BBC Radio Cornwall... 'I've been at Truro for 10 years now and we're very, very used to travelling'...

Even their closest away game, at Yeovil Town, is at least three hours away...

Says manager John Askey, 'Clubs that come down to us, most of them are flying down and staying over on the Friday, so for us to have to do it on the coach is obviously not ideal'...

For Truro's Canadian chairman Eric Perez [said]... 'I'm actually looking forward to it as I'm going to be taking the journey with the players. I'm really looking forward to breaking the record with them'...

Former PE teacher Riley-Lowe [said], 'People didn't realise last year when we were part-time we used to work all day on the Friday, we'd meet the bus in Exeter and we'd travel in the evening and we would not be getting to the hotel until 11 or 12 o'clock [at night],' he says.

'This year none of us are working, we're travelling in the day, so as hard as it sounds it's a lot easier; certainly a lot easier than doing a full day at work then travelling.'"

Aldershot Town "confirm the appointment of John Coleman as the Club’s First-Team Manager.

The highly experienced 63-year-old will take over the position next week and arrives at the EBB with over 25 years of managerial experience for the likes of Accrington Stanley, Rochdale, Gillingham and many more...

Club Chairman, Shahid Azeem, said of the appointment 'First of all, all of us here at ATFC want to sincerely thank Alan Dowson and James Henry for stepping up to the plate in this interim period..

Alan and his team will lead The Shots out this weekend, and the Club are right behind them. We look forward to continuing to work with them'".

Footnote: Since leaving Accrington Stanley, Coleman has had two managerial jobs; first of all he spent less than three months at Gillingham where he left with just two wins to his name from 14 matches.

In May 2025, he became manager of Waterford in Ireland and left there after five months having won five of his 20 fixtures in charge. Four weeks after leaving Waterford he has now been appointed at Aldershot.

A second signing in twenty four hours at Yeovil Town sees "the signing of Dan Ellison from Bristol Rovers on a deal until the summer of 2027.

The 20-year-old centre back joins the Glovers after spending last season on loan at Aldershot Town from Bristol Rovers, where he played a key role in the Shots’ FA Trophy victory, scoring at Wembley Stadium in the final.

Ellison began his career with Chippenham Town... before earning a move to Bristol Rovers in 2024...

Manager Richard Dryden said 'Dan is a player I know well from our time together at Aldershot...

'He is strong, composed, and hungry to keep improving'".

York City report that "Paddy McLaughlin has joined National League North side Darlington FC on a month's-long loan.

Paddy is celebrating his tenth season with the club and has made 266 appearances so far, scoring 29.

Paddy’s testimonial year will continue to work alongside the Minstermen across the season".

Also loaned out is an ex-Alty loanee as "TYRESE SINCLAIR has joined fellow National League side Solihull Moors on loan until January.

Tyrese joined the club in the summer of 2024 from Rochdale AFC.

Since his arrival, he’s gone on to feature nearly 60 times in the league so far, scoring 8 goals and assisting 5.".

24 October 2025

ALTY'S NEW INTERIM BOSS

Now aged 46, his managerial career started in 2007 at Welsh club Prestatyn Town. In 2011 he moved to the Director of Football role and he was succeeded as manager there by his assistant at Altrincham, Lee Jones.

From 2018-20 he was back at Prestatyn as manager, before managing Flint Town United (2020-22)

Two years managing Connah's Quay Nomads followed till 2024.

Wealdstone appointed him in January 2025 where he stayed till the end of that season when he left, citing travel difficulties from his base in Wales.

Gibson's playing career took in Tranmere Rovers, Rhyl, Sheffield Wednesday, Southport, Halesowen Town, Leigh RMI and Prestatyn Town, where he ended his playing career in 2012.

On his appointment Wealdstone stated "Neil holds the UEFA Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification in Europe and has a track record of success as a manager, winning the Welsh Cup twice, securing four promotions and qualifying for UEFA Europa League/UEFA Conference League four times. Neil has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract... Former Liverpool, Wrexham, Tranmere and Wales international forward Lee Jones joins Neil as his Assistant Manager".

GIBSON KNOWS HOW TO WIN AT BRAINTREE - AND AT ALTRINCHAM!

When Gibson was employed at Wealdstone last season he oversaw 20 games, winning eight, drawing four and losing eight, earning 28 points to keep the north London club in the National League.

Left: Neil Gibson watches his Wealdstone side beat Altrincham last March at the J. Davidson Stadium.

One of those wins was over Altrincham when the Stones won 1-0 at the J. Davidson Stadium and, in light of this Saturday's fixture, he also guided Wealdstone to an away win at Braintree Town!.

At the time NW Sport wrote that "Former Prestatyn Town and Connah’s Quay Nomads manager Neil Gibson has pulled off The Great Escape at his latest club Wealdstone.

Final day drama in the tier 5 National League saw The Stones haul themselves out of the bottom four with a 3-1 win over Halifax Town...

Gibson took over at the Ruislip-based club in the London Borough of Hillingdon in late January. It was his first job since leaving Connah’s Quay Nomads in August 2024 having led the club to Welsh Cup glory four months earlier...

When he joined The Stones, they were in the National League relegation spots.

In a tough start, Wealdstone claimed just one out of a possible nine points, but then came three cracking wins over Yeovil Town, Braintree Town and Ebbsfleet United...

The next three months brought mixed fortunes, but 1-0 victories over Altrincham Town [sic], Woking and Boston United, plus a 2-1 success against Forest Green Rovers, kept Gibson’s charges on course to stay up.

Come the final day, Wealdstone were fourth from bottom and needed to beat Halifax while hoping Dagenham and Redbridge failed to win at Solihull Moors.

The Daggers drew 1-1 and went down, Wealdstone won 3-1 and survived...

Gibson’s haul of 28 points from his 20 matches in charge proved enough to keep the club in the National League for a fifth successive season".

TEN MANAGERS GONE IN 66 DAYS

The full list of the ten departures (so far) this season is below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025
2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood
3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper
4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor
5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison
6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation)
8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson
9. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation)
10. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson

ALTY OLD BOYS

THROUGH THE YEARS: 25 OCTOBER

The most recent match on that date was in 2022 when Altrincham beat Oldham Athletic 1-0 at home in the Vanarama National League.

Right: Back in 2022 against Oldham Athletic, Ryan Colclough finished the game with the captain's armband after Jordan Hulme was substituted.

Altrincham deservedly took the points against a disappointing Oldham side who started quite brightly but faded badly in the second half.

Shots were at a premium in the first half but Altrincham's second-half dominance got its reward after 72 minutes when Colclough and Conn-Clarke combined for the Fleetwood loanee to curl a superb curling shot from twenty-plus yards into the upper reaches of the Oldham net.

Watched by Joe Royle, the Latics were booed at the end by a section of the 1,606 travelling supporters in a magnificent midweek gate of 3,553. The win lifted Altrincham to fifteenth in the National League.

Altrincham started with the same eleven and same players on the bench who had been named at Torquay the previous Saturday.

Alty were again without injured vice-captain Toby Mullarkey, as well as longer-term injured players Kosylo, Baines and Marriott.

Altrincham: 1. Oliver Byrne, 22. Ross Barrows, 23. Jake Cooper, 26. James Jones, 2. Eddy Jones, 10. Elliot Osborne, 8. Josh Lundstram, 11. Ryan Colclough, 16. Chris Conn-Clarke, 9. Jordan Hulme (c), 30. Marcus Dinanga. Subs: 21. Matt Gould, 17. Brad Jackson, 18. Ben Pringle, 31. Dan Malone, 33. Egli Kaja.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 25-year-old forward has inked terms at the Truro City Stadium until the end of the 2025-26 Enterprise National League season.

Born in The Gambia, Janneh moved to these shores as a teenager and after initially joining Bath City, caught the eye playing Western League football for both Clevedon and Cadbury Heath.

This paved the way for a move to SkyBet Championship side Bristol City in 2018, spending four years at Ashton Gate.

During Janneh’s time with the Robins, he enjoyed loan spells at Newport County, Shrewsbury and Torquay United. His most prudent loan spell came at Plainmoor during the 2018-19 season, as Janneh netted a double figure return as Torquay won the National League South title.

After leaving Bristol City, Janneh joined Cambridge United with a loan at AFC Wimbledon during the 2022-23 campaign.

Released by Cambridge in the summer of 2024, Janneh has subsequently been playing in the Middle East for Kuwait Division One team Al-Jazira.

Also in the South-West, Yeovil Town "announce the signing of 20-year-old midfielder Max Jolliffe on loan from Colchester United until the end of the season.

A product of the Arsenal Academy, Jolliffe joined Colchester in 2022 before signing his first professional contract in June 2024. He made his senior debut for the U’s earlier this year in a 3–0 win over Fleetwood Town and has also gained valuable experience on loan with Maldon & Tiptree and Billericay Town.

Manager Richard Dryden said... 'He’s composed on the ball, reads the game well, and has shown real maturity for his age'".

23 October 2025

EX-WEALDSTONE PAIR TAKE CHARGE AT ALTY

In order to prepare for the upcoming crucial fixtures we are pleased to confirm that Neil Gibson has been appointed to lead the team on an interim basis, joining immediately alongside Assistant Lee Jones.

The pair most recently managed Wealdstone FC, where they guided the club to National League safety on the final day of last season after taking charge of a side sitting in the relegation zone in January.

Chairman Mark Luby [pictured, right] said, 'This is a pivotal moment in the season, and a rigorous recruitment process to identify the next Manager is already underway.

'As that process progresses, we’re pleased to welcome Neil and Lee to the club. The impact they had under challenging circumstances at Wealdstone was impressive by any measure, and they demonstrated clear leadership under pressure.

'Neil brings strong contacts within the game, a clear outlook on performance improvement, and a proven ability to lift a squad quickly. He will have the full support of the club in stabilising performances and driving results.'

Neil was at our Egerton training base this afternoon and has already begun preparations for Saturday’s fixture at Braintree, where he will take charge of the Robins for the first time.

Speaking about his appointment, Neil Gibson said 'I’m proud to be here. When the club shared its ambitions and the immediate challenges ahead, I felt there was an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, and I was excited to accept.

While the Board focuses on the recruitment of a permanent Manager, Lee and I will give everything to move this team up the table and build momentum as quickly as possible.

I know how passionate the supporters are, and I look forward to speaking with them more fully in due course and to seeing the travelling fans at Cressing Road on Saturday.'

Neil will address supporters further in an upcoming video interview.

The club will make no further comment while the recruitment process continues".

ALTY PART WAYS WITH MANAGEMENT DUO

Given recent form and the current league position, it is clear that results have not met expectations. The Board therefore believes a change of direction is necessary at this point in the season.

The Board wishes to place on record its sincere gratitude to Phil and Neil for their outstanding contribution over the past nine years. Their achievements, professionalism, and commitment have played a major role in shaping the modern-day Altrincham FC. A full tribute reflecting on their time with the club will be published on the official website in due course.

Right: Time has run out for Phil Parkinson (right).

Chairman Mark Luby said: 'Phil Parkinson and Neil Sorvel leave the club in a much stronger position than when they arrived. They can rightly be proud of everything they have achieved during their tenure. Whilst making this change has been extremely difficult, we felt we were left with very little alternative given our current league position.'

A process is now underway to identify and appoint a new leadership team within the football department — one fully aligned with the Board’s long-term vision for the club.

In the immediate term, focus must turn to the crucial run of fixtures ahead and the urgent need to climb away from 20th position in the table.

A further update on first team management arrangements for the Braintree fixture will follow".

PHIL AND NEIL'S RECORD

The duo were appointed on 28 April 2017 with the club languishing at step three in the Northern Premier League after two successive relegations. They immediately earned promotion to National North as NPL champions in 2018 and, two years later, they won promotion back to the national level through the play-offs.

Their management record in the league (excluding play-offs and expunged games) was as follows...

• Played 360, won 148, drew 91, lost 121, goals scored 594 goals conceded 495, win rate 41.11%

This season (25/26) saw the duo confronted by the loss over the summer of their three top scorers, Linney, Newby and Amaluzor, to other clubs, having also lost their top scorer in the previous season as well, when Chris Conn-Clarke departed.

These losses were exacerbated by serious injuries to goalkeeper Ethan Ross, new signing Billy Sass-Davies and his fellow centre-back Jake Cooper, none of whom has yet been fit to start a league match this season.

It was therefore vital that the summer signings in 2025 hit the ground running but their form has often proved to be disappointing, with the club having taking just a single point from its last six league games.

That sequence of five defeats and a single draw was accompanied by four red cards received in three consecutive games, for which none of the new players can be blamed, as all those dismissed had been at the club last season.

Over little more than a year, Alty lost their four most recent top-scorers in Chris Conn-Clarke, Regan Linney, Alex Newby and Justin Amaluzor, who all left for other clubs

Other injuries in 2025/26 included that to captain Lewis Baines, who missed the opening six games, and three-week concussion absences for both centre-back Sam Barnes and goalkeeper Luke Hutchinson.

Recent loanee striker Billy Waters also managed just 17 minutes of league action before he too was injured and returned to his parent club.

In addition to their league travails, there was an unconvincing FA Cup replay win over lower-ranked Harborough Town and this week's exit from the Cheshire Senior Cup at the hands of a club four-levels below them, despite fielding nine first-team squad members in the starting eleven.

In these circumstances the Club has decided to act to try and rescue a season which currently has witnessed ten successive games in which Altrincham have failed to win a single game inside ninety minutes.

Regardless of the 2025/26 record, the club and its supporters must remain indebted to the the duo for their transformation of the club's fortunes since the summer of 2017 when they were appointed to manage a relegated club starting the season at step three of the non-League pyramid.

NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS: BRAINTREE TOWN

In three previous visits, The Robins have never won at Cressing Road which is now named The Rare Breeds Meat Co Stadium.

The Iron returned to the National League last season and are now into their ninth season at National League level.

They first reached the national level for 2011-12 season and, subsequently, they enjoyed five top-14 finishes before being relegated in 2017 when finishing 22nd of the 24 teams.

Having finished sixth in the South division the following season, they were promoted through the play-offs, only to go straight down again after a single season in the National League. They almost suffered a double relegation when lying second bottom in the South in 2020 at the point that Covid curtailed the campaign.

But by 2024 they had finished fifth and were promoted back to the National League, again through the play-offs. In 2024/25 they finished seventeenth in the Vanarama National League.

ALTY OLD BOYS

After scoring twice on Tuesday night in their 4-0 away win at Boston United, JOE NUTTALL spoke to his club Morecambe's website.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

His third caution came during last weekend’s clash with Forest Green Rovers, when he was booked for leaving his technical area.

Although Hughes will not be permitted on the touchline during the match, he will still be able to fulfil his pre-match, half-time, and post-match responsibilities. During the game, he will watch from the directors’ box".

"Injury-ravaged Boston United suffered a comprehensive home defeat at the hands of Morecambe on Tuesday evening.

The Pilgrims were humbled by their impressive visitors, who belied their lowly standing to sweep to a huge win with two goals in either half. Already missing Jordan Cropper, Jacob Scott, Jordan Richards, Frankie Maguire and Jacob Hazel, centre-half duo Connor Teale and Zak Mills were late omissions through injury, while Alex Lankshear was serving a one-match suspension.

United failed to clear their lines in the 15th minute and CAIN cracked home the game's opening goal from 25 yards...

Morecambe crucially doubled their lead six minutes before half-time... After half-time... Morecambe soon decisively took the game away from United. NUTTALL saw his header creep over the line eight minutes into the half - and NUTTALL stroked home from the spot five minutes later".

22 October 2025

POST-MATCH PARKY

In an audio video which is available through Alty TV, the manager admitted that "We should be coming away comfortably winning".

He revealed that for this match against lower-ranked opposition in the Cheshire Senior Cup, "We were going to send the kids but we didn't want to disrespect the opposition" so, instead, we sent a strong squad, largely comprising first-team players who needed game time.

But he conceded that "it looks really poor to come with a strong team and not get a result".

Having started the season with his first-choice goalkeeper and centre-backs out injured, we have played with a new keeper and a rebuilt side after the departures of three major forward players. In addition Phil alluded to how the squad has also been hit this season with a spate of red cards and more injuries.

The latest injuries were listed as goalkeeper Luke Hutchinson (concussion), Billy Waters ("PCL on his knee" which has terminated his loan) and Lewis Banks, who has ankle ligament problems and needs a further x-ray.

So, he said "we need to bring in one or two to strengthen the group".

Looking forward he promised that "We will turn a corner and the results will come".

The boss appealed to supporters to stick with the team stating that we don't need "venomous comments from the side". People need "to get off the players backs" and direct any criticism to him and not the players. In short his message was "get behind us"!

WINSFORD UNITED BEAT ALTRINCHAM IN CSC

Alty started with nine first-team squad members and two Academy players, albeit only two of the starters had also started the last National League game. (They were keeper Fallon and striker James Gale).

Despite winning numerous corners Altrincham were unable to find the net and Ollie Crankshaw missed a second-half penalty.

Right: Chris Antoniades was one of four Academy players in the 16-man squad at Winsford.

The shoot-out went to fourteen kicks and despite Winsford blinking first by missing their fourth kick, Baines then missed his attempt before Kosylo had his spot kick saved. So Winsford won 6-5.

The most obvious conclusion to be drawn is that the fringe members of the first-team squad who were involved tonight are in some cases not currently fit enough or, in other cases, just not good enough to challenge those in possession of the first-team shirts.

Altrincham: 27. Louie Fallon, 4. LewIs Baines (c), 5. Jake Cooper, 7. Olly Crsnkshaw, 9. James Gale, 10. Keaton Ward, 14. Matty Kosylo, 21. Jack Hinchy, 23. Harry St Romaine, 24. Raion Rowe, 41. Charlie Kirk. Subs: 6. Elliot Osborne, 9. Jimmy Knowles, 19. Chris Antoniades, 34. Dan Sassi, 42. Max Beddow (gk)

Match report here

NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS: BRAINTREE TOWN

The Iron currently lie 21st, one place below Altrincham, just a single point behind.

Two of the Braintree players have started all of their league fixtures; they are goalkeeper Mason Terry and defender Aidan Francis. Neither has missed a minute's action this campaign.

Unrelated to the keeper of the same surname, Braintree's Frankie Terry is a defender on loan from Colchester United. His uncles include two well-known players and former England players in John Terry and Paul Konchesky.

Amongst their other players Altrincham will have bad memories of John Akinde who hit a hat-trick against Altrincham for Barnet in a 5-0 win at The Hive in 2014.

Although now 36 years of age, Akinde has started 12 times this season and made two further league appearances from the bench. Surprisingly, the big forward has yet to score this season.

Indeed, goalscoring has been a major problem for Braintree, who are the lowest scorers in the National League with just 13 goals recorded in 15 outings.

Midfielder Terrell Works, a 20 year-old loanee from Fulham's Academy, is the Iron's leading scorer this season with four goals to his name from just seven starts.

ALTY OLD BOYS

National League : Boston United were without their preferred central defensive partnership of CONNOR TEALE and ZAK MILLS, and Morecambe took advantage to win 0-4, with JOE NUTTALL (right) scoring the last two, the final one a penalty.

It had been 1-1 at Eastleigh last month when the game against Scunthorpe United was abandoned late on. The pointlessness of doing it all over again tonight was demonstrated by the final score line being exactly the same. JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the full game for the Spitfires.

Boreham Wood were unable to field JEFF KING at his parent club, but led twice before drawing 2-2. Hosts York City reduced the arrears the first time through ALEX NEWBY, who was substituted at 1-2 in the 78th minute. TYRESE SINCLAIR was left on the York bench.

National League Cup : Aldershot brought MATT PENNEY off the bench for the second half, with visitors Southampton U21 having surrendered the lead twice. They proceeded to do it again and the game ended 3-3, but Matt was one of two Shots players to fail from the spot as they lost the shootout 2-4.

It was a not dissimilar tale at Brackley, although JUSTIN DONAWA didn't step up in the shootout after playing the full game, which ended 1-1. The victory margin for Everton U21 was also 2-4.

National North : TOM PEERS opened the scoring from the spot at Alfreton Town, and then struck again as the Seals won 0-2. DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY was substituted in the 94th minute, while JAMES JONES was an unused substitute. Both HARRY PERRITT and LEWIS SALMON were in the home lineup.

CONNOR KIRBY left it late to score Buxton's winner at Peterborough Sports, sealing a 1-2 victory in the 96th minute.

JORDAN HULME scored Radcliffe's second in a 3-1 home win over Darlington.

Alty loanee LUCAS WEAVER was joined in the Chorley starting XI at Southport by veteran keeper STEVE DRENCH (above, left). He's 40 now, and no longer a regular starter, but he and Lucas both played the whole of the 1-1 draw.

RYAN COLCLOUGH scored twice as AFC Fylde walloped Spennymoor 0-5 on the road.

National South : An ASHLEY HEMMINGS penalty couldn't prevent Dagenham & Redbridge from dropping into the bottom 4 as visitors Horsham won 1-2.

Southern Central : YUSIFU CEESAY (right) was among the scorers as Spalding United coasted to a 4-0 home win over relegation threatened Royston Town. The result lifted them to the top of the table as Harborough Town were held to a goalless draw at home by Stratford Town.

NPL Premier Division : JACK REDSHAW played the first 55 minutes for Hyde United, who were held 2-2 by visitors Stocksbridge Park Steels despite having been 2-0 up at the break. NYAL BELL was an unused substitute.

NPL Division 1 West : MASON FAWNS opened the scoring for Mossley, captained by MARK LEES as they dented the promotion hopes of Bury with a 2-1 win.

Nantwich Town won 3-2 against Clitheroe at the Weaver Stadium. BYRON HARRISON was among the scorers, but all AIDY ROXBURGH had to show for his efforts was a yellow card. Player coach JON MORAN was an unused substitute.

SEAN MILLER was withdrawn after 86 minutes, but had already scored in Runcorn Linnets 4-1 home over Sporting Khalsa. Both RYAN BROOKE and LUKE WALL were missing from the squad.

MID WEEK SCORES

Tuesday 21st October

• Boston United 0-4 Morecambe
• Eastleigh 1-1 Scunthorpe United
• York City 2-2 Boreham Wood

THROUGH THE YEARS: 25 OCTOBER

The last time Alty contested an away game on that date was back in 2014 when they met Leicestershire club Barwell.

Right: Kyle Perry is congratulated on his goal at Barwell in 2014

In that 2014 FA Cup game, after a disappointing first-half showing, James Lawrie gave Alty the lead in added time before the interval. Sub Kyle Perry hit a long-range second goal early in the second half before Damian Reeves scored, following good work by Scott Leather and Kyle Perry.

ALTRINCHAM: 1 Stuart Coburn, 2. Shaun Densmore (c), 5. Gianluca Havern 16. Tom Marshall, 6. Scott Leather; 4. Jake Moult; 8. Simon Richman, 25. Peter Cavanagh, 11. Nicky Clee, 7. James Lawrie, 10. Damian Reeves Subs: 9. Steven Gillespie, 14. Kyle Perry, 15. Greg Wilkinson, 17. Dave Parton 18. Sean Williams. 20. Joel Swift

21 October 2025

NEXT: WINSFORD UNITED

Admission charges are:

• Adults £8
• Concessions £6
• Under-16s £2

Winsford have advised that food and drink facilities will be available.

Alty exited at this first hurdle last season, losing at home, 1-3, to Kevin Ellison and his Vauxhall Motors team.

In 2023-24 Altrincham reached the Third Round before exiting 2-0 at Ewen Fields to Hyde United in a home tie which had been switched to Tameside to protect the pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium.

That season they had beaten Northwich Victoria in Round One in a penalty shoot-out at the J. Davidson Stadium before recrding a 4-0 win over Stalybridge Celtic in Round Two =, also at Moss Lane.

ALTY IN CLASH OF TWO OF THE "DIRTIEST" TEAMS

Altrincham lie 22nd from the top in the Courier's table of club bookings and dismissals this season, having accrued "29 yellow cards, one second booking and two red cards, 42 points". These figures are actually out of date as Alty have now amassed (subject to confirmation) 33 league yellows and 4 reds (Crawford, Golden, Reddin and Weaver).

The Courier's statistics rank Braintree as 21st from the top in the disciplinary table with 31 yellow cards, two second bookings and one red card totalling 42 points, the same total that they attribute to Altrincham.

The only two clubs with worse disciplinary records this season are Eastleigh and, bottom of the pile, Aldershot Town.

Last season, Alty lost 2-0 at Cressing Road, where previous encounters have seen them on the wrong end of the score on each visit...

• 2014/15: Braintree Town 4-2 Altrincham
• 2015/16: Braintree Town 3-0 Altrincham

ALTY OLD BOYS

BARRY ASHWORTH R.I.P.

Terry Rowley has provided the following obituary and statistical information.

He writes...

Barry Ashworth: Belated RIP

• Born: Stockport 18th August 1942:
• Passed: Bangor 10th December 2024

I was saddened to learn of the passing of Barry Ashworth, peacefully at home, last December.

Stockport born Barry Ashworth, a combative and fiery half-back began his professional career with Bangor City and then transferred down south to Southend United in July 1963 (6 goals in 36 starts all competitions) before joining Hartlepool United in March 1965 (4 goals in 49 games) and then on to Tranmere Rovers (4 goals in 24 starts) and finally Chester, 14 goals in 141+3 games from 1967-69.

His combative nature at Chester was such that he suffered two six-week suspensions which eventually led to his release after a failed transfer to neighbours, Wrexham, had fallen through in February 1970.

His release was not appreciated by the Chester fans but Chester’s loss became Altrincham’s gain when he was signed by, then Altrincham Manager, Laurie Brown in June 1970. He made his debut as a substitute in a 2-1 defeat at Morecambe. and went on to establish himself at left-half and finished the season with a North West Floodlit League winner’s medal, playing in both legs of the 4-3 aggregate final win.

Barry scored a total of ten goals in the league plus a further goal in the FA Trophy. His most memorable goal was a freak as he struck in the 11th minute, from the halfway line in a 3-1 win at Canal Street against Runcorn.

The following season Barry scored thirteen League goals and a further goal in the North West Floodlit League and, although Roy Rees intended to sign him on for the following season, he in fact joined Ellesmere Port in August 1972 returning briefly to Altrincham for the beginning of the 1973/74 season, scoring two further goals in nine appearance.

His final game, like his debut was as a substitute in a 1-0 defeat at Skelmersdale on the 17th November 1973. Barry then moved out on loan to Northwich Victoria, managed by former Altrincham team mate Brian Taylor before being released by Altrincham and heading back to Bangor City in December 1973 where he became captain and later acting Player/manager in the January 1975.

After retiring Barry became a property developer.

His Altrincham career was 27 goals in 108 games (105 full games and 3 as substitute).

Career

• Manchester United (ground staff)
• Stockport County amateur
• Bangor City
• Bradford PA
• Southend United (07/63),
  • 1963/64-64/65: 36 games - 6 goals
• Hartlepool United (03/65),
  • 1964/65 11-1 League
  • 1965/66: 34-3 League, 2-0 FA Cup, 2-0 League Cup
  • Total 45-4 League, 2-0 FA Cup, 2-0 League Cup
• Tranmere Rovers (07/66)
  • 1966/67: 21-3 L, 2-0 FAC1-1 LC
• Chester City (08/67),
  • 1967/68: 40+1-2 League, 4-1 WC
  • 1968/69: 42-7 League, 3-0 FA Cup, 4-1 League Cup, 3-0 WC
  • 1969/70: 34+2-3 League, 1-0 League Cup, 4-0 WC
• Altrincham (06/1970)
  • 1970-71: 30+1-10 NPL, 1+1-0 FA Cup, 1-0 League Cup, 2-0 CSC, 3-0 FA Trophy, 8-1 NWFL
  • 1971-72: 36-13 NPL, 4-0 FA Cup, 2-0 League Cup, 2-0 CSC, 8-1 NWFL
• Ellesmere Port Town (08/1972)
  • 1972/73
• Altrincham
  • 1973-74, 8+1-2 NPL
• Northwich Victoria (loan 11/1973)
• Bangor City (12/1973)
  • 1973/74
  • 1974/75"

MIDWEEK LEAGUE FIXTURE

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Gilligan came through the ranks at The Brewers having joined their academy as a child, and made his debut as an 18-year-old.

The 23-year-old has made 78 appearances for Burton, with 60 of those coming in League One".

Boston United "would like to issue an update after the club received a Football Association charge in relation to a home fixture in March. The club were charged and sanctioned after a homophobic chant was heard from the North Stand against Woking on March 8.

The club strongly condemn the chant and re-iterate our zero tolerance policy on supporters found to have committed offences, home or away – with discriminatory abuse being offensive and potentially a criminal offence.

United chairman David Newton said 'The club have been sanctioned over homophobic chanting that took place at the home fixture against Woking in March. This has resulted in a £700 fine for the club, and we are now subject to an action plan as directed by the FA, to try to prevent such actions in the future.

'We need to say that this arose around the chant of 'get up you puff' – and what may have been deemed 'acceptable' in the past is not acceptable in any way today. We need the help of all supporters to stamp this out.

'We also have dealt with the racial abuse of a player (by an away fan) not long ago. This is simply not acceptable.

'We have a fantastic fanbase which overall represents Boston United in the right way, and are a credit to the club, but there remains a minority that cross the line. We ask all fans to support the club passionately, but please do not cross the line@">

Wealdstone "announce that goalkeeper Lucas Covolan has departed the club following the expiration of his short-term contract.

The Brazilian arrived at the Vale in the summer and made two appearances for Sam Cox’s side in the National League Cup, whilst also providing experience in the dressing room.

Everyone at Wealdstone FC thanks Lucas for his contributions to the club and wishes him the best for the future".

Southend United announce that "We’re pleased to announce plans to appoint a new head coach for Southend United Ladies, the first time the position will be a paid role.

The move represents another positive step in the club’s commitment to developing women’s and girls’ football in Southend and the wider region. It forms part of our longer-term ambition to establish a semi-professional women’s team within five years...

Southend United chairman Justin Rees said 'Since the takeover, our focus in relation to the women’s game has been on better integrating the women’s first team into the wider club and creating more pathways for girls at grassroots level under the leadership of Southend United Community Foundation.

'This appointment will mark our first tangible on-pitch contribution and a small but significant step as we look to help our women’s team progress up the pyramid'".

20 October 2025

NEXT: WINSFORD UNITED

The clubs were last in the same league in 1998-99 when Altrincham won the Northern Premier League (then, step 2) and Winsford finished eleventh.

The following season, Altrincham were playing in the Conference as Winsford were relegated from the NPL.

A second successive relegation followed the next season as Winsford found themselves demoted to the NW Counties league, where they competed, initially at Premier level, then in Division One, from 2001 until last season when they were champions of the NWCFL Division 1 South.

The club

's reward was to be transferred to the Midland League Premier where, currently, they lie fifth in a division of only 18 teams.

Last Saturday, Winsford were at home to Wombwell Town from South Yorkshire in the FA Vase. Winsford won 1-0.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 21 OCTOBER

Above: Back in 2017, it got congested in the Alty goalmouth whenever Warrington won a corner kick!

So Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years data remind us that the last time Altrincham actually played on Tuesday's date, 21 October, was in 2017 when they played out a goalless draw at Cantilever Park in the Vanarama National League North.

Surprisingly for such close neighbours, this was Altrincham's first competitive match at Cantilever Park. Mike Garnett's records confirmed that all five of the previous encounters between the two clubs had been at Moss Lane, in the Cheshire Senior Cup.

In 2017, on an afternoon when the squally wind and heavy rain were the only winners, Altrincham were unable to convert their general superiority into a goal at Cantilever Park. But Alty remained top of the Northern Premier League table on goal difference.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Joel BEMBO-LETA, 3. Lewis SHORT, 4. James JONES, 5. Ben HARRISON, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. James POOLE, 11. Josh HANCOCK. Subs: 12. Max HARROP, 14. Tom PEERS, 15 Shaun DENSMORE, 16. Mason WALSH, 20. Tim DEASY

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Cumbria's News and Star reported that Carlisle boss "Mark Hughes said he 'ignored' the Robbie Savage sideshow as Carlisle United found a way to win against Forest Green Rovers...

Savage’s touchline antics were a feature throughout but his former Blackburn Rovers and Wales mentor Hughes got the last laugh.

The Carlisle head coach said 'I know him probably better than a lot of my staff who were a little bit goaded by him on occasions. I know what he's like and, for the most part, I just ignored him.

'Sometimes he’s got to be a little bit careful with what he says – he's sometimes a little bit disrespectful to people who have been in the game a long time, so that was the only thing that I reacted to'".

Alty supporters will recall Savage's childish behaviour at Moss Lane earlier this season.

Hughes added that FGR are "a good side and have got some good individual talent... But you've still got to be able to learn how to win matches, even if you haven't got a total foothold or total command of the game...

'We’re really strong at the top end of the pitch at the moment and it gives us a really good outlet when we get those players running at National League defences.'

Carlisle made their move after a red card to Forest Green defender Laurent Mendy... 'At that time [after the red card], it was a little bit like a basketball game, which, probably they would have preferred, given they were down to ten men....

Carlisle, after losing consecutively to York City and Rochdale, have won four games in a row in all competitions".

The BBC reports that, for his part, "Robbie Savage says more action needs to be taken against the 'vile abuse' he has suffered from opposition fans.

Savage's side were beaten 4-2 at Carlisle United on Saturday in the National League and the former Wales midfielder says he was subjected to abuse that 'crossed the line'.

'I'll take the banter, and when they're singing songs about me as an individual I've got no problem,' Savage told BBC Radio Gloucestershire after the loss.

'But when it crosses the line, when it becomes nasty and some of the stuff said is wrong, what's done about it?...

'Stewards, volunteers, whoever's standing there, it's [still] allowed to happen consistently,' he added... 'I don't think it's acceptable, but nothing's going to be done, nothing's ever done.'"

19 October 2025

ALTRINCHAM 1-3 WOKING

Match report here.

Right: Goalkeeper Louie Fallon made his first start in the National League for Altrincham against Woking.

POST-MATCH PARKY

He admitted that "We looked flat, devoid of ideas, we were blunt in attack and defence and the midfield was overrun".

NEXT: WINSFORD UNITED

The sides last met in the CSC in 2018 at the quarter-final stage when Winsford won 1-0 at Moss Lane.

It had been the second game in 24 hours for Altrincham, following a 1-1 draw with Mickleover Sports. Winsford had also played earlier this week but they started this game with a more settled eleven.

Alty, for their part, made eleven changes for this tie. The starters comprised a mixture of first-team squad members, two recent signings, and players from the youth and reserve set-ups.

The decisive goal arrived seven minutes after the interval when the lively Scott Taylor got in a cross from the right byline, which Perry Bircumshaw headed home from close range.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tim Deasy (c), 2. Callum Jones, 3 Dontai Gabidon, 4. James Jones, 5. Sam Heathcote, 6. Chris Merrie, 7. Theo Bailey-Jones, 8. Max Harrop, 9.Tom Peers, 10. Rhain Davis, 11. Darius Palma. Subs: 12. Harry Sheridan, 14. Tom Westall, 15 Dylan Scanlan, 15 Scott Smith, 20 Cameron Terry.

Incidentally, Winsford is the birthplace of Alty winger Charlie Kirk.

Winsford play in the Midland Football League having been promoted from the NWCFL Division One South as champions in 2025. They had spent two seasons in the South division before their return to the higher level.

The play at the Barton Stadium, Winsford CW7 3AE and currently lie fifth in the Midland Football League Premier.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : CARL PIERGIANNI played the full game for Stevenage, who lost by the only goal at Lincoln City.

When Wycombe Wanderers introduced JUNIOR QUITIRNA after 61 minutes at Blackpool, they were a goal down, but dramatically snatched a 1-1 draw in the 12th added minute.

ALI SMITH played the whole game for AFC Wimbledon as they won 1-2 at Plymouth Argyle. The hosts didn't have OWEN DALE in their squad.

League Two : MARCUS DINANGA (right) wasn't in Bromley's squad as they went down 2-1 at Cambridge United.

Another to miss out was CHARLIE OLSON, while REAGAN OGLE was substituted at half time as Oldham Athletic lost 1-0 at Salford City.

Neither of the two Manchester United loanees JOE HUGILL (Barnet) and SONNY ALJOFREE (Notts County) were involved as the Magpies scored the only goal at The Hive.

Tranmere Rovers gave CONNOR JENNINGS his first start for some weeks, and he scored twice, before being substituted after 79 minutes. The team from The Wirral scored 4 without reply at Bristol Rovers, who lacked the injured JOEL SENIOR.

HARRISON HOLGATE played the full game for Fleetwood Town as they drew 1-1 at Chesterfield. TOBY MULLARKEY wasn't in their squad, while JAMES BERRY played 63 minutes for the Spireites.

There was a full shift from JUSTIN AMALUZOR as Grimsby Town won 1-0 at home to Gillingham, who were down to 10 men after 33 minutes, and to 9 after 63 minutes.

Cheltenham Town had settled their 0-2 win at Newport County before withdrawing JAKE BICKERSTAFF after 77 minutes. The win lifted the Gloucestershire Robins out of the bottom two at the expense of Crawley Town, leaving Newport rock bottom. As for Crawley, they were holding on at Shrewsbury Town when DANNY CASHMAN (left) came off the bench in the 66th minute after missing 8 games through injury. Unfortunately they'd been reduced to 10 men a minute earlier, and went on to lose 1-0.

Barrow also lost a player at Walsall early in the second half, when they were leading by courtesy of ELLIOT NEWBY'S 31st minute goal, but they went on to increase their advantage and eventually won 1-2. Elliot was withdrawn in the 88th minute.

National League : MATT PENNEY had missed the last 14 games for Aldershot, and came off the bench after 86 minutes with his side level 1-1 against visitors Tamworth. The Staffordshire club, with KENNEDY DIGIE putting in a full shift, struck in the 7th added minute to win 1-2. Aldershot's goal was their only attempt on target.

Boreham Wood had just gone ahead when visitors Eastleigh brought JOSH LUNDSTRAM off the bench after 65 minutes, and, after withdrawing JEFF KING 11 minutes later, the hosts struck again to win 2-0.

ZAK MILLS lasted 78 minutes, while CONNOR TEALE played the full game as Boston United were held 1-1 at home in their Lincolnshire derby with Scunthorpe United.

JUSTIN DONAWA was left on the Brackley Town bench as visitors Gateshead forced a goalless draw.

Things are now so desperate at Morecambe that they handed JOE NUTTALL a start. They were already two down when they took him off after 79 minutes, and visitors Southend United won 0-3.

Neither KEVIN BERKOE nor LIAM HUMBLES was in the Rochdale squad that saw off visitors Yeovil Town 3-0. KYLE FERGUSON was withdrawn after 71 minutes of an unhappy return to the Crown Oil Arena, while MATT GOULD was, as usual, on the bench.

ALEX NEWBY (left) emulated his brother's contribution to Barrow's cause by rounding off the York City scoring in a 4-0 home win over Wealdstone. TYRESE SINCLAIR wasn't in the York squad.

Carlisle United's REGAN LINNEY was the obvious choice for Player of the Match at Carlisle United, as they won a feisty clash with visitors Forest Green Rovers. Having given them the lead from a CHRIS CONN-CLARKE assist, he restored it after Rovers had equalised. The visitors levelled again early in the second half, but, after Chris, booked earlier, was one of three Carlisle player substituted just before the hour, the Gloucestershire side found themselves down to 10 men after a second yellow card.

The referee cautioned 9 players, as well as Carlisle boss Mark Hughes, as he struggled to keep control. Regan followed his goals with the assist for the Cumbrians' third, before being substituted in the 90th minute. Carlisle added a penalty 2 minutes later to wrap up a 4-2 win.

National North : LUCAS WEAVER started his loan at Chorley on the bench, as they travelled to Buxton, who were captained by CONNOR KIRBY, who picked up a booking. Lucas came on after 73 minutes with the teams tied at 1-1. Chorley went ahead in the 81st minute but Buxton equalised in the 89th minute and went on to covert a 94th minute penalty to win 3-2.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY equalised for Chester to earn a 1-1 draw with visitors Kidderminster Harriers. TOM PEERS also started for the Seals, as did their former winger DAN MOONEY for Harriers - he picked up a yellow card before being substituted in the 87th minute.

RYAN COLCLOUGH put CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde 0-2 up at the break at King's Lynn, and they went on to win 1-2. CHRIS MERRIE and LIAM BROCKBANK (right) were also in their starting XI. Ryan came off after an hour, and GEORGE WILSON came on 8 minutes later. MICHAEL GYASI came on for the Norfolk side at the start of the second half.

Worksop Town captain LUKE WATERFALL put through his own goal to hand visitors Marine an early lead, and the Merseyside club went on to win 1-2.

National South : After they had trailed to visitors Enfield Town at the break, Dagenham & Redbridge recovered to win 3-2, with ASHLEY HEMMINGS notching their second. The win lifted them 3 places, and clear of the relegation zone.

Southern League Central : ZAK GOODSON scored the goal that sealed Quorn's 2-0 home win over Bury Town.

YUSIFU CEESAY was one of five different Spalding United scorers as they came from behind to see off visitors Sudbury 5-1.

Scottish Premiership : Kilmarnock's MARCUS DACKERS was substituted after 81 minutes, as league leaders Hearts comfortably hit 3 goals without reply, ensuring they will remain top even if Celtic win at Dundee tomorrow.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR, having missed 8 games, was a 58th minute substitute for Morton at Ayr United. They equalised, but the hosts fought back to win 2-1, despite missing a penalty.

NPL Premier Division : Gainsborough Trinity were without hot shot JONNY MARGETTS, and one goal was enough for visitors FC United to win. RON SITHOLE was left on the visitors' bench.

With score level at 2-2, Leek Town brought ADAM PORTER (left) off the bench in the 82nd minute. Hosts Hebburn Town went 3-2 up, but Leek snatched a point in the 96th minute.

MONTEL GIBSON was withdrawn by Hednesford Town after 68 minutes of their goalless draw at leaders Lancaster City.

With Robins loanee OWEN GERMAN at the heart of their defence, Ashton United won 1-2 at Stockton Town.

DONTAI GABIDON was a 94th minute substitute for Warrington Town, who gained 3 vital points by beating visitors Guiseley 2-0.

Bamber Bridge had more or less wrapped up their 2-0 win against 10 man hosts Whitby Town by the time they substituted Robins loanee JOEL BAILEY after 87 minutes.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : ANDY DALES captained Mickleover, who, having come from behind to lead, eventually drew 2-2 with visitors Rugby Town.

NPL Division 1 West : JOE PIGGOTT scored twice, and SAM SHERIDAN added another against Congleton Town keeper DAVE PARTON as hosts Atherton Collieries won 4-2

Runcorn Linnets were again missing both RYAN BROOKE and LUKE WALL, and could only name 4 substitutes against visitors Shifnal Town. They trailed error, but, although SEAN MILLER was on target for them, they were only on terms for 3 minutes and lost 1-2.

There was a clean sheet for TONY THOMPSON, assisted by TOM HANNIGAN, as Bootle won by the only goal at Stalybridge Celtic. DIOR ANGUS was booked, then substituted after 65 minutes. KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game for the hosts, but ELLIOT ROKKA and GREG WILKINSON were left on the bench.

A goal from BYRON HARRISON, who was substituted after 80 minutes,was enough to give Nantwich Town the win at Trafford, who finished with 10 men. AIDY ROXBURGH played the full game for the Dabbers, as did SEAN HIGGINS for the hosts.

Vauxhall Motors were held 1-1 by visitors Witton Albion. The Northwich side had a whole game performance from JOEL BEMBO-LETA, while JAMES LAWRIE and MAX HARROP were second half substitutes - Robins loanee REMI RAYMOND was left on the bench. The seemingly ageless KEVIN ELLISON played the final quarter of the game for Motors.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND (right) picked up a yellow card, and was substituted after 75 minutes as league leaders Lower Breck won 0-2 at Wythenshawe Town.

FA Vase : JOHN JOHNSTON opened the scoring for Irlam, before visitors Shildon briefly led. The tie finished 2-2, and Irlam went through 5-4 on penalties - JJ didn't take a kick.

DARIUS PALMA scored both of Wythenshawe's goals in a 2-2 draw with Holker Old Boys, but it was the Cumbrian visitors who won the shootout 4-3.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Boston United v Morecambe
• Eastleigh v Scunthorpe United
• York City v Boreham Wood

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 22-year-old arrives at the Vale with a tremendous pedigree in youth football, as he has represented England at the under-16, under-17 and under-18 levels.

He will be looking to provide competition for Dante Baptiste, who has started every league game for the Stones thus far.

Born in Poland, Graczyk moved to England as a child. He spent a considerable amount of time in the Arsenal academy after joining the Gunners from Everton aged 14...

Slough Town signed the youngster on loan at the start of the 2023/24 season, giving him his first experience in senior football. He made four appearances and kept one clean sheet during his stint for the sixth-tier side...

He moved to Manchester United... [and] was named on the substitutes bench in both FA Cup and Premier League matches last season. He also featured four times for Man United’s under-21 side".

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of midfielder Scott High on loan from Barnet.

The 24-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the Moors, having made 50 appearances for Huddersfield Town and enjoyed successful loan spells at Dundalk and FC Halifax Town, where he worked closely with [Moors manager] Chris Millington...

ALTRINCHAM 1-3 WOKING

Above: Alty race out of their defensive positions, as Woking's Boatswain appeals to the referee.

Altrincham boss Phil Parkinson was dealt a poor hand over the summer when his three star players, Linney, Newby and Amaluzor, all moved on to "better things" and with goalkeeper Ross and centre-backs Cooper and Sass-Davies all unable to kick a ball in anger this season through injury, his new recruits have to varying degrees not matched up to their predecessors.

Alty and Woking were separated only by goal difference at kick off but there was a bigger gap in their performances as the hosts failed to land a glove on Jaaskelainan in the Cards goal, apart from their one goal scored by Jimmy Knowles.

The Robins fell behind after 25 minutes when Kelly's cross from the left was guided home past teenage keeper Fallon, at the near post, by Ipswich Town loanee striker Ashley Boatswain.

Alty rallied and equalised eleven minutes later when Osborne's excellent through ball set Reddin racing to the bye-line on the right. His low cross was smartly turned into the net by leading scorer Jimmy Knowles.

The visitors went ahead again on 42 minutes when a ball was played in from the right and Turner turned and slotted it past Fallon.

In the second half Alty laboured to pose any threat at the other end and their fate was sealed when Kelly got past Reed on the right bye-line and Alty's left-back tripped him to concede a penalty. Kelly himself sent Fallon the wrong way from the spot to make it 1-3 (83 mins).

Allowing the visitors fourteen shots of which ten were on target was an indicator of today's defensive performance but only having one shot on target out of a total of just four at the other end indicates there are problems at both end of the pitch.

After this fourth successive home defeat in the league, Alty remain 20th and face 21st club Braintree Town, away, next Saturday.

Match report here.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Aldershot Town 1-2 Tamworth
• Altrincham 1-3 Woking
• Boreham Wood 2-0 Eastleigh
• Boston United 1-1 Scunthorpe United
• Brackley Town 0-0 Gateshead
• Carlisle United 4-2 Forest Green Rovers (k.o. 5.30pm)
• Morecambe 0-3 Southend United
• Rochdale 3-0 Yeovil Town
• Solihull Moors 2-0 Braintree Town (k.o. 12.30pm)
• Sutton United 3-3 Hartlepool United (k.o. 5.30pm)
• Truro City 2-1 FC Halifax Town
• York City 4-0 Wealdstone

WEAVER JOINS CHORLEY ON LOAN

Andy Preece's side are once more up among the leading contenders for promotion to the National League in fifth place, and Alty boss Phil Parkinson firmly believes his lightning-quick outside-right will be all the better for his experience at Victory Park.

'It's a brilliant loan for Lucas,' said Phil. 'He can go and recapture some of the form he showed previously. He can go and get his confidence up, and his fitness as well, and be ready to go again for us when called upon.'

Footnote: Lucas joined Altrincham from Colne in May 2024. From Alty, Lucas went on loan to Bamber Bridge on 31 August 2024 and scored nine goals whilst with the Lancashire club.

On completion of that arrangement, he moved on another loan, this time at Radcliffe in National North, for whom he made his debut on 9 November 2024. He returned to Altrincham a month later and he was gradually introduced to the matchday squad.

He netted his first league goal, at Hartlepool, in mid-February 2025 and by the end of 24/25 season he had made 6(+18) appearances and scored 3 times. This season he has added 1(+8) league appearances so far.

BEFORE THE GAME: ALTRINCHAM v WOKING

Enterprise National League matchday 15 of the season features Altrincham hosting Woking today at the J. Davidson Stadium.

With virtually a third of the 46-game season completed after this fixture, defeat for either side and a victory for Braintree Town at Solihull Moors could drop the losers into the bottom four relegation places. Indeed, a draw for Alty and a win for The Iron would drop Altrincham into the bottom four.

Altrincham's 13 points from their fourteen fixtures played is six points fewer than they had gained at this stage last season.

The Robins have lost their last three home league games and are currently six league matches without a win.

Woking are in marginally better recent form with one win in their last six league games, a 3-0 win at Solihull.

Their only player to have started all 14 league fixtures to date is defender Caleb Richards, who has played every minute of the league season so far.

With three goals, their leading scorer is Harry Beautyman.

9 KEEPERS - so far - IN 19 MONTHS AT ALTY

Should Phil Parkinson do so, the new keeper would be the tenth to be named in an Altrincham National League or FA Cup match squad in the last 19 months.

The nine who have already appeared on a league or FA Cup team-sheet for Altrincham since March 2024 are:

1. Ollie BYRNE
2. Matt GOULD
3. Ethan ROSS
4. Harvey RANDLE
5. Rob LAINTON
6. Louie FALLON
7. Caleb ANSEN (loanee)
8. Luke HUTCHINSON (loanee)
9. Max BEDDOW

Of the above list, seven have got on the pitch, with Byrne and Beddow the only two not to have done so in the period in question.

Above, left to right: Byrne, Gould, Ross, Randle, Lainton

Above, left to right: Fallon, Ansen, Hutchinson, Beddow.

NATIONAL LEAGUE STATISTICS

ALTY OLD BOYS

Northern Ireland Premiership : Despite a full shift from SAM ROSCOE, Linfield were beaten 2-0 at Portadown.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 24-year-old has scored eight goals in 14 appearances so far this campaign.. He reached double figures for goals last season as he netted 11 times in all competitions...

Babalola has significant National League South experience with 19 goals and eight assists in his 117 games.

He also has experience at the likes of Concord Rangers, Hampton and Richmond, and Cheshunt".

Wealdstone "are thrilled to announce the signing of fullback, Terrell Agyemang, who arrives at Grosvenor Vale on an initial 1 month loan from fellow National League Side Morecambe.

The 22 year-old who can also operate in midfield, came through Charlton Athletic's youth academy, before signing for Manchester City's U21s...

Agyemang then signed for Middlesborough where he had loan spells with Hartlepool Utd and Airdrionians".

They may be managerless at the moment but Aldershot Town "confirm that Will Armitage has returned to The Shots on a three-month loan from Southampton!

The defender returns to The EBB Stadium having helped lift the Isuzu FA Trophy at Wembley back in May and made 24 appearances during his first spell with the club.

Armitage spent a month on loan at Brackley recently where he made four appearances in the Enterprise National League."

17 October 2025

NEXT: WOKING

The Cards are smarting after a 6-2 thrashing in their midweek FA Cup replay at Brackley, a performance which brought criticism of his team from manager Neal Ardley and a public apology from the club's chairman.

Alty, of course, did manage to get through their FA Cup replay against ten-man Harborough Town but it was hardly the most convincing of performances.

In terms of league form, Altrincham have taken just one point from their last six ENL fixtures, a draw against Wealdstone last time out which ended a sequence of five successive defeats. Taking into account their FA Cup fixtures, they had not won a game inside ninety minutes in their last eight fixtures.

With first-choice keeper Ethan Ross sidelined all season, so far, by his ACL injury incurred last season, his stand-in Luke Hutchinson, a loanee from Bolton Wanderers, suffered a concussion injury last Saturday so is sidelined by the protocols relating to such injuries.

18 year-old Academy keeper Louis Fallon (right) filled in capably on Tuesday at Harborough, keeping a clean sheet, but it remains to be seen whether Phil Parkinson gives him his first National League start or brings in another loanee. Louie has played in the National League, being the 71st minute substitute when Ross suffered his bad injury last season.

Louie has, however, also played a full National League Cup match against Stoke City.

Woking also had a goalkeeping issue this week as Reading confirmed that "goalkeeper Tom Norcott has been recalled from his loan spell at National League side Woking FC.

The 20-year-old joined the Cards earlier this season... Making six appearances and only losing twice, the shot stopper has not featured since 20th September, however he has remained in the matchday squad all season".

ANOTHER LOAN FOR OWEN

A product of Crewe Alexandra's renowned Academy prior to joining Alty, the 20-year old has signed for Steve Cunningham's side until January...

Owen had spells with Wythenshawe Town, Warrington Rylands and Stafford Rangers, before signing a new contract at The J.Davidson Stadium in the summer of 2024, and he made a favourable impression on loan at Alfreton Town towards the end of last season and in the opening month of the current campaign".

THROUGH THE YEARS: 18 OCTOBER

Coincidentally, their next fixture in 2025 after Woking, is away at Braintree.

Left: Tom Marshall deals with a Braintree attack.

The fixture against The Iron in 2014 turned out to be a match of attrition, rather than flowing football, watched by 894 spectators.

Altrincham opened the scoring much against the run of early play. The goal arrived in the 27th minute when Nicky Clee finished, right-footed, after Shaun Densmore had got into the box and played a one-two with James Lawrie.

Referee Toner almost lost control in the second half when he booked six players, four of them in a five-minute spell.

ALTRINCHAM: 1 Stuart Coburn, 2. Shaun Densmore (c), 5. Gianluca Havern, 16. Tom Marshall, 6. Scott Leather; 4. Jake Moult; 8. Simon Richman, 25. Peter Cavanagh, 11. Nicky Clee, 7. James Lawrie, 10. Damian Reeves. Subs: 9. Steven Gillespie, 14. Kyle Perry, 15. Greg Wilkinson, 17. Dave Parton 18. Sean Williams.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Sussex club is third from bottom separated only by goal difference from bottom place.

The announcement continued "The 54-year-old has signed a long-term contract and returns to Priory Lane having previously enjoyed a five-year spell in charge of The Sports between February 2012 and April 2017, managing almost 250 games.

Chief Executive Alan Williams said of the appointment...'Bringing Tommy in on a long-term contract reinforces our commitment.

'There are few as experienced or knowledgeable at this and the level above and we are as excited about the future as or supporters should be.'

Since leaving the Sports, Widdrington has had two spells in caretaker charge of Bristol Rovers before joining King’s Lynn Town in December 2021.

He then left the Linnets after guiding them to second place in the National League North in April 2023 to join Aldershot Town.

In his first year with the Shots, he preserved their National League status before a change of fortune in 2023/24 – where they missed out on a play-off spot by just two points.

Last year, Widdrington guided the Shots to Wembley for the first time in the club’s history, where they lifted the FA Trophy courtesy of a 3-0 win over Spennymoor Town".

In the meantime, following Widdrington's resignation, Aldershot Town had named Widdrington's assistant Hugo Langston as their joint caretaker on Wednesday, only on Thursday to reveal that "Hugo Langton has informed the Club of his resignation as First-Team Assistant Manager.

Alan Dowson will be leading the team for the foreseeable future and will be assisted by James Henry.

We will look to provide as much clarity as we can in due course, but ask that you get behind Dowse and the lads on Saturday!".

Langston has since been named as Widdrington's deputy at Eastbourne Borough.

At the other end of the country, Gateshead "can confirm the departure of midfielder Max Sheaf by mutual consent.

"The midfielder de[arts Tyneside having made 14 appearances across al competitions since joining the club in January 2025".

At Rochdale, the club reports that "Dale's Tarryn Allarakhia and Oliver Whatmuff were both out on duty representing their countries.

Firstly, 27-year-old Allarakhia was picked for Tanzania’s two international matches which included a crucial World Cup Qualifier last Wednesday.

With Zambia the opponents, Taz was introduced at half-time and in a tight encounter it would be the Zambians to take the three points with a goal 15 minutes from time. This unfortunately, along with other results, ended the Taifa Stars’ hopes of making the Playoffs in Group E.

On Tuesday evening, the second game saw our wing-back start in a friendly with Iran, played in Dubai.

Iran secured a 2-0 victory but it would be 84 more minutes on the international stage for Allarakhia.

As for Rochdale’s number one, England Under-19s took Whatmuff to the camp in Spain, where they had two friendlies scheduled in preparation for the 2026 Euro Qualifiers in the November international break.

On Saturday morning, Belgium were the Young Lions’ opponents with Oli given the start in between the sticks and the 17-year-old completed 90 minutes in a commanding 4-1 victory for Will Antwi’s side".

Meanwhile, Scunthorpe United "announce the extension of forward Ty Sellars-Fleming’s loan deal from Hull City for a further three months, taking the spell through until January.

Returning to the Iron in September on an initial 28-day loan, Sellars-Fleming has been an impressive addition to Andy Butler’s ranks, with three goals in his opening six league appearances for United, which was followed up last weekend with a goal in the Emirates FA Cup.

With his last gasp goal against York City going on to be the eventual match winner, and an impressive performance against promotion hopefuls Southend United, in which he scored again, Sellars-Fleming made himself a priority target to keep hold of."

Down in Somerset Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Michee Efete, who joins the Glovers on a deal until the end of the 2025/26 season..

The right-back arrives at Huish Park following his departure from Ross County at the end of the 2024/25 campaign... having previously spent several seasons with Grimsby Town...

A strong, athletic full-back, Efete is known for his pace, defensive awareness, and willingness to drive forward, offering both solidity at the back and attacking support down the flank.

Having also represented clubs such as Wealdstone and Torquay United, the 27-year-old adds proven experience and a winning mentality to Richard Dryden’s squad".

16 October 2025

POST-MATCH PARKY

Asked about the performance of Kahrel Reddin in the replay, the manager said "he's electric. When he plays like that he's unplayable".

"IT'S A RED" ADMITS HARBOROUGH BOSS

"It was a shame it wasn't eleven v eleven" he declared after the early red card in the seventh minute. However, of the foul on Alty keeper Louie Fallon, he admitted, "I think it's a red".

He was also proud of the comeback in the original tie when his side secured a 2-2 draw after trailing 2-0 after 86 minutes.

"We definitely weren't outworked" he said of the Altrincham performance in the replay. His overall vision remains to take Harborough Town to the National League, even if it takes ten yers.

NEXT: WOKING

Woking, like Altrincham, had an away replay in the FA Cup on Tuesday night, but crashed to a 6-2 defat at Brackley Town.

In a Woking video, manager Neal Ardley After their 6-2 defeat in their FA Cup replay at Brackley Town, Woking boss Neal Ardley gave an "apology to the fans that travelled and the owner" for his team's performance.

Woking played with ten men for most of the game although Ardley felt the red card for their player, Osude after 24 minutes "was not a sending off". The Cards were trailing 2-1 at that point having gone ahead in the second minute.

However, after getting back to parity at 2-2 just before half-time, they had conceded twice in four minutes after the hour mark.

But in the last 15 minutes of the game "we just rolled over" as they conceded twice more to lose 6-2.

He conceded that the opposition "centre-forwards beat us up".

Woking's game plan had been "to hit them with pace" but the sending off put paid to that. In short, Ardley insisted that "we've got to man-up and become a team; when we're up against it, we crumble"

The result prompted the Woking chairman to issue a statement which said Like all of you, I am deeply disappointed in the result last night and our exit from the FA Cup. I know that words only go so far, but please know that we are determined to put things right.

While last night’s loss still stings, the frustration we are all feeling today is about more than just one result.

While there have been some bright moments and good performances so far this season, we have been far too inconsistent. This is a talented squad, but the performances and results so far this season have not matched. That is something we all recognise, and it must change.

Thank you for your continued loyalty and support — especially during challenging times. Please know we remain strongly committed to success at Woking Football Club, both on and off the pitch".

Meanwhile, Woking also report that "Reading FC has recalled goalkeeper Tom Norcott from his loan spell, as the Royals seek additional cover in their goalkeeping department".

FA CUP: SLOUGH TOWN

One very familiar face at the Berkshire club is Jefferson Louis whose fifty-plus transfers/moves in his playing career meant that he faced Altrincham on numerous occasions. Over a playing career of 28 years, he netted 257 goals in 821 games.

Slough Town explain that Louis returned to the club in the summer of 2025, this time in the role of Assistant First Team Coach.

Jefferson will primarily focus on working with the club’s strikers, offering specialist coaching and guidance..

Having first joined the Rebels in June 2023 as a Performance Coach, Jefferson played a key part in delivering high-intensity physical training sessions, managing warm-ups and activation routines, and advising on post-match recovery and nutrition.

Now 46, Jefferson announced his retirement from playing after the 2024/25 season, bringing the curtain down on an extraordinary career that spanned almost 30 years. After starting out in non-league football, he earned a move to Oxford United in 2002, and went on to represent numerous clubs across the country...

Jefferson also made five appearances for Slough Town in 2022 and 2023, supporting Scott Davies early in his managerial tenure".

Above: November 2007, Jefferson Louis, (far right, no.9), playing for Weymouth, faces Altrincham in a 2-2 draw in the Blue Square Premier League.

Jefferson's appearances against Altrincham included him representing Weymouth (2007/8 season), Wrexham (2008/9), Crawley Town (2009/10), Rushden & Diamonds (2009/10), Hayes & Yeading (2010/11) and for Brackley Town (2012/13).

Amongst those clubs he scored for Hayes & Yeading, Wrexham and Brackley Town against the Robins.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Massiah-Edwards featured six times during his short spell in Eastleigh and scored his first professional goal in a 2-2 draw against FC Halifax Town in September".

At Sutton United "October proved to be a difficult international break for Sutton’s overseas players, with only one able to contribute to a win.

Dillon De Silva started in Sri Lanka’s narrow 1-0 win over Turkmenistan... but they suffered one step back a few days later with the return fixture Arkadag Stadiony, in which De Silva once again started...

The hosts were able to see out a narrow victory of their own and condemn the Golden Army to third place heading into the next set of Asia Cup qualifiers...

Kane Crichlow fared little better over in North America, with Bermuda suffering two defeats in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers...

Back in Europe, Jay Coombes and Mikey Charvetto Parody were dealt a tough couple of fixtures for Gibraltar Under-21’s, though the former only started one game and the latter didn’t feature at all.

Coombes started and played 76 minutes as Los Llanas lost 12-0 to Scotland, before being followed by an 11-0 defeat to Portugal five days later in which he was named on the bench alongside Charvetto Parody."

15 October 2025

HARBOROUGH TOWN 0-3 ALTRINCHAM

All the goals came in extra time, with a brace by Knowles sandwiching Reed's effort.

Match report here

NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS: WOKING

The Cards currently lie 19th, one place above Altrincham, but only on goal difference.

Like Alty they had a Cup replay on Tuesday, in their case at Brackley Town, who hammered them 6-2. The Cards were ahead in the second minute but were 2-1 down when Osude was sent off.

The Woking ten men equalised just before half-time before shipping four second-half goals.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Emirates FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round Replays : The absence of JUSTIN DONAWA, on international duty with Bermuda, didn't stop Brackley Town from progressing to earn a home tie with Notts County. Visitors Woking were reduced to 10 men midway through the first half, and although they got back to 2-2 at the break, they were eventually beaten 6-2.

TOM PEERS started for Chester at home to Morecambe and played 94 minutes, picking up a booking - but it was DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY who came off the bench after 64 minutes, and opened the scoring 15 minutes later. Chester struck again late on to win 2-0 and will visit Cambridge United next.

Hartlepool United sacked Simon Grayson earlier this week, but that wasn't the panacea for their ills, as Gainsborough Trinity won comfortably at the Suits Direct Stadium despite being without leading scorer JONNY MARGETTS. They now host Accrington Stanley.

Southern League Central : ZAK GOODSON (right) opened the scoring as Quorn, who were never behind, won 3-4 at Alvechurch.

YUSIFU CEESAY scored Spalding United's third goal in a 1-4 win at Bishop's Stortford.

NPL Premier Division : Having been off my radar for some time, MONTEL GIBSON has surfaced at Hednesford Town, and scored their consolation goal in a 2-1 defeat at Whitby Town.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : Mickleover captain ANDY DALES was withdrawn after 88 minutes, as they won 1-2 at Basford United.

NPL Division 1 West : After DIOR ANGUS had given Bootle a 55th minute lead over Atherton Collieries, SAM SHERIDAN struck a 71st minute leveller. Collieries were only level for 4 minutes though, and then Sam was sent off for a second yellow card. Dior was withdrawn after 94 minutes as the Bucks held on to win 2-1, with TONY THOMPSON and TOM HANNIGAN both putting in a full shift.

Although ASTLEY MULHOLLAND had been captaining Wythenshawe Town recently, he only got onto the pitch at Bury after an hour. By that time the hosts had cruised into a 5-0 lead, and the two goal that Town added later were rather irrelevant.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game for Stalybridge Celtic at Clitheroe, where they won 1-3. GREG WILKINSON was an 87th minute substitute, while ELLIOT ROKKA (left) was left on the bench.

Congleton Town keeper DAVE PARTON was beaten three times by visitors Vauxhall Motors, but fortunately his attacking colleagues matched that to force a 3-3 draw. Motors brought KEVIN ELLISON off the bench after 70 minutes - he picked up a yellow card.

While MARK LEES and MASON FAWNS both played the full game for Mossley at home to Runcorn Linnets, neither RYAN BROOKE nor LUKE WALL were in the visitors' squad, while SEAN MILLER was a 59th minute substitute. The game ended goalless.

There were 3 Old Boys and a loanee in Witton Albion's starting lineup for their 2-2 home draw against Avro. REMI RAYMOND was substituted after 70 minutes, but JOEL BEMBO-LETA, MAX HARROP, and JAMES LAWRIE all played the full game. BEN HARRISON didn't name himself in the squad.

NWCL Premier Division : JOHN JOHNSTON put Irlam in front at FC St.Helens, but although they extended their lead they had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

Cheshire Senior Cup : The goals continue to flow for SHERIFF NJIE, who notched the first two for Cheadle Town in a 0-3 win at 1874 Northwich.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 18 OCTOBER

Back on 18 October, 2022, Altrincham lost a Fourth Round Qualifying replay at Gateshead, 1-2.

Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years data reveal all of Altrincham's previous games on the date in question.

HARBOROUGH TOWN 0-3 ALTRINCHAM after extra time

Alty had an early boost when Harborough striker O'Sullivan was shown a red card for a late challenge on Fallon as he came out to head clear in just the seventh minute.

However, Alty were unable to score before the interval after a fairly even first half. And despite applying plenty of pressure the visitors lacked the guile to score in the second half as well, so the tie went to extra time.

Finally Alty made the breakthrough as Reddin got up the right and into the box to feed Knowles who scored with scuffed, low shot to the keeper's right, making it 0-1 to Alty (98 mins).

Substitute Sam Reed scored from left of goal (108 mins) before Jimmy Knowles took advantage of acres of space to run forty yards and round the keeper to score his second goal (110 mins).

Report to follow.

There had been a surprise before kick off when goalkeeper Luke Hutchinson was ruled out with concussion, from his injury late in the original tie on Saturday.

So Louie Fallon made his FA Cup debut. He did play a full National League Cup match last season and he did make a National League substitute appearance in 2024/25 against Braintree Town.

Right: Luke Hutchinson collided with the goal frame late in Saturday's original tie.

Max Beddow came into the squad as goalkeeping cover, otherwise the squad was unchanged from last Saturday which meant that not in the squad were Weaver, Kirk, Kosylo, Cooper, Sass-Davies and Ross.

HARBOROUGH TOWN : 1. Elliott Taylor, 2. George Carline, 3. Elliot Putman, 4. Liam Dolman, 5. Connor Kennedy (c), 6. Alex Morris, 7. Devon Kelly-Evans, 8. Josh Walsh, 9. Riley O'Sullivan, 10. Danny Newton, 11. Dempsey Arlott-John. Subs: 12. Jutorre Burgess, 14. Andre Changunda, 15. Hickey, 16. Paul Malone, 17. Luis Rose, 18. Ben Stephens, 19. James Taylor.

ALTRINCHAM : 27. Louie Fallon, 2. Lewis Banks, 34. Dan Sassi, 4. Lewis Baines (c), 23. Tylor Golden 22. Tom Crawford, 6. Elliot Osborne, 8 Isaac Marriott, 20. Kahrel Reddin 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. James Gale. Subs: 3. Sam Reed, 7. Olly Crankshaw, 10. Keaton Ward, 21. Jack Hinchy, 24. Sam Barnes, 41. Max Beddow (gk), 29. Billy Waters.

EMIRATES FA CUP REPLAYS

Tuesday, 14 October

• Brackley Town 6-2 Woking
• Chester 2-0 Morecambe
• Harborough Town 0-3 Altrincham aet
• Hartlepool United 1-3 Gainsborough Trinity
• St Albans City 1-0 Banbury United aet
• Sutton United 3-2 Farnham Town aet
• Truro City 1-1 AFC Totton aet, Totton won shootout 5-3

ALDERSHOT BOSS RESIGNS

Hugo Langton and Alan Dowson will be overseeing first-team affairs ahead of Saturday’s game against Tamworth.

The Club will be making no further comment at this stage".

Right: Tommy Widdrington, always one of the smartest dressed football managers, pictured at the J. Davidson Stadium back in August of this year.

His departure brings the total of managerial departures in the National League this season to nine, with only two of these, including this one, not being sackings.

ALTY YOUTH BOW OUT OF FA YOUTH CUP

After a goalless ninety minutes, "Ultimately it was spot kicks that were needed to separate the teams.

After Alty took a slender lead via a Max Beddow save from Ali Al Hasnawi, the hosts rallied with Lisett saving from Henry Watts and Josh Obamwonyi, before Furmus Mendy hit the top corner of Beddow's net in sudden death to seal his side's passage to round one.

Altrincham Beddow (c); St.Romaine, Antoniades (Rowe, 72'), Watts, Leckey, Watson, Martin (Obamwonyi, 61'), Weston, Lavin, Renshaw (Diomande, 73'), Mannion (Hough, 88'). Subs not used: Taafe, Hough, Mattison, Bunting...

Penalties St Romaine (Scored); Halford (Scored); Weston (Scored); Al Hasnawi (Saved); Beddow (Scored); Miller (Scored); Leckey (Scored); Denny (Scored); Watts (Saved); Edeoga (Scored); Obamwonyi (Saved)); Mendy (Scored)".

ALTY DRAW POSSIBLE AWAY TIE

But before that tie becomes a reality, there comes the not inconsiderable matter of the Fourth Round Qualifying replay tomorrow night!...

The draw was made on Monday evening and produced the following ties...

The full draw...

1. AFC Wimbledon v Gateshead
2. Barnsley v York City
3. Blackpool v Scunthorpe United
4. Bolton Wanderers v Huddersfield Town
5. Boreham Wood v Crawley Town
6. Bromley v Bristol Rovers
7. Burton Albion v St Albans City
8. Buxton v Chathamn Town
9. Cambridge United v Chester FC
10. Chelmsford City v Braintree Town
11. Cheltenham Town v Bradford City
12. Colchester United v MK Dons
13. Crewe Alexandra v Doncaster Rovers
14. Eastleigh v Walsall
15. FC Halifax Town v Exrter City
16. Fleetwood Town v Barnet
17. Gainsborough Trinity v Accrington Stanley
18. Grimsby Town v Ebbsfleet United
19. Luton Town v Forest Green Rovers
20. Macclesfield FC v AFC Totton
21. Mansfield Town v Harrogate Town
22. Newport County v Gillingham
23. Oldham Athletic v Northampton Town
24. Peterborough United v Cardiff City
25. Reading v Carlisle United
26. Port Vale v Maldon & Tiptree
27. Rotherham United v Swindon Town
28. Salford City v Lincoln City
29. Slough Town v ALTRINCHAM
30. South Shields v Shrewsbury Town
31. Spennymoor Town v Barrow
32. Stevenage v Chesterfield
33. Sutton United v AFC Telford United
34. Tamworth v Leyton Orient
35. Tranmere Rovers v Stockport County
36. Wealdstone v Southend United
37. Wigan Athletic v Hemel Hempstead
38. Weston-s-Mare v Aldershot Town
39. Woking or Brackley Town v Notts County
40. Wycombe Wanderers v Plymouth Argyle

In Monday's FA Cup Fourth Round Qualifying tie...

• Worthing 1-4 Forest Green Rovers

FA CUP REPLAY: HARBOROUGH TOWN

Alty had two home debutants on Saturday. Left we see Billy Waters from Oldham Athleticand, right, midfielder Jack Hinchy from Notts County.

Opponents Harborough Town remain unbeaten in all league and national cup competitions. They currently lead the Southern League Premier Division Central, two levels below the Enterprise National League.

The Bees play on a 3G pitch at Bowden Park, where their record attendance was 1,600 against Bury in last season's FA Cup Fourth Round Qualifying.

This is only their second season in the FA Cup, having reached the Second Round Proper last season when they only lost at League One Reading 5-3 after extra time.

Radio Robins will be covering the match on Radio Alty; click on the icon-link near the top of this page.

CUP-TIE HIGHLIGHTS

Above: Harborough celebrate their very late equaliser last Saturday.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Peterborough Today reports that "Carlisle United manager Mark Hughes is already keen to make Chris Conn-Clarke’s move from Peterborough United a permanent one.

The 23 year-old attacking midfielder delivered a dazzling debut for the Cumbrians, scoring twice and creating another goal in a 5-2 FA Cup fourth qualifying round win over fellow National League side Boston United on Saturday.

Hughes was full of praise for a player he has initially signed on loan from Posh until the end of January. There are then undisclosed ‘options’ for Carlisle which are believed to include an agreed transfer fee.

Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony insisted he wanted any interested club to pay all of Conn-Clarke’s wages.

'The fine details will come out one day,' Hughes told BBC Radio Cumbria... 'We had to stay patient as did Chris, but we had the motivation of knowing Chris (pictured, right) wanted to come here. He sees the potential we have here...

'With a fair wind, and if it goes well here, maybe his parent club will want to move him on. We hope that’s the case and we can get a deal done.

'"Chris has great awareness of players around him, including opponents. He has a lot of character and personality on the pitch. He has an appreciation of where his teammates want a pass to be played and he has a goal threat himself. Not many players have that combination so he’s a high level player for sure'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Altrincham's next league opponents will be

Their FA Cup opponents were Brackley Town, with whom they drew 1-1 at the Laithwaite Community Stadium on Saturday.

"A second half debut goal from Woking’s new signing Ashley Boatswain was enough to send this FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round fixture to a replay. The on-loan Ipswich Town player was one of five substitutes that changed the game on the hour mark to make sure Neal Ardley’s side will be on the draw come Monday night.

'We couldn’t move the ball quick enough and were very tepid [in the first half]. We had some stern words at half time and then started well in the second half'said the Woking manager. He later added, 'We took a risk making all five substitutions and changing shape but we looked more likely to go on and win.'

Of those changes, Jake Forster-Caskey’s quick corner was headed home by Boatswain to send the crowd into relief as much as ruptures. The Cards went on to look like the team that would get over the line, but it was Tunji Akinola who had two goal saving tackles that made sure Brackley wouldn’t steal their place in the draw".

13 October 2025

NINTH TIME LUCKY?

Saturday's draw with The Bees means that the wait for a first home FA Cup win at any stage is now more than six years' long.

Altrincham's last home win in the FA Cup was a 1-0 win over Chester FC in September 2019, with James Jones scoring the goal.

Amongst clubs that have never been in the Football League, Altrincham have the most League club scalps in the competition (17).

However, Tuesday night will witness the NINTH FA cup tie that Altrincham will have played since they last won a game in the competition. That is their longest ever run of successive winless games in the FA Cup since entering the competition in 1906.

The only saving grace in that sorry litany is that they have not lost in that period to a lower-league club.

The current sequence is as follows..

1. 2021-22 Round 1 v Gateshead, away, DREW 2-2
2. 2021-22 Round 1 replay v Gateshead, home, LOST 2-3
3. 2022-23 Round 4Q v Gateshead, home, DREW 2-2
4. 2022-23 Round 4Q replay v Gateshead, away, LOST 1-2
5. 2023-24 Round 4Q v Oldham Athletic, home, LOST 0-1
6. 2024-25 Round 4Q v Solihull Moors, home, DREW 1-1
7. 2024-25 Round 4Q replay v Solihull Moors, away, LOST 3-1 on pens after 2-2 game
8. 2025-26 Round 4Q v Harborough Town, home, DREW 2-2

Indeed, Altrincham have exited at the first hurdle of the competition (or in a replay at that stage) in four of the past five seasons (2020/21 to 2024/25).

Alty's last win at the this stage of the competition was a 3-2 win, away, at Southport in 2021.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 14 OCTOBER

It was Altrincham's first defeat in eight games and was delivered by a 79th minute close range goal by McGahey following a left-wing corner.

Above: Alty go close in the second half in front of the rain-soaked away fans. One of those fans, the man in the brown cap, underneath the football, is Latics' chairman Frank Rothwell.

The Latics started the game well, buoyed by 1,115 of their own fans in the away end in a total attendance of 3,874. But Altrincham came into the game and had the better of the second part of the first half and it was they who created the better chances before the interval.

The second half was a more open affair than the first 45 minutes and Altrincham looked the more likely winners with Conn-Clarke, Angus and Amaluzor failing to convert chances that presented themselves. They paid the price when McGahey scored and, indeed, Reid could have made it 2-0 in added time but for a goal-line clearance by Baines.

LAWRENCE CEARY R.I.P.

In his professional life, Lawrence was a respected audiologist and an obituary has been published by ENT Audiology News. which states that "Lawrie Cleary played a major part in the history of cochlear implantation in the UK. He had lifelong hearing loss" himself.

Our condolences are extended to his family and friends.

EIGHTH MANAGERIAL DEPARTURE

The latest, and eighth, parting of the ways was announced on Sunday at Hartlepool United where the club "has today [Sunday] parted company with manager Simon Grayson.

Following discussions yesterday evening and a board meeting this morning, it became clear that expectations with performances and results have not been met.

Obtaining one win in the last 11 games falls short of the required standard; therefore, the Board of Directors have collectively made the extremely difficult decision to relieve Simon of his duties.

The Board wishes to thank Simon for his efforts and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.

Nicky Featherstone, aided by Elliott Dickman and Adam Smith, will take control of the team for the interim period, starting with Tuesday night’s FA Cup Replay at home to Gainsborough Trinity".

Footnote: The list of departures this season is below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams
2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood
3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper
4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor
5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison
6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation)
8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED Simon Grayson

EMIRATES FA CUP DRAW

The draw will be available to watch on TNT Sports 1, discovery+ and on the TNT Sports YouTube page during this tie’s pre-match coverage from approximately 6.40pm BST."

Altrincham / Harborough Town are ball number 62.

At this stage the competition becomes national, i.e. there is no northern or southern section.

EMIRATES FA CUP REPLAYS

• Brackley Town v Woking
• Chester v Morecambe
• Harborough Town v Altrincham
• Hartlepool United v Gainsborough Trinity
• St Albans City v Banbury United
• Sutton United v Farnham Town
• Truro City v AFC Totton

ALTY OLD BOYS

He said 'To get two goals, I am buzzing with it and hopefully there is more to come'...

Conn-Clarke was influential in the first period at Brunton Park, showcasing his ability to fans from the outset...

'I whipped the corner in, and Ajiboye flicked it on, and he scored, so buzzing for him as well'...

The attacking midfielder scored his first goal for the Blues on 60 minutes with a precise cushioned effort into the far-right corner out of the reach of the diving Rhys Lovett...

Conn-Clarke got his second of the afternoon on 78 minutes with a looping effort over the Boston ‘keeper...

The twenty-three-year-old made his debut in front of 3,289 United fans".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The former Tottenham Hotspur trainee, who has played for Swindon Town, Forest Green Rovers and Yeovil Town, linked up with the Pilgrims ahead of Wednesday's National League Cup fixture against Newcastle United.

The 24-year-old played the final 28 minutes of the midweek encounter - and 86 minutes of Saturday's 5-2 defeat at Carlisle United in the Emirates FA Cup".

12 October 2025

"WE WERE OUTPLAYED" ADMITS BEES' BOSS

"But we do have a winning mentality, the right set of players, and we have a thing with this [FA Cup] competition that it keeps giving us great memories, and there's another one", referring to his team's draw at Altrincham.

The clubs meet in a replay on Tuesday night in Leicestershire.

The Harborough manager is pictured, right, at the match on Saturday. He endeared himself to home supporters when a spectator pulled him up for using a swear-word and he turned and politely apologised! How different from the crowd reaction to Robbie Savage's grandstanding from the same technical area recently.

POST-MATCH PARKY

The Alty boss felt that "we were comfortable for 60-65 minutes" and went on to say that the replay gives us "the chance to put right the wrongs of the last 30 minutes".

He bemoaned the fact that the corner from which the second goal came for the Bees should have been a goalkick but admitted that "for a lad to be free in the 18 yard-box is scandalous".

The manager also felt that his side had "zero protection in the box from the referee" and that it has become a "season that's here to test us... It feels like the hardest time I've had since I've been at the football club".

Overall, however, he feels that the team is "playing well enough to get over the line in games" but has not been able to do so.

ALTRINCHAM v HARBOROUGH TOWN

Match report here

Right: Before kick-off, Alty keeper Luke Hutchinson and captain Lewis Baines lifted Alty's tallest player, Dan Sassi, in an attempt to mend a gap in the netting. Unfortunately they could not mend the gaps in the Alty defence which let the visitors score two late goals.

NEXT: WOKING

Like Altrincham, The Cards also face an away replay in midweek following their 1-1 draw at Kingfield against Brackley Town.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Welsh Premier League : If there was a "Substitution of the Season" Award, JOHN DISNEY (right) would be firmly in the running. With the game at Briton Ferry goalless at the interval, the Connah's Quay Nomads boss sent on Ulsterman Harry Franklin - and 15 minutes later he completed a rapid-fire hat trick to give his side a 0-3 win.

League One : ALI SMITH played the full match for AFC Wimbledon, who were held 1-1 at home by Port Vale.

Wycombe Wanderers won by the only goal at Wigan Athletic without introducing JUNIOR QUITIRNA from their bench.

League Two : A goal down at the break at home to MI Dons, Bristol Rovers brought JOEL SENIOR on after 54 minutes. Dons struck 3 times after the 82nd minute to win 0-4.

Chesterfield were already 1-0 ahead at home to Salford City when JAMES BERRY came on after 68 minutes, and added another goal 15 minutes later to seal the win.

There was a full shift from HARRISON HOLGATE in Fleetwood Town's 3-2 home win against Harrogate Town, but TOBY MULLARKEY wasn't involved.

JAKE BICKERSTAFF got a rare start for Cheltenham Town at Gillingham, but was withdrawn after 68 minutes with the game still goalless. The Gloucestershire Robins scored late on, but a 95th minute equaliser made the final score 1-1.

The scoring in Grimsby Town's 1-2 home defeat by Colchester United was already complete before they brought JUSTIN AMALUZOR (left) on after 73 minutes.

It was a similar story at Prenton Park, where Barnet scored the only two goals of the game in the first half, and CONNOR JENNINGS played the whole of the second half.

Oldham Athletic played out a goalless draw with Barrow. REGAN OGLE and ELLIOT NEWBY started the game for the hosts and visitors respectively, but CHARLIE OLSON remained on the bench for the Latics. Ogle was subbed just after the hour-mark.

FA Cup, 4th Qualifying Round : CHRIS CONN-CLARKE (right) signed on in style at Brunton Park.

Carlisle United had been seemingly coasting at 3-0, but Boston United, with CONNOR TEALE and ZAK MILLS in their defence, struck twice in the first 4 minutes of the second half. However CCC scored twice to wrap up a 5-2 win before being withdrawn after 84 minutes. REGAN LINNEY was an unused substitute.

Another Old Boy to enjoy his afternoon was ALEX NEWBY, who scored both goals in York City's 1-2 win at Rochdale before being substituted after 89 minutes. Alex made 74 appearances for Rochdale between 2020-2022, scoring 12 goals, so they should have known all about him.

TYRESE SINCLAIR was an unused substitute for York, while KEVIN BERKOE played the full game for Rochdale. LIAM HUMBLES wasn't in the squad.

Yeovil Town fell at the first hurdle, despite hosts Hemel Hempstead being reduced to 10 men after 25 minutes following an off the ball incident involving KYLE FERGUSON. The Glovers were never ahead, and went down 2-1. MATT GOULD was, as usual, on the bench.

TOM PEERS (right) and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY came off the bench for Chester after 63 minutes at Morecambe, and the Seals came from behind to draw 1-1.

National North : Worksop Town, captained by LUKE WATERFALL, put a dent in AFC Fylde's promotion ambitions at Mill Farm, coming from behind to win by the odd goal in five. CHRIS MERRIE and LIAM BROCKBANK started for CRAIG MAHON'S team. RYAN COLCLOUGH came off the bench after 61 minutes, and just 4 minutes later he scored the goal that put the Coasters 2-1 up. Liam was withdrawn straight after that goal, and it all went downhill from there. GEORGE WILSON was an unused substitute.

Radcliffe have hit a hot streak, and moved up to 4th by winning 1-5 at Kidderminster Harriers. JORDAN HULME scored the goal that put them 1-3 up before being substituted after 75 minutes. DAN MOONEY claimed the assist for the Harriers goal, but was withdrawn after 84 minutes.

Scottish Championship : After missing 7 matches through injury, KIAN TAYLOR was an unused substitute for Morton, who drew 1-1 at home to Partick Thistle.

NPL Division 1 West : TONY THOMPSON and TOM HANNIGAN (left), who was booked, were in the Bootle side that lost 0-1 to visitors Sporting Khalsa (one of whose substitutes was Prince Henry!)

Vauxhall Motors were leading 0-3 at Clitheroe by the time they brought KEVIN ELLISON off the bench. After the hosts had reduced the arrears to 2-3, Motors pulled one back, and it was Kevin who wrapped up a 2-5 win in the 96th minute.

SEAN HIGGINS put Trafford ahead at Mossley, but by the time he and JEROME WRIGHT were substituted in the last 15 minutes, the Tameside club, with MARK LEES and MASON FAWNS playing the full game, had fought back to draw 1-1.

A full shift from KYLE BROWNHILL couldn't save Stalybridge Celtic from going down 1-0 at Shifnal Town. Neither ELLIOT ROKKA nor GREG WILKINSON came off the Celtic bench.

Despite captain JOE PIGGOTT coming off at half time, and SAM SHERIDAN (above, right) exiting the action with a quarter of an hour left, Atherton Collieries earned an impressive 0-3 win at Witton Albion. JAMES LAWRIE and MAX HARROP played the full game for Albion, while BEN HARRISON lasted 54 minutes. REMI RAYMOND was a 66th minute substitute.#

EMIRATES FA CUP

4th Round Qualifying:

• Worthing v Forest Green Rovers

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The shot-stopper, who came through the ranks at Wolverhampton Wanderers, commented... 'I’ve known [ex-Alty loanee] Kevin [Berkoe] since I was 16/17, to see him is brilliant and I look ahead to sharing the pitch with him again.

'Everyone dreams of playing in the FA Cup, I’m sure the fans will be up for it and will make it special.'

Smith joined Wolves at just eight years old and was a regular in both their Under-18 and Under-23 sides. He linked up with the First Team’s pre-season tour of Spain and Portugal in 2022.

After spells on loan at non-league sides Frickley Athletic and Kettering Town, he signed for Walsall on an initial six-month loan which was made permanent in the summer of 2023. In his first full season, Smith won the Saddlers’ Young Player Of the Year Award, making 30 appearances.

A move to Barnsley followed before a month-long loan at Grimsby Town last season, appearing seven times at Blundell Park".

The National League "has called on the entire football family to support a 3UP Day of Action next month and will change all its 3pm fixtures on Saturday 15 November to kick-off at the later time of 3.03pm.

In the build-up to these games, the National League will mobilise football clubs across the UK, fan groups, players, managers, media personalities and politicians to highlight its widely popular campaign to attain three promotions into the English Football League (EFL).

This unprecedented step is a response to the EFL Board’s unchanged stance on 3UP and their continued refusal to formally consult its 72 member clubs on the matter.

Over the coming weeks, the National League will reveal exactly what supporters of the 3UP campaign will do to help make these unique kick-off times a significant and impactful moment. On Saturday 15 November there are 24 National League teams across the country in action - and all of their fixtures will start at 3.03pm". That includes Altrincham v Brackley Town.

11 October, 2025

ALTRINCHAM 2-2 HARBOROUGH TOWN

Right: Kahrel Reddin is congratulated by Tom Crawford and Tylor Golden on Altrincham's first goal.

It took nearly two minutes to complete the changes as Harborough also made a swap. When play resumed, Waters almost immediately fouled the lively Arlott-John and was booked, just as quickly as he had been on his debut last Saturday, when he also saw yellow immediately after coming on from the bench, with dissent his offence on that occasion.

Following Kelly-Evans's freekick, Hutchinson had to make a good reaction save but the ball was not cleared and Kennedy nodded home to make it 2-1 (87 mins).

Buoyed by their goal, the Leicestershire side went for an equaliser. The announcement of eight added minutes gave them even more impetus as they were roared on by nearly 300 travelling supporters.

As that added time neared its end, Alty goalkeeper Hutchinson was hurt after flapping away a Harborough corner, another corner being the outcome. After lengthy treatment for Hutchinson and with Harborough's own keeper in the Alty box, the hosts failed to clear this second corner and Bees substitute, Putman, stepped in to make it 2-2 with the 100th minute on the clock.

Cue mass celebrations for the Harborough team and the spectators before two more minutes were played which left the scores level, and a replay on Tuesday needed.

Earlier in the afternoon the game had started five minutes late after some farcicial scenes to repair a hole in the net at the Golf Road.

Altrincham gradually dominated the first half before Marriott's advance on the left, aided by a ricochet, laid on a close-range goal for Man of the Match, Reddin (38 mins). And when that lead was doubled by Knowles in the 50th minute, with Marriott again instrumental in the build up, the outcome seemed to be settled. But it was not.

Report to follow

EMIRATES FA CUP FIXTURES

The "Rules of the FA Challenge Cup" state that...

"Where a Competition Match up to and including the Fourth Round Qualifying has resulted in a draw, it shall be replayed in accordance with Rule 71.2 or as directed by The Association".

In the Fourth Round Qualifying, the prize money is £9,375 for the winners and £3,125 for losers.

North section

• ALTRINCHAM 2-2 Harborough Town
• Aveley 0-3 Gateshead
• Carlisle United 5-2 Boston United
• Darlington 0-6 AFC Telford United
• Gainsborough Trinity 1-1 Hartlepool United
• Macclesfield FC 1-0 Stamford
• Morecambe 1-1 Chester FC
• Rochdale 1-2 York City
• Runcorn Linnets 0-1 Buxton
• Scunthorpe United 4-2 King's Lynn Town
• South Shields 4-0 Spalding United
• Southport 1-3 FC Halifax Town
• Spennymoor Town 1-0 Billericay Town
• Tamworth 1-0 Hyde United

South section

• AFC Totton 1-1 Truro City
• Banbury United 1-1 St Albans City
• Braintree Town 2-0 Farnborough
• Chelmsford City 4-3 Chippenham Town
• Dorking Wanderers 2-3 Aldershot Town
• Eastbourne Borough 0-3 Boreham Wood
• Ebbsfleet United 2-0 Solihull Moors
• Farnham Town 3-3 Sutton United (ko 12.30pm)
• Hampton & Richmond Borough 0-2 Eastleigh
• Hemel Hempstead 2-1 Yeovil Town
• Maldon & Tiptree 1-0 Flackwell Heath
• Slough Town 3-2 Enfield
• Southend United 4-1 Folkestone Invicta
• Tonbridge Angels 1-3 Chatham Town
• Wealdstone 5-1 Whitstable Town
• Weston super Mare 1-0 Needham Market
• Woking 1-1 Brackley Town

Monday 13 October

• Worthing v Forest Green Rovers

BEFORE THE GAME: ALTRINCHAM v HARBOROUGH TOWN

He revealed that 555 tickets have already been sold so we can expect a sizable away following today. Recent home league matches this season have been attended by around 630 spectators, so the turnout for the FA Cup match today is likely to exceed that figure.

The full interview was to be released at 7pm on Friday evening.

Mitch Austin is the current manager for Harborough Town FC, appointed in 2020 and having since signed a contract extension. He manages the first team, with David Staff serving as Assistant Manager Mitch oversees the team's development and strategic direction, including player contracts, coaching staff appointments, and the club's emerging talent pathways, according to the Harborough Town FC website.

Austin was managed the team since October 2020, and he is assisted by his deputy, David Staff. The 37 year-old has previously managed Kettering and St Ives Town,

The Harborough Mail adds that "Harborough are once again just one win away from reaching the first round proper, but they face a challenging final qualifying hurdle as they have to travel to Enterprise National League side Altrincham this weekend...

Austin’s side are flying and they maintained their unbeaten start in the major competitions with a 2-0 FA Trophy win over Hednesford Town on Saturday...

Although he knows his side are underdogs, he wants his players to call on last season’s brilliant experiences...

Austin said , "Let's have no bones about it, Altrincham are the strong favourites.

"We are playing at theirs, they are an established Conference side with a great manager, who has been there for a number of years.

"They play a great style of play, and I watched them on Wednesday night on DAZN.

"But we have come a long way, and one thing we don't lack is ambition and desire.

"They will be getting a very, very good Harborough Town coming to theirs with a lot of belief, who have had previous FA Cup magic...

"But I tell you what, if anybody can create a bit of magic it is those guys in that dressing room".

RESTRICTED ACCESS TO COMMUNITY SPORTS HALL

"To facilitate for both football fans and Diwali event attendees, we’ll be opening half of the Community Sports Hall (pictured, right) to match ticket holders from 1:30pm (with access via the door next to the main stand for the bar and kiosk), before we close the full hall at 4pm for the Diwali event.

Post-match options for supporters will be the Fan Zone – which will be open till 6pm – and the John King Lounge, where fans will be able to grab a drink while watching the man-of-the-match presentation".

ANTHONY TAYLOR: STRESSES ON REFEREES

The BBC summarises the interview saying that "Anthony Taylor believes football's 'win-at-all-costs' approach is having a detrimental effect on the mental health and performance of referees".

In the interview Anthony outlines the impact of criticism on his family which has led to them not being comfortable enough to attend matches any longer.

ALTY OLD BOYS

World Cup Qualification: JUSTIN DONAWA came off Bermuda's bench after 23 minutes, with visitors Trinidad and Tobago already a goal up. Bermuda eventually lost 0-3, and, remaining pointless after 3 matches, are almost certain to be eliminated.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

This week The Cards have announced "the signing of Ashley Boatswain.

Boatswain, 20, joins on loan from Sky Bet Championship side Ipswich Town until January.

Having come through the Tractor Boys' Academy, the attacker was loaned to Southern Football League club Leiston in February 2024.

In January of this year, he joined National League side AFC Fylde, going on to make eighteen appearances for the Coasters....

Director of Football, Jody Brown, explained 'With Inih [Effiong] currently out of favour, Sam [Ashford] injured long-term, and Aiden’s [O’Brien] hamstring injury hard to put a recovery time on, it became important to bring another attacking option in....

'Neal [Ardley] was keen to bring in someone with size and a physical presence, a bit different from our others, and It was also important that we manage it correctly from a financial perspective too... [Ashley] was strong against us for AFC Fylde last year, and he will have learned lots from that loan last season.'”

Morecambe's first-team squad has risen to 33 players with news of "the signing of goalkeeper Jamal Blackman on an initial deal until January...

Blackman spent over a decade at Chelsea, gaining valuable experience through loan spells with Sheffield United, Wycombe Wanderers, Rotherham United, Middlesbrough, Bristol Rovers, and others.

He has also played overseas with Ostersunds FK in Sweden and Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer...

Standing at 6’6”, he brings presence, shot-stopping quality and leadership to Ashvir Singh Johal’s squad".

10 October 2025

TODAY: HARBOROUGH TOWN

Last season they went on to lose narrowly in Round Two, 5-3 away to League One Reading, after taking the Royals to extra time. They had earlier won in Round One, 4-1 away at National League South club Tonbridge Angels, a club competing a rung higher in the footballing world.

Right: Whether loanee Billy Waters will make his home debut on Saturday for Altrincham depends on whether his parent club, Oldham Athletic. has given him clearance. But with players now allowed to play for a second club in the F FA Cup competition proper, the Latics may have been accommodating.

Billy is no stranger to Altrincham having faced them for five clubs previously. Here we see him representing FC Halifax Town at the J.Davidson Stadium in 2022.

Earlier in the competition this season Harborough fell behind 0-2 at home to Worksop Town but emerged with a 3-2 win, thanks to an added-time winning goal.

In the Third Qualifying Round this season they hammered National League North's basement club Peterborough Sports 4-1 to earn their tie with Altrincham.

This season they have also reached Round One of the Isuzu FA Trophy 1st Round Proper with a 2-0 at home to Hednesford Town last week. They have been drawn at home to FC Rushden & Diamonds in Round One.

YOUTH CUP HIGHLIGHTS

CCC'S MOVE: PRAISE FOR ALTY

Peterborough United stated "Chris Conn-Clarke has completed a loan move to Enterprise National League side Carlisle United....

Conn-Clarke joined Posh after a stellar season with Altrincham at the same level, but [he] has struggled to hold down a regular place in the Posh starting line-up.

Conn-Clarke has scored once in 30 appearances for the club, but hasn't featured this season for the club".

A Carlisle United video on X shows Tierney collecting CC at Carlisle station.

And Carlisle United have an interview with CCC in which he says of his arrival in Cumbria, "It took a while to get done, but I'm finally here...

It's went on for a while, but he (Marc Tierney) rung [sic] me this morning and says pack your bags, you're coming up... I... literally just packed the bag and got straight up first train ...

As for his third and final spell at Alty he stated “It was an enjoyable season, it didn't finish the way I wanted it to...

“I wanted to get Altrincham out of the league, and hopefully I can do it here at Carlisle...

"I can't say a bad word about Altrincham, it was a good club to be at, so the environment the players I had around me, me and Regan were together, and we just clicked very well, so it was a good season..

"I feel like I play with like I'm playing in the playground when I was a kid. I've never changed, so I'm excited. I can play anywhere in the front positions, I can play as a false nine. I've done that for Altrincham a few times...

"I do prefer having a lot more freedom so I can go and venture and get the ball and do what I want to do on the ball.”

As for former Alty team-mate Regan Linney's role in his move to Carlisle, CCC said “I have to give it to him like he's pushed as has Marc Tierney and my agent... I've been calling him agent Regan, so now he's done his bit and he's a wonderful lad and he's a wonderful player, so can't wait to link up with him again...

"Marc worked very hard to get the deal done, and I appreciate him for doing that...

"I feel like Carlisle was the best squad in the league, and I wanted to come to a team with big ambition, and speaking to Marc Tierney, the club does have that....

When asked if he had had any conversations with Mark Hughes, he said “No, I haven't spoken to the gaffer yet".

JOHN IMRIE R.I.P.

He scored once in the GMAC Round 1 tie at home to Runcorn on 6th October 1987, which Alty won 1-0).

Credit for stats goes to the late and much-missed Mike Garnett.

His Alty career rather collapsed when Williams was replaced by Tommy Docherty in September 1987.

One of his other clubs was Runcorn and Runcorn Linnets add that "John was very gifted and skillful midfield player, who represented the Linnets in the 1986 FA Trophy final at Wembley, which brought a 1-0 defeat to Altrincham".

He played for many NW clubs including as a striker for Buxton, before Runcorn manager "John Williams successfully converted him into a centre fielder..

"John played for Altrincham, Rhyl (on loan) and Northwich Victoria before moving to Macclesfield Town.

"Returning to Runcorn, his second spell as a player ended with a move to Mossley in February 1992.

"After stints with Droylsden and Glossop North End, he then played for Altrincham and after a brief loan spell at Rhyl, he signed for Northwich Victoria in 1987 before moving to Macclesfield Town the following year.

"He joined Mossley as new manager Ged Coyne's first signing when he signed from Runcorn in February 1992.

"John moved on to Droylsden in November 1992 and then Glossop North End in 1994

"He was second in command to his former Canal Street team-mate Mark Carter at Runcorn from 1999-2000".

Macclesfield FC also has an obituary of John.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 22 year-old was wuithdrawn via stretcher after sustaining the injury in our ENL fixture against Boston United and has now, unfortunately, been ruled out of the remainder of the 2025/26 season while his rehabilitation is ongoing".

Injuries are also the theme at Hartlepool United where "Club Physio Danny O’Connor provides an update stating, "“There are a few injuries on a few key players...

On Reiss McNally.. 'It happened, got in a foot race at the striker, and the hamstring was gone. It was the 93rd minute or something... He kind of stumbles and he pulls straight away...

'Unfortunately, he had a Grade Three tear on his hamstring... There is no need for surgery, so we’re just working on healing at the moment...

'Hopefully around Christmas, maybe before, that’s what we’re looking at.” <> On the loss of Harvey Cartwright... 'He’s had another Grade Three tear on his quad against Carlisle, really, innocuous. The sad thing about it is he’s had it before, previously when he was at Hull, and it looks like this has re-aggravated it.

'Obviously, he’s a loan player, Hull are calling him back'...

On Josh Donaldson’s injuries whilst out on loan, 'Josh pulled up his hamstring during a game... It’s not too bad, he’s been out the last couple of weeks, and we’re looking to get him running towards the end of this week'...

On Alex Reid’s recovery, 'Reidy’s done very well, I’ve been running him for the past week. When he pulled up, it was interesting as it was just a little tweak more than anything...

'We got him off basically for a precaution, and thankfully it was a great decision to do...

'He’s been involved in training today, hopefully at the back end of this week, he’ll go into full training...

On hamstring issues, 'We need to address the elephant in the room, we’ve had a few hamstring issues...

'So we made a couple of changes, hopefully we’re addressing that to stop it from happening anymore'">

At Southend United "Actor, writer, and Southend United supporter Martin Trenaman recently visited the club’s new training ground to learn more about our first-team’s home.

First opened in September 2024 for Kevin Maher’s squad to train at, the team officially completed their transition to Fossetts Training Facility in April 2025...

The facility is made up of nine purpose-built cabins, housing the changing rooms, gym, media and analyst suite, physio, kitchen and common area, office space, kit room, and boot room...

Martin met Maher, CEO Tom Lawrence, and captain Nathan Ralph to uncover the work that went into creating the new home and what it means for the club’s future...

CEO Tom Lawrence told Martin, 'We needed to exit Boots & Laces which had been our home for some time. We acquired the Fossetts facility, which was just four grass pitches at the time, as part of the transaction with the previous ownership...

'We have four pitches on this site – two of which are essentially mothballed for the moment... We have planning permission for a 3G, all-weather pitch at the top end which is on the roadmap to be developed in due course...

The whole project cost for laying these pitches was £2m, which gives you an indication of how much money has been invested into the project.'

Head coach Kevin Maher added 'It's a really good environment... It attracts better players when you’re trying to sign them'">

Wealdstone "share some positive news on Daniel Nkrumah’s recovery following the injury he sustained in the abandoned match against Scunthorpe United.

Daniel has since seen a specialist and it has been confirmed that he dislocated his shoulder, but will not require surgery.

He has already returned to light training with the squad and is working hard on his rehabilitation programme. The medical team expect Daniel to be back in action within 4–6 weeks".

Sutton United "confirm the appointment of Dean Hammond to the position of Assistant Manager.

Hammond joins from his role at Worthing, where he worked alongside Chris Agutter, and reunites with the Sutton Head Coach after he was announced as Steve Morison’s successor last week, having first linked up with him at Brighton & Hove Albion...

Hammond will now begin life at Sutton alongside Agutter...

Worthing had initially announced that the 42-year-old would take charge of their FA Cup Fourth Round Qualifying tie at home to Forest Green Rovers on Monday night, live on TNT Sports. However, the decision was made to allow him to leave ahead of schedule after he was shown a red card in the aftermath of last weekend’s defeat to Maidenhead, resulting in a touchline suspension for the FA Cup match.

On the appointment, Agutter said, 'I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to continue working with Deano.

'He’s a brilliant, brilliant coach and an even better man'".

National South club Worthing "confirm the return of Adam Hinshelwood as first team manager.

"The 41-year-old returns following an 18-month spell as manager of York City, who he led to a second-place finish in the National League last season.

"Hinshelwood has signed a contract through to May 2028...

"Chairman, Barry Hunter commented "As a club, we are almost unrecognisable (on and off the pitch) compared with when Adam left, while he has unsurprisingly proved himself at National League level."

Footnote: Hinshelwood's return to Worthing was facilitated by the move, last week, of his successor at the Sussex club, Chris Agutter, to Sutton United.

9 October 2025

CONN-CLARKE JOINS LINNEY AT CARLISLE

The news emerged from Carlisle United who pronounced themselves "delighted to announce the signing of Chris Conn-Clarke from Peterborough United on loan until January with options.

Chris Conn-Clarke (#10), Regan Linney (#9) and Alex Newby (#30) were Altrincham team-mates, as seen here back in February 2024. All three left Alty last summer, with Conn-Clarke and Linney now reunited at Carlisle whilst Newby is with York City.

"The 23-year-old joins the Blues from the Posh, adding an extra dimension to Mark Hughes’s side. Born in Belfast, Conn-Clarke was involved with Linfield and Glentoran as a youngster before being offered a scholarship by Burnley in 2017.

"During his time with the Clarets, he spent time on a work experience loan with Chorley before making a permanent move to Fleetwood Town, joining their development set-up. While with the Cod Army, the Northern Ireland youth international enjoyed loan spells with Waterford and twice with Altrincham before signing for the Robins permanently in 2023 for a club record fee.

"It was with the Greater Manchester side that Conn-Clarke flourished alongside Regan Linney, scoring 22 times and assisting on 12 occasions as he was named National League Player of the Year during the 2023/24 season.

"Darren Ferguson lured the attacking midfielder to London Road in June 2024 for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal, and he has featured 30 times for the Posh, assisting five times and scoring once.

"Head Coach, Mark Hughes said 'He’s a player with real quality in the final third — composed, creative, and clinical when it counts. He brings with him a proven track record at this level'...

"Head of Football Operations, Marc Tierney added... 'Tanks to the fantastic support from our owners, we were able to get the deal over the line'".

NEXT: HARBOROUGH TOWN

The Bees are four points clear at the top of the Southern League Premier Central division, having won six times and drawn their other three games to remain unbeaten.

With all four of Altrincham's recent red-card recipients now having served their sentences, Phil Parkinson should have all of his squad available apart from long-term injured players.

These are centre-backs Billy Sass-Davies and Jake Cooper, neither of whom has yet played this season. Cooper was named on the bench for four recent games but did not get on the pitch and was then omitted from the squad for more recent games.

It is unclear whether last week's loan signings, Jack Hinchy (from Notts County) and Billy Waters (from Oldham Athletic) will be permitted by their parent clubs to play in the FA Cup.

CHESHIRE NEWS

Macclesfield FC Shareholders adds that "Rob Smethurst has decided to step down from all involvement in day-to-day activities at our Football Club.

Ultimately, Rob has decided to do this with the very best interests of our Club at heart, and we fully understand the rationale that has led Rob to make what has unquestionably been a very difficult decision on so many levels...

Whilst Rob may have stepped aside in relation to day-to-day activities, he will retain his shareholding, and as a collective, we will work relentlessly to ensure that Macclesfield FC continues the incredible trajectory that it has enjoyed over the course of the last five years".

WEDNESDAY SCORES

• Boston United 1-3 Newcastle United U21

FA YOUTH CUP: NEXT ROUND

Left: Substitute Harley Renshaw (far left) celebrates his first goal which put Altrincham 3-0 ahead against South Liverpool last Tuesday night in the FA Youth Cup. Right: Joe Weston played well in midfield for Altrincham against South Liverpool on Tuesday night.

After his under-18 Academy side beat South Liverpool on Tuesday night, Academy chief Paul Fay spoke to Brian Flynn on Alty TV.

He felt his side's play was too "safe" in the opening stages and acknowledged that opposition errors helped their cause.

He was also keen to use the training sessions before the next round to iron out some of the problems that he perceived against South Liverpool.

Following the win, the Third Round Qualifying tie will be away at Radcliffe.

Altrincham FC announce that "The... tie against Boro's under-18s will take place under the lights at The Neuven Stadium (M26 3PE) with kick-off scheduled for 7:30pm. Admission has been set at £6 Adults and £3 Concessions/under-16s."

ALTY OLD BOYS

However, a first-half hat-trick from 18 year-old Sean Neve gave Newcastle United U21 a commanding 0-3 interval lead, and the Pilgrims only reduced their advantage by a single goal.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The striker scored four goals in three games during the month, netting braces in the 2-0 wins over Braintree Town and Carlisle United.

He has beaten off competition from Matt Rush (Boreham Wood), Alex Hunt (York City) and Kain Adom (Gateshead).

That makes it back-to-back monthly wins for Mani, who was also named August’s best. It is also the first time that a club has picked three of the first four monthly awards, following the August Manager of the Month award for Jimmy McNulty".

8 October 2025

ALTY ADVANCE IN FA YOUTH CUP

Right: Alty keeper Max Beddow made a trio of important saves at 2-0 to avoid a potentially tense finish to the game.

Altrincham took a 23rd minute lead when Raion Rowe took advantage of a Liverpool mis-pass across the face of their penalty area to drive a low shot past the flat-footed keeper.

Another defensive mix-up gifted Renshaw a second Altrincham goal (64 mins).

Three impressive saves inside a minute of frantic defending by Alty saw keeper Beddow maintain the two-goal margin intact before two late goals wound up the scoring at 4-0.

First, Lavin's deft finish, following a left-wing freekick, made it 3-0 (83 mins) before Renshaw steered in a fourth goal in the ninetieth minute. Somehow, the referee found more than eight added minutes before the final whistle.

Match report here

NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS: WOKING

The Cards currently lie 19th, one place above Altrincham, but only on goal difference.

Altrincham won the corresponding fixture last season by the only goal of the game.

Back in the here and now, Woking announce that "Tariq Hinds has been voted Cards Trust Player of the Month for September.

The wing-back appeared in all our fixtures throughout the month, playing every minute bar the final four at Solihull Moors, and scored his third goal for the club in the 5-0 victory over Gateshead.

Tariq received his award in the Geoff Chapple Lounge following our draw with Truro City on Saturday.

PHIL: NUMBER THREE IN ENGLAND

This landmark arrived after they had been in charge continuously for a period of 28 days less than eight full years, from their appointment on 28 April 2017.

Some six months later, Phil has become the third-longest current manager in any of the top five levels of English football.

The manager with the longest continuous service at one club in the top five levels is Simon Weaver at Harrogate Town. He has been in post for 16 years, 139 days.

Second in terms of continuous service is Pep Guardiola at Manchester City who has been in post for 9 years, 98 days.

And third in terms of longevity is non other than Phil Parkinson at Altrincham who has 8 years and 247 days of continuous service at the club.

In his wake is fourth placed Mikel Arteta with a mere 5 years and 88 days at Arsenal.

ALTY OLD BOYS

EFL Trophy : While Bristol Rovers gave JOEL SENIOR a full outing in their win by the only goal at Cheltenham Town, the hosts left JAKE BICKERSTAFF out of their squad.

With their home tie against Burton Albion still goalless, Chesterfield withdrew JAMES BERRY after 63 minutes, and went on to win by the only goal of the game.

Fleetwood Town rested TOBY MULLARKEY, but HARRISON HOLGATE played the full game as they saw off Leeds United U21 4-0.

A full shift from JUSTIN AMALUZOR couldn't prevent Grimsby Town losing 0-3 to visitors Doncaster Rovers.

Having missed Oldham Athletic's last 7 matches in all competitions, REAGAN OGLE played the full game for Oldham Athletic at Rotherham United, and scored the goal that gave them a 0-2 interval lead. CHARLIE OLSON (left) was given a rare start, but after the Yorkshire side had reduced the arrears he was withdrawn after 75 minutes. Unfortunately for Latics, their hosts turned the game round late on to win 3-2.

While hosts Stevenage were without injured captain CARL PIERGIANNI, Bromley gave MARCUS DINANGA a start, but withdrew him after 61 minutes as they lost to the odd goal in three.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA had only played 16 minutes of first team football for Wycombe Wanderers since the beginning of September, but got 73 minutes under his belt against Fulham U21 - by that time Wanderers had wrapped up a 3-1 win.

ELLIOT NEWBY gave Barrow an 8th minute lead against Tranmere Rovers before being substituted after 65 minutes. Rovers, who left CONNOR JENNINGS (right) on the bench, fought back to win 1-2.

BEN LOMAX got a rare outing for Port Vale, coming on after 51 minutes at Accrington Stanley. Vale eventually took control after Stanley were reduced to 10 men, going on to win 0-2.

JACK KINGDON made his Cardiff City first team debut from the bench after 65 minutes, but they lost to the only goal of the game from visitors Newport County.

Welsh Premier League : JOHN DISNEY took his Connah's Quay Nomads team to Bala Town, where they kept JOEL TORRANCE busy, but in vain as Nomads won 1-3.

NPL Premier Division : JOEL BAILEY played the full match for Bamber Bridge at Hyde United, where they lost to an 84th minute goal. JACK REDSHAW was substituted by the hosts 3 minutes later.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : ANDY DALES captained Mickleover to a 1-0 home win against Anstey Nomads.

NPL Division 1 West : Witton Albion won 2-3 at Stafford Rangers. JAMES LAWRIE played the full game, picking up a yellow card, while MAX HARROP was taken off after 66 minutes, while 16 minutes later BEN HARRISON made way for REMI RAYMOND.

With DAVE PARTON in goal, Congleton Town went down 3-1 at Stalybridge Celtic. KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game for the hosts, but they left both ELLIOT ROKKA and GREG WILKINSON on the bench.

SEAN HIGGINS only came off Trafford's bench after 78 minutes, as the bottom club were sunk by visitors Bury, who scored the only goal of the match. JEROME WRIGHT wasn't involved for Trafford.

Vauxhall Motors skipper KEVIN ELLISON lasted 70 minutes of their home game against Bootle, but, although it was goalless when he came off, Bootle scored the game's only goal, while Motors had a man sent off. TOM HANNIGAN played the full game for the Bucks, while DIOR ANGUS lasted 41 minutes. TONY THOMPSON wasn't involved tonight.

NWCL Premier Division : Iram Town beat visitors Atherton Laburnum Rovers 3-0. JOHN JOHNSTON scored the first two goals, the second one a penalty.

SHERIFF NJIE rounded off the scoring for Cheadle Town, who won 1-3 at Wythenshawe.

NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP FIXTURES

• Boston United v Newcastle United U21

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boston United "defenders Tommy Fogarty and Finley Ging will go head-to-head on international duty this week. Birmingham City loanee Fogarty's Northern Ireland and United under-23s player Ging's Malta will lock horns in an U21 World Cup qualifier on Thursday evening.

Fogarty (Germany) and Ging (Georgia) will play further qualifiers before their returns to the United fold ahead of the Scunthorpe United encounter on October 18.

Boreham Wood "are delighted to announce that manager Luke Garrard has been named Enterprise National League Manager of the Month for September!

September saw the Wood claim five wins from seven, defeating Sutton United, Morecambe, Altrincham, Boston United, and Woking, while also picking up draws against Scunthorpe United and Southend United to round off a strong run.

Luke faced strong competition for the award, with Rochdale’s Jimmy McNulty, Yeovil Town’s Richard Dryden, and Forest Green’s Robbie Savage all enjoying fine months. However, the facts could not be overlooked with Garrard’s side collecting 17 points from a possible 21 during September, a record unmatched across the division.

This recognition is a testament to the brilliant work Luke, his backroom staff, and the squad have put in since promotion and to the positive momentum building around Meadow Park,

7 October 2025

FA YOUTH CUP TONIGHT

The winners will be away to Radcliffe in the Third Round Qualifying, in a tie to be held "from the week commencing Monday, 13 October 2025".

FA CUP OPPONENTS: HARBOROUGH TOWN

Harborough Town "is the realisation of the merger of Harborough Town Juniors, Harborough Spencers and Harborough Minis in 2007, which created one club for all ages, gender and ability for the Market Harborough Community.

We are based in Market Harborough where are our impressive facilities cater for all of the clubs teams. The club became an FA Charter Club in 2004 and through consistent development has achieved FA Charter Standard Community Club Status which is the highest accolade currently available ".

LATE GOALS SINK THE UNDER-19S

The Altrincham side comprised (in a/z order), Lewis Broderick, Harry Cain, Benjamin McNamara, Kian Mattison, Callum McCormack, Benjamin Mensah, William Molloy, William Rodwell, Archie Rowlands, William Sneyd and Jimmy Taafe. On the bench were Josh Herreaman, Jacob Martin, Connor Summerfield and Thomas Tattersall.

Altrincham actually led 2-0 after 25 minutes with goals from Molloy and Broderick before conceding straight after the interval. After making three second-half substitutions, three late goals in eight minutes turned the match in Everton's favour.

ANOTHER LONG FA CUP TRIP FOR WOMEN

The tie will be played on Sunday, October 26th at 2pm.

MIDWEEK FIXTURES

Tuesday, 7 October

• Scunthorpe United v Morecambe

ALTY FC MONTHLY DRAW

• £500 cash | 127 Jane Ford
• £75 cash | 48 Bryan Ford
• Hospitality for Two | 539 Hospitality for Two
• £25 cash | 272 J Cook
• Bottle of Alty Gin | 396 R Maddocks
• Scarf & Pin Badge | 149 Mr Herbert

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"On Saturday morning,

The deal is subject to the signing of a new lease at Grosvenor Vale and finalising of the legal paperwork.

Nick brings a wealth of global business experience and a lifelong passion for football to the Stones, along with a proven record of helping sports organisations achieve sustainable success both on and off the field.

Growing up in New Jersey, Nick describes himself as a 'sports nut'... It was his extended family in Germany who first passed on their passion for [football]...

His consulting career saw him work on every continent except Antarctica... Following his retirement from McKinsey in 2013, Nick made his first move into team ownership, investing in the Joliet Slammers, a minor league baseball team in Illinois...

His love of football brought him to Leyton Orient in 2021, where he served as an investor and board member during the club’s promotion to League One... He also invested in Germany’s Preußen Münster, who have since achieved back to back promotions to the 2. Bundesliga...

After selling his shares in Leyton Orient, Nick began looking for another opportunity to stay involved in English football. That search led him to Wealdstone FC....

Importantly, he is not coming alone. 'Over the years, I’ve built a network of like-minded investors who share my belief in sustainable success,' Nick notes. 'I’m confident they’ll join me in helping to secure an exciting and enduring future for Wealdstone FC.'

Pending completion of the lease and legal process, Nick Semaca will become Wealdstone FC’s majority shareholder".

Eastleigh "announce the signing of forward Luke Skinner from Bristol City on a short-term loan lasting until January.

The attacker has been at Bristol City since he was six years old and made his first professional contract in November 2024, marking his 17th birthday. A versatile attacking player, Skinner is primarily a centre-forward but can also operate out wide on either wing.

In the 2025/26 season so far, Luke has been playing on loan at Weston-super-Mare... Working under Scott Bartlett during that period provided him with important minutes in men’s football...

First-Team Manager Scott Bartlett, said 'Luke will add more competition, quality and options to our squad. I have worked with Luke recently and he is a talent. For someone so young, he is fearless and will thrive in our environment.'"

It's no joke at Roots Hall where Southend United announce that they "are excited to announce the launch of Roots Comedy Club, bringing two nights of live comedy to the Blues Legends Lounge this winter.

Join us at the home of your Shrimpers on Sunday, November 16 and Sunday, December 14 for lots of laughter, top comedians and a brilliant atmosphere. Whether you’re a lifelong Shrimper fan or just fancy a great night out, these events are not something you want to miss out on...

Line-up: MC: Ash Firth – Essex-based comedian and experienced comedy host, bringing energy and local charm.

Opener: Mad Ron – Award-winning comedy character known for sharp, anarchic humor.

Closer: Steve Gribbin – Comedy circuit legend, celebrated for his satirical comedy songs and razor-sharp wit....

Tickets are just £15 per night".

Hartlepool United "confirm that the Club has parted ways with Assistant Coach Neil McDonald.

Simon Grayson will continue to be assisted by Nicky Featherstone and will now be joined by Elliott Dickman in the role of First Team Coach.

Dickman has a long track record of coaching in the North East, having previously spent time at Sunderland and Newcastle United with their respective development teams.

The 46-year-old most recently managed South Shields in the Enterprise National League North from 2023 until this summer".

6 October 2025

WOMEN PROGRESS IN FA CUP

The win for Daryll Abrahams's side, their third FA Cup victory of the season after knocking out Macclesfield and Atherton LR, also means picking up prize money of £4,000.

The draw for the first round, which sees teams from tier three enter the competition, will take place tomorrow (Monday)".

NEXT: HARBOROUGH TOWN

Last Saturday Harborough Town, unbeaten this season in the league, advanced in the Isuzu FA Trophy with a 2-0 home win against Hednesford Town.

"Ben Stephens’s penalty and Luis Rose’s late strike sealed victory for Harborough Town against a depleted Hednesford Town, sending the Bees into the Isuzu FA Trophy First Round Proper.

After a surprise defeat in the Westerby County Cup on Tuesday night, Harborough were determined to get back to winning ways, evidenced by a strong line-up. With injuries affecting the squad, the Bees recruited 18-year-old Andre Changunda on a month’s loan from League One side Peterborough United. The youngster was immediately thrown into the starting eleven.

On a windy afternoon at the Beehive, the Pitmen travelled with only two outfield substitutes but started brightly. ..

Riley O’Sullivan was clumsily barged off the ball by Kieron Freeman inside the box. Ben Stephens stepped up confidently and sent Breeden the wrong way to put the hosts in front after 12 minutes...

The second half resembled the first in its lack of intensity and cutting edge. The windy conditions perhaps playing a part. Harborough Manager Mitch Austin, suggested, 'the wind affected massively'...

The game was sealed in stoppage time, when Walsh split the defence with a precise pass, sending Rose clear on goal, with the forward guiding the ball into the bottom corner with finesse...

'We did really well. We had a game plan to control possession and I thought we were bob on,' said Austin".

Footnote: Altrincham have exited at the first hurdle (or in a replay at that stage) in four of the past five seasons and the wait for a first home FA Cup win at any stage is now six years' long (since September 2019).

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The motion was passed with 98.75% of votes in favour.

As a result of this approval, Lakefront Football Partners LLC will now move to finalise the legal agreements within the agreed period of exclusivity, which runs until 31st October 2025.

This process will formally confirm Nick Semaca as the majority shareholder and new investor in Wealdstone Football Club, working in partnership with and supported by the existing Board of Directors.

Today’s decision marks a significant milestone in the Club’s journey, opening an exciting new chapter that combines long-term financial stability with the resources to match our ambition for growth both on and off the pitch".

Yeovil Town report on their home defeat by Boreham Wood.

"Abdul Abdulmalik opened the scoring for Boreham Wood after 21 minutes, before Matt Rush doubled their lead in the final minute of stoppage time.

Town made three changes at the break, hoping to find a way back into the match, but Femi Ilesanmi’s goal after 63 minutes killed any chances of a comeback.

Richard Dryden named an unchanged team from the side that were 2-1 victors away at Sutton United midweek, looking to win a fourth straight game in the Enterprise National League, and a third successive home victory.

But it was the visitors who started the brightest... Luke Garrard’s side found their breakthrough after 21 minutes when Abdulmalik drove inside from the left and bent a right-footed strike past Ward into the far corner.

The visitors went close twice before adding their second moments before the half came to a close...

The visitors had a third, with Ilesanmi being in the right place to tap home a blocked attempt inside the penalty area by Clayden after 63 minutes".

Carlisle United report that "defender Aaron Hayden marked his return to the starting line-up with the winning goal as the Blues picked up a hard-earned three points on the road at Scunthorpe United.

Speaking to CUTV, he said 'Yeah, it was a tough, well-fought win for the boys. It’s a tough place to come... Their fans are loud, they give a lot of energy, and you can feel that'...

Hayden’s header proved to be the decisive moment...'I'd just put one wide, and I told myself if I got a similar opportunity, I was going to score. And it came, and I did it'...

It was a physical affair from start to finish... but Hayden said he was proud of how the team stood firm'...

Over 700 travelling fans made the trip, and the defender was full of praise for their backing".

5 October 2025

WEALDSTONE REACTION

"But I can't help but feel a little bit frustrated with the performamce.

"It was a little bit scrappy at times from us...

"It's really disappointing to concede when we did as, if we see out the first half, I think it's a completely different game".

The match was not a classic as the statistics in the NL Paper show.

Alty had three shots, two of which were on target, whilst Wealdstone had four shots, two of which were on target.

There were just three corners in the match, one of which was for Altrincham

22 fouls punctuated proceedings, thirteen committed by the hosts.

WEALDSTONE 1-1 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here.

POST-MATCH PARKY

Phil though that it was "a real strong performance" despite having to travel down on the day.

He feels that all London trips should be overnight stays and that travelling on the coach on the day of the game was why "we were caught cold" after "a very long trip".

NEXT: HARBOROUGH TOWN

Whilst the Robins go into the game without a win in six matches, the Leicestershire club remains unbeaten in the league and on Saturday they progressed in the Isuzu FA Trophy, defeating Hednesfprd Town 2-0, thanks to a penalty and an added time goal.

The team showed just one change from their last league game and comprised: 1. Elliott Taylor, 2. George Carline, 3. Josh Walsh, 4. Liam Dolman, 5. Connor Kennedy (capt), 6. Alex Morris, 7. Devon Kelly-Evans, 8. Brady Hickey, 9. Riley O'Sullivan, 10. Ben Stephens, 11. Andre Changunda. Subs: 12. Paul Malone, 14. Danny Newton, 15. Luis Rose, 16. James Taylor, 17. Ben Williams

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : ALI SMITH played the full game for AFC Wimbledon as they won 0-2 at Blackpool. However Plymouth Argyle left OWEN DALE on the bench in their 1-1 home draw with Wigan Athletic.

Having sustained a head injury last week, CARL PIERGIANNI missed Stevenage's 2-0 home derby win over Luton Town.

League Two : A full shift from ELLIOT NEWBY couldn't help Barrow to do better than a goalless draw with relegation threatened visitors Shrewsbury Town.

Bromley shared 6 goals with visitors Tranmere Rovers at Hayes Lane. CONNOR JENNINGS played the whole second half for Rovers, while MARCUS DINANGA only came off the Bromley bench after 84 minutes.

Cheltenham Town climbed off the foot of the league with a 2-0 home win over Fleetwood, both goals having been scored before they introduced JAKE BICKERSTAFF (left) after 75 minutes. HARRISON HOLGATE and TOBY MULLARKEY played the full game for Fleetwood, Toby picking up a booking in the process.

By the time Chesterfield introduced JAMES BERRY after 63 minutes at Colchester United they were already 4-1 down. Although James netted a consolation goal, the Spireites went down 6-2.

Neither of Oldham Athletic's former Robins took part in their 3-1 defeat at Notts County, who left SONNY ALJOFREE on the bench.

Grimsby Town had already pretty well wrapped up their 0-2 win at Salford City by the time JUSTIN AMALUZOR joined the match in the 87th minute.

Bristol Rovers led at the break at Walsall, but, leaving JOEL SENIOR (right) on the bench, they eventually lost 2-1.

National League : CONNOR TEALE was credited with assist for the goal with which Boston United came from behind to lead at Gateshead. He and defensive partner ZAK MILLS held firm thereafter, and the Pilgrims struck again to win 1-3.

ALEX NEWBY had scored what was the only goal at Hartlepool United when he was part of the triple substitution that saw TYRESE SINCLAIR come off the bench. York increased their lead and, despite conceding just 2 minutes later, they won 1-2.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the whole of Eastleigh's 1-1 home draw with Solihull Moors.

JUSTIN DONAWA was substituted after 76 minutes as Brackley Town went down 2-0 at Halifax.

While LIAM HUMBLES was left on Rochdale's bench, KEVIN BERKOE played the full game as they won 0-1 at Forest Green Rovers to leapfrog Robbie Savage's team into top spot.

KENNEDY DIGIE (left) scored his 4th goal in the last 5 games to rub out Morecambe's advantage as Tamworth drew 1-1 at The Lamb.

By the time they substituted JEFF KING after 79 minutes, Boreham Wood had convincingly put paid to Yeovil Town's run of 3 straight victories, hitting 3 goals without reply and spoiling KYLE FERGUSON'S day. As usual MATT GOULD could only watch helplessly from the bench.

In the evening game, REGAN LINNEY was booked for two fouls in quick succession but his Carlisle side emerged victorious, 0-1 at Scunthorpe United.

National North : AFC Fylde trailed at the interval at AFC Telford, but recovered strongly to win 1-3. CHRIS MERRIE and RYAN COLCLOUGH started for CRAIG MAHON'S side. GEORGE WILSON replaced Chris after 70 minutes, while Ryan gave way to LIAM BROCKBANK after 87 minutes.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY started for Chester, who led visitors Merthyr Town 2-0 at the interval despite missing a penalty - and the miss came back to haunt them as the team from the Valleys fought back to draw 2-2. TOM PEERS (right) came off the Chester bench after 68 minutes, but JAMES JONES wasn't in their squad.

SAM HEATHCOTE drew a good early save from the visiting goalkeeper, but Macclesfield were hampered by the 20th minute dismissal of Oldham Athletic loanee Josh Kay and succumbed 0-1 to Marine.

DAN MOONEY (left) played the whole of Kidderminster Harriers' 2-1 defeat at Peterborough Sports.

Bedford Town pulled off a 0-2 away win against Worksop Town, who were captained by LUKE WATERFALL. Town signed Boreham Wood keeper Nathan Ashmore this week on an emergency loan, which would suggest an injury to CALEB ANSEN.

National South : ASHLEY HEMMINGS equalised for Dagenham & Redbridge after visitors Maidstone scored first - and it was the men from Kent who struck the only goal of the second half to take all three points, leaving the Daggers in the bottom four.

Welsh Premier League : JOHN DISNEY'S Connah's Quay Nomads side had a comfortable 3-0 home win over Llanelli, which lifted them above Bala Town into 4th spot. For Bala, JOEL TORRANCE was unfortunately credited with an own goal as they lost 2-0 at Cardiff Metropolitan.

FA Trophy : A lone goal by the ever-reliable JACK REDSHAW allowed Hyde United to progress against visitors Warrington Town.

Runcorn Linnets met Bury in a tie hanging over from the previous round. Bury apparently have a long injury list, and, also faced by fixture congestion, decided not to prioritise the Trophy, sending their U21 side to West Cheshire.

Linnets coasted to a 7-0 win, and although RYAN BROOKE and LUKE WALL weren't in their squad, SEAN MILLER returned from injury as a 55th minute substitute.

Leek Town's ADAM PORTER (right) headed against the crossbar after only 5 minutes at Halesowen Town, but they were never behind, winning 1-2.

Shifnal Town made the long trek to Lincolnshire, and made hosts Gainsborough Trinity fight all the way for a 3-2 win. Although JONNY MARGETTS had a 3rd minute penalty saved, he popped up with Trinity's second goal. After Shifnal got themselves back into it at 2-2, Jonny was withdrawn after 73 minutes and 12 minutes later Trinity settled the tie.

Scottish Premiership : MARCUS DACKERS scored Kilmarnock's clincher as they beat visitors St.Mirren 2-0.

NWCL Premier Division : The prolific SHERIFF NJIE scored the winner as Cheadle Town came from behind to win 1-2 at Wilmington.

JOHN JOHNSTON was on target, scoring the second goal as Irlam won 0-3 at Stockport Town.

West Didsbury & Chorlton also hit 3 without reply against visitors Longridge Town, with LEWIS BILLINGSLEY rounding off the scoring.

FA YOUTH CUP ON TUESDAY

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS: 11 October

However, the last time Altrincham played a league game on that date it was also a home match in 2014 against Woking, which this year happens to be that very same fixture that Alty will play on the following Saturday, 18 October.

However, Altrincham have played a more recent game on 11 October than that cup tie than 2014. In 2022 they played away to Sandbach United in the Cheshire Senior Cup First Round, winning 4-0.

The Altrincham goals came from debutant Zak Goodson (17 mins), a brace from Aaron Bennett (47 and 64 mins) and a fourth goal from Jordan Hulme in the 78th minute.

Altrincham progressed to the semi-final that season but went out at that stage, at home to Congleton Town, losing a penalty shootout.

EMIRATES FA CUP FIXTURES

In the Fourth Round Qualifying, the prize money is £9,375 for the winners and £3,125 for losers.

North section

• ALTRINCHAM v Harborough Town
• Aveley v Gateshead
• Carlisle United v Boston United
• Darlington v AFC Telford United
• Gainsborough Trinity v Hartlepool United
• Macclesfield FC v Stamford
• Morecambe v Chester FC
• Rochdale v York City
• Runcorn Linnets v Buxton
• Scunthorpe United v King's Lynn Town
• South Shields v Spalding United
• Southport v FC Halifax Town
• Spennymoor Town v Billericay Town
• Tamworth v Hyde United

South section

• AFC Totton v Truro City
• Banbury United v St Albans City
• Braintree Town v Farnborough
• Chelmsford City v Chippenham Town
• Dorking Wanderers v Aldershot Town
• Eastbourne Borough v Boreham Wood
• Ebbsfleet United v Solihull Moors
• Farnham Town v Sutton United (ko 12.30pm)
• Hampton & Richmond Borough v Eastleigh
• Hemel Hempstead v Yeovil Town
• Maldon & Tiptree v Flackwell Heath
• Slough Town v Enfield
• Southend United v Folkestone Invicta
• Tonbridge Angels v Chatham Town
• Wealdstone v Whitstable Town
• Weston super Mare v Needham Market
• Woking v Brackley Town

Monday 13 October

• Worthing v Forest Green Rovers

4 October, 2025

WEALDSTONE 1-1 ALTRINCHAM

They had to recover from a disastrous start to the match, conceding after just five minutes. Georgiou's freekick was met by McEvoy who headed over Hutchinson to score just under the crossbar.

It could easily have got worse as Olomola and Woodman both failed to convert decent openings inside the first fifteen minutes.

Altrincham found an equaliser in the second added minute before the interval when Crawford fed Knowles whose shot was parried to Gale, who netted from close range. So Alty reached half-time level despite being second best for much of the half.

The second half was a generally low quality affair, littered with errors. Wealdstone played the last five minutes of added time with ten men after substitute Adarkwa pulled his hamstring.

Befre kick-off, Tylor Golden, surprisingly returning from suspension after missing only two matches, and new loanee Jack Hinchy, came into the starting eleven, the duo replacing Kirk and Osborne who both moved to the bench.

Alty's other new loanee, Billy Waters, was named on the bench where Olly Crankshaw returned after becoming a father last week. Sam Barnes returned to the bench after serving his concussion recovery period.

Wealdstone were without Diarra and Kretzschmar who had been on their bench last time out.

WEALDSTONE: 1. Dante Baptiste, 3. Anthony Georgiou, 5. Deon Woodman, 7. Enzio Boldewijn, 8. Dylan Kadji, 9. Olufela Olomola, 14. Micah Obiero, 15. Philip Chinedu, 20. Nathan Tshikuna, 22. Connor McAvoy, 29. Junior Tiensia. Subs: 2. Jack Cook, 4. Omar Mussa, 11. Sak Hassan, 17. Dom Hutchinson, 27. Sean Adarkwa, 28. Lucas Covolan (gk), 24. Nathan Young-Coombes

ALTRINCHAM: 30 Luke Hutchinson, 2. Lewis Banks, 34. Dan Sassi, 4. Lewis Baines, 3. Sam Reed, 23. Tylor Golden 22. Tom Crawford, 21. Jack Hinchy, 8 Isaac Marriott, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. James Gale. Subs: 6. Elliot Osborne, 7. Olly Crankshaw, 10. Keaton Ward, 24. Sam Barnes, 27. Louie Fallon (gk), 29. Billy Waters, 40. Charlie Kirk.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Enterprise National League

Saturday, 4th October 2025

• Braintree Town 0-0 Sutton United
• Eastleigh 1-1 Solihull Moors
• FC Halifax Town 2-0 Brackley Town
• Forest Green Rovers 0-1 Rochdale
• Gateshead 1-3 Boston United (ko 12.30pm)
• Hartlepool United 1-2 York City (ko 12.30pm)
• Scunthorpe United v Carlisle United (ko 5.30pm)
• Southend United 3-0 Aldershot Town
• Tamworth 1-1 Morecambe
• Wealdstone 1-1 Altrincham
• Woking 2-2 Truro City
• Yeovil Town 0-3 Boreham Wood

ALTY SIGN LOANEE STRIKER

The 30-year-old... goes straight into Phil Parkinson's squad for today's Enterprise National League clash at Wealdstone.

On signing Billy the gaffer said 'I'm really pleased we've been able to bring in a player of Billy's quality and experience. He's a proven goal scorer at this level and I feel he's exactly what this group needs at this time."

After beginning his career with Crewe Alexandra, our new signing made his goal scoring name between 2015 and 2017 with Cheltenham Town, before spending three years with Northampton Town.

Stops at Torquay United and a 19-goal National League season at FC Halifax Town followed, as well as time with Wrexham and Doncaster Rovers, ahead of joining Oldham Atheltic midway through last season - he'll wear number 29 for the Robins".

Footnote: Waters has played against Altrincham several times for at least five different clubs.

Back in 2015 he featured twice for Cheltenham Town against Altrincham, once as a starter and once named as a substitute.

He has also played for FC Halifax Town against The Robins. He scored for them against Alty in 2021 and also played against the Robins for the Shaymen in April 2022 and December 2024.

Billy also played for Oldham against Altrincham in 2024/25 season and has turned out for Curzon Ashton and Chester FC against The Robins as well.

ALTY TV HIGHLIGHTS

TODAY: WEALDSTONE

Wealdstone, like Altrincham, were original members of the first national non-League division, the Alliance Premier League (APL), in 1979.

Left: Kahrel Reddin

They share with Altrincham the distinction of being the only two clubs in the current Enterprise National League who were both founder-members of the APL and have never tasted Football League status.

For the past two games Altrincham have been without defender Golden (suspended), winger Reddin (suspended), centre-back Barnes (concussion) and winger Crankshaw (personal reasons), whilst two other centre-backs, Sass-Davies and Cooper, have also been unfit to start a game this season.

With nine defeats since the start of the season, Altrincham have suffered the most defeats for the club in their first 13 fixtures from the start of any season since at least before national non-League football status was introduced in 1979.

Meanwhile, Wealdstone "reminds shareholders that the EGM will take place tomorrow (Saturday) at 11:00am in the Main Hall, Grosvenor Vale, Ruislip.

The meeting will be chaired by Board Director Quentin Fox. Nick Semaca will be in attendance as will the club's legal team from Quastels. A representative from the National League will also be attending as an observer".

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Smith, who is the older brother of our Vice Captain Kyron Gordon, commented... 'I’ve been itching to get in and I’m glad it’s been sorted'...

Smith began his career in the Sheffield United setup, in the same age group as Harvey Gilmour, before progressing to sign professional terms with the Blades.

After loan spells at Barrow, Doncaster and Bristol Rovers, he joined Dale in January 2020... A loan move to Swindon Town followed the season afterwards, before he signed permanently for Hull City in August 2021. He appeared over 40 times for the Tigers before finishing the 2022/23 season with Oxford United.

League Two side Bradford City secured his services the following summer on a three-year deal. He netted 12 times for the Bantams in his first season before rejoining Barrow on loan for the second half of last season, where he worked with our now Assistant Head Coach Jason Taylor".

Yeovil Town announce that new manager "Richard Dryden has been nominated for the Enterprise National League Manager of the Month award for September.

He guided Yeovil Town to four impressive wins, including victories over Woking, Aldershot Town, Altrincham, and Sutton United. Following Danny Webb’s brief spell in charge, Dryden’s leadership has brought stability and confidence back to the squad.

He faces tough competition from Luke Garrard of Boreham Wood, who collected 17 points from seven games, with wins over Sutton United, Morecambe, Altrincham, Boston United, and Woking.

Jimmy McNulty of Rochdale also impressed, overseeing a perfect September with victories against Braintree Town, Truro City, Solihull Moors, and Carlisle United, despite a reduced fixture list.

Robbie Savage of Forest Green Rovers led his side to four wins from six matches, including victories at Morecambe, Hartlepool United, Woking, and Altrincham".

Hartlepool United "welcome goalkeeper George Evans to the Club on loan from Millwall...

The 20-year-old comes into the Pools squad and is set to make his debut against York City on Saturday 4th October.

Evans made four appearances for the Lions in the 2024-25 season, as well as spending time on loan at Sutton United in the National League...

Evans said... 'Yesterday morning, I heard there could be a chance, and then it moved on swiftly with help from both Clubs coming together and putting everything into place'...

Pools boss Simon Grayson said... 'He was very keen to come here, which helps. Playing games in the Championship is a fantastic pedigree to have'".

Southend United "will transition to a cashless stadium, starting from the visit of Aldershot Town to Roots Hall on Saturday, October 4.

Operating a cashless system across the BTMK Box Office, bars, kiosks and corporate areas at Roots Hall will enhance supporters’ matchday experience with the aim of increasing speed of service and cutting queue times of the club operations on a matchday, especially during peak times.

Tom Lawrence, Southend United CEO, said... 'The new systems will also help us monitor stock levels and better understand what supporters buy which will ensure we can meet the demand for those popular products...

This is another important step ready for when we build a new East Stand... The impact of going totally cashless should not be very noticeable.

Cash will only be accepted at the stadium where card payment isn’t feasible, meaning programme sales from vendors will continue to be cash only".

Sutton United "confirm the departure of Jon Meeney by mutual consent.

Meeney arrived at the VBS Community Stadium from Horsham as First Team Coach in the summer of 2024, and quickly became a popular member of staff in SM1 with his infectious personality and passion for the sport.

After taking on the role of Interim Head Coach earlier this month, he has helped to stabilise performances and results over the last couple of weeks, securing important draws against Woking and Boston United.

We would like to offer our sincere gratitude to Jon for all his hard work during his time at Gander Green Lane, and he leaves with our best wishes for the future".

Footnote: This follows the arrival of new manager Chris Agutter which was announced on Thursday.

After previous issues between their respective supporters, and ahead of their lunchtime match on Saturday at Hartlepool, York City have issued a "Joint Statement by Hartlepool United FC, York City FC & York City Supporters' Trust.

"To remind all supporters of the importance of enjoying the match and the matchday experience in an enjoyable but respectful manner.

Hartlepool United, York City FC, and York City Supporters Trust have worked closely and will continue to do so with Cleveland Police and North Yorkshire Police to ensure a safe and enjoyable match-day experience for everyone...

We urge all supporters to represent their clubs in the right way".

A Dispersal Order is "in effect from 8am Saturday 4th October to 8am Sunday 5th October, covering Hartlepool Town Centre... Non-compliance may result in arrest...

North Yorkshire-based British Transport Police will be present on the trains back to York from Hartlepool."

3 October 2025

FA YOUTH CUP

The tie has been rearranged for next Tuesday, 7 October, at 7.45pm.

Admission to the game next Tuesday has been set at £3 for over-18s and £1 for under-18s with tickets available online or at the turnstiles on the night.

The winners next Tuesday will play Radcliffe away during the following week, commencing 13 October.

CRANKSHAW BECOMES A FATHER

Now National World reports that "Reality TV star Claudia Fogarty has officially become a mother. The Love Island star, 31, has given birth to her first child with boyfriend Ollie Crankshaw, a winger for non-league side Altrincham FC.

The couple announced the arrival of their daughter, Delilah Maeve Crankshaw, on social media. Fogarty added that little Delilah made an early entrance, arriving six weeks before her due date on September 30...

Fogarty announced her pregnancy back in in May, when she and Ollie shared their scan photo on Instagram with a caption that said: 'Half of me, half of you. Baby Crankshaw coming November 25.'”

So far this season, Crankshaw has made seven appearances for Altrincham, but has not picked up a single goal or assist...

Fogarty, daughter of former superbike world champion Carl Fogarty, went public with her relationship with Crankshaw in September 2023."

Foonote: Since joining the club in summer 2023, the injury-hit player has made just ten starts and eight further appearances from the bench. He has yet to score.

CUT-PRICE CUP TICKETS

The tie takes place on Saturday, October 11th (3pm) at The J.Davidson Stadium...

Club Director John Coyne (right) said 'We’re pleased to be at home in the FA Cup and to welcome Harborough Town and their supporters. To help create the best possible atmosphere, we’ve reduced admission prices and hope to see a big turnout for what should be a fantastic game.'

6 WINS IN 26 FOR ALTY

Since an excellent win at York City on 4 March this year, Altrincham have played 26 National League games across the end of last season and the start of the current campaign.

In that sequence they have won just six league games, drawn three matches and lost on 17 occasions; a haul of 21 points from 26 fixtures.

The six wins comprise four home wins (versus Yeovil Town, Sutton United, Solihull Moors and Aldershot Town), and two victories on the road, at FC Halifax Town and Gateshead. Whilst those four home wins were all against clubs lying south of Altrincham, the team's last four away wins were at clubs located north of the town (York, Hartlepool and twice at Gateshead)!

In fact, the last league win when travelling south from Altrincham was in January 2025 at Eastleigh. Hopefully the game at Wealdstone on Saturday will break that sequence of disappointment when heading south.

TAMWORTH'S TAKE ON TRIUMPH

Right: Lewis Banks (foreground) headed Altrincham ahead on Wednesday night but James Gale (background) sums up a night of frustration.

Crawford thought he had broken the deadlock on 55 with a powerful header from a cross into the area but it was ruled out for a foul...

Banks’s cushioned his header into the top right corner and this time it did count (1-0, 59 mins)...

Peaks made three changes with just under 20 remaining.... Another flagkick and this time Digie connected at the far post to head home the equaliser (1-1, 81 mins)...

From [a] corner the ball came out to Bates and he drilled it low and into the area and it took a deflection to put it into the bottom left corner and the back of the net to spark the travelling faithful into celebratory song (1-2, 86 mins)".

NEXT: WEALDSTONE

On Wednesday Wealdstone reported that they "cruised away with three points after a dominant performance at St James Park [Brackley].

Enzio Boldewijn was on hand to lash the ball home early on to set the tone for the Stones.

Micah Obiero capped off a lively performance with a peach of a goal straight after the restart.

Sam Cox made two changes to the side that drew with Eastleigh at the weekend. Connor McAvoy returned from injury to make his first start of the season, coming in for Dom Hutchinson, whilst Sean Adarkwa returned to the XI in place of Olufela Olomola.

Wealdstone started the game as they meant to go on, completely on the front foot and taking the game to Brackley Town...

Next up for the Stones, the visit of Altrincham this Saturday at 3pm.

WEALDSTONE XI: Baptiste, Chinedu, Woodman (Diarra 85’), McAvoy (Hassan 46’), Boldewijn, Georgiou, Kadji, Tiensia (Hutchinson 85, Tshikuna (Olomola 66’), Obiero, Adarkwa".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 37-year-old arrives at Gander Green Lane from National League South side Worthing in a deal that took extra time to finalise due to the Rebels’ profound determination to retain him, and required significant investment to secure his release from his contract at Woodside Park.

Terry Bullivant, Director of Football said, 'He’s a young, up and coming and energetic Head Coach whose Worthing team were always incredibly attractive to watch with a winning mentality. We’ve been through a thorough process, which has taken slightly longer than what we’d have liked and talked to some outstanding candidates, but with Chris’s passion and drive, which was evident,... but every time [we] met him, we know we made the right choice'...

Agutter now makes the step up to the National League having carved out a reputation for building teams that play possession-oriented football, with an emphasis on keeping the ball and building attacks".

2 October 2025

"WE GOT WHAT WE DESERVED" SAYS ALTY BOSS

In particuar, the boss felt that "We were a blunt knife at the top end of the pitch" and "we got what we deserved". However, it was not just in attack that there were deficiencies as "to concede the goals that we have is scandalous".

ALTRINCHAM 1-2 TAMWORTH

The Robins were still without the suspended Golden and Reddin as well as Barnes (concussion), Crankshaw (personal matters), Sass-Davies (injured) and Cooper (presumably unfit despite being an unused sub last Saturday). Just five were named on the bench.

Altrincham enjoyed more of the first-half possession but it was Hutchinson who was the busier keeper whilst his counterpart Jasbir Singh, at the other end, was untested. Mis-passes also dogged the Alty performance before the break.

However, Alty did take the lead after 59 minutes when Banks headed home a corner from the right, taken by Osborne.

But Andy Peaks's triple substitution, after 72 minutes, altered the momentum of the game and the Lambs duly equalised when ex-Alty man Kennedy Digie headed home a corner in the 81st minute.

Not content with a point, Tamworth went forward again and, five minutes after equalising, they went ahead. Hutchinson punched away an aerial ball but it fell to Bates on the edge of the box and his low shot found its way into the net.

Match report here.

NEXT: WEALDSTONE

On Wednesday, the Stones were away at Brackley Town where they recorded an impressive 2-0 win. They will face Altrincham from twelfth position in the National League, whilst the Robins go into the game in twentieth place.

The corresponding game with Altrincham at Wealdstone last season ended 3-3 after Altrincham had twice been ahead. This time they will not be facing Alex Reid, who scored a brace for Alty's opponents last season. Reid has moved on to Hartlepool United.

NEW LOAN SIGNING

Press and media officer John Edwards elaborated, writing that "Though he only turned 22 at the end of January, Jack has already clocked up nearly 30 appearances in Leagues One and Two for both Shrewsbury Town and his current club County over the past couple of seasons.

A combative midfielder with an impressive range of passing, the 5ft 11in Mancunian [though born in Swindon, Wiltshire] will be with us until January ...

'Jack is an excellent loan signing for us,' said Phil Parkinson... 'He was too good not to make a move for, and I feel he will enhance our ability to retain the ball and also improve us defensively, which is definitely an area where we are looking to improve.'

A product of Stockport County's youth system, Jack progressed through the Academy at Edgeley Park... Brighton moved in to sign him ... and quickly installed him as captain of their under-21s side... and when he was loaned to Shrewsbury in February 2024, he made 12 first-team appearances...

In July last year, he joined Notts County on a two-year deal".

Footnote: Hinchy was not in the squad for Wednesday's match.

WEDNESDAY SCORES

Wednesday 1st October 2025

• Altrincham 1-2 Tamworth
• Boston United 0-0 Forest Green Rovers
• Brackley Town 0-2 Wealdstone
• Carlisle United 3-1 Hartlepool United
• Rochdale 1-2 FC Halifax Town
• York City 1-3 Scunthorpe United

FA YOUTH CUP

Admission to the game has been set at £3 for over-18s and £1 for under-18s with tickets available online or at the turnstiles on the night.

ALTY OLD BOYS

National League : CONNOR TEALE and captain ZAK MILLS stood firm as Boston United earned a goalless draw at home to league leaders Forest Green Rovers.

JUSTIN DONAWA only came off the Brackley Town bench after 82 minutes, by which time visitors Wealdstone had already wrapped up a 0-2 win.

REGAN LINNEY didn't score in Carlisle United's 3-1 home win over Hartlepool United, but he was credited with two assists before his 90th minute substitution.

KEVIN BERKOE was another fruitless substitute, coming on after 70 minutes for Rochdale without being able to affect the 1-2 scoreline in favour of visitors Halifax.

It was a bad night for York City too. TYRESE SINCLAIR was withdrawn after 64 minutes, and ALEX NEWBY (booked in the first half) also departed after 90 minutes. Visitors Scunthorpe United won 1-3.

NPL Division 1 West : JOE PIGGOTT (right) scored the equaliser for Atherton Collieries as they drew 1-1 at Shifnal Town. SAM SHERIDAN was booked.

NWCL Premier Division : LEWIS BILLINGSLEY scored the winner as West Didsbury & Chorlton beat visitors AFC Liverpool 4-3.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Chris, 50, brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record from his time at FC Halifax Town, where he was appointed First Team Manager in 2022...

Known for his clear philosophy, professionalism and ability to build competitive teams, Chris impressed Moors Chairman Darryl Eales, who said... 'From our first meeting, I was impressed with Chris’s vision and ambition and his excellent fit with Moors as a club and our culture'....

Chris added 'I am absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to join the Moors. I have always admired the way the Club is run and the way it has competed in recent years. Meeting Darryl and a number of the staff gives me great enthusiasm for the job. I also believe we have the makings of a competitive squad that can be successful in the Enterprise National League'...

Joining Chris as Assistant Manager will be Andy Cooper, who also worked alongside him at FC Halifax Town."

Boreham Wood "confirm that goalkeeper Nathan Ashmore has joined Enterprise National League North outfit Bedford Town on loan until the end of the season with a 24-hour recall.

Having made the move to Hertfordshire in 2019, initially on loan before making it a permanent switch a year later, the 35-year-old ‘keeper has asserted himself as a fan favourite after making over 150 appearances and playing a pivotal role in last season’s promotion.

After a slight decrease in playing time between the sticks at Meadow Park, Ashmore joins the Eagles who currently sit in 22nd place and three points from safety following their promotion from the Isthmian Premier Central Division last term.

Everyone at the club would like to wish Nathan the best of luck during his time in Bedfordshire, as he reunites with former Wood number 10 Tyrone Marsh at the New Eyrie".

TONIGHT: TAMWORTH

The Lambs start the match in eleventh place, with 18 points compared with Altrincham's 12.

Last Saturday Altrincham were without the suspended Weaver, Golden and Reddin as well as missing central defender Barnes (concussion), winger Crankshaw (personal matters) and Gale (ill).

In addition Jake Cooper was name on the bench but not risked on the pitch having missed the entire season to date with injury. It also emerged that fellow centre-back Billy Sass-Davies who also has yet to appear this season has had a recent operation, though its nature has not been divulged.

Above: The missing players last Saturday were (top row) Weaver, Golden, Reddin, Barnes and (bottom row) Crankshaw, Gale and Sass-Davies

For this game only Weaver of the suspended players has completed his ban and is available tonight. However, Barnes may also be available if he is deemed to have recovered from his concussion.

Alty had only managed to name four on the bench on Saturday at Yeovil.

TUESDAY FIXTURES

Tuesday 30 September 2025

• Aldershot Town 1-1 Braintree Town
• Boreham Wood 1-1 Southend United
• Morecambe 2-5 Gateshead
• Solihull Moors 0-3 Woking
• Sutton United 1-2 Yeovil Town
• Truro City 0-2 Eastleigh

MORE ON CUP OPPONENTS

The Harborough squad for the tie comprised: 1. Elliott Taylor, 2. George Carline, 3. Josh Walsh, 4. Liam Dolman, 5. Connor Kennedy (capt), 6. Alex Morris, 7. Devon Kelly-Evans, 8. Brady Hickey, 9. Riley O'Sullivan, 10. Ben Stephens, 11. Dempsey Arlott-John. Subs: 12. Paul Malone, 13. Beri Asante, 14. Danny Newton, 15. Eliot Putman, 16. Luis Rose, 17. James Taylor, 18. Ben Williams

Harborough went 4-0 up before Sports scored a late consolation goal.

The Bees' scorers were Brady Hickey (39'), Josh Walsh (51') Paul Malone (65') and Danny Newton (68').

Until last night Harborough were unbeaten in all competitions but they lost 1-2 on Tuesday on their plastic pitch to Lutterworth Town in the Leicestershire & Rutland Challenge Cup.

In addition to yesterday's piece about Harborough Town in the Alty Files, here is some further information about the Leicestershire club's players.

In addition to striker Danny Newton there are several others in their squad who have faced Altrincham in the past.

Probably the best known of these players is another ex-Brackley Town player, George Carline, who actually joined the Bees at the same time as Newton last summer, as reported by Harborough Town.

Right-back George Carline has faced Altrincham previously for Leamington and Chesterfield.

Lesser known, but also with an Alty connection, is centre-back Liam Dolman who was named in a Kidderminster Harriers' squad against Altrincham but did not get on the pitch; that was as far back as 2009.

Harborough's centre-midfielder Devon Kelly-Evans (not to be confused with Dion Kelly-Evans) has faced Altrincham for Nuneaton Borough. His partner in the Harborough midfield is Connor Kennedy, the team captain.

Also needing watching is recent signing Brady Hickey a goalscorer who spent many years with Barwell.

Thanks to Barry Pikesley for some of the above information..

ALTY OLD BOYS

Professional Development League : Peterborough United gave a rare outing to CHRIS CONN-CLARKE in their U21 fixture away to Hull City, but, after he struck the post 7 minutes in, the hosts took control and went in 4-0 up at the break. Although Chris went on to complete the game, the young Tigers won 4-1.

JACK KINGDON is now captaining Cardiff City's U21 side, and he played the full game as they saw off visitors Millwall 4-0.

National League : JEFF KING (left) played the first 86 minutes for Boreham Wood, as visitors Southend United came from behind to draw 1-1.

KYLE FERGUSON played the whole of Yeovil Town's 1-2 win at Sutton United, while MATT GOULD was on the bench as usual. Another unused substitute was Eastleigh's JOSH LUNDSTRAM, as they won 0-2 at Truro City.

FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round Replays : RYAN BROOKE (right) claimed the assist for the goal that put Runcorn Linnets 0-2 up at Hurst Cross. Ashton United reduced the arrears in added time at the end of the first, and although Ryan was substituted just 3 minutes into the second period, there were no further goals. Linnets have a home draw against Buxton.

AFC Fylde were less fortunate, getting knocked out at Darlington. CHRIS MERRIE and RYAN COLCLOUGH started for CRAIG MAHON'S side, but they were two down at the interval. GEORGE WILSON replaced Ryan at the start of the second half, and it was he who reduced the arrears after 55 minutes, but it was in vain as the Quakers struck again to win 3-1. LIAM BROCKBANK was left on the Coasters bench.

NPL Division 1 West : SEAN HIGGINS was missing from the Trafford squad at Witton Albion, but JEROME WRIGHT returned to the starting lineup, playing the first 70 minutes. Trafford led at that point, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw - their first point of the season. For Albion, MAX HARROP and REMI RAYMOND started, and JAMES LAWRIE (left) came off the bench after only 16 minutes. JOEL BEMBO-LETA was an unused substitute.

Bootle fell at home to a single goal from Clitheroe. TONY THOMPSON and TOM HANNIGAN played the full game, while DIOR ANGUS was a 26th minute substitute.

Wythenshawe Town captain ASTLEY MULHOLLAND was withdrawn after 77 minutes at Chasetown, where his side, unable to field a full bench, lost 2-0.

Stalybridge Celtic's 1-0 home win over Sporting Khalsa featured a full shift from KYLE BROWNHILL, while ELLIOT ROKKA was an 80th minute substitute. S