ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Aldershot Town 0-2 Rochdale
• Brackley Town 0-2 Altrincham
• Eastleigh 1-2 Carlisle United
• FC Halifax Town 2-2 Sutton United
• Gateshead 0-2 Forest Green Rovers
• Morecambe v York City (ko 5:30pm)
• Scunthorpe United 3-3 Solihull Moors
• Tamworth 3-2 Boreham Wood
• Truro City 2-3 Braintree Town

ISUZU FA TROPHY FIXTURES

• Horsham 1-2 Southend United
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-1 Wealdstone (Wealdstone won 6-5 on pens)
• Marine 1-0 Woking
• Southport 1-1 Yeovil Town (Southport won 4-2 on pens)

ALTY'S OPPONENTS SIGN TWO

The Saints announce that "Brackley Town are delighted to confirm the signing of midfielder Joe Andrews on a one-month loan from Peterborough United and goes straight into contention for Saturday’s clash with Altrincham.

"Andrews becomes the first addition of the Andy Whing era at St James Park, strengthening the Saints’ midfield options during an important stage of the season.

"The Welsh midfielder developed through the academy system at Southampton before making a significant impact in senior football with Chippenham Town. His performances in the National League South drew widespread praise, with reported interest from Championship clubs including Norwich City, Coventry City and Swansea City prior to his move to Peterborough United.

"A left-footed, energetic box-to-box midfielder, Andrews arrives in Northamptonshire looking to make an immediate impression".

In addition, Brackley Town report "the signing of Aidan Elliott-Wheeler on loan from Championship side Oxford United...

"Elliott-Wheeler becomes the second addition of the Andy Whing era at St James Park, adding further pace, directness and versatility to the Saints’ attacking options.

"A product of Oxford United’s academy, Aidan recently signed a new professional contract with the Championship club... The wide player already has valuable senior experience. As a 17-year-old, he spent time on loan with near neighbours Banbury United, where he first worked under Andy Whing. More recently, he gained National League experience during a loan spell with Gateshead...

"Now, he links up once again with Whing and arrives at Brackley Town for the remainder of the campaign, going straight into contention for tomorrow’s fixture against Altrincham".

MIKE ADAMS R.I.P.

For 46 years, Mike was a loyal supporter of Altrincham FC. For 25 of those years, he was a season ticket holder, most often found on match days sitting quietly at the back of the Main Stand, watching the club he loved...

In 2006, he volunteered his services to Altrincham FC and took on responsibility for the club’s finances. From that point on, Mike became one of the key figures behind the scenes at Moss Lane. His financial expertise, attention to detail and steady leadership helped the board understand exactly where the club stood financially and how it could plan responsibly for the future.

Mike stepped away from his duties in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, professionalism and genuine care for Altrincham FC.

He was not just a director or financial officer. He was one of us. A supporter first and foremost...

In consultation with Mike's family, the club will observe a minute's applause ahead of kick-off on Saturday 7th March versus Truro City.

Rest in peace, Mike."

BEFORE THE GAME: BRACKLEY TOWN

Brackley's opponents, Wealdstone, reported that on Tuesday "they bounced back to winning ways with a vital 2-1 victory over ten-man Brackley Town... their first league win since 17th January, with Morgan Roberts’s strike proving only consolatory for the Saints...

The Saints were reduced to ten-men in the 23rd minute when Danny Newton was shown a straight red card for a foul on Dom Hutchinson.

In the 31st minute, the Stones profited from their numerical advantage and duly took the lead".

The Stones took a two-goal lead midway through the second half but "Against the run of play, the Saints reduced the deficit in the 79th minute as Roberts’s driven strike from range beat Baptiste".

Meanwhile, Brackley Town announce that "This Saturday for Brackley Town v Altrincham we are hosting our dedicated Her Game Too match and partnering with Match of the Dames...

We’re championing a safe, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere where everyone can feel confident, respected, and empowered to get involved in the beautiful game.

Come along and enjoy the game and connect with those who believe football should be for everyone ".

ALTY OLD BOYS

After three matches, every one has ended in a 3-1 result, although they started the season with a defeat by that scoreline. A home defeat for overnight leaders Heidelberg means that Cannons sit proudly top of the table, although other results later in the weekend could see them drop as low as 7th.

Premier League 2: Having been dropped to the bench at the end of January, CALEB ANSEN wasn't in the squad at all this evening, as Norwich City U21 saw off their visiting counterparts from Stoke City 4-2.

Professional Development League : JACK KINGDON captained Cardiff City U21 for this evening's South Wales derby, but visitors Swansea City U21 scored the game's only goal.

League Two : After a goalless first half, JAKE BICKERSTAFF claimed the assist for the goal that put Cheltenham Town ahead within a minute of the restart. Hosts Harrogate Town equalised within 4 minutes, and there were no further goals

NPL Division 1 West : Bury took 1,000 supporters to the big top of the table clash at Lower Breck, where the attendance of 1,286 was a ground record. JOE PIGGOTT (right) wasn't in the squad as Bury scored 3 times without reply in the second half to move 7 points clear at the top before the other promotion hopefuls play tomorrow.

Welsh Premier League Relegation Group : JOEL TORRANCE kept a clean sheet as Bala Town were held 0-0 at home by bottom club Llanelli, whose 3 shots on target were 1 more than the hosts mustered.

Irish Premier League : BARRY BAGGLEY played the full game as St.Patrick's enjoyed a comfortable 4-0 home win against Dundalk.

French Ligue 1 : After a nightmare in which he has barely kicked a ball this season, MAXI OYEDELE was on the Strasbourg bench this evening, and came on in the 92nd minute as they drew 1-1 at home to Lens.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The club felt Waddock's appointment would be a strong sign of stability and experienced leadership - especially given a minimum of 15 remaining games this campaign...

The former Eire international achieved legendary status as a player at Stones' EFL neighbours Queens Park Rangers, kicking off a career which also took in stops at Millwall, Bristol Rovers and Luton Town.

In terms of management and coaching, Gary has 20 years' worth of experiences behind him.

His most recent managerial spell was a second stint at Aldershot Town between 2016 and 2019, working through some troubled times in north Hampshire. His first period with the Shots, some ten years before that, had yielded promotion from what was then the Conference National into the Football League with a record 101 points...

More recently, the ex-midfielder has been part of the coaching set-ups at Portsmouth, Cambridge United and Walsall - from where he departs to join the Stones...

Danny Payne remains in his position as First-Team Coach".

Footnote

Waddock becoms the twentieth new manager appointed since the end of last season in the National League. Four of those appointees have themselves since been replaced during this season, (Sam Cox, Ashvir Singh Johal, Danny Webb [resigned], Scott Bartlett).

1. FC HALIFAX TOWN Chris Millington left and Adam Lakeland was appointed
2. FOREST GREEN ROVERS sacked Steve Cotterill and appointed Robbie Savage
3. GATESHEAD Carl Magnay resigned and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
4. WEALDSTONE Neil Gibson resigned and the club appointed Sam Cox.
5. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
6. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
8. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington
9. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
10. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett
11. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley
12. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
13. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
14. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
15. GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
16. BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
17. BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town, replaced by Andy Whing
18. MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley
19. EASTLEIGH: Scott Bartlett "relieved of his duties", replaced as "interim manager" by Richard Hill
20. WEALDSTONE: Sam Cox "removed from his position as manager", replaced by Gary Waddock

27 February 2026

PARKY'S NEW JOB

Today, four months later, Fleetwood Town "announce the appointment of Phil Parkinson as Interim Head Coach of the Under-21s.

Phil brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent almost a decade in charge at Altrincham, where he successfully guided the club from the Northern Premier League to the National League.

During his time there, he played a key role in overseeing the club’s transition from part-time to full-time football, laying strong foundations both on and off the pitch.

Renowned for his work in player development, Phil has a proven track record of supporting young talent and helping players progress through the pathway into senior football. His experience includes working closely with several Fleetwood Town academy graduates, as well as current first-team player Harrison Holgate, highlighting his ability to nurture and prepare players for the demands of the professional game.

Phil’s appointment adds significant knowledge, leadership and continuity to the Academy structure, providing a clear pathway for young players as they continue their development within the Club.

Everyone at Fleetwood Town would like to welcome Phil to his new role and wish him every success with the Under-21s".

NEXT: BRACKLEY TOWN

The Saints finally achieved promotion to non-League's top flight in summer 2025, by winning the divisional title. That came after finishing in the top seven of the North division in ten of their twelve completed seasons at that level and falling at the play-off stage six times.

Alty's last visit to Brackley was in August 2019 in a National North match which the hosts won 1-0, the defeat leaving Altrincham 17th in what turned out to be a promotion-winning campaign in the COVID-curtailed season.

Above left, in the 2019 game, Jordan Hulme's dribbling put his defender on the ground and he was fouled immediately afterwards. Right, the resulting spot-kick by John Johnston was saved by Lewis.

New loan signing Ashley Hemmings started for Altrincham, and had a quiet game, but the visitors never got going in a first half in which their build ups were laborious and they failed to land a shot on goal before the break.

Brackley took the lead on the half-hour mark. A routine throw-in on their left led to Byrne picking the ball off a team-mate's toes before turning and, from outside the box, hitting a low shot across Drench and into the net, off the inside of the back post.

Altrincham improved to some extent in the second half but they wasted a lifeline when John Johnston's 66th minute penalty was well saved by Lewis, to his left. The spot-kick had been won by Jordan Hulme who was brought down on the left by-line".

UNDER-19S' BIG WIN

The Alty side comprised Christopher Antoniades, Lewis Broderick, Theo Bunting. Afernee Denise, Rafael Fereday, John Gboalgun, Josh Herreaman, Kian Leckey, William Sneyd, Jimmy Taafe and Harley Renshaw. On the bench were Savior Abanwa, William Molloy, Connor Summerfield and Thomas Tattersall.

The scorers were Renshaw(2), Gbolagun and Abanwa

In the twelve-strong NW Championship 1 division of the National Football Youth League, Altrincham lie sixth.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He writes that "Both teams trained on the pitch this evening and were prepared to play. Both managers indicated their willingness for the match to go ahead. Ultimately, however, the referee’s decision was made on safety grounds, and that decision is always final...

Two consecutive late postponements are deeply frustrating, and I fully understand the anger and disappointment many of you feel.

Around 95% of the pitch is in good condition. The issue is confined to a severely damaged goalmouth area that deteriorated significantly during the Macclesfield fixture, played in torrential conditions on an already saturated surface. That provides context, but it does not change the reality that the area has not recovered as we anticipated.

It is important that supporters know this situation has not arisen through inaction or lack of investment. During the off-season, we appointed a new full-time groundskeeper and committed significant resources to improving the surface. The drainage system has been serviced, specialist machinery has been regularly hired to assist recovery, and substantial investment has been made in treatment, fertilisation, and ongoing maintenance throughout the season...

Over the next 24 hours, we will be engaging external experts to conduct a further full assessment and advise on both immediate and longer-term solutions...

We are committed to doing whatever is necessary to fix this issue".

Gateshead confirm "the signing of forward Ash Boatswain until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The striker arrives on Tyneside on a free transfer from EFL Championship side Ipswich Rown, for whom he has made five Premier League 2 appearances during the 2025-26 season alongside spending three months on loan at Enterprise National League side Woking, scoring five goals in 19 games or The Cardinals".

Rochdale "will turn disappointment of Tuesday night’s draw at FC Halifax Town into determination, believes Jimmy McNulty.

The Head Coach was speaking after Dale dropped points from a winning position for only the second time this season, in the 2-2 draw at The Shay Stadium...

'The players are human beings, and they are allowed to show signs of fatigue in a game, which is the first time in a long time that I can remember,' commented McNulty.

'We’ll recover the minds, recover our bodies and do what we need to do to get that freshness and conviction ready for the start line of the next game, like it has been all season...

'We’ll recoup, and we’ll go again;" he asserted.

At Wealdstone captain Enzio Boldewijn talked about his team's performance during Wealdstone's 2-1 win over Brackley Town...

"'First and foremost, the win was the most important thing today... You could see we played a slightly different way this evening; doing our thing, knowing we needed to score more goals than the times recently...

'It was harder playing against 10 men when that happened. But we got the job done in the end'.

The experienced Dutchman reflected on the work of First-Team Coach Danny Payne, who had no more than one training session to work with the squad after having been placed in interim charge at The Vale following Sam Cox's departure.

'We've trained the whole season on certain patterns so we couldn't change too much given the time we had,' said Boldewijn"

26 February 2026

NEIL GIBSON ON TAMWORTH DEFEAT

He went on to assert that during the match "What can go wrong, did go wrong".

In a wider context, amongst Neil's complaints was that "in my time at the club, not too many decisions from officials have gone in our favour".

As for Dan Sassi's red card, he accepted the player's assertion that there was no intent in his kicking the player as he attempted to get up.

Regarding Golden's red card, he had no complaints if the ball was goal-bound but he said that fifty per cent of those he had spoken to believed it was going wide.

Neil was also upset at the penalty kick which Tamworth scored, in the run-up for which "the player stopped, he didn't stutter". As for the referee, James Westgate, he judged him to be "unapproachable'.

TAMWORTH 5-1 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here

Tamworth's view of the match is here.

OLSON OUT FOR THE SEASON

He is the second centre-back signed by the club who has not been able to appear on the pitch this season.

The other is Billy Sass-Davies, signed in the summer, but who has yet to play through injury.

NEXT: BRACKLEY TOWN

Brackley Town dropped to nineteenth but they have two games in hand on Alty and are just a point behind the Robins.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• Braintree Town 1-2 Aldershot Town
• Eastleigh 2-1 Truro City
• Gateshead 4-4 Morecambe
• Hartlepool United 3-1 Carlisle United
• Woking P-P Solihull Moors
• Yeovil Town 3-2 Sutton United

ALTY OLD BOYS

JOSH LUNDSTRAM was restored to Eastleigh's starting XI, and played the full match as visitors Truro City were beaten 2-1.

It only took 3 minutes for KEATON WARD to give Gateshead the lead, but visitors Morecambe, without JOE NUTTALL, led 1-3, and 3-4, before he popped up 70 minutes later to assist the final goal in a 4-4 draw. Remarkably, Morecambe converted every attempt that they had on target.

TYRESE SINCLAIR put Hartlepool United ahead at home to Carlisle United, and they'd doubled their lead by the time he was replaced in the 76th minute by debutant Hull City loanee Calvin Okike, who almost immediately added a third goal. CHRIS CONN-CLARKE had started for Carlisle, but he was replaced after 53 minutes by REGAN LINNEY. The match ended 3-1.

80 minutes had gone before Yeovil Town brought KYLE FERGUSON off the bench, with visitors Sutton United 1-2 ahead, but goals after 93 and 97 minutes gave them a 3-2 win. MATT GOULD was in his usual spot on the Glovers' bench.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

On Tuesday, Eastleigh "that Richard Hill has been appointed interim manager until the end of the season.

Richard returns to the club with a clear short-term objective: to bring stability, improve performances, and secure the results required to retain our National League status.

The club has commenced a comprehensive recruitment process to appoint a permanent manager and is now inviting applications for the vacant position. An appointment will be made at the earliest opportunity to allow preparations for the 2026/27 season to begin.

Tom Coffey, Vice Chairman, said 'As a football club, we are naturally disappointed with how this season has unfolded. The chairman has committed to a playing budget that should enable us to compete at the right end of the table, and we have not achieved that. Collectively, we all share responsibility for this – none more so than myself...

'Over the past three years, close to £4 million has been invested into the football club, including significant improvements to facilities across the site to support sustainable growth....

It has become clear that there is currently no appetite from external parties to fund the club at anywhere near the level required to compete in the National League...

Our current chairman is happy to cover this financial shortfall for the benefit of our fans, ensuring there has been no reduction to the playing budget...

In reality, we are currently competing in a league above what the club can naturally sustain'".

Nwvertheless, Eastleigh "announce the arrival of striker Inih Effiong, who joins the Spitfires until the end of the season...

Most recently, Effiong was with Woking. He returned to the Surrey club for a third spell in December 2024 and would go on to make 25 appearances for them during that stint.

Richard Hill said...'Inih had offers from several other teams in the National League, competing at the top end of the table'".

25 February 2026

TAMWORTH 5-1 ALTRINCHAM

Tamworth started the second half the better but a quick free kick by Matty Kosylo set Jimmy Knowles running at goal and he calmly made it 1-1 (52 mins). Less than two minutes later, Altrincham were reduced to ten men when Dan Sassi tangled with an opponent and was sent off for apparently kicking out at a Tamworth player whilst both were on the ground.

Alty survived the resulting freekick from the edge of the penalty area but, another couple of minutes later, they had Tylor Golden sent off for deliberate handball on the goal-line, an action which denied a certain goal (57 mins). So, Altrincham were down to nine men.

The resulting penalty by Mois saw the Tamworth man stop in his run-up before netting, which made it 2-1 as referee Westgate allowed the goal to stand (58 mins). This prompted mayhem as Hutchinson and Crawford, and Howe were all booked.

Altrincham weathered the next 15 minutes before Acquaye made it 3-1 when his shot deflected off Cooper and Hutchinson fumbled the ball into the net (72 mins). Four minutes later Rye made it 4-1, scoring from right of goal.

Eight added minutes were decreed and, in the fourth of them, Cullinane-Liburd netted with a rising shot from 25 yards to make it 5-1.

Match report http://www.altrinchamfc.co.uk/260224th.htm">here

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• FC Halifax Town 2-2 Rochdale
• Forest Green Rovers 2-3 Boston United
• Scunthorpe United 0-3 York City
• Southend United 0-2 Boreham Wood
• Tamworth 5-1 Altrincham
• Wealdstone 2-1 Brackley Town

NEXT: BRACKLEY TOWN

Having met the league's lowest scorers in Braintree Town last Saturday, Alty will now confront the second lowest scorers in the shape of the Northamptonshire club.

Brackley have recently appointed a new manager in Andy Whing, who Altrincham previously encountered when he managed Solihull Moors.

Ahead of Saturday, the Saints lie one place and one point behind Altrincham but have two games in hand.

ALTY WOMEN DEFEATED

Altrincham were down to the bare bones with last week’s goalscorer Emily Rutter unavailable alongside Isabella Moss, whilst Sophie Hall missed out with an ankle injury. To add to Alty’s woes, Ireyimika Bamigboye was substituted after just seven minutes with a hamstring problem...

Elsewhere, Altrincham FC Women Elite U18s got back to winning ways at Partington Sports Village with an emphatic 7-0 victory over a fellow Alty side in the Junior U17 Swifts to progress to the semi final of the Manchester FA Girls Cup U-18".

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : With Rotherham United a goal down at Bradford City, they introduced DUNCAN WATMORE for the second half, but he was unable to stimulate a comeback and they lost 1-0.

League Two : KEVIN BERKOE had the last laugh on his former employers, playing the full game as his new Shrewsbury Town side won 1-2 at Salford City.

National League : Halifax were a goal down at home to Rochdale when BILLY WATERS came off the bench after 78 minutes, and soon went further behind - but goals after 87 and 92 minutes earned them an unlikely 2-2 draw.

Boston United raced into a 0-3 half time lead at Forest Green Rovers, but CONNOR TEALE and his colleagues had to work hard as Robbie Savage's team pulled two goals back.

ROSS BARROWS wasn't in Scunthorpe United's squad as they crashed 0-3 at home to York City, for whom JEFF KING played throughout, and ALEX NEWBY was a 79th minute substitute. The win allowed York to leapfrog Rochdale and go top.

National North : CONNOR KIRBY was on the wrong end of a 1-2 scoreline for Buxton, as visitors King's Lynn shrugged off the possible ramifications of "Sprinklergate". [King's Lynn Town have been accused of excessively watering their pitch with their sprinkler system to get their last home match postponed].

JUSTIN DONAWA opened the scoring for Hereford as they came from behind, and then went ahead, only for visitors Chester to equalise from the spot after DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY was felled in the box. That was as good as it got for the Seals who collapsed to a 5-2 defeat.

The only Old Boy in Macclesfield's starting lineup was ELLIOTT OSBORNE, and he was later replaced by JAMES GALE. KACPER PASIEK also came off the bench. However, the Old Boy with the broadest grin was almost certainly CRAIG MAHON as his AFC Fylde team won 1-4. CHRIS MERRIE played the full game for the Coasters, while GEORGE WILSON was an 82nd minute substitute.

Chorley lost to the only goal at Spennymoor. Far be it from me to suggest that their cause wasn't aided by OWEN GERMAN being left on a bench which held only 4 substitutes.

National South : MILES WELCH-HAYES played the whole of Maidenhead United's 2-1 home win over Salisbury.

NPL Premier Division : ADAM PORTER wasn't in Leek Town's squad at Gainsborough Trinity, while HAYDEN CAMPBELL was a 74th minute substitute. Trinity won 2-0, with JONNY MARGETTS coming off their bench after 66 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : Irlam player coach JOHN JOHNSTON scored their second goal from the spot at City of Liverpool. I'm not sure how many of the 72 spectators were still there when he struck again in the 89th minute to round off a 0-6 victory.

BRAINTREE MATCH: TV HIGHLIGHTS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Gateshead also tell us that 18 year-old "Callum Bone has joined Morpeth Town on an initial one-month loan" in the Northern Premier League Premier division.

Also in the North East Hartlepool United "confirm the appointment of Jeff Stelling as Honorary President and Savannah Marshall as official Club Ambassador.

The roles formalise and secure the involvement of two of the town’s most respected sporting figures and mark an important step under the stewardship of Owner and Chairman Landon Smith.

The appointments form part of Smith’s long-term strategy to strengthen governance, deepen community connection and enhance commercial partnerships, laying the foundations for sustainable growth at Pools.

Marshall and Stelling met with Smith during his initial visit to Hartlepool in January following completion of the takeover and have since committed to playing an active role in supporting the Club’s plans and journey."

24 January 2026

TONIGHT: TAMWORTH

Tamworth produced a report on their most recent game, a creditable goalless draw in Lincolnshire, as did opponents Boston United who described the match concisely. "An attritional affair ended goalless - despite the Pilgrims' best efforts to force a winning goal in pursuit of a fifth consecutive victory.

Chances were at a premium throughout, with visiting keeper Jas Singh producing his best save to keep out his own team-mate Kennedy Digie, while Frankie Maguire lifted an effort on to the roof of the net in the second half...

The second half was an even cagier contest, with Singh denying Aboh from distance, while Maguire's curling effort rippled the top of the net.

The remainder of the contest was a stop-start affair, which suited the visitors down to the ground, as they left Lincolnshire with a point for a second season in a row...

Tamworth (4-2-3-1): Jas Singh; Joe Rye, Jordan Cullinane-Liburd (Haydn Hollis 85), Kennedy Digie, Luke Fairlamb; Tom Tonks, Ryan Howley; Stefan Mols (Tyler Roberts 79), Teo Kurtaran, Ronan Maher (Daniel Isichei 85); Oliver Lynch. Subs (not used): Callum Cockerill-Mollett, Alfie Bates, Ben Acquaye, Daniel Rachel (gk)."

OPPONENTS' PREVIEW

A victory would secure a first league double over Altrincham since 2017...

Altrincham looked set to be drawn into a relegation battle after a seven-match winless run stretching from December into late January. That sequence ended with an impressive 3–1 victory over play-off chasing Boreham Wood...

That result sparked a run of ten points from six matches under Neil Gibson, lifting The Robins seven points clear of danger. They now sit two points behind Tamworth...

Like The Lambs, their season could still swing either way...

Forward Jimmy Knowles (right) has been Altrincham’s standout performer this season. The 24-year-old signed from Accrington Stanley last summer... Knowles has eight league goals in 32 appearances this campaign and 13 goal contributions overall — accounting for 34% of Altrincham’s goals. Across his career, he has scored 18 goals in 77 National League appearances and 21 in 57 National League North games, highlighting his pedigree at this level...

Andy Peaks’ Pre-Match Thoughts... 'Last Saturday... at Boston United... I thought we were solid and limited a side that has been scoring plenty of goals recently. It was certainly a point gained, but we lacked quality in the final third;".

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS

On that occasion, Altrincham lost at home 1-2 to Maidenhead United on a Saturday afternoon.

The result was Altrincham's third defeat in eight days as The Robins lost ground in the quest for a play-off position. This reverse came against a team which had lost its previous four league matches.

As at Hartlepool in midweek, when five first-choices were consigned to the bench, today again witnessed some unexpected omissions from the Alty starting eleven as Altrincham's most consistent defender this season Lewis Baines was only named as a substitute because of illness, and captain Isaac Marriott was also a substitute.

And Justin Amaluzor was not in the squad at all.

Above: This was the state of the pitch as the two teams took to the pitch.

Back into the starting side came Linney, Conn-Clarke and Newby replacing Angus, Marriott and Kosylo. In Marriott's absence, Osborne assumed the captaincy.

On a heavily sanded pitch, Altrincham started reasonably well when Banks netted from close range after a Wilson effort had deflected to him in the 13th minute. But Alty failed to build on that goal despite Linney having a goal ruled out for offside.

A crude challenge by Roscoe earned him a deserved card and the visitors a freekick, just right of the penalty area. The ball ricocheted in the box after the freekick and fell for Lokko at the back post to score a deserved equaliser (30 mins).

Maidenhead went ahead just before the interval when Smith got across the front of the Alty back line to slide home an equaliser.

And little more than sixty seconds after the start of the second half, Maidenhead's veteran defender Remy Clerima headed home, unchallenged, from a right-wing corner.

Altrincham never looked like recovering the deficit, with possession being lost easily and no one having the guile to break down the resolute visitors' defence.

AWAY WIN FOR ACADEMY

The win was Altrincham's second of the season but they remain bottom of the division with Boston one place above them.

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

After moving to Meadow Park in 2019, first on loan before completing a permanent transfer the following year, the 35-year-old shot stopper has become a firm fan favourite in WD6, playing a crucial part in last season’s promotion back to the summit of the Non-League.

Nathan joins up with the Bedford Town squad ahead of their league clash with Chorley tomorrow afternoon. Everyone at the club would like to wish him the best of luck during his third spell at the New Eyrie".

Gateshead "confirm the signing of forward Josh Anifowose.

The winger joins on a permanent transfer from... Eastbourne Borough for an undsclosed fee, signing a deal on Tyneside until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The 22 year-old has been a key fixture in Eastbourne Borough's side this season, making 35 appearances while scoring two goals and recording five assists, having previously played in the National League South with Dover Athletic, Hampton & Richmond and Aveley."

Sutton United confirm the departure of Liam Vincent, who joins Dorking Wanderers on a one-month loan deal...

Vincent now joins up with Marc White’s side ahead of their home clash with Eastbourne Borough tomorrow evening in search of additional game time, having struggled for minutes since returning from an ankle injury.

The wing-back, who joined Sutton from Tonbridge Angels in the summer, had appeared in all but one game prior to Chris Agutter’s appointment in October...

He then suffered an injury in training which kept him out for the next four months... and in total has appeared nine times this season.

Prior to his move to Sutton, Vincent began his career at Bromley... before being picked up by Portsmouth in 2022.".

Morecambe "can confirm that Dan Ogwuru has been recalled from his loan spell at Workington AFC.

The recall provides the player with the opportunity to re-integrate into the first-team environment as we approach a crucial stage of the season.

We thank Workington AFC for their cooperation and professionalism throughout the loan period and wish them every success for the remainder of their campaign."

23 February 2026

"WE GOT THERE" SAYS NEIL

"The players understood the importance of the game and it gives us a gap of seven points. We could have been in twentieth if we'd lost but, instead, we're fifteenth and have two wins on the bounce against sides around us in the league...

In pouring rain, referee Niall Smith explains to Alty captain Tom Crawford why he ruled out Declan Howe's second "goal" in the match against Braintree.

"[Braintree keeper] Terry made a couple of outstanding saves, he was excellent today and we had the opportunities to score more.

"It could have been more comfortable but, ultimately, we have to be happy. Braintree made things difficult but we got there".

According to Flashscore, Altrincham had 18 shots to Braintree's 14, with the Robins hitting 13 of those on target against the Iron's six.

However, it was the visitors who won the corner count comfortably, by six to two.

NEXT: TAMWORTH

That single win was against lowly Gateshead, whilst five draws and a defeat have accrued in the past six matches.

Right: Lewis Banks (foreground) headed Altrincham ahead against Tamworth back in October but James Gale's expression (background) summed up a night of frustration for Altrincham.

Goalscoring has been an issue of late with just four being scored in the six most recent fixtures.

However, The Lambs beat Altrincham 2-1 at the JDS back in October a game which formed part of a run of ten league games for Tamworth which comprised six wins, three draws and a single defeat, which was away at York.

That ten-match sequence saw the Lambs earn 21 points or more than half of their current points total of 39; just 18 points have come from their other 22 league games this season.

Goalkeeper Jasbir Singh is their only player to have played ninety minutes in every league game this season but former Alty defender Kennedy Digie has also participated in all 32 fixtures, starting in thirty of them.

Another integral part of the Tamworth team is long-throw expert Tom Tonks who has played in all but one league game, starting 25 of them and being a used substitute in six other matches.

With six league goals, Dutchman Immanuel Duku is the squad's leading scorer in the National League, his goals coming from 17(+8) appearances. Digie, with four goals is Tamworth's second-top scorer.

NL MANAGER NUMBER 20 DEPARTS

'With so many games still left to play this season, our shared feeling was that a new energy and fresh impetus is urgently required to re-focus everyone’s minds on both the league and cup challenges ahead of us,' explained club Chairman Rory Fitzgerald.

'Like all teams, we’ve had our injury challenges along the way, but we believe our squad can get back to the early-season form that would both secure our National League status and also give us a great chance of reaching Wembley.

'On behalf of the Board, I’d like to wish Sam all the very best for his future coaching career in football.'

The change also sees analyst Liam Badcock join Sam in leaving the club with immediate effect.

Wealdstone FC offers sincere its thanks to both Sam and Liam for their dedication and contribution to the Stones.

First-Team Coach Danny Payne, along with the rest of the management team, will take charge of team affairs for this Tuesday’s home match against Brackley Town (Tue Feb 24, 7.45pm)".

Only yesterday the Alty Files updated its list of the previous nineteen National League managers who have lost or resigned their jobs since the end of last season.

That list can be found here.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The third Carlisle goal on the stroke of half-time was the killer blow for the game itself but, it came in part because heads had already begun to drop and frustrations had kicked in.

Even the manager, Billy Rowley, who wears his heart on his sleeve and kicks and heads every ball, was starting to get frustrated, water bottles got kicked and on a couple of occasions, Brett McGavin exchanged ‘pleasantries’ with someone on the Glovers’ bench.

At half-time, our subs had a leisurely walk around kicking a ball, whilst the Carlisle bench had cones, structure and a coach making sure their replacements were ready at the drop of a hat. Players were getting wound up with one another and that’s all giving off the wrong image and setting the wrong tone".

However, "The gap is five points... to 11th... Let’s try and give the players the belief that one good performance / result and we’re in touching distance of the top half".

22 February 2026

ALTRINCHAM v BRAINTREE TOWN

Match report here.

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

Neil said for the "first 45 minutes we were very good" and "full value for a 1-0 lead at half-time".

But in the second half he believed that it took us ten minutes to get to grips with their triple substitution, during which time Braintree scored.

The manager praised Declan Howe's performance, both on and off the field, where he has fitted in well. He also admired Tylor Golden's "acrobatic" clearance late in the game on Saturday.

"I've a lot of time for Braintree FC for how they battle against the odds" the Alty manager added.

As for the injured centre-backs Olson (left) and Cooper, Neil observed that Olson had "a niggle around his knee before arriving on loan" but in training last week, in "an innocuous moment", he "felt his hamstring go".

Gibson noted that Olson had the same injury when on loan with Altrincham last season but it will now be scanned to assess the seriousness this time.

He also praised young centre-back Joel Bailey but feels it "is difficut to throw him in" to matches because of where we are in the league.

As for Jake Cooper he is suffering "stiffness and tiredness" but may be avaiable pn Tuesday. Meanwhile Lewis Baines had been allowed to go on loan as he wanted more game time.

There was also praise for the the Altrincham groundsman, Harry, for producing today's pitch despite the awful weather but on Tuesday we are on a plastic pitch at Tamworth.

BAINES DEPARTS ON LOAN

Until he was subbed in the 89th minute of the Boxing Day defeat at Halifax, Baines had played every single minute in Neil Gibson's first nine league matches in charge but the left-sided central defender was to clock up no more league minutes at all in the following eight fixtures before Saturday's match with Braintree Town.

His absences were not explained but shortly before Saturday's game it was announced by Altrincham FC that "Central defender Lewis Baines has joined fellow Enterprise National League side Solihull Moors on loan through to the end of the season.

The 27-year-old joined the Robins from Chorley in the summer of 2022, and has made nearly 150 starts for the club - 21 during this season - while captaining Alty for the last 18 months.

'Bainesy's been a fantastic servant of the football club over the last three and half years', said manager Neil Gibson. 'He played an important part in us picking up results when we first took over in late October and his attitude since we took over has been really good.

'We wish him all the best with his loan move to Solihull.'"

CRAWFORD CONFIRMED AS CAPTAIN

A mainstay of the Robins' line-up since joining from Hartlepool United in the summer of 2024, our number 22 will now wear the armband full-time following Lewis Baines's loan move to Solihull Moors.

Speaking of the appointment, manager Neil Gibson said 'It was an easy decision to make Tom captain of the football club as we move forward.

'He's one of the first names on the team sheet each week'".

THE RELEGATION BATTLE

However, between Altrincham in fifteenth and Yeovil Town in 20th, just two points cover all of the six clubs.

With Altrincham having played 33 games , four of the five teams below them have games in hand.

In terms of maximum points attainable, Altrincham now have five clubs with lower potential totals and a sixth team which can only reach the same maximum as the Robins. So survival in the National League is in Altrincham's own hands.

Maximum points possible

• 76: ALTRINCHAM, Boston United
• 75: Eastleigh
• 70: Gateshead
• 69: Braintree Town
• 66: Truro City
• 65: Morecambe

NEXT: TAMWORTH

Last Saturday Tamworth played out a goalless draw at Boston United.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : The scoring in Plymouth Argyle's 5-2 home win over league leaders Cardiff City had been completed by the time they brought OWEN DALE off the bench in the 86th minute. V Rotherham United lead early, but visitors Doncaster Rovers had already turned things around by the time DUNCAN WATMORE was substituted after 75 minutes, and they won 1-2.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA played 64 minutes for Wycombe Wanderers as they beat visitors Stevenage 3-1. The Hertfordshire side relegated CARL PIERGIANNI to the bench again, only bringing him on after 75 minutes.

ALI SMITH played the full match, and was credited with the assist for AFC Wimbledon's third goal as they beat visitors Bradford City 3-1.

League Two : ELLIOT NEWBY was substituted by Barrow after 42 minutes. They led 0-2 at the time, but hosts Fleetwood Town, without either HARRISON HOLGATE or TOBY MULLARKEY, reversed the situation, winning 3-2 courtesy of a 94th minute own goal.

KEVIN BERKOE played throughout Shrewsbury Town's 0-2 win at Accrington Stanley.

JOEL SENIOR played the full game as Bristol Rovers beat visitors Grimsby Town 3-1. The scoring was over by the time the Mariners called JUSTIN AMALUZOR into action after 80 minutes.

JAKE BICKERSTAFF played the full game as Cheltenham Town beat visitors Salford City, who were down to 10 men after 48 minutes, by the odd goal in 5.

Chesterfield were leading 0-1 at Crawley Town when JAMES BERRY came off their bench after 59 minutes, but a 95th minute equaliser saw them drop 2 points.

National League : MATT PENNEY played the full game and was booked as Aldershot beat visitors Scunthorpe United. The scoring was over by the time the Iron withdrew ROSS BARROWS after 66 minutes.

Despite the efforts of CONNOR TEALE for Boston United, and KENNEDY DIGIE for Tamworth, the game at the Jakeman's Community Stadium ended goalless.

The scoring in Carlisle United's 3-0 home win over Yeovil Town was over when CHRIS CONN-CLARKE and REGAN LINNEY were part of a 3 man substitution after 74 minutes. KYLE FERGUSON played the full game for the Glovers, but MATT GOULD was left on the bench.

JOE NUTTALL only came on in the 92nd minute as Morecambe saw off Eastleigh 4-0. The Spitfires left JOSH LUNDSTRAM on the bench.

Having only started his loan at Solihull Moors today, LEWIS BAINES was left on the bench, so could only watch helplessly as visitors Hartlepool United came from 2-0 down to win 3-4, with TYRESE SINCLAIR scoring their last 2 goals.

Both JEFF KING and ALEX NEWBY played the whole of York City's 4-1 victory over visitors Halifax. Alex was credited with the assist for the 3rd York goal. BILLY WATERS lasted 73 minutes for the visitors.

In the evening kick-off KEATON WARD (right) played the full ninety minutes as Gateshead climbed off the bottom of the table at the expense of Truro City, who they beat 2-1 in Cornwall.

National North : OWEN GERMAN played 63 minutes as Chorley lost 2-0 at Bedford Town.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY played the full game as Chester won 0-2 at bottom club Leamington, but TOM PEERS wasn't in the squad.

JAMES GALE came off the bench in the 74th minute and rounded off the scoring in Macclesfield's 4-0 home win over King's Lynn. MIKEY STONE joined him 3 minutes later. ELLIOTT OSBORNE and KACPER PASIEK both played the full game for the Silkmen, but SAM HEATHCOTE, DANNY WHITEHEAD, and REGAN GRIFFITHS weren't in the squad.

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL, who was booked, lasted 79 minutes for Kilmarnock as they drew 1-1 at Dundee United, but MARCUS DACKERS wasn't in their squad.

Welsh Premier League Relegation Group : Bala Town were comprehensively outplayed at Briton Ferry. JOEL TORRANCE deserves credit for keeping the score down to 2-1 as the hosts produced 9 shots on target.

Welsh Premier League Championship Group : Connah's Quay Nomads disappointingly lost by the only goal at Barry. JAMES JONES lasted 81minutes.

Southern Premier Central : YUSIFU CEESAY (right) opened the scoring for Spalding United at Royston Town, and after the hosts went down to 10 men former Robins trialist TOM PUGH added another. The Tulips went on to win 0-3.

NPL Premier Division : JAMES HARDY played the full game for Ashton United, but visitors Stockton Town won 1-2.

JONNY MARGETTS played 78 minutes as Gainsborough Trinity drew 1-1 at FC United.

Hednesford Town completed their 3-0 scoreline over visitors Lancaster City in the first 30 minutes, with MONTEL GIBSON scoring the first two.

SHARIF DEANS was an 82nd minute substitute for Prescot Cables as they lost 2-1 at Stocksbridge Park Steels.

DEAN FURMAN captained Warrington Rylands to a 3-1 home win over Ilkeston Town.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : TOLANI OMOTOLA came off the bench in the 59th minute for Boldmere St Michaels, who led early at Basford United but lost 3-1.

NPL Division 1 West : Leaders Bury beat visitors Sporting Khalsa 2-0 with JOE PIGGOTT joining the action in the 89th minute.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND played the whole game for Wythenshawe Town at second placed Lower Breck, where they were thrashed 6-0. Astley and team mate Domaine Rouse were appointed joint managers earlier this month, and face a difficult task to save the club from relegation to the NWCL.

DAVE PARTON kept a clean sheet, and REMI RAYMOND also put in a full shift as Congleton Town and Atherton Collieries, captained by SAM SHERIDAN, ground out a goalless draw. Both sides finished with 10 men.

MASON FAWNS hit a hat trick, as both he and skipper MARK LEES played the whole of Mossley's 4-1 home win over Chasetown.

Trafford shocked Nantwich Town by scoring in the first minute at the Weaver Stadium. Then, having gone behind to a BYRON HARRISON goal, they fought back to draw 2-2. AIDY ROXBURGH also played the full game for the Dabbers.

Runcorn Linnets were without SEAN MILLER, while RYAN BROOKE and ELLIOT ROKKA were only called off the bench late on when their team had completed a 0-4 win at Shifnal Town, who were without ELLIOTT DURRELL.

JAMES LAWRIE and DAMOLA SOTONA played the full game, and were joined after 63 minutes by JOEL BEMBO-LETA as Witton Albion beat visitors Vauxhall Motors 3-1. YASSINE TOURE played the second half for Motors, and KEVIN ELLISON came off the bench to join him after 58 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : JOHN JOHNSTON was among the scorers as Irlam drew 3-3 at Padiham.

NOW IT'S NINETEEN MANAGERS GONE

An interim appointment will be confirmed in due course while the Club undertakes a thorough and comprehensive recruitment process...

We understand and share the frustration felt by our supporters regarding how the season has unfolded. During this period of transition, we ask for your continued unity and support for the players and staff as we work collectively to finish the campaign as strongly as possible".

The news that Eastleigh had sacked Scott Bartlett following their 4-0 humbling by Morecambe, means that there have now been nineteen dismissals or resignations, involving fifteen of the 24 members of the National League over a period of less than nine months, with Morecambe, Yeovil Town, Gateshead and Eastleigh changing manager twice.

Changes between the end of the 2024/25 season and the start of 2025/26:

1. FC HALIFAX TOWN Chris Millington left and Adam Lakeland was appointed
2. FOREST GREEN ROVERS sacked Steve Cotterill and appointed Robbie Savage
3. GATESHEAD Carl Magnay resigned and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
4. WEALDSTONE Neil Gibson resigned and the club appointed Sam Cox

Departures since start of the 2025/26 season:

The fourteen departures (so far) since the start of this season are listed below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard
3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington
5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley
8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
9. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
10. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
11. GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
12. BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
13. BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town
14. MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley
15. EASTLEIGH: Scott Bartlett "relieved of his duties"

The nine clubs still employing the manager who was with them at the end of last season are Rochdale, Boreham Wood, Carlisle United, Scunthorpe United, Southend United, Woking, Tamworth, Braintree Town and Truro City.

21 February 2026

ALTRINCHAM 2-1 BRAINTREE TOWN

Goals early in each half had put Altrincham 2-0 up but The Iron pulled back a goal midway through the second half and then applied considerable pressure, with the hosts grateful to Tylor Golden for a headed clearance off the line to preserve their lead.

Right: Declan Howe celebrates his goal with Eddy Jones and (left) Dan Sassi.

In a game played in heavy rain Scunthorpe loanee Declan Howe put Altrincham ahead in the eighth minute after good work by Crankshaw on the left. Howe had the ball in the net again after 38 minutes but the effort was ruled offside.

When the Robins doubled their lead inside ninety seconds of the second half it looked to be all over for the visitors. This time Howe was the provider as he passed the ball inside from the right to Crankshaw whose effort was saved onto his left upright by keeper Terry only for the ball to rebound off the post and then off the back of the Iron goalkeeper into the net for an own goal.

But the visitors made a triple substitution before the hour mark and one of the trio of new players, Jon Akinde, then fed Harris who made it 2-1 (66 mins).

The Iron then enjoyed sustained pressure which culminated in Golden's back-post header off the line to preserve the Robins' lead (85 mins).

Report to follow

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

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

BEFORE THE GAME: BRAINTREE TOWN

For their previous game on 10 February, at home to Wealdstone, Altrincham had no fewer than ten absentees including six long-term cases affecting the defence; Ross, Barnes, Baines, Banks, Sass-Davies and Reed. Added to those, was recent signing Kian Breckin who was injured in his debut from the bench, and two other recent arrivals in the form of midfielders Otis Khan and Liam Humbles. Also, team captain Baines's unexplained absence from the squad continued for a seventh successive league fixture.

Whether any of the sidelined players has recovered sufficiently to face Braintree remains to be seen.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Meanwhile, in the Irish Premier Division, BARRY BAGGLEY played the whole game for St.Patrick's, but they lost 2-0 at Shamrock Rovers. They have still to score a goal after two games, and are next to bottom of the league.

There is much less happy news of an Old Boy from the Manchester Evening News which reports that "An ex-Manchester United academy player has been charged with attempted murder, alongside three others, following the shooting of a man on a driveway in Huyton, Merseyside.

Right: Paddy Lacey in action for Altrincham against Chester FC in August 2012, as photographed by Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography.

A man in his 20s was taken to hospital in a critical condition after being shot in the leg at around 10.20pm on Friday, November 28...

Yesterday, Thursday February 19, a number of warrants were executed across Knowsley, Sefton and Liverpool and four people were arrested.

Former Accrington Stanley midfielder and boxer PATRICK SEAN LACEY, 32, of Manor Avenue, Crosby, has now been charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to murder, possession of shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life; section 18 GBH; and conspiracy to cause GBH.

Three [other] men have also been charged with the above offences...

All four are due to appear at Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton and St Helens Adult Remand Court this morning, Friday February 20, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Lacey started his career with Tranmere Rovers before joining Manchester United and then Liverpool as an academy player. He subsequently played for Altrincham, Barrow, Accrington Stanley and Southport, with his Wikipedia stating he most recently played for Flint Town United Cymru Premier.

During his semi-professional football career, Lacey also competed professionally as a boxer, amassing a 10-0 record and most recently claiming a knockout victory over Owen Kirk in October 2023".

Footnote: Paddy, who is 33 years-old next month, joined Alty as a 19 year-old in July 2012, having impressed as a trialist for Morecambe in a pre-season game against Altrincham, a few days earlier. Though often a substitute in the early part of the season, he went on to make 12(+21) appearances for Altrincham before being released in summer 2013 and joining Barrow.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Off the field "our planning application can be heard in March... It’s an amazing project, it lifts up the local area, it’s good for our residents, it’s good for park users, it’s good for the local economy and high street and it’s good for the football club’s long-term future, so what’s not to like?... This club and even Hertsmere Borough Council have undertaken to create a true legacy project that for us will begin in May and take possibly another 18 months to 2 years to complete in its entirety.

On my side the project will include a community hub with a manager’s office, analyst suite, breakfast area, club medical centre and the hub will include two new changing rooms and official rooms that can service both the Astro users and the park users if needed.

Above: Alty in action at Boreham Wood during their first visit to the Hertfordshire club in 2015.

We will also tidy and solve the abomination and eyesore that is the Brook Road Car Park at the moment by creating new entrance roads, fence lines, landscaping and supporter pathways into and out of the club and trust me the visuals I’ve created do not do my designs justice. We will create a great innovative lighting design and matching signage, that will lift this club’s standing within our community and the wider football community... We will now build a new South Stand that will take our capacity to over 5,500 possibly closer to 6,000 and be fully compliant for EFL football if it ever comes and while we’re at it, we will need to lengthen the pitch and the player run offs to be UEFA compliant....

It feels a little like I’m designing, building and dressing sets and back within the film industry... It will cost me, my companies and my partners more than four million pounds of further investment but in my opinion, it will be a legacy project that so many of you can be proud of...

For many years I was forced to swim against the tide as I tried to give you a two, then three and now four-sided football league ground... Whatever we’ve achieved it’s been achieved together over the last 27 years">

Brackley Town "confirm that goalkeeper Jonny Maxted has been recalled from his loan spell with Enterprise National League North side Oxford City.

Maxted returns to St James Park with immediate effect following his period with the Hoops, where he gained valuable match minutes.

The club would like to thank Oxford City for their cooperation during Jonny’s loan".

Next Tuesday, Altrincham travel to Tamworth who, today, travel to play in-form Boston United. The Pilgrims state that they "will be aiming to continue their winning run when they entertain Tamworth...

Fresh from a run of four consecutive victories, two at home and two away, the Pilgrims return to home turf to take on the Lambs...

Boston boss Paul Hurst has reported no new injury concerns – with five first team players having gained valuable minutes against Lincoln United on Wednesday evening.

Jordan Cropper (knee), [ex-Alty trialist] Zak Mills (hamstring), Jacob Scott (hip), Dylan Hill (knee), Lenell John-Lewis (foot) and Jacob Hazel (knee) are definitely out".

Boston announce that "Ellenders will be open from 11.30am". Named after former Altrincham and Boston defender PAUL ELLENDER, "Ellenders is our modern, stylish bistro style bar and restaurant located at The Jakemans Stadium". Alty visit the Jakeman's on 24 March.

Carlisle United has published minutes from its Supporters' Group's latest meeting.

It includes the Football Club's latest update which amongst other things tells us that "After 17 home league games vs 24/25 League 2, gates are in line with L2 last season with home fans +3%:

• Total 7238 – 1% down
• Home 6989 +3% up
• Away 248 (543 last season)

The increase in gates is despite around 350 less away fans per game and 5 midweek evening kick offs (2 in 23/24) this season.

The number of evening home KO continues to depress gates. The difference in attendance is marked...

Behaviour of supporters in the season continues to be excellent both home and away.

The use of Vapes inside the stadium continues to be a concern".

Hartlepool United defender Reiss McNally looks ahead to this weekend’s trip to face Solihull Moors at Damson Park...

Following back-to-back postponed games against Sutton United and Wealdstone for Pools, McNally emphasised that... 'You can train all you want, but it’s the matches you want to play in'.

'Personally, I think that Wednesday to Saturday is a quick turnaround, so it was good for everyone to get that extra bit of recovery'...

After returning from long-term injury... McNally has played every minute of every game, featuring in several positions across Nicky Featherstone’s defence...

'It was just under four months out [injured], so I still think there’s things I’m trying to develop and bring back...

'We know our objectives and we know where we want to be come the end of the season, so I don’t think there’s [more] added pressure than we’ve already had'".

At Weladstone, club media had a chat with Brunel University Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Geoffrey Rodgers to take a deeper dive into the partnership between the two organisations.

Brunel are Wealdstone’s front-of-shirt sponsor, and are also involved with the club in many other ways, including providing training facilities for Sam Cox’s side during the week.

'I think the club has a lot of ambition and a lot of potential,' Rodgers said when speaking to the Stones’ YouTube channel.

'It's a great catchment area round here with a lot of interest in the club and the leaders of the club have got a clear vision about what they want to achieve and where they want to go - so we're keen to be on that journey with you as there's benefits for us but also we're looking to support you.'"

Solihull Moors "defender, James Clarke, spoke about The Moors’ next game as they face 9th place Hartlepool...

Three points for the Moors would put them into 9th place, ahead of Hartlepool, as Solihull push for a playoff place with 14 games left to play.

'I think it’s important for us to get back to winning ways because we’ve had a couple of tough results, which we think we could have got more out of, especially Eastleigh we were two goals up and ended up losing the game and then Braintree, we had lots of chances, I thought we could have won the game in the end.

'I think if we can win and kind of get back our momentum, then that would be great for the lads.

'We know we’ve got so much quality in the team, going forward especially. If we can keep it defensively tight at the back, I think there’s no problem with getting some goals'">

Meanwhile Coventry City report that their "Midfielder Isaac Moore has joined National League side Solihull Moors on an initial 28-day youth loan.

The 19-year-old had a fruitful spell at Forest Green Rovers earlier in the season, scoring three times in 27 matches".

Morecambe "announce the appointment of Steve Dewsnip as the club’s new Chief Operating Officer.

Steve joins us with extensive football and business experience and has held prominent roles with non-league clubs covering all aspects of off-field activity. He was recently Commercial Director at Stalybridge Celtic and prior to that Chief Operating Officer at Southport in the National League North, with responsibility for commercial and operational activities...

Professionally, Steve retired from a 35-year career in banking and financial services, including 20 years with Rothschild in Manchester and the Channel Islands. He was also the Co-Founder and Chairman for six years of Guernsey FC, leading the first project to bring English national league system football to an offshore island and securing two successive promotions to step four".

Just over two years ago the BBC reported that One of the co-founders of Guernsey FC has been banned by the island's financial regulator from any involvement in regulated companies, following his involvement in a fraudulent investment fund which collapsed in 2016.

"The club's former chairman Steve Dewsnip, 57, who is now [2024] commercial director of Northern Premier League side Stalybridge Celtic, was banned by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission (GFSC) for 'failure to meet the minimum criteria for licensing'.

Later, Morecambe also announced that "Martin Thomas has returned to the club as Head of Commercial.

Martin, who is well known to the Shrimps’ fanbase having previously served as the club’s Head of Commercial for six years from 2019 until last September, re-joins us following a short period at AFC Fylde".

20 February 2026

NEXT: BRAINTREE TOWN

Below is a list of the current bottom six in terms of league position which shows that Sutton United, currently lower than Altrincham, have a higher potential points' haul.

• Sutton United maximum points this season: 77, currently 20th in National League
• ALTRINCHAM maximum points this season: 76, currently 19th
• BRAINTREE TOWN maximum points this season: 72, currently 21st
• Gateshead maximum points this season: 70, currently 24th
• Truro City maximum points this season: 69, currently 22nd
• Morecambe maximum points this season: 65, currently 23rd

Both Altrincham and Braintree have 6 home games and 8 away fixtures remaining.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The midfielder leaves the club having made 23 appearances during the 2025/26 season, recording three assists".

York City "is shocked to learn that Under-16s captain Harry Rowntree has been diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma.

Harry has been at the club since joining at under-8s level and has worked through all stages before working his way up to becoming the current under 16s captain.

In January, after a training session, Harry visited the hospital after a difficult session where he learned of the diagnosis.

The football club will be supporting Harry through his return to football

Harry is raising money for The Candlelighters Trust who have been supporting him through this time.

To read Harry’s story and to donate, please click here".

19 February 2026

CARDS GAME RE-ARRANGED

The fixture has now been rearranged to take place on Tuesday, March 31st at 7:45pm.

This means that Altrincham now have three away games in a period of just eight days...

• Game no.39 Tue.24.3.26 Away Boston United 7.45pm
• 40 Sat.28.3.26 Away Solihull Moors
• 41 Tue.31.3.26 Away Woking 7.45pm

A WINDOW ON BRAINTREE TOWN

Founded in 1849 the company were early makers of metal window frames, hence the Football Club's nickname of The Iron.

The company still exists today in nearby Witham and, from its Essex origins, it grew to run the first steel-window factory in the United States, in Detroit, Michigan.

The company also operated with partners in Belgium, Germany and China as well as in numerous countries in the British Commonwealth.

Right: Braintree Town first visited Altrincham in 2014 and the Robins' first visit to Cressing Road followed in 2015. Here we see goalkeeper Dave Parton punching clear in that game but he suffered a minor nose injury in the process.

Around the end of the 19th century, the Manor Works team effectively took over a local football club known as Braintree FC.

The club was renamed as Crittall Athletic in 1921, then as Braintree & Crittall Athletic in 1968. It was not until 1981 that the club became fully independent of Crittalls and rebranded itself as Braintree FC before adding Town to their name in 1983.

By 2006, they had reached the Conference South, progressing in 2011 to the Conference Premier. By 2016 they had reached the play-offs for promotion to the Football League but in 2017 they were relegated to National South.

They regained national status in 2018 via the play-offs but went down again after just one season.

Again via the play-offs they regained national status in 2024. Last season they finished 17th in the National League.

Their stadium at Cressing Road was originally built by Crittalls in 1923.

Amongst the UK buildings which boast products of Crittall Windows are Coventry Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, as well as Tower Bridge and the Tower of London!

When Braintree Town visit the JDS on Saturday they maybe unaware of a link with Altrincham as our town, like theirs, boasts an innovative metal (and uPVC) window-making firm in the Nova Group.

Based in Norman Road, Nova Group tells us that "For over 50 years, we’ve been designing, manufacturing, and delivering premium windows and doors to homes and businesses across the UK. Based in Altrincham, Cheshire, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s largest independent fabricators...

"Every product we make is proudly British-made in our Cheshire-based factory by our expert team. With over 150 skilled professionals and the capacity to produce more than 2,000 frames per week, we deliver at scale without compromising on craftsmanship".

ALTY OLD BOYS

NPL Division 1 West : ELLIOTT DURRELL (right) wasn't in the Shifnal Town squad that lost 0-2 to visiting league leaders Bury, for whom JOE PIGGOTT played 62 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : Two goals for LEWIS BILLINGSLEY earned him the Man of the Match award, and BEN ELLIOTT was again on target as West Didsbury & Chorlton beat visitors South Liverpool 4-0.

"ALTY FOR ALL" INITIATIVE

The Club states that "we want every matchday to feel welcoming, inclusive and uniquely Alty.

This week the Club is launching an enhanced Fan Engagement Project built around our core value, Alty For All. This initiative is designed to strengthen connections between the club and supporters of all ages, backgrounds and generations, while building on the heritage and community spirit that define Altrincham FC.

Sam Mackenzie, CEO, said 'The Fan Liaison volunteers will help support this activity through feedback and comments. I would like to thank Simon Mitton, a lecturer from UCFB, who is leading this exciting project, and all of the volunteers who are students from the university'...

The J. Davidson Stadium.

What the Fan Engagement Project Will Deliver: The 2025/26 project marks the first phase of a long term commitment to enhancing the overall fan experience...

A key focus during the first year will be improving clear signposting and guidance for new fans... The project will provide clearer information on:

• How to get to the ground
• What to expect upon arrival
• Matchday entertainment and activities
• Food, drink and retail options
• Ways to get involved with the club community

"‘Fan Liaison’ volunteers will play a central role in delivering this enhanced experience.

On matchdays, volunteers will:

• Be present at Altrincham Interchange and along key routes to the ground
• Assist supporters who may be unfamiliar with attending Altrincham matches
• Be stationed inside the ground to provide information and guidance
• Gather feedback and insights from supporters

In addition, the Fan Liaison Team will undertake research into the current fan experience provision, identifying areas of good practice and opportunities for further development".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Former Aldershot boss Widdrington arrived in October following the departure of Matt Gray.

Tuesday night's 1-0 defeat to Chesham United leaves the club bottom of the Enterprise National League South, five point adrift of safety - taking just four points from their last nine games...

A statement from their Board of Directors reads 'We are disappointed with the current situation and recognise the seriousness of our league position. As a result, we have decided to part company with Tommy Widdrington and Hugo Langton. With 13 matches remaining, we will continue to push for safety....

'Tommy was provided with the resources he requested. Injuries have undoubtedly disrupted momentum... Planning has now begun for all scenarios, including the potential transition to part-time football and building a squad capable of competing for promotion should that be required. Our responsibility is to protect the stability, sustainability and competitive future of this club@".

Altrincham travel to The Lamb next week and from Tamworth we learn of the outcome of the club's National League Cup semi-final at home to West Ham United's under-21s on Tuesday night.

Manager "Andy Peaks made use of his squad for the fixture... The Lambs quickly made a change with Mols being replaced by Roberts but inside the fourth minute The Lambs defence were cut through down the Hammer left, and from Clayton’s low cross into the box Fearon sidefooted inside the near post to open the scoring (0-1, 4 mins)...

HT: 0-1

"Rye struck from outside of the area and Herrick parried the deflected effort away from the left hand post but only as far as Maher who rifled it home on the angle to level the tie to the delight of the home faithful (1-1, 65 mins)".

Later came a "Tonks' throw from the right which Herrick dropped and play was stopped, with a red card shown to Brown who had thrown a punch as the ball was cleared, and a penalty was award which Milnes stepped up to take. He struck it well enough, but Herrick dived to his Milnes’s left and pushed it away to keep the scores level...

Six minutes added time was shown at the end of the half, with penalties on the horizon, but with three minutes gone Ajala 0picked up the ball on the edge of the area and curled low inside the right hand post to give the visitors the lead (1-2, 90+3 mins)...

West Ham broke and Ajala took it round Tonks and into the final third before tapping home (1-3, 90+7 mins). It took a moment for the game to restart Cullinane-Liburd was sent from the field for a second yellow after the goal".

18 February 2026

NEXT: BRAINTREE TOWN

Following Tuesday's games for other teams, Altrincham go into the match having dropped to 19th after Aldershot Town won and overtook them whilst Braintree dropped into the bottom four courtesy of Sutton United's victory

ALTY OLD BOYS

Professional Development League : JACK KINGDON, having missed Cardiff City's last game, resumed the captaincy at QPR, but the London club scored the only goal of the game.

League One : The introduction of DUNCAN WATMORE after 69 minutes couldn't help Rotherham United to avoid a 1-0 defeat at Burton Albion.

AFC Wimbledon lost 4-1 at leaders Cardiff City, and withdrew ALI SMITH after 86 minutes.

Above, (left to right) Joel Senior, Alistair Smith and Ryan Colclough

Wycombe Wanderers were ahead at Exeter City when they withdrew JUNIOR QUITIRNA after 64 minutes, but the hosts snatched a 1-1 draw in added time.

Plymouth Argyle won 1-3 at Leyton Orient, withdrawing OWEN DALE, who'd been booked earlier, after 59 minutes.

As predicted when he came off the bench to score on Saturday, CARL PIERGIANNI returned to Stevenage's starting line-up, reclaiming the armband and picking up a yellow card as they downed bottom of the table visitors Port Vale 2-1.

League Two : After tonight's games, only 3 points separate the bottom 5 clubs. Barrow really couldn't afford to lose by the only goal at home to Harrogate Town. ELLIOT NEWBY played the full game for the Bluebirds.

Although JOEL SENIOR put in a full shift for Bristol Rovers, they lost 2-0 at Oldham Athletic to remain in trouble.

Shrewsbury Town have pulled away from the bottom, and have opened up a 5 point gap on Barrow with their 1-0 home win over Notts County. KEVIN BERKOE played the full game for the victors, while JACK HINCHY came off County's bench after 76 minutes.

Leaders Bromley surprisingly failed to capitalise on going ahead after only 4 minutes, and JAKE BICKERSTAFF played a full part as visitors Cheltenham Town came back to draw 1-1.

The only goal of Chesterfield's 1-0 win over visitors Gillingham had already been scored when they brought JAMES BERRY off the bench on the hour.

Right: Jonny Margetts, image courtesy of Mike Ripley

HARRISON HOLGATE wasn't in Fleetwood Town's squad at Crewe Alexandra, while TOBY MULLARKEY was left on the bench as they won 0-1.

National League : KEATON WARD played the full game as Gateshead unexpectedly won 1-2 at Halifax. The Yorkshire club have taken MATTY WATERS on loan from Oldham Athletic, and he managed not to get booked after making his debut from the bench on 67 minutes.

ROSS BARROWS played a full role in Scunthorpe United's 1-1 draw at Rochdale - the point was sufficient for Dale to regain the leadership from York City.

MATT PENNEY came off Aldershot's bench at Yeovil Town, and the hosts threw on KYLE FERGUSON a minute later, leaving MATT GOULD to watch from the bench as Shots won 1-2 to climb 5 places up the table, dropping Altrincham to 19th. Sutton United also won, and are 2 points behind the Robins with a superior goal difference and a game in hand.

National League Cup Semi Finals : KENNEDY DIGIE was booked as Tamworth fell 1-3 to West Ham United U21, who struck twice in added time despite being down to 10 men - and Tamworth also had a man dismissed in the 99th minute. In the final, the young Hammers will face Boreham Wood who took advantage of Truro City having a man dismissed on the hour to strike twice late on.

National North : OWEN GERMAN started for Chorley at AFC Telford United, where they came back from a 2 goal deficit to draw 2-2. He had the ball in the net but the whistle had gone. At least he played the full game this time.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR was again left on the bench as Morton beat visitors Dunfermline Athletic 2-0 despite missing a penalty. The Fife side weren't helped by a 53rd minute red card.

NPL Premier Division : JONNY MARGETTS (pictured, above right) played 74 minutes for Gainsborough Trinity, who came from behind to win 1-2 in stoppage time at Whitby Town.

NPL Division 1 West : Although AIDY ROXBURGH and BYRON HARRISON played the whole game, Nantwich Town were beaten by the odd goal in 3 at Clitheroe.

In other news, it has emerged that Tonbridge Angels appointed JEROME JOHN as their goalkeeping coach at the back end of 2025

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• FC Halifax Town 1-2 Gateshead
• Rochdale 1-1 Scunthorpe United
• Sutton United 2-1 Woking
• Wealdstone P-P Hartlepool United (waterlogged pitch)
• Yeovil Town 1-2 Aldershot Town

NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP

Semi-finals

• Boreham Wood 2-0 Truro City
• Tamworth 1-3 West Ham United U21

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The Ireland youth international spent the latter half of the 2024/25 season with the Shrimpers, making 14 appearances in the National League and finding the net three times.

Golding discussed coming back to the club after a positive first spell. 'From the staff to the players, I made a lot of friends here and I enjoyed my time here last season, so I want to build on that now.'

'When I found out I could come back, it was one of the first things I wanted to do so I’m really happy to be back and looking to kick on now.'”

Head coach Kevin Maher said 'James had a great time with us last year before his injury cut it short and he’s someone we know well since he was identified by John [Still] and the scouts last season. “He’s had experience of League Two this year and we know we’re a bit short in that area, so to get a player of James's quality come in is great news.. There’s going to be limited training time coming up with so many games. With James we’re confident he will be able to fit straight in.'

After spending his junior years at AFC Wimbledon, Golding graduated from Oxford United’s academy in October 2021... Following a loan spell at Banbury, Golding made his first league start for the U’s in... April 2022...

Another loan spell at Banbury was followed by stints at Dartford and Maidenhead United, before Golding arrived in South Essex in December 2025... after which he succumbed to injury and returned to Oxford United to receive treatment having been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

In the summer, he joined Crewe Alexandra on loan, making 12 appearances in League Two".

The chairman of Boreham Wood, Danny Hunter, writes that "In terms of injuries around the squad, at present we are still without some big hitters in Tom White, Callum Reynolds and possibly without Erico Souza who is just not responding to the treatment he’s receiving the way he should and that’s of course a big worry.

Over the last few weeks we’ve also had a few niggles to contend with, namely Ollie Kensdale, Lewis Richardson and Charlie O’Connell but that I suppose is all part and parcel of football at this level..

Luke [Garrard] has spoken to me about his squad concerns and his plans for this evening and I’m glad he’s taking this competition [NL Cup] seriously and I’m also pleased he’s giving opportunities to one or two players who have waited patiently for a start and a chance to shine...

On Saturday we then travelled to Eastleigh and in truth we battered them for most of the game, but only came away with a point, so I felt on the journey home that it was a big two points dropped... Defensive mistakes were further compounded on the day, as we missed a hatful of chances...

In terms of the bigger picture stuff off the park, I hope to announce an awful lot more to everyone shortly, as I expect to hear some good news over the next few days and if things go positively for me, then my residents, park users, high street and you supporters are going to benefit hugely.

So like I told you all a month ago, buckle in, enjoy the ride because this ride will I think be a rollercoaster this season but trust me this is the best the club has ever been and my gut feeling is that come May it’s about to get a whole lot better".

Brackley Town "announce the appointment of Andy Whing as the club’s new First Team Manager...

Prior to his recent spell at Barrow AFC, he spent 19 months in charge of Solihull Moors, guiding the Moors to the 2024 National League play-off final...

In the same season, Whing also led Solihull to the 2024 FA Trophy Final at Wembley...

Before his time at Solihull, Whing took charge of near neighbours Banbury United, where he secured promotion to the National League North for the first time in the club’s history...

As a player, Whing began his professional career with Coventry City, making 119 appearances for the Sky Blues. He later joined Brighton & Hove Albion, where he featured 125 times. Further spells followed with Oxford United, Leyton Orient and Chesterfield before injury brought his playing career to a close in 2015.

Brackley Town Chairman Matt Wise said 'Andy has been appointed after a thorough recruitment process and from a strong field...

Andy Whing said 'I think if anyone knows me, I wear my heart on my sleeve. I’m really passionate, I’m ambitious and I’m really looking forward to getting going@".

17 February 2026

NEXT: BRAINTREE TOWN

The Iron have also announced the departure of striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas".

Emmanuel-Thomas has since signed for Whitehawk.

Luton Town add that "Young forward Taylan Harris has joined National League side Braintree Town on a one-month youth loan. Last month Harris, 20, returned to The Brache having made 19 appearances for Sky Bet League Two club Tranmere Rovers and scoring once in his time at Prenton Park. The former Reading forward signed for the Hatters in 2024 and has featured regularly for the Under-21s since joining. Good luck in your time at Cressing Road, Taylan!"

WOMEN EXIT COUNTY CUP

Erin Carroll's match report starts by confirming that "Altrincham’s run in the Cheshire FA Women's County Cup came to an end at the quarter-final stage as they succumbed to a ruthless second half fightback by Runcorn Linnets at Partington Sports Village".

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS

On 21 February 2023, Altrincham won 4-2 at Barnet and back in 2015 they paid a visit to Bristol Rovers, where they lost to the only goal of the game in front of 6765 spectators, (162 from Altrincham).

Altrincham had beaten Rovers 2-1 in the reverse fixture; since then, however, Rovers had risen to second in the table.

Above: Under the watchful eye of Lee Sinnott and the Altrincham bench, Nicky Clee advances up the Alty left during the second half at a packed Memorial Stadium, the home of Bristol Rovers.

A headed goal just before half time by Parkes settled the match. After a decent first half display Alty rarely threatened in the second period until the final five minutes. Reeves even headed into the net at the death but offside saved Rovers. However the visitors could have no real complaints at the final outcome.

Altrincham: 1. Stuart Coburn, 2. Shaun Densmore (capt), 5. Gianluca Havern, 16. Tom Marshall, 3. Adam Griffin, 4. Jake Moult, 8. Simon Richman, 11. Nicky Clee, 10. Damian Reeves, 7. James Lawrie, 14. Kyle Perry. Subs: 25. Peter Cavanagh, 6. Scott Leather, 17.Dave Parton, 18. Shaun Williams, 26. Jordan Sinnott.

ALTY'S LATEST SPONSORS

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport branding is now prominently displayed within our popular matchday Fan Zone as part of our new link-up with the hotel, based just a couple of miles away from The J.Davidson Stadium.

As part of the sponsorship we look forward to welcoming Delta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport to Moss Lane as main match sponsors for our final game of 2025/26 against Gateshead on Saturday, April 25th.

Delta Hotels Director of Sales, David Smith, said 'this commitment... marks a proud moment as we align our vision with one of the most important pillars of the Altrincham and Hale Barns community.

'Altrincham Football Club has long set the standard for championing local people and local needs. We are delighted to lend our support and, in doing so, give something back to the community by enhancing personal experiences both on and off the pitch.

'We would like to extend an invitation to all fans of the club and the wider football community to experience hospitality like no other at Delta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport...

'Fans are encouraged to contact the hotel and reference their support of Altrincham FC to access preferential rates across both leisure and business stays. We look forward to welcoming you and playing our part in supporting this outstanding local club and community.'

Alty CEO Sam Mackenzie said... 'We're delighted to welcome Delta Hotels to our family of sponsors and we look forward to working with them and forging a close relationship as our partnership develops'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Cup 4th Round : An unfortunate 70th minute own goal by SAM HEATHCOTE was sufficient for Premier League Brentford to progress at the Moss Rose, but Macclesfield went down fighting. Sam was joined in playing the full match by PADDY LACEY'S kid brother Luis, while ELLIOTT OSBORNE played 85 minutes, and JAMES GALE was a 68th minute substitute. KACPER PASIEK, MIKEY STONE, DANNY WHITEHEAD, and REGAN GRIFFITHS were all unused substitutes for the Silkmen. Brentford will make the short trip to West Ham United in the 5th round.

Elsewhere, before Sunday's FA Cup match, The Times reported that "After the sacking of Ryan Lowe... GRAHAM BARROW has taken temporary charge of Wigan [Athletic] alongside Glenn Whelan... and this is his fifth stint in charge in various guises. His first came as manager when he saved Wigan from relegation out of the Football League".

And now, "the 71 year-old will be to the fore again as joint caretaker-manager of the League One club as they take on Arsenal at the Emirates". On Sunday night, Arsenal beat Wigan 4-0.

16 February 2026

WOKING MATCH POSTPONEMENT

'I want to express my profound frustration and deep disappointment with the referee’s decision to cancel today’s fixture.

'Both clubs, both managers and both sets of players wanted to play the match. Our ground staff had intimated no doubts in regard to today’s game, so it is bitterly disappointing that the officials took this decision so late in the day.

'The team will now train on the pitch instead, so if you are still in the stadium, please feel free to stay and watch them work.

'We again sincerely apologise to both sets of supporters for the inconvenience caused'".

NEXT: BRAINTREE TOWN

Altrincham lie eighteenth whilst Braintree are twentieth ahead of the midweek games, in which neither is playing, but which could affect both clubs' positions through results elsewhere.

Right: Braintree's last visit to Altrincham was in February 2025. Here we see Louie Fallon and Lewis Banks preparing to defend a corner in that game.

Back in October, Braintree Town were Neil Gibson's first opponents after his appointment to the then interim managerial post at Altrincham. That away game for the Robins ended in a goalless draw.

Historically, the record between the clubs favours the Essex club, though Altrincham have won and drawn the two most recent encounters:

• At Altrincham: P3-W2-D0-L1-F4-A5
• Away: P4-W0-D1-L3-F2-A9
• All: P7-W2-D1-L4-F6-A-14

The match-by-match record is as follows...

• 25 Oct. 2025: Braintree Town 0-0 Altrincham
• 8 Feb. 2025: Altrincham 3-1 Braintree Town
• 5 Oct. 2024: Braintree Town 2-0 Altrincham
• 30 Apr. 2016: Braintree Town 3-0 Altrincham
• 19 Sep. 2015: Altrincham 0-4 Braintree Town
• 25 Apr. 2015: Braintree Town 4-2 Altrincham
• 18 Oct. 2014: Altrincham 1-0 Braintree Town

In terms of form, Altrincham lie a respectable eleventh with eight points from their last six league matches; Braintree are sixteenth with six points earned from their last six games.

However, Braintree have taken five points from their last three games, a sequence in which they are unbeaten.

Braintree are the league's lowest scorers, having found the net just 22 times in 32 outings. Altrincham have scored 36 league goals this season from the same number of completed games. At the other end, The Iron have conceded three fewer goals than Altrincham's 48.

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Cup 4th Round : On a Blundell Park with the consistency of sticky toffee pudding, Wolverhampton Wanderers had already scored the game's only goal to knock out Grimsby Town by the time the Mariners threw on JUSTIN AMALUZOR in the 82nd minute.

Scottish Premiership : A shock looked on the cards at Rugby Park when JOE HUGILL put Kilmarnock 2-0 up against Celtic after 28 minutes, but the Hoops gradually gained the upper hand and were level by the 64th minute. Joe was withdrawn 15 minutes later, while MARCUS DACKERS (right) came off the Kilmarnock bench in the 82nd minute. Celtic completed their comeback in the 97th minute to win 2-3.

And from The Times, last Saturday, in its preview of Macclesfield's FA cup match tonight (Monday), we read that "Lewis Fensome introduces us to his team-mates". As has been chronicled previously, there are no fewer than SEVEN ex-Alty players or loanees in the Silkmen's squad.

Here's what Fensome said about them...

"SAM HEATHCOTE. As a player, he's come on loads this season. Off the field, when you see him in action, like on our lads' trips to Portugal, you wouldn't think he's a school teacher in Altrincham...

"REGAN GRIFFITHS, another lively upbeat lad in our Scouse corner of the dressing room. They're like a little cult and certainly add to the fun...

"DANNY WHITEHEAD Another full-timer after a long career in the EFL. He's 32 with a family so tends to keep himself to himself. I'm the team social sec but I've never managed to drag him out...

"We managed to bring in KACPER PASIEK, MICHAEL STONE, JAMES GALE and ELLIOT OSBORNE in the [transfer] window... They all look quality additions".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Aidan Barlow put Dale ahead after going one-on-one with Yeovil goalkeeper Jed Ward in the 13th minute at Huish Park.

However, the hosts responded almost immediately when Finn Cousin-Dawson headed in Brett McGavin's free kick just two minutes later.

Rochdale... failed to make the most of Aaron Jarvis's dismissal in the 69th minute and had to settle for a single point...

Glovers' boss, Billy Rowley, told the BBC 'We went down to ten-men for the second game in a row, which has obviously infuriated me and some of the boys... We had to adapt and I'm really proud of the boys that were on the pitch'".

Boston United report that "Tom Cursons bagged his first professional hat-trick as Boston United recorded an extraordinary away victory on Saturday afternoon.

The Pilgrims thumped Lincolnshire neighbours Scunthorpe United 6-3 at Glanford Park, having led 3-0 inside 23 minutes through Cursons, Matty Carson and Jake Rooney.

Rooney scored again once Callum Roberts had reduced the arrears for the hosts and Danny Whitehall's penalty ensured the Pilgrims led 4-2 at the break. Two further Cursons goals at either end of the second half sandwiched a Roberts spot-kick to seal one of United's most memorable away days on record.

There had been little signs of things to come, with Scunthorpe only beaten once at home so far this season - but the Pilgrims were soon in full control at the Attis Arena".

Forest Green Rovers "fell to their third consecutive defeat as Carlisle United ran out 3–1 winners [on Saturday] evening.

The Cumbrians raced into a three-goal lead by half-time with goals from Stephen Wearne, Morgan Feeney and David Ajiboye.

Rovers pulled one back early in the second half through Jay Mingi following a set-piece situation.

Despite seeing plenty of the ball and creating opportunities after the break, the hosts were unable to break down a well-organised Carlisle side...

Carlisle started the brighter of the two teams after a scrappy opening ten minutes...

[0-2 down], Rovers boss Robbie Savage made an early change on 27 minutes, with Nick Haughton replaced by new arrival Josh Osude.

Just seven minutes later, Rovers fell further behind as David Ajiboye scored a brilliant solo goal...

Rovers emerged with renewed intent after the break, with Savage making two further changes at half-time. Gabe Kricough and Jay Mingi replaced Abraham Kanu and Jayden Clarke.

Mingi made an immediate impact, scoring in the 51st minute from a set-piece...

Carlisle defended resolutely in the closing stages, using their experience to slow the game down and frustrate Rovers".

Resurgent Aldershot Town, now third in the form guide after four wins in their last six outings, report "the signing of Jed Meerholz on a permanent deal until the end of the season from Bristol City.

Jed, known by Shots fans already, spent the beginning few months here on loan this season, making 13 appearances & scoring against Solihull Moors.

Jed, a versatile player throughout his career, will be looking to kick on from where he left off last time he was here.

John Coleman said... 'We needed some extra force in the squad, especially with the hectic schedule coming up, and with Jed being familiar with the club already, I know he’ll slot straight back in and kick on where he left off'".

At Yeovil Town the "Football Club are pleased to announce the signing of centre-back Declan Skura, who has joined the club on loan from Wycombe Wanderers until the end of the season.

Skura began his development in the academy systems at Chelsea and Reading before gaining senior experience in non-League with Hanworth Villa and Kingstonian. His performances earned him a development squad contract with Wycombe Wanderers in February 2023 following a successful trial.

He made his first-team debut later that year, starting in a 1–0 EFL Trophy victory over Crystal Palace U21, and has since continued his progression with further senior involvement, including a National League loan spell with Ebbsfleet United and a League One appearance as a substitute against Blackpool.

The move to Huish Park provides Skura with the opportunity for continued senior minutes as he links up with the Glovers for the remainder of the campaign.

Morecambe "confirm the signing of defender Kyle Jameson on a deal until the end of the season.

Jameson joins the Shrimps as a central defender. He began his footballing journey in the youth system at Southport before earning a move to Chelsea’s academy in January 2017.

Following his time with Chelsea, Jameson joined West Bromwich Albion later that year and gained early senior experience on loan with Barrow during the 2018–19 season.

With experience across multiple levels of the English Football League at clubs such as Tranmere Rovers and Newport County, Jameson brings a blend of physical presence and defensive versatility to the Morecambe squad"

15 February 2026

THE RELEGATION BATTLE

Defeats for the bottom three, Gateshead, Morecambe and Truro City left them still at least six points from safety and therefore the favourites for the drop. However, with approximately a third of the season left, all could lift themselves to safety.

However, the fourth relegation place is much more contentious. The eight clubs from twenty-first place up to fourteenth are covered by just seven points with five of those teams each having two games in hand on the other three clubs in question.

Unfortunately, Altrincham are one of the three clubs to have played the most games (32).

However, the Robins do still have survival in their own hands insofar as there are four clubs whose maximum possible points' haul this season is a lower figure than Altrincham's maximum.

Those four clubs are Gateshead, Morecambe, Truro City and... Altrincham's next opponents, Braintree Town

Current lowest maximum points totals

• 76 pts: ALTRINCHAM
• 72 pts: Braintree Town
• 70 pts: Gateshead
• 69 pts: Truro City
• 65 pts: Morecambe

NEXT: BRAINTREE TOWN

However, should Sutton United win their midweek game, The Iron would drop into the bottom four and, likewise, if Aldershot Town win at Yeovil on Tuesday night, they would overtake Altrincham and leave the Robins nineteenth.

On Saturday, Braintree played out a goalless draw at home to Solihull Moors as the BBC reported...

"Mason Terry was the Braintree hero as they held Solihull to a goalless draw.

Home goalkeeper Terry made a string of saves in the first half, the pick of which was a superb point-blank stop from Emmanuel Sonupe.

Terry was beaten in the 73rd minute but Joe Sbarra's shot cannoned back off the crossbar.

Darius Lipsiuc went through one-on-one for Solihull near the end but, once again, Terry made a smart save".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Welsh Premier League : JAMES JONES (right) played his full part in a clean sheet for Connah's Quay Nomads, but the goalless draw at Penybont leaves JOHN DISNEY'S team 12 points adrift of leaders TNS, who have won their last 4 matches by an aggregate score of 10-0. However Penybont sit 3rd, 10 points behind Nomads, who look a decent bet to earn a spot in next season's Europa Conference qualifiers.

League One : CARL PIERGIANNI seems to be a little out of favour at Stevenage, having started his second successive game on the bench at home to Huddersfield Town. If that's the case, he did his cause no harm this afternoon, coming on in the 77th minute, and scoring the game's only goal 8 minutes later.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA played the full game for Wycombe Wanderers at Reading, where they recovered from being 2-0 down at the break to draw level in the 72nd.

However, their elation lasted a mere 2 minutes as Jack Marriott completed his hat trick for the Royals, who held on to win 3-2.

Astonishingly the losers had more than 3 times the number of goal attempts - and in fact their 10 efforts on target was 3 more than Reading mustered in total!

ALI SMITH played the full game for AFC Wimbledon as they drew 3-3 at Barnsley.

OWEN DALE played the whole of Plymouth Argyle's 0-4 win at Blackpool, although he did pick up a yellow card.

League Two : JAKE BICKERSTAFF came on after the break for Cheltenham Town, who forced a goalless draw at Barnet.

ELLIOT NEWBY (left) played 89 minutes as Barrow pulled a little further away from the relegation spots, beating visitors Colchester United by the only goal.

One of the sides to drop below them were Bristol Rovers, who lost 3-1 at Cambridge United. JOEL SENIOR came on after 65 minutes, and they already trailed by then.

JAMES BERRY was left on the bench by Chesterfield, who were reduced to 10 men just before the hour. Struggling visitors Harrogate Town took advantage, and forced a 1-1 draw.

It was also 1-1 at Boundary Park, where none of the 3 potential Old Boys played any part in the game. REAGAN OGLE wasn't in the Latics squad, and HARRISON HOLGATE wasn't in the Fleetwood Town lineup - and although TOBY MULLARKEY was on their bench, he never joined the action.

Another side to pull further away from the bottom was Shrewsbury Town, who ripped up the form book to see off visitors Swindon Town 3-1. KEVIN BERKOE picked up a yellow card, but was credited with the assist for the Shropshire club's second goal, before being substituted after 83 minutes.

National League : While the Robins had a frustrating afternoon with another very late postponement, they could at least take some comfort from only one of the clubs below them winning. That was Brackley Town, who won 1-2 at bottom club Gateshead, for whom KEATON WARDKian played throughout.

Morecambe left JOE NUTTALL on the bench as they crashed 5-1 at Southend United, while both sides finished with 10 men at Tamworth, where visitors Aldershot drew 1-1 with a 92nd minute equaliser.

KENNEDY DIGIE (right) put in a full shift for the Lambs, but Shots left MATT PENNEY on the bench.

It was a veritable goalfest at Scunthorpe United, were visitors Boston United stunned their hosts by racing into a 3-goal lead by the 23rd minute - CONNOR TEALE claimed the assist for their opener. The Iron scored 3 times after that, but Boston kept that 3-goal by scoring next every time, eventually winning 3-6. ROSS BARROWS was left on the Scunthorpe bench.

JEFF KING played throughout York City's 0-3 win at Wealdstone, but ALEX NEWBY wasn't in their squad.

KYLE FERGUSON was suspended as his former club, Rochdale, drew 1-1 at Yeovil Town. MATT GOULD was, as usual, on the Glovers' bench.

Carlisle United were still without REGAN LINNEY, while CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was an unused substitute, but they were 3 goals up inside half an hour at Forest Green Rovers and went on to win 1-3.

National North : It was more or less all over after 34 minutes at Mill Farm, AFC Fylde having scored all 3 goals in the game against visitors Alfreton Town by that point.

CHRIS MERRIE started for the Coasters, and was replaced by GEORGE WILSON after 77 minutes. Meanwhile, the injured LIAM BROCKBANK was a guest analyst on Coasters Live radio.

With leaders South Shields out of action, the win puts CRAIG MAHON'S side within a point of them. LEWIS SALMON and HARRY PERRITT started for Alfreton, but Lewis was withdrawn at half time, and Harry after 67 minutes.

Chester's prospects were undoubtedly helped when their former striker, Kurt Willoughby was dismissed for an off the ball incident after only 2 minutes, which severely handicapped visitors Buxton, who were captained by CONNOR KIRBY.

TOM PEERS and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY started for the Seals. Unfortunately Tom had to come off after only 19 minutes, but although Dylan was booked it was he who eventually struck the game's only goal after 86 minutes.

Captained by JORDAN HULME (left), Radcliffe had BRAD JACKSON on the bench as a single goal was enough to give manager Bernard Morley a winning start to his solo career at Chorley.

Brad replaced Jordan after 75 minutes. The Magpies left OWEN GERMAN on their bench, which isn't the ideal way to develop his career on loan.

LUKE BURGESS wasn't in Southport's squad, while JUSTIN DONAWA only made the bench for visitors Hereford, but joined the action after 56 minutes, by which time Southport led 4-0, and finally won 5-1.

Worksop Town skipper LUKE WATERFALL was booked in the first half as visitors Oxford City won 1-2. The Tigers left SAM WEDGBURY on the bench.

National South : Maidenhead United introduced MILES WELCH-HAYES from the bench after 58 minutes at Torquay United after both goals in the 1-1 draw had been scored. CALLUM DOLAN wasn't in the Gulls squad.

Southern League Central : Quorn went down to 10 men after 81 minutes at home to Bishops Stortford, but ZAK GOODSON scored the only goal of the game 7 minutes later.

YUSIFU CEESAY scored Spalding United's second goal in a 3-0 home win over Alvechurch. Former Alty trialist TOM PUGH has joined the Tulips on loan from Halifax, and was on their bench.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR (right) hadn't been in a Morton squad since appearing as a second half substitute at Ayr United on October 18th, but made the bench for their goalless home draw with Raith Rovers, albeit he didn't join the action.

Northern Ireland Premiership : Glenavon's directors' box may have held a few familiar faces, but Linfield won 0-3, despite the continued absence of SAM ROSCOE.

NPL Premier Division : Hednesford Town could have gone top with a win at Hyde United, but the Tigers had other ideas. By the time MAX HARROP replaced skipper JACK REDSHAW in the 84th minute they'd wrapped up an unexpected 5-0 win.

Jack had scored their third goal, and DONTAI GABIDON notched the next one. WILL HALL also played the full game for them. The chastened visitors withdrew MONTEL GIBSON after 77 minutes.

Although ADAM PORTER played the full game, and HAYDEN CAMPBELL came off the bench after 80 minutes, Leek Town lost 2-1 at Lancaster City.

DEAN FURMAN handed over the armband, and left the action at Morpeth Town after 50 minutes - his Warrington Rylands team had wrapped up their 0-4 win by then.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : TOLANI OMOTOLA played 56 minutes for Boldmere St.Michael's, but, with visitors Long Eaton United a goal up, the match was abandoned after 87 minutes when the referee was injured and no replacement official was available to make up the required number.

Captain ANDY DALES left the action after 95 minutes, as Mickleover saw off visitors Basford United 3-1.

NPL Division 1 West : SAM SHERIDAN put in a full shift as captain of Atherton Collieries, but a clean sheet for TONY THOMPSON would have allowed him to shrug off a booking as visitors Bootle won 0-2 despite the absence of TOM HANNIGAN.

DAVID FITZPATRICK played throughout for Avro as they beat visitors Witton Albion 3-1. JOEL BEMBO-LETA captained Albion, who had JAMES LAWRIE (left) booked.

Nantwich Town scored twice without reply at Chasetown, with both AIDY ROXBURGH and BYRON HARRISON coming off after 76 minutes.

ELLIOTT DURRELL lasted 51 minutes for Shifnal Town, but they lost 3-2 at Stafford Rangers.

Stalybridge Celtic rescued a point in the 89th minute, visitors Clitheroe earning a 3-3 draw. KYLE BROWNHILL played his usual full stint for Celtic.

KEVIN ELLISON came on for Vauxhall Motors after 67 minutes with visitors Congleton Town 0-1 ahead, and put the ball past DAVE PARTON twice to earn his side the points. Robins loanee YASSINE TOURE played 53 minutes for Motors.

Having been booked earlier, ASTLEY MULHOLLAND was substituted by Wythenshawe Town after 88 minutes. Visitors Bury withdrew JOE PIGGOTT at the same time, as they won by the only goal.

With Lower Breck's fixture at Trafford postponed, Bury took over the top spot, although Avro are only a point behind with a game in hand.

FA Vase : BEN ELLIOTT struck twice as West Didsbury & Chorlton recovered from going behind to Winsford United after 2 minutes to win 4-1 and earn a place in the last 8. They will travel to Bristol in 2 weeks time to play Hallen of the Hellenic League Premier Division.

NPL Victoria, Australia : CONNOR HAMPSON started for Oakleigh Cannons as they kicked off the new season at home to Preston Lions. Cannons scored after just 4 minutes, but that was as good as it got. They dominated the game, but couldn't add to their tally, and Lions scored from each of the 3 goal attempts they had - two of them in the last 3 minutes of the regulation 90.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• FC Halifax Town v Gateshead
• Rochdale v Scunthorpe United
• Sutton United v Woking
• Wealdstone v Hartlepool United
• Yeovil Town v Aldershot Town

Saturday 21st February 2026

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

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Aidan Barlow put Dale ahead after going one-on-one with Yeovil goalkeeper Jed Ward in the 13th minute at Huish Park.

However, the hosts responded almost immediately when Finn Cousin-Dawson headed in Brett McGavin's free kick just two minutes later.

Rochdale... failed to make the most of Aaron Jarvis's dismissal in the 69th minute and had to settle for a single point...

Glovers' boss, Billy Rowley, told the BBC 'We went down to ten-men for the second game in a row, which has obviously infuriated me and some of the boys... We had to adapt and I'm really proud of the boys that were on the pitch'".

14 February 2026

WOKING v ALTRINCHAM POSTPONED

Woking then explained that "The Club is profoundly disappointed to be making this announcement and offers its sincerest and unreserved apologies to both our loyal supporters and those travelling from Altrincham. We fully understand the inconvenience, frustration and expense that a late postponement causes, particularly to away fans who have already arrived.

From the earliest opportunity, the Club worked tirelessly alongside the National League, match officials, and stadium staff to ensure that every possible measure was taken to allow the fixture to proceed safely. Extensive efforts were made throughout the day to prepare the playing surface and surrounding areas.

Despite these efforts, adverse conditions beyond the Club’s control ultimately made it impossible to guarantee the safety of players, staff and supporters. Following a formal pitch inspection and in consultation with the appointed match officials, the decision was made that the fixture could not go ahead.

Woking FC would like to place on record its gratitude to the ground staff and volunteers who worked diligently and professionally in extremely challenging circumstances in an attempt to make the match playable. The Club’s priority at all times has been the safety and wellbeing of everyone attending the fixture, and we firmly believe that postponement, while deeply regrettable, was the only responsible course of action.

We also extend our apologies and thanks to our opponents, Altrincham, for their understanding and cooperation throughout the process".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

With their match postponed, Altrincham have dropped to eighteenth this afternoon as a consequence of Brackley's win at Gateshead. Brackley still have two games in hand on Altrincham.

Otherwise, Aldershot Town failed to overhaul Alty as they drew at Tamworth. Aldershot also have two games in hand on the Robins.

Altrincham's next game is at home to Braintree Town who, after today's draw against Solihull Moors, will arrive at the JDS four points behind Altrincham, having played the same number of games.

• Braintree Town 0-0 Solihull Moors
• Eastleigh 2-2 Boreham Wood
• FC Halifax Town 1-0 Truro City
• Forest Green Rovers 1-3 Carlisle United (ko 5.30pm)
• Gateshead 1-2 Brackley Town
• Hartlepool United P-P Sutton United (waterlogged pitch)
• Scunthorpe United 3-6 Boston United
• Southend United 5-1 Morecambe
• Tamworth 1-1 Aldershot Town
• Wealdstone 0-3 York City
• Woking P-P Altrincham (unplayable pitch)
• Yeovil Town 1-1 Rochdale

BEFORE THE POSTPONED GAME: WOKING

Left: Neal Ardley pictured before kick-off at the JDS in October 2025.

For their part The Cards, starting with their beating Altrincham 3-1 in mid-October at the J. Davidson Stadium, have seen an uplift in form under manager Neal Ardley.

In their last fifteen ENL games Woking have won seven matches and drawn four times.

Alty may take some comfort that five of those wins have been away from home but their form at Kingfield is not bad either. Their last six home games have built a record which reads W2 D3 L1.

In Caleb Richards, Woking have a player who has started every league game. Two others have missed just one start this season; they are Aaron Drewe and Olatunji Akinola. Although Jamie Andrews has "only" started 22 league games, he has got on the pitch in all 29 league fixtures.

Goals scored by Woking in the Enterprise National League have been widely spread. Their leading scorer is Oliver Sanderson with seven goals out of their forty league strikes.

Four points ahead of Altrincham and six league places higher than the seventeenth-placed Altrincham, The Cards have three games in hand on their visitors from Cheshire.

WOKING LOSE PLAYER ON EVE OF GAME

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'First and foremost, we didn’t want Josh to leave.... Josh is a player we valued highly, and we worked hard to try to keep him at Woking. Recruiting him from a couple of divisions lower, I very much believed in his potential...

'We’d opened negotiations to extend Josh’s contract a couple months ago, long before this approach, but Josh made it very clear he wasn’t ready to extend his contract, due to a lack of playing time...

'When a player reaches that position, particularly with his contract entering its final months, the club has to face reality.

The agreement also includes a significant sell-on clause'".

THE ALTRINCHAM FC BOARD

The current Board comprises:

• Mark Luby (Executive Chairman) (re-appointed to Board 23 July 2025, having previously served on the Board from November 2022 to January 2025)
• John Coyne (appointed to Board 24/1/20, pictured right)
• Sam Mackenzie (Chief Executive Officer) (appointed to Board as a director 15/5/21)
• Albert Valdes (appointed to Board 1/1/23))
• Gary Corbett (appointed to Board July 2025)

There have been many changes to the Board over the past eighteen months or so.

In summary, Companies House reported in June 2025 that there had been seven Board resignations in the previous year. The resignation of Bill Waterson on 12 August 2025 brought the total to eight departures in 14 months and Sam Mackenzie's departure will bring that total to nine in two years.

• 23 July 2025 Re-appointment of Mark Luby to the Board, having previously served as a director from November 2022 to January 2025
• 23 July 2025: Re-appointment of Gary John Corbett as a director
• 4 Jun 2025: Termination of appointment of Lawrence Looney as a director on 15 May 2025
• 26 May 2025: Termination of appointment of Scott Anthony Burton as a director on 15 May 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Mark Peter Luby as a director on 21 January 2025
• 27 Jan 2025: Termination of appointment of Neil Peter Faulkner as a director on 13 January 2025
• 27 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Robert Christian Esteva as a director on 19 June 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Andrew Mark Chapman as a director on 24 May 2024
• 01 Jun 2024: Termination of appointment of Christopher James Parry as a director on 24 May 2024

DAYTIME ALTY

Four of the six remaining home fixtures are 3pm Saturday kick-offs (v. Braintree Town, Truro City, Southend United, Eastleigh), a fifth is at 3pm on Easter Monday (v. FC Halifax Town) and the final match of the season is a lunchtime kick-off at 12.30pm (v. Gateshead).

Above: The J. Davidson Stadium in daylight, viewed from the Popular Side.

It is a different story away from home where there will be three evening matches in the eight remaining fixtures, two being 7.45pm kick-offs (Tamworth and Boston United); and one being at 5.30pm for the convenience of DAZN (Scunthorpe United).

PLAY-OFF DATES

However, next season's start and end-dates for the National League's 2026-27 season will be of relevance to Altrincham, hopefully with the club remaining in the top-flight rather than in the North division.

Play-Offs Schedule 2026

• Eliminator A (5th v 6th) – Tuesday 28 April
• Eliminator B – (4th v 7th) – Wednesday 29 April
• Semi-Final (2nd v Eliminator A Winner) – Sunday 3 May
• Semi-Final (3rd v Eliminator B Winner) – Sunday 3 May
• Promotion Final – Sunday 10 May (Wembley Stadium)

The National League states that "Final details including kick-off times for all play-off matches will be confirmed in due course".

Meanwhile, "The 2026/27 Enterprise National League season will start on Saturday 8 August 2026 with the final matchday of the regular season taking place on Saturday 24 April 2027".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Premier League 2 : CALEB ANSEN was again on the bench as Norwich City U21 drew 1-1 with visitors Southampton U21.

Welsh Premier League Relegation Group : JOEL TORRANCE (right) is being forced to earn his money the hard way, as Bala Town show little sign of pulling away from the second relegation spot. Tonight's 3-0 defeat at group leaders Haverfordwest County was their 7th defeat in the last 10 games, and they produced only 1 attempt on goal - it was at least on target.

County mustered 18 shots, two thirds of them on target, so Joel did well to keep the tally down to 3.

NWCL Premier Division : Abbey Hey, having been 2 goals up at City of Liverpool, were pegged back in the 84th minute before scoring a stoppage time winner. DANNY HEFFERNAN was one of their substitutes.

In other "old boy" news, FC Halifax Town report that "midfielder TOM PUGH has joined Southern League Premier Division Central side Spalding United on loan for a month". He joins YUSIFU CEESSAY at the Lincolnshire club.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The midfielder has penned a deal that keeps him at the Crown Oil Arena until the summer of 2027.

On his new contract, Gilmour commented 'I think everyone in the club knew my decision, it was very easy. I love it here, I thought it was a no-brainer'...

Gilmour joined Dale in May 2023 on a two-year deal, which was extended by a year the following summer.

He was named our Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season in the 2023/24 campaign and has won the last five Dale Trust Player of the Month awards.

The 27-year-old has appeared 119 times for the club since joining".

Southend United announce that "4 days, 12 weeks, 14 matches – that’s how much time has passed since our last Saturday afternoon league matchday at Roots Hall.

It’s been a long time coming, but we’re back with the visit of Morecambe on Saturday, February 14.

Spending Valentine’s Day at Roots Hall is the perfect setting to rekindle your love affair with matchdays; from the heartwarming pre-match pie and beer to the atmospheric chorus of over 8,000 Shrimpers.

Tickets are available to purchase via our website, and at £46 for two adults, it’s cheaper than theatre tickets or a spa break".

Sutton United have elaborated on Friday's postponement of their match at Hartlepool which was to be played today (Saturday)

"Sutton United Football Club can confirm that tomorrow’s trip to Hartlepool United has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

After the constant downpour in the North-East over the last few days, the government have issued flood alerts which cover areas in County Durham, Northumberland and Sunderland as the wet weather continues to hit the region.

In addition, a yellow weather warning of snow and ice was issued by the Met Office for vast swathes of the North East, with outbreaks of rain, sleet and snow likely to lead to icy surfaces.

As a result, following a pitch inspection which took place this morning [Friday], the playing surface at the Prestige Group Stadium has been deemed unplayable".

Boreham Wood "announce the signing of exciting Irish winger Leon Ayinde, who joins the Wood on loan from Championship side Ipswich Town until the end of the season...

Born in Cork... Leon’s performances in Ireland earned him a move to Ipswich Town in January 2023, where he has since featured regularly for the club’s development sides. Ayinde is an international at youth level, representing the Republic of Ireland...

Ayinde has already tasted senior football at National League level, spending a season-long loan with current league leaders Rochdale during the 2024/25 season, featuring 28 times for the Dale...

A quick, direct and hardworking player, the 21-year-old adds further attacking options to the Wood squad".

Cumbria's News & Star reports that "Rochdale’s managing director has described away facilities at Carlisle United’s Brunton Park as 'awful'.

Andy Duff made the comment at a fans’ forum... Duff suggested the decision to limit United’s allocation [for the return fixture] to 1,378 was in part because of how Dale felt they were 'treated' for their visit to Brunton Park last September.

The Rochdale MD replied... 'Firstly, as a group we were all really disappointed with the way we were treated when we went to Carlisle...

'In terms of statistics, we have to give 15 per cent of the ground capacity to away fans – that’s the minimum we have to give, it’s a league requirement,' added Duff...

'When that Willbutts Lane Stand is full of 3,000 [away] fans…it gives away some of our home advantage, and it’s a much more intimidating environment for the match when we are trying to get promoted...

'It was [our] decision to give them the minimum 15 per cent required, that we needed to, for footballing reasons to give us the best chance of winning that match...

Carlisle, early this season, decided to move away fans from the East Stand to the Waterworks End... The Waterworks End terrace had previously been seldom used".

13 February 2026

SAM MOVING ON

Sam’s association with the club spans more than four years and has been a period of significant progress, particularly off the pitch.

She joined in September 2020 in a voluntary capacity as Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships, before being appointed to the Board of Directors in May 2021. Sam stepped into the interim CEO role in December 2023 and was confirmed as permanent Chief Executive in June 2024, becoming the club’s first female CEO.

During her time at the club, Sam was instrumental in driving commercial growth and strengthening Altrincham FC’s partnerships portfolio, contributing to sustained year on year growth in revenue and building long term relationships that will continue to benefit the club.

Right: Sam is pictured, far right, at the Fans' Forum on 29 January alongside chairman Mark Luby.

She also played a central role in the development and delivery of a number of important initiatives across the club, including the Warm Space initiative, which provided vital support to the local community, the launch and continued growth of the AFC Business Club, and strengthened partnerships with Altrincham BID. Alongside these, she supported a wide range of operational and welfare initiatives, working closely with players, staff and families to strengthen the environment off the pitch. These initiatives will remain a core part of the club’s ongoing strategy".

Chairman Mark Luby stated that "“Sam has made an enormous contribution to Altrincham Football Club during her time here. Her commitment, professionalism and commercial leadership have helped move the club forward at a crucial stage in its development" with Director John Coyne adding “Sam’s impact has been significant, particularly in strengthening our commercial foundations and building relationships that will benefit Altrincham FC for years to come. She has been a valued colleague and friend".

Sam herself said that “I have loved my time at Altrincham Football Club and feel incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. It has been a privilege to work with such passionate people who care so deeply about this club and its place in the community.

“I will miss the place enormously. What makes Alty special is not just what happens on the pitch, but the people behind the scenes. Our volunteers are a vital cog in the Alty engine. Their dedication, energy and loyalty are the heartbeat of this football club, and I want to say a huge thank you to every single one of them".

The statement closes by confirming that "The club will now begin the process of identifying the right calibre of talent to take on the day to day leadership of Altrincham Football Club".

CHARLIE'S LONG WAIT

To date, Charlie, who is on loan from Oldham Athletic, is the only new face yet to get on the pitch, despite being named in three matchday squads so far.

Of course when he does appear it will actually be his third debut for the club.

Charlie previously made 25 Altrincham appearances in 2024/25, with twenty of those games being in the National League. Every one of his appearances under Phil Parkinson was as a match starter.

Charlie's first coming was announced just three days after playing as captain against Altrincham for Blackburn Rovers U-21 in the National League Cup in October 2024. On 11 October 2024 Alty confirmed that Charlie was joining Altrincham on a loan until the end of November.

He made his Alty debut as left-sided centre-back against Solihull Moors in the FA Cup on 12 October 2024.

After playing in the replay at Solihull, in which he scored his only goal for the club that season, he also played against Gateshead in the Vanarama National League before injury curtailed his stay.

However, on 5 December 2024 it was announced that he had returned to the JDS on a further month's loan. On 6 January 2005 it was confirmed that his loan would continue for the remainder of the season. At the end of the campaign Charlie was named the club's Young Player of the Season.

For season 2025/26 Charlie went on loan at Oldham Athletic in League Two but his opportunities were restricted to three cup games for the Latics before his recall by Blackburn and subsequent decision to join Altrincham.

NEXT: WOKING

All is explained as Woking "announce the signing of Louis Flower on loan from Sky Bet League Two side Crawley Town, until the end of the season.

Right: Manager Neal Ardley lost in thought before Woking beat Alty last October.

Flower, 21, joined the Chelsea academy from a young age, before then going on to join the Brighton youth setup. In January 2025, Flower joined fellow National League side Gateshead on loan for the remainder of the season.

Later that summer, he joined League Two club Crawley Town on a one-year deal...

Director of Football, Jody Brown, had this to say, 'Louis was on one of our lists following some communication with Crawley a while back.”

'With Ash Boatswain returning to Ipswich and some of the approaches we’ve received for our players recently, it was important to identify a versatile forward and be ready to add.

'Louis is mobile, tenacious, uses his body pretty well, he’s quick and carries the ball, but can also play up against central defenders on the last line too.

'He looks a clean striker of the ball, and has 3 goals and an assist in just 5 starts (12 appearances) for Crawley in League Two.

'He’s a positive addition that can play centrally or wide'".

Footnote: Flower scored on his debut in midweek against Truro City.

WEALDSTONE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

"WASTEFUL WEALDSTONE"

"Wasteful Wealdstone only have themselves to blame after slipping to a 1-0 Enterprise National League defeat at strugglers Altrincham - bringing to an end a run of just one win in the last 10 league games for the hosts.

Jimmy Knowles's scuffed effort on 35 minutes proved the difference between the sides, but Stones will look back on a long list of final-third entries and largely off-target goal attempts.

And, outside of their control, time seemed to stand still right near the end of an additional eight minutes, with everyone inside a rainy J. Davidson Stadium waiting for referee Callum Jones to point to the penalty spot for a push on the marauding Connor McAvoy. But instead, he awarded the scant consolation of a corner...

Tonight especially, there was plenty of good passing interchanges but little in the way of meaningful end-product...

The Stones could lay claim to all of the game's good chances up to the half-hour mark... But it was Alty who took the lead in the 35th minute when forward Knowles had sufficient room to stroke home from eight yards...

It took Gibson's side until the 79th minute to register a post-interval on-target effort; this one a blistering 30-yarder from Kosylo which stung the palms of Baptiste".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Gaz has been an outstanding player and captain at St James Park for many seasons and is approaching a club record number of appearances. He has previously stood in and seen the team through an interim period after a manager left and I am delighted that he agreed to do so again on this occasion. Gaz will do a great job and has the backing of everyone at the club.

Gavin’s departure was a shock and the club did not want him to leave. Gavin was good for Brackley Town and we can look back on a very successful period of time under his leadership of the first team. In that time we achieved Step 1 status for the first time, great success in the FA Cup and many memorable moments...

While we are disappointed we also understand and wish Gavin only the best in his new role.

Our focus is fully on next steps for Brackley Town. The recruitment process for a new manager is underway and I look forward to keeping supporters informed of progress as soon as is possible".

Eastleigh "confirm that Luis Fernandez has completed a permanent transfer to National League South side Hampton & Richmond for an undisclosed fee.

Fernandez arrived on the south coast in the summer of 2024 before going on to make 58 appearances for the Spitfires.

Eastleigh Football Club would like to place on record our sincerest gratitude to Luis for the effort shown during his time at the Silverlake Stadium".

Gateshead "confirm the return of club legend Ben Clark as a first-team coach".

He returns "having acted as Gateshead FC Foundation's full-time Community Officer from June 2022...

As a player, the centre-back needs no introduction... arriving at the club in June 2010 and achieving legendary status across his 280 appearances..

Clark has led Gateshead as interim manager on two separate occasions...

Said Clark 'Rob [Elliot] asked me to come to the last couple of gmames... I think I can make a difference, I think I can help the group'".

Meanwhile Gateshead also report that "Will Flint has been recalled from his loan spell by Doncaster Rovers... after making 27 appearances... since joining on loan in the summer of 2025".

12 February 2026

UPDATE FROM NEIL GIBSON

The Alty boss started by saying that following the 1-0 win, his "overall emotion is relief"... especially after Saturday's defeat to Yeovil which "was such a sucker punch, losing so late on".

Against Wealdstone, Neil conceded that "We didn't start well" but "we changed shape after 20 minutes which brought us back into the game".

Nevertheless he volunteered that, in the game, Altrincham were "as bad as we have been in posssession and as good as w ehave been in terms of defensive capabilities".

He had praise for goalscorer Jimmy Knowles not just for his finishing but also his assists in recent games.

There was praise too for the "fantastic surface" which was a "credit to Harry the groundsman...a top, top effort" after all of the recent rain.

Brian then enquired about the many injuries. Regarding keeper Ethan Ross who has not played all season after his ACL injury last season, Neil stated that he is making progress but "we have not set a date for his return".

As for the four defenders (Banks, Barnes, Sass-Davies and Reed), both Reed (left) and Barnes (right) are doing a some training with "Barnes closer than most" to a return. Banks will hopefully be back "sooner than expected but he will be a while yet".

Billy Sass-Davies is "putting in hard work" and the manager is hopeful that we will see him "before the end of the season".

The loss of midfielders Khan and Humbles has cost us a "lot of energy and creativity". Khan has a "tweak of the calf whilst Humbles suffered an "impact injury on his calf" and is expected back "sooner rather than later". Breckin's injury has yet to be assessed but was picked up duirng his brief substitute appearance against Yeovil.

As for the forwards, Crankshaw had "a tight back" in the last two games that he played and "it hasn't settled well enough but he is not too far away".

THE CHALLENGE TO STAY UP

However, the Cards' midweek game at nearby Aldershot Town was postponed, as have been two recent fxtures at Woking's own ground, all due to heavy rainfall in the Surrey/Hampshire area.

Altrincham now have fourteeen remaining league fixtures of which six are at home and the other eight are on the road, six of which are at top-half clubs.

In terms of PPG (points per game) to date, Altrincham's record at home is 1.39 and away it is 0.6. If that PPG continues at the same rate till the end of the season Alty will accrue a further 8.34 points at home and 4.8 points on the road, giving a season's total of 13.14 points on top of their current 34 points. That equates to 47.14 points. That total would have seen a club with such a points' haul relegated in each of the three seasons since 2021/22.

Four of Altrincham's six remaining home games are against bottom ten clubs with three of those fixtures being against bottom four teams, so home form looks to be key to Altrincham's survival.

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 WEALDSTONE

Wealdstone had much the better of the forward momentum in the first half hour before Altrincham took a 35th minute lead. It had been Altrincham who had repeatedly given the ball away before Wealdstone reciprocated to concede a corner to Altrincham.

Following the corner, taken short, Howe battled at the near post and the ball fell for Knowles to score from right of goal.

The goal lifted Altrincham's performance but they still had to withstand a fair amount of Stones' pressure in the second half which culminated in a plausible penalty appeal deep into added time which the referee turned down. But the Robins emerged with a precious three points and their first league clean sheet in fourteen attempts.

Match report here.

WEDNESDAY SCORES

• Aldershot Town P-P Southend United (waterlogged pitch)
• Boreham Wood 3-2 Yeovil Town
• Brackley Town 1-1 FC Halifax Town
• Rochdale 2-1 Forest Green Rovers
• Sutton United 1-1 Braintree Town
• York City 3-2 Hartlepool United

ALTY OLD BOYS

League Two : Grimsby Town had already scored the only goal of the game against visitors Accrington Stanley by the time JUSTIN AMALUZOR (right) came off the bench in the 84th minute.

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL came on for Kilmarnock after 65 minutes against visitors St.Mirren with the game balanced at 2-2. His side scored twice more before the men from Paisley reduced the arrears in added time. MARCUS DACKERS remained on the bench.

National League : KYLE FERGUSON was dismissed for two yellow cards as Yeovil Town lost 3-2 at Boreham Wood. MATT GOULD was left on the Glovers' bench.

Hartlepool United were without loanee TYRESE SINCLAIR at York City, as he wasn't allowed to play against his parent club. ALEX NEWBY gave York the lead, and they eventually shrugged off 2 equalisers to win 3-2. JEFF KING was substituted after 77 minutes, and Alex left the action 10 minutes later.

ENL FIXTURES

• Braintree Town v Solihull Moors
• Eastleigh v Boreham Wood
• FC Halifax Town v Truro City
• Forest Green Rovers v Carlisle United (ko 5.30pm)
• Gateshead v Brackley Town
• Hartlepool United P-P Sutton United (waterlogged pitch)
• Scunthorpe United v Boston United
• Southend United v Morecambe
• Tamworth v Aldershot Town
• Wealdstone v York City
• Woking v Altrincham
• Yeovil Town v Rochdale

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 17-year-old arrives from the Tigers’ academy system, where he has featured for their Under-18 and Under-21 sides.

Comfortable at both centre-back and left-back, the move provides the young defender with an opportunity to gain valuable senior experience while strengthening Pools’ defensive options".

Amd Hartlepool United have also "completed the loan signing of Charlie Caton from Accrington Stanley for the remainder of the 2025/26 season

The 22-year-old forward arrives... after agreeing personal terms and completing a medical.

A product of Shrewsbury Town’s academy, Caton made 17 senior appearances before establishing himself at Chester following a loan move in October 2022... His performances earned a move to League Two side Accrington Stanley in January 2025, where he has made 40 appearances across league and domestic cup competition, scoring four goals this season.

In total, Caton has made 139 senior appearances and scored 30 goals across his spells with Shrewsbury Town, Chester and Accrington Stanley...

Caton becomes Pools’ fifth signing of the January window and the Club’s third addition of 2026, following the arrivals of goalkeeper Nick Hayes from Southend United, former fan favourite Gavan Holohan from Crawley Town, attacker Tyrese Sinclair on loan from York City and Calvin Okike on a work experience loan from Hull City."

NW NEWS

Anthony Johnson joined Radcliffe in May 2023 as joint First Team Manager alongside Bernard Morley...

Owner Marcus McCabe & Chairman Billy Quarmby [stated] "We are also pleased to confirm that Bernard Morley will be staying on and continuing as First Team Manager. Bernard will be fully supported by Steve Halford and Luke Clark".

Further north, Barrow "announce the appointment of Dino Maamria as First-Team Head Coach...

Maamria first became a manager in October 2007, taking over a Northwich Victoria side who were rock bottom of the Conference Premier and also in administration.

15 points adrift of safety, Maamria oversaw a transformation in form as the Vics went on an eight-game unbeaten run and secured survival on the penultimate game of the season...

After leaving the club in 2008, Maamria spent the next seven years in various coaching roles including a spell as first-team coach at Stevenage and first-team coach at Preston North End before obtaining his Pro licence in 2015 whilst serving as Assistant manager to Teddy Sheringham at Stevenage.

Maamria returned to management with National League side Southport in November 2015...

After another spell at Stevenage this time as manager, Maamria joined Oldham Athletic as Head Coach in September 2019.

Maamria next joined League One side Burton Albion as assistant manager to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in January 2021... Hasselbaink left in in September 2022, with Maamria initially placed in caretaker charge before being appointed permanent manager the following day...

Maamria has spent his time away from the game learning from professionals in all walks of life. Dino has spent time with elite clubs such as PSG, RB Leipzig, Valencia and Brentford learning their methods and best practises that make them some of the top clubs in the world.

He has also spent time at Sandhurst with The Royal Military Academy, where leaders from across sport, business and the military share insights on leadership, decision making and much more".

11 February 2026

INTRODUCING DECLAN HOWE

He spoke about how, after having a couole of years out of the game, he joined Gainsborough Trinity followed by Scunthorpe United who have loeaned him to Altrincham.

Before arriving at Altrincham last week, he already knew Jake Cooper from their respective times on loan at Darlington.

The style of play at Altrincham was one of the attractions which ld to his arrival on loan.

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS

The last league game on that date was in 2009 when Altrincham lost 3-1 at Plainmoor against Torquay United in the Blue Square Premier.

Right: Tim Sills (second player from left in a yellow shirt) scores the opener from a corner from the left; the ball is in the right hand side of the net.

That game was Altrincham's first daytime visit to Plainmoor; the corresponding Saturday fixture the previousseason having been called off because of heavy rain with the visiting supporters somewhere near Bristol at the time. The game was replayed in midweek with Alty gaining a creditable 1-1 draw, through Warren Peyton's penalty.

In the 2009 clash, Torquay surprisingly had lost their game at home earlier that week to Weymouth, whereas Alty had had no game for ten days after the controversial late postponement of the game scheduled with Eastbourne Borough.

Altrincham's 4-1-4-1 formation, with Jody Banim deployed as a lone striker, was no match in the first half for a resurgent Torquay side, smarting from two recent defeats. But it took a goal owing more to poor defending by Altrincham than skill from Torquay for the Gulls to take the lead in the 19th minute.

It came from Sills's weak downward header from a corner on the left. Alty improved after the interval when Senior and Johnson signalled Alty's attacking intent, replacing midfielders Peyton and Danylyk. But hopes of a revival were undone by the referee who awarded a penalty when Coburn went down at the feet of Benyon and Sills converted from the spot (53 mins). To make it worse, Coburn was booked for the challenge, his fifth yellow of the season.

Torquay made it 3-0 in the 75th minute. Again the referee gave Torquay the benefit of the doubt when he allowed Benyon to kick the ball out of Coburn's hands as he gathered a low ball and the Gulls' man of the match rolled the ball into the empty net. Altrincham gained some consolation with the best goal of the game, a fine left-foot volley from Doughty six minutes from the end.

Altrincham : 1. Stuart COBURN; 2. Chris LANE, 4. Mark McGREGOR, 5. Greg YOUNG, 3. Matt DOUGHTY, 22. James SMITH, 7. Robbie LAWTON, 21. Shaun DENSMORE, 11. Warren PEYTON, 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 24. Jody BANIM. Subs: 8. Jordan HADFIELD, 14. Dale JOHNSON, 19. Chris SENIOR, 12. Joe O'NEILL, 10. Chris DENHAM.

NEXT: WOKING

Following Tuesday's games, The Cards 2-0 win at Truro City left them in eleventh place, four points ahead of Altrincham but from having played three fewer matches.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League Two : ELLIOT NEWBY was withdrawn by Barrow after 62 minutes at Shrewsbury Town, having been booked 5 minutes earlier. KEVIN BERKOE lasted 72 minutes for the hosts, who won 2-1 to move above the Bluebirds. The Cumbrian club are now only 3 points above the relegation places.

National League : Although KEATON WARD (right) put in a full shift for Gateshead on his return to the Jakeman's Community Stadium, Boston United scored the game's only goal after only 5 minutes. CONNOR TEALE played the full game for the hosts.

Carlisle United were again without REGAN LINNEY, who has a virus that is affecting his eyesight. Carlisle United manager MARK HUGHES can't predict when he's likely to return. CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was an unused substitute for the Cumbrians, who beat visitors Scunthorpe United 3-2. ROSS BARROWS lasted 70 minutes for the Iron.

Morecambe, without JOE NUTTALL, shared 4 goals with visitors Tamworth, who had KENNEDY DIGIE (right) booked.

National North : CHRIS MERRIE was the only Old Boy in AFC Fylde's starting XI as they walloped visitors Spennymoor Town 5-0, but he was replaced by GEORGE WILSON after 70 minutes. CRAIG MAHON'S team sit 2nd, 4 points behind leaders South Shields, and with a game in hand.

JUSTIN DONAWA (right) played for 82 minutes as Hereford went down 3-0 at AFC Telford.

OWEN GERMAN only came on for Chorley in the 80th minute, by which time the scoring in their 4-2 home win against Southport was all over. The visitors lost LUKE BURGESS to an injury in the pre match warm-up.

After they had trailed to bottom of the table visitors Leamington at the break, Macclesfield got their act together to win 3-1, with JAMES GALE scoring the last two. SAM HEATHCOTE, KACPER PASIEK and ELLIOTT OSBORNE had started for the Silkmen, but James replaced Sam at the start of the second half, while Kacper was substituted in the 90th minute. MIKEY STONE came on 2 minutes later, and still had time to put the ball in the net - but the flag was up.

NPL Premier Division : SHARIF DEANS played the whole of Prescot Cables' 3-1 defeat at Stockton Town, as did Hednesford Town's MONTEL GIBSON in their top of the table clash with visitors Hebburn Town, who came from behind to retain top spot with a 1-1 draw.

NPL Division 1 West : Witton Albion welcomed back JAMES LAWRIE (right) and captain JOEL BEMBO-LETA to join DAMOLA SOTONA for the visit of league leaders Lower Breck. Albion were behind twice, but eventually upset the form book by winning 4-3 in the 94th minute.

NWCL Premier Division : There was a clean sheet for ELLIOTT WYNNE, and JOHN JOHNSTON rounded off the scoring for Irlam as they hit 3 goals without reply at Barnoldswick Town, while BILLY HASLER-CREGG was a 67th minute substitute.

BEN ELLIOTT opened the scoring for West Didsbury & Chorlton as they won 1-2 at Padiham.

Ramsbottom United were two up at the break, and SHERIFF NJIE'S goal for visitors Cheadle Town was only a consolation.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Bentley admitted he was alarmed by some aspects of Morecambe’s play as they suffered a damaging defeat against fellow strugglers Truro City last weekend.

That enabled Truro to leapfrog the Shrimps in the table, though defeat for fifth-bottom Sutton United ensured Bentley’s squad remains six points from safety with a third of the season left.

He said '’ll say things as it is and there is a lot to work on. The first-half performance was quite alarming but we were much better in the second half and have to take the hard work, composure and urgency we showed in the second half of the Truro game into our next games...

'We have got players who can threaten and we can score some great goals, but we need to make sure we get on the end of crosses and get those tap-ins from five and six yards out. There have been some good signs in training...

'an only affect the future and the future is the next game and that is where our focus has to be. What I have told the players is they can’t feel sorry for themselves. If they do that and produce performances like they did in the first half, then we may as well pack up now and go home'".

Eastleigh "can confirm that Barney Stone has been recalled from his loan spell with Weymouth FC.

Stone joined Weymouth on loan in November before going on to make 16 appearances, whilst providing six goal contributions in that time".

Rochdale "announce the signing of Ed Francis. The midfielder joins us from League One side Exeter City on a two-and-a-half-year-deal.

Francis, who won promotion from the National League in 2023, commented... 'It feels like a long time coming, it was two years ago when we first spoke and I believe everything happens for a reason... Hopefully I can bring a bit of experience to the boys that are already flying.'

Ed’s career started at under-six level with Manchester City... He went on to sign his first professional deal in 2018...

From there, Francis had a short spell out in the Netherlands with Almere City before linking up with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the age of 19.

He worked under Rob Edwards in the Midlands which included another loan spell in Europe, this time in Switzerland.

In late 2020, the versatile man joined League Two’s Harrogate Town followed by a summer move to Notts County in the fifth tier. He was part of Luke Williams’ promotion winning side, whilst spending time with fellow National League side Gateshead, who he then joined permanently...

A move to the opposite end of the country with Exeter City was confirmed in 2024".

10 February 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Altrincham 1-0 Wealdstone
• Boston United 1-0 Gateshead
• Carlisle United 3-2 Scunthorpe United
• Morecambe 2-2 Tamworth
• Solihull Moors 2-3 Eastleigh
• Truro City 0-2 Woking

Wednesday 11th February 2026

• Aldershot Town v Southend United
• Boreham Wood v Yeovil Town
• Brackley Town v FC Halifax Town
• Rochdale v Forest Green Rovers
• Sutton United v Braintree Town
• York City v Hartlepool United

NEXT: WEALDSTONE

The reverse fixture, back in October, ended in a 1-1 draw.

Last season's game between the sides at the JDS was won by the visitors, 1-0. Just as it is this year, the 2025 match was a game played in a sequence of home games for the Robins which did not go well, with just a single point being taken from four successive home matches.

The defeat last March was actually a second home loss in four days, once again to a team struggling against relegation, and marked a sixth defeat in seven matches in the league and FA Trophy.

Right: Matty Kosylo's expression, late in the game at home to Wealdstone in 2025, underlined that it was a tense night at the JDS.

Facing a Wealdstone team which had conceded eleven times in its previous three matches, Alty barely laid a glove on the Home Counties side who were managed at the time by Neil Gibson.

The Robins were without the suspended Linney and the injured cohort of Ross, the two Joneses, Golden, Nuttall and Crankshaw but the eleven who started this match (and the used substitutes) produced a disjointed, error-strewn performance.

Having landed just one decent shot on target in the first half, a well-struck effort from Newby which went straight at the keeper, the visitors took the lead just 75 seconds after the interval. Oldham loanee Alex Reid was the scorer from a cross from the Wealdstone right.

Four corners in as many minutes for The Stones later in the half underlined the poor performance from the hosts.

It was not until the last of the eight minutes of added time, that Alty looked like scoring when Kosylo's long-range effort came down off the underside of the crossbar.

ACADEMY UPDATE

The result leaves the Robins bottom of the twelve teams in the NLFA North Division.

As for the Under-19s' team which competes in the National Football Youth League, North West Championship 1, they had an excellent result to round off January as they trounced Barnsley FC SYT NWS 6-1 on 28 January.

Left: Harley Renshaw.

The home goals came from Broderick (2), Gbolagun, Sneyd, Taafe and Denise before the Tykes netted a late consolation goal.

The squad comprised (a/z order); Savior Abanwa, Christopher Antoniades, Lewis Broderick, Theo Bunting, Harry Cain, Callum Dakin, Rafael Fereday, John Gbolagun, William Sneyd, Jimmy Taafe, Harley Renshaw. Subs: Afernee Denise, Connor Summerfield and Thomas Tattersall.

The following Wednesday, 4 February, the under-19s drew 2-2 at home to the Steven Gerrard Academy Kirkby who are bottom of the league. The Merseysiders secured a draw with a late equaliser.

Altrincham's scorers were Renshaw and Gbolagun.

The starting eleven was unchanged and comprised (a/z order); Savior Abanwa, Christopher Antoniades, Lewis Broderick, Theo Bunting, Harry Cain, Callum Dakin, Rafael Fereday, John Gbolagun, William Sneyd, Jimmy Taafe, Harley Renshaw.

The bench comprised Afernee Denise, Josh Herreaman, Connor Summerfield and Thomas Tattersall.

The results leave Altrincham under-19s sixth in the twelve-strong NW Championship 1.

WIN FOR ALTY WOMEN

Francesca Boyle scored both goals, including an injury-time winner, to make it five goals in her first three competitive matches since being promoted to the first team.

Daryll Abrahams made just one enforced change to the side that picked up an emphatic 7–3 victory against Wirral Phoenix last Sunday. Sophie Hall made her first start since suffering an ankle injury in November, replacing Brianna Morrison...

Manager Daryll Abrahams's post-match thoughts are here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

SECOND FIRE AT ALTY'S STADIUM SPONSORS

The Sale & Altrincham Messenger reports that "A spokesperson said 'At around 2.40pm on Sunday, February 8, five fire engines from across Greater Manchester and one aerial ladder platform attended a scrapyard fire at a commercial building on Craven Road, Altrincham.

'Crews wearing breathing apparatus arrived quickly and used two hose reel jets to extinguish the fire. Firefighters removed all burnt and heated products from the area and departed after roughly seven and a half hours in attendance'...

The fire is believed to have broken at J.Davidson scrap yard, where a previous fire broke out in March 2025".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Cards’ previous scheduled National League home match against Yeovil Town on Saturday, January 24, was also postponed because of a waterlogged pitch...

Buckland... explained... 'The recent weather has had such a big impact on the club over the past few weeks... Since the start of January we've recorded around 130mm of rain – which made it one of the wettest Januarys on record...

'The amount of rain that has fallen means outflow becomes a real challenge... the water table below the surface is also very high... The water has nowhere to go...

'We did verti-draining to break up the compaction of the soil and get air in there. We've also used an Air2G2 machine, which gets into the soil and breaks it up to hopefully help the water move away...

'At this stage the priority is preserving the pitch and most importantly protecting our players as well as the visiting players who come to play us'">

Morecambe "confirm that Rolando Aarons has departed the club following the expiration of his contract.

Aarons joined the Shrimps during the 2025/26 season and went on to feature 13 times throughout his time".

The BBC adds that "The 30-year-old Jamaica international joined the Shrimps on a short-term deal in September but his contract with them has now expired.

Aarons started his senior career at Newcastle United, where he spent almost a decade, before moving to Huddersfield Town in January 2021".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the loan signing of Ashqar Ahmed from Reading until the end of the season.

The 18-year-old right-back has made 18 appearances so far this season, nine of which have come in League One for the Royals. Ashqar has progressed through the academy ranks at Reading, signing his first professional contract in July 2025.

Prior to that, he made seven appearances in the Premier League U18S during the 2023/24 season.

It was in the 2024/25 campaign that the young defender made his first senior appearance for Reading, featuring in the EFL Trophy against West Ham United U21S, and then went on to play another four times in the competition

He then went on to make his EFL debut with a 15-minute substitute appearance against Stevenage in November 2024, before making a handful of further cameo appearances heading into the start of 2025.

The BBC reports that "Scunthorpe United have signed Coventry City forward Aidan Dausch on loan until the end of the season.

The forward made his first appearance for the National League side as a second-half substitute in their 1-0 win over Southend United on Saturday.

The 19-year-old had been recalled by the Sky Blues from a season-long loan at Forest Green Rovers where he scored once in 11 appearances.

Dausch joined Coventry at the age of 16 and has made two Championship appearances from the bench for the Championship club".

9 February 2096

HIGHLIGHTS OF ALTY v YEOVIL

Above: Altrincham line up before kick off against Yeovil Town. Left to right, we see Crawford, Hutchinson, Reddin, Jones, Golden, Cooper, Knowles, Kosylo, Sassi, Marriott and Kirk.

NEXT: WEALDSTONE

This season, under manager Sam Cox, Wealdstone currently lie eleventh with five points more than Altrincham and three games in hand.

ISAAC'S LANDMARK

To date, Isaac has made 132(+17) appearances since joining from Bradford (Park Avenue) "for an undisclosed fee" in a move which was announced on Christmas Eve 2021.

A former Huddersfield Town product, a club he joined as a nine year-old, he was loaned to Larne in Northern Ireland in January 2019 before joining the Bradford club on loan in 2019-20 season. He made 25 appearances for the West Yorkshire club that season before returning to Huddersfield.

Before his spell in Northern Ireland with Larne, Isaac has also had loan spells at clubs which included Brighouse Town and Warrington Town.

Following his release by Huddersfield Town in summer 2020, he returned to Yorkshire and signed for Bradford (Park Avenue) where he had made fifteen appearances in 2021-22 before signing for Phil Parkinson at Altrincham. At Bradford he also played as an attacking midfielder and was rewarded with several goals.

However he completed ninety minutes just once in the first eight league fixtures of his Alty career, only actually appearing four times in that period. But once he had regained fitness he became an ever-present starter for the final sixteen games of the 2021-22 campaign.

A pre-season injury in summer 2022 meant that Isaac missed the start of the 2022-23 season and it was league game 18 before he started a game, on 8 November 2022. However, he soon re-established himself as a key figure in the team and was rewarded with a two-year contract extension, announced at the end of March 2023.

A serious ankle injury curtailed Isaac's appearances in March 2024 and a remedial operation ended his season prematurely as well as causing him to miss the opening weeks of the 2024-25 campaign. After a brief return a further injury lay-off saw him sidelined in January 2025 before he returned to league action in March.

In 2025/26 Isaac was the only player to start all of the club's first sixteen league fixtures.

ALTY'S NEW FACES

Of the other eight, young Yassin Toure has been loaned out to Vauxhall Motors for the rest of the season.

Below is a spotter's guide to the new faces...

Above: The eight signings since December who are still at the club are, top row left to right, Yassine Toure, Otis Khan, Liam Humbles, Declan Howe; bottom row, Kian Breckin, Anthony Forde, Josh Grant and Charlie Olson.

So far, six of the seven in the first-team squad have appeared in a competitive game for Altrincham.

They are midfielders Otis Khan and Liam Humbles, who first appeared in the match at Hartlepool in January, Declan Howe and Kian Breckin who came on as substitutes last Saturday against Yeovil Town, whilst Anthony Forde and Josh Grant have made 2(+3) and 1(+2) appearances respectively, to date.

Unfortunately, both Khan and Humbles are currently sidelined by injury, having made four appearances apiece.

Despite all of these players' recent arrivals, on Saturday against Yeovil the starting eleven entirely comprised players who were in the Altrincham squad for the opening game of the season, apart from Eddy Jones who was with Alty last season but in the summer was still recovering from an ACL injury and was only re-signed after Neil Gibson came to the club.

The only signing not yet to be seen on the pitch is Charlie Olson, who has returned to the club on loan from Blackburn Rovers after a successful loan at Altrincham last season

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Donnellan opened the scoring when poking home from inside the six-yard-box on 34 minutes, before Harvey doubled the Tinners’ advantage with a back post flick in added on time at the end of the first-half.

Gwion Edwards pulled one back shortly after the restart to set up a tense second stanza... which ended with City moving within four points of safety".

8 February 2026

ALTY, VICTIMS OF "SMASH AND GRAB"

Reporter Alex Thrower also summed up the game, quite accurately, as "a contest desperately short of quality".

Glovers manager Billy Rowley (pictured, right, during the match) stated that, "It was always going to be tough. Altrincham made the game very difficult for us.

"They played differently to how we expected but, credit to our boys, they played for the badge and adapted well. Tactically, the game wasn't made for beautiful football, we had to be good at playing long and taking our chances, and we did".

Counterpart Neil Gibson opined, "We made one mistake today, right at the end of the game, which allowed Yeovil to score, and it cost us.

"This group has been around so many games like this in recent months where we've dominated and still come away without a win, through a mistake or a moment of briliance.

"Wwe just need more people to step up and be counted going forward".

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

"Hugely disappointed" was the Alty manager's opening comment. "We just find a way of losing games that we are in complete control of, with close to 60% possession".

In short, "we've gifted a goal to the opposition" whilst at the other end we had "so many final third opportunities we haven't been clever enough with".

The Alty boss said that he had "not been involved in a game for along time in which we could easily have had four penalties in the first half". Pointing out that the referee was new to this level, he believed there was "clear contact" with Tylor Golden who was booked for simulation instead of being awarded a penalty.

A second penalty should have been awarded for handball when the Yeovil man's hand was struck whilst it was above his head but all four officials said they had not seen it

The booking for simulation for Jimmy Knowles was, he agreed "the least penalty of the four".

As for Declan Howe, who made his debut from the bench, Neil revealed that "he was on our radar at Wealdstone last season". He was "quite surprised that Scunthorpe needed him to go out and get minutes".

Many of the new players, such as Charlie Olson, have not had time to train sufficiently with the squad whilst "Liam Humbles, Otis Khan and Olly Crankshaw are "unavailable currently".

On the positive side he believes that, overall, "we look sound defensively in general play".

ALTRINCHAM 0-1 YEOVIL TOWN

The only goal of what turned into a very wet afternoon arrived in the 87th minute. Altrincham had dominated after the interval but, with little time left, a Robins' clearance cannoned off another player giving Yeovil fortuitous possession and, though the Glovers'initial shot was parried by Hutchinson, substitute Works netted the loose ball in front of the bedraggled 201 away suppooters who had made the long trip from Somerset.

In a bizarre first half of three penalty incidents, Altrincham had two players (Golden and Knowles) booked for alleged simulation and when, between those incidents, they were actually awarded a spot-kick by the home crowd's bete-noire, referee Thomas, given for Mukena's foul on Reddin, Knowles failed to beat Ward from the spot.

Above: Jed Ward saves Jimmy Knowles's penalty in the first half against Yeovil.

Having signed nine new players since mid-December, and despite no fewer than another nine players being out injured, not one of the new faces was in the starting eleven, though two did eventually appear in the final quarter of the game.

Altrincham dropped to nineteenth but having played more games than teams below them, they are now within catching distance of two other clubs.

Match report here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : AFC Wimbledon won 3-2 against visitors Reading, with ALI SMITH (right) playing the full game.

CARL PIERGIANNI was left on the bench by Stevenage as they lost 3-1 at Northampton Town.

The game at Plymouth Argyle was over as a contest when they substituted OWEN DALE after 67 minutes, visitors Lincoln City winning 1-4. It was much the same story at Rotherham United, where Cardiff City, despite going down to 10 men after 21 minutes, hit 3 goals without reply. DUNCAN WATMORE only made his Millers debut as a 92nd minute substitute.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA lasted 64 minutes for Wycombe Wanderers, who comfortably defeated visitors Doncaster Rovers 4-0.

League Two : JAMES BERRY was a 71st minute substitute for Chesterfield at Bristol Rovers, with sides locked at 2-2. Just 7 minutes later he popped up with the winning goal. JOEL SENIOR only came off the bench in the 92nd minute.

JAKE BICKERSTAFF (left) scored in added time at the end of the first half to reduce the arrears against visitors MK Dons, but it was 1-3 when Cheltenham Town withdrew him after 73 minutes, and the one goal they did claw back was in vain.

KEVIN BERKOE was a 63rd minute substitute for Shrewsbury Town at Colchester United, who'd already scored the game's only 2 goal by then.

TOBY MULLARKEY picked up a yellow card as he and HARRISON HOLGATE played throughout Fleetwood Town's 1-2 home defeat by leaders Bromley.

JACK HINCHY wasn't in the squad as Notts County beat visitors Barrow, for whom ELLIOT NEWBY played the full game, 2-1. Barrow's run of only 6 points from the last 39 on offer has left them only 3 points clear of the two clubs in the relegation spots, who are Newport County and Harrogate Town.

National League : CONNOR TEALE played the full game as Boston United saw off visitors Sutton United by the only goal.

Morecambe threw on JOE NUTTALL after 73 minutes, but to not avail as visitors Truro City had already done enough to win 1-2.

Carlisle United were without REGAN LINNEY at Rochdale, where a single goal saw them defeated. CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was a 71st minute substitute for the Cumbrian team.

ROSS BARROWS lasted until the 94th minute as Scunthorpe United beat visitors Southend United by the only goal.

TYRESE SINCLAIR (right), having been booked in the first half, was withdrawn by Hartlepool United after 70 minutes at Tamworth, for whom KENNEDY DIGIE played the whole of the 1-1 draw.

JEFF KING played 81 minutes, while ALEX NEWBY came on after 20 minutes, as York City beat visitors Forest Green Rovers 2-1.

National North : Chester had TOM PEERS in their starting lineup at Bedford Town, where they came from behind to win 1-2, but he was withdrawn after 54 minutes. DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY came on after 80 minutes with the Seals still trailing, and they left it late, scoring after 87 and 95 minutes.

OWEN GERMAN made his Chorley debut at Merthyr Town, and they were 2 goals down after 25 minutes, but he played the full game as the Magpies fought back to win 2-3 in the 95th minute.

AFC Telford missed a chance to climb into the playoff spots, losing 3-1 at Worksop Town. LUKE WATERFALL captained the Tigers, and SAM WEDGBURY came on at 1-1 in the 65th minute.

Welsh Premier League (Relegation Group) : JOEL TORRANCE did his best to preserve Bala Town's half time lead (from their only shot on target in the match) against a Cardiff Metropolitan who were largely dominant, but was eventually beaten and the game ended 1-1.

NPL Premier Division : JAMES HARDY played 77 minutes at Hurst Cross as a single goal gave Ashton United the points against Warrington Town.

SHARIF DEANS lasted 83 minutes as Prescot Cables lost 2-1 at FC United, who were without RON SITHOLE.

A first half goal from ADAM PORTER was enough for Leek Town to see off visitors Gainsborough Trinity. HAYDEN CAMPBELL was an 83rd minute substitute for Town, while JONNY MARGETTS played 72 minutes for Trinity.

DONTAI GABIDON played the whole game for Hyde United at Stocksbridge Park Steels, and scored to put his side ahead. WILL HALL was booked after only 2 minutes, but also played throughout, while JACK REDSHAW (right) resumed the captaincy before being withdrawn after 77 minutes. MAX HARROP was an unused substitute, but NYAL BELL wasn't in the squad.The home side struck late to earn a 1-1 draw.

Warrington Rylands captain DEAN FURMAN played throughout their 1-1 home draw against leaders Hebburn Town. Had Hednesford Town won at home to Whitby Town they would have regained top spot, but their match ended goalless, with MONTEL GIBSON being withdrawn after 62 minutes.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : TOLANI OMOTOLA lasted 73 minutes for Boldmere St.Michaels as they won 0-2 at Lichfield City.

NPL Division 1 West : By the time Trafford, who were down to 10 men after only 7 minutes, brought SEAN HIGGINS off the bench in the 72nd minute, Bury, without JOE PIGGOTT, were 8-0 ahead, and went on to score again.

DAVID FITZPATRICK played the whole game for Avro at Clitheroe, where they won by the only goal.

By the time Congleton Town brought REMI RAYMOND off the bench after 68 minutes, keeper DAVE PARTON (left) had already been beaten 3 times. Visitors Stalybridge Celtic won 2-4, with KYLE BROWNHILL putting in a full shift.

In the big clash at the top of the league, Lower Breck beat visitors Runcorn Linnets 1-0 to regain top spot. SEAN MILLER played the full game for Linnets, and RYAN BROOKE came off the bench after 72 minutes while ELLIOTT ROKKA remained there.

Wythenshawe Town scored in the 1st minute at Mossley, and were 0-3 up by the 50th minute, but Mossley fought back to draw 3-3 with MASON FAWNS notching the 94th minute equaliser - both he and skipper MARK LEES played the whole game, as did ASTLEY MULHOLLAND, who was booked for Town.

AIDY ROXBURGH and BYRON HARRISON played the whole game for Nantwich Town who lost 2-3 to visitors Atherton Collieries. SAM SHERIDAN scored the winning goal.

Shifnal Town's pitch passed an inspection, but even the introduction of ELLIOTT DURRELL (right) after 64 minutes couldn't prevent a surprise 1-3 defeat at the hands of Sporting Khalsa. It was exactly the same story and scoreline for Witton Albion, in their case the victors being Stafford Rangers. The only Old Boy on show was former trialist DAMOLA SOTONA, who lasted 73 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : DARIUS PALMA was among the scorers as Wythenshawe won 1-4 at Burscough.

SHERIFF NJIE put Cheadle Town ahead at Glossop North End, but they lost 3-1.

The scorers of Chadderton's final 2 goals in a 3-3 draw at Padiham weren't Old Boys, but I have to point out that they were Connor HIGH and Benito LOWE!

7 February 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

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

MATCH GOING AHEAD

This follows more than three-quarters of an inch of rain in the area in the last 36 hours. Saturday morning is currently fine but rain is forecast later.

BEFORE THE GAME: YEOVIL TOWN

"Following today's [Friday's] consistent rainfall, the pitch continues to be monitored closely by our grounds team and is currently playable.

"Our grounds team will check the pitch again at 9am, and a further update will be issued soon after."

MORE ON DECLAN HOWE

Born on 28 March, 1998, Declan made his name at Gainsborough Trinity where he hit 67 goals across two seasons and, despite only figuring on the bench in 12 of his 26 Scunthorpe league appearances in 2025-26, he had netted six league goals and ten in all competitions before arriving at Moss Lane.

Declan had started his career with Scunthorpe United but was released and went on to play for Staveley Miners Welfare and Cleethorpes Town before joining Darlington in National North. A move to Alfreton Town followed during 2022-23 and he then moved on to Gainsborough Trinity in September 2023. After virtually two seasons at the Northolme, he rejoined Scunthorpe in June 2025.

He netted five times in the Iron's first ten league fixtures this season but since then has only made seven league starts (and 11 further appearances from the bench) and only scored once in those games.

ISAAC MARRIOTT INTERVIEW

ANOTHER LOAN FOR OWEN

The midfielder has already enjoyed temporary spells away from The J. Davidson Stadium this season, at Alfreton Town and Ashton United, before being involved with Neil Gibson's first team squad over the Christmas period...

In other loan news, youngster Yassine Toure has had his loan at Vauxhall Motors extended through to the end of the season.

UNDER-19 TEAM'S REPORT

An excellent report by player Charlie Hough it highlights team-mate Jay Martin's two goals in a 5-1 home win over Guiseley. Sadly, that is the side's only league win to date, after 13 games have now been completed and the team remains seven points adrift at the bottom of theire league.

However in this match "Alty were completely dominant, and [put in] a fantastic performance" which will hopefully spur an improvement in results in the latter part of the season.

The squad comprised Charlie Noble, Archie Rowlands, Henry Watts, Ben McNamara, Charlie Hough, Harry St Romaine (pictured, right), Kian Mattison, Joe Weston, Harry Watson, Lewis Broderick, Issac Mannion, Noah Lavin, Josh Obamwanyi, Jay Martin and Ben Mensah.

ALTY OLD BOYS

As for Friday's action, he advises that in Premier League 2, SONNY ALJOFREE was the captain for Manchester United U21, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by visitors Derby County U21.

In the Welsh Premier League Connah's Quay Nomads, with JAMES JONES playing the full game, were held 1-1 by visitors Caernarfon. Although TNS sit 7 points clear of them with a game in hand, Nomads have opened a sizeable gap on third placed Penybont, and have an excellent chance of making it into next season's Europa League qualifiers.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Howley, 23, who began his career with Coventry, joined the Pirates last summer and has featured in League Two six times this season.

Forward Isichei, 19, who arrives from the Blues' academy, is yet to make a senior appearance at St Andrews, but has started 10 Premier League 2 games so far this campaign, scoring two goals.

The pair join Cardiff City forward Michael Reindorf as Tamworth's third loan signing of the week" as we reported here yesterday.

There is also a departure to report from Tamworth as "Harvey Sayer has left the club following a mutual termination of his contract.

Sayer joined The Lambs last summer, stepping up to National League football after an impressive campaign at Step 3. During his time at the Altair Community Stadium [Tamworth], the winger made 16 appearances, scoring three goals...

Manager Andy Peaks said 'We are sad to see Harvey leave the club, but it is the right move for him in order to get more playing time. Harvey made the step up to National League football in the summer after showing real promise at Step 3 last year. He has been unfortunate with the game day opportunities he has had, given the breadth and depth of wide players in our squad'".

Down at Eastleigh, The Spitfires "announce the signing of striker Jake Tabor on loan from Swindon Town until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old arrives on the south coast following his steady rise through the football pyramid having climbed five tiers in five years. The attacker enjoyed his best goalscoring period during his stay at Amersham Town in which he scored 107 goals in just 72 appearances.

Tabor was then picked up by Swindon Town after impressing Ian Holloway during a successful trial period... Having spent the majority of the season so far on loan at Bath City in the National League South, Tabor arrives at the Silverlake Stadium...

Jake said 'I’m delighted to join this club. I just want to get regular minutes and show what I can do during my loan spell here.

'I’ve settled in well and the other lads have helped me to do that'...

Scott Bartlett said 'Jake has been a target for some time, and I’m very grateful to the chairman and Ian Holloway for giving me the opportunity to bring him to Eastleigh. He’s a tireless runner with excellent movement and a fantastic attitude'".

6 February 2026

SIGNING NUMBER NINE FOR NEIL

The 27-year-old joined the Iron in the summer after a prolific spell with Gainsborough Trinity in which he scored over 60 goals in two seasons.

So far in 2025/26, our new number nine has scored 10 goals across 31 games in all competitions for the promotion-chasing Lincolnshire side".

However there seems to be a difference of opinion as to the length of the loan as parent club Scunthorpe United "confirm that forward Declan Howe has departed the club to join fellow Enterprise National League side Altrincham FC on loan for an initial month.

Howe joined the Iron following back-to-back record-breaking campaigns for Russ Wilcox’s Gainsborough Trinity side, in which he accumulated 67 goals in all competitions. Last campaign, Howe finished the season second in both the Northern Premier League and Emirates FA Cup goalscoring charts; he even topped the leaderboard in the Isuzu FA Trophy with his impressive return of six goals.

Since re-joining the club, where he started his career in the summer, Howe made a strong start to life in claret and blue with five goals in his opening seven league appearances. Since then, Howe has continued to help Scunthorpe in their play-off push, scoring ten goals in all competitions across 31 appearances, with the majority of which coming from the bench in recent months".

Footnote: Declan was an unused substitute when Scunthorpe United visited Altrincham in November last year. Declan becomes Neil Gibson and Lee Jones's ninth signing since December 2025. The previous eight arrivals are, in alphabetical order:

1. Kian Breckin
2. Anthony Forde
3. Josh Grant (on loan from Carlisle United)
4. Liam Humbles (on loan from Rochdale)
5. Otis Khan
6. Charlie Olson
7. Mikey Stone (departed for Macclesfield)
8. Yassine Toure (on loan at Vauxhall Motors)

NEXT: YEOVIL TOWN

They have only won three of their last 14 league fixtures, having lost eight times and drawn on three occasions in that sequence

Last time out, Yeovil won at Telford in the FA Trophy when several players were missing through being cup-tied or injured. And three players have left the club on loan or by transfer in recent weeks; they are Michee Efete, Jacob Maddox and Max Joliffe.

The Glovers' manager, "Billy Rowley spoke with BBC’s Jack Killah" on Yeovil Town's X account.

Left: Matt Gould and, right, Kyle Ferguson, pictured in their Altrincham days.

Asked about Altrincham, Rowley referred to our "impressive results" such as beating Boreham Wood.

He said that "Gouldy knows the team well", the Yeovil cover keeper, Matt Gould, having spent time at Moss Lane, of cpurse.

Rowley continued, saying of Altrincham. that "They've got some exciting players" and "They're in some good form". We are "definitely going there [aiming] on being hard to beat", he stated.

He also observed that his "squad [is] a lot thicker [sic] than last week... JD should be available and Macca" [Daly and McCormick?]. He also revealed that Ryan Jones and Terrell Wprks will return to the squad on Saturday after being cup-tied last week.

However, Aaron Jarvis will be missing under the rules of the concussion protocols.

As well as Matt Gould, Yeovil are also the employers of another ex-Altrincham player, central defender Kyle Ferguson.

ALTY ACADEMY FEATURE

The feature is some 22 minutes long.

ACADEMY DEFEATED

Right: Isaac Mannion.

The side is currently bottom by a margin of seven points having won just one of their twelve fixtures to date.

Alty's "Ben Mensah hit the post with a powerful header from a corner in the 10th minute, and, soon after, the young Robins went one better by taking the lead from an attack that started with Isaac Mannion beating his man with some trickery and winning a free-kick to the right side of the box.

Harry Watson stepped up and delivered a ball to Henry Watts, who flicked it on to Kian Mattison for an assured finish... with a beautiful volley into the bottom corner".

After an Alty penalty appeal had been ignored, "The home side... hit back with an equaliser in the final minute of the first half...

At half-time, Harry St Romaine was withdrawn with an injury to his knee, to be replaced by Jimmy Taafe at right-back. In the first 10 minutes, Altrincham had the majority of the possession...

On the hour, Altrincham paid the penalty for giving the ball away in midfield, as it was played down the line for the Hartlepool full-back to pick out a cross for a free man at the back post, who tapped home to put his side in front.

Harley Renshaw's introduction in the 75th minute provided some trickery on the left-hand side...

Hartlepool's striker slotted home to make it 3-1".

The Altrincham squad comprised: Theo Bunting, Jimmy Taafe, Henry Watts, Charlie Hough, Harry St Romaine, Kian Mattison, Joe Weston, Harry Watson, Harley Renshaw, Isaac Mannion, Noah Lavin, Josh Obamwanyi, Jay Martin, Ben Mensah, Ryan Knowles.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 35-year-old, who captained the Spireites to the National League title in 2024, has linked up with Paul Hurst's squad until the conclusion of the campaign.

Grimes has close to 200 appearances to his credit for Chesterfield...

He began his career at Swansea City and has featured for a variety of clubs since making his senior debut in 2009.

He is registered and eligible to make his debut against Sutton United on Saturday".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the permanent signing of Tate Campbell from Buxton for an undisclosed fee.

The defensive midfielder has made 24 appearances in all competitions this season for the Bucks.

The 23-year-old began his career in Birmingham City’s academy... before securing his first loan move to Bromley during the 2021/22 season, where he made six appearances. Campbell returned to Birmingham the following season and featured for the Blues in the Championship...

Campbell then joined Hereford for the 2024/25 campaign, where he began to make a name for himself in senior football. The midfielder made 40 appearances that season, scoring six goals and providing three assists.

After just one season with Hereford, Campbell moved to Buxton ahead of the current campaign".

Tamworth "confirm the signing of Michael Reindorf, who joins The Lambs on loan until the end of the season from League One side Cardiff City.

The 20-year-old centre-forward is a versatile attacking option, capable of operating anywhere across the frontline. Reindorf arrives at Tamworth after returning to South Wales in January, having spent the first half of the season on loan with League Two outfit Newport County, where he made 22 appearances for The Exiles...

Tamworth manager Andy Peaks expressed his excitement about the club’s latest addition:

'We’re really excited about what he brings. He’s got real energy and flair; he gives us that extra spark in the final third. He’s a player who wants to affect games, create chances, and score goals – that’s exactly the kind of threat you want up top.'

With Tamworth having struggled to find the net in their last three matches across all competitions, Peaks will be hoping Reindorf can provide a much-needed attacking boost".

5 February 2026

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

The Alty boss felt that "First half, we were dominant in possession" but "we didn't take care with the opportunities we had".

In the second half he believed that Altrincham "made the worst possible start. You cannot [be allowed to] score from 30 yards from a freekick".

A couple of knocks meant that substitutions had to be made and it "became a basketball game" and he xonceded that "We got away with one, if I'm honest".

Without the injured Khan and Humbles, "we lacked energy" and "did not move the ball at any level of pace consistently enough" stated Neil

Overall what we saw against Morecambe was "nowhere near the level of performance at Carlisle or against Boreham Wood or Forest Green".

Neil reminded us that from the latter part of last season onwards, Altrincham have played 46 games and only earned 44 points, which equates to relegation form.

Asked about Olly Crankshaw, who has netted seven of the last eleven league goals, Neil said he has a little injury but "we can't be reliant on one player" to score goals.

Overall, the Alty boss was upset that the players had "not brought the intensity from training to the pitch" when playing Morecambe.

ALTY TV HIGHLIGHTS

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW

• £500 cash | 10 Steve Foster
• £75 cash | 433 Helen Hickman
• Hospitality for Two | 246 Josie Fuller
• £25 cash | 127 Jane Ford
• Bottle of Alty Gin | 296 P Prole
• Scarf & Pin Badge | 42 Nigel Hennerley

ALTY OLD BOYS

JOE HUGILL came on after 63 minutes at 2-0, but MARCUS DACKERS could only watch from the bench as Killie sank to a 5-1 defeat.

In other news, SCOTT PHELAN (right) has been appointed the interim manager of Everton Ladies.

SATURDAY FIXTURES

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

4 February 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-1 MORECAMBE

Right: Tom Crawford's anxious expression during the match against Morecambe reflects the evening's mood.

For this match, with midfielders Khan and Humbles missing through injury, Neil Gibson made two further changes as Cooper and Jones droppped to the bench. Into the eleven came Grant, Forde, Goldem and Reddin.

After a goalless first half in which Alty had more of the forward momentum, the visitors took a 48th minute lead. A foul by centre-back Grant gave Morecambe a freekick 25 yards out which Nolan hit superbly into the top corner to Hutchinson's left, the ball going in to the net off the inside of the upright.

Alty responded eight minutes later when Crankshaw received Knowles's pass before making space and scoring off the inside of the post.

Although the hosts enjoyed plenty of the ball, too often their moves were ponderous and lacking in bite.

Match report here.

SIGNING NUMBER EIGHT FOR NEIL

They are, in alphabetical order:

1. Kian Breckin
2. Anthony Forde
3. Josh Grant (on loan from Carlisle United)
4. Liam Humbles (on loan from Rochdale)
5. Otis Khan
6. Charlie Olson
7. Mikey Stone (departed for Macclesfield)
8. Yassine Toure (on loan at Vauxhall Motors)

Players who have left the club in that period are:

1. James Gale (to Macclesfield FC)
2. Jack Hinchy (loan ended)
3. Elliot Osborne (to Macclesfield FC)
4. Mikey Stone (to Macclesfield FC)
5. Keaton Ward (to Gateshead)
6. Billy Waters (loan ended)

MIDWEEK RESULTS

• Altrincham 1-1 Morecambe
• Forest Green Rovers 4-2 Woking
• Rochdale 4-1 Boreham Wood

NEXT: YEOVIL TOWN

Right: In the corresponding match last season, we see Altrincham celebrating their winning goal against Yeovil Town, scored by Lewis Baines.

However, when the Glovers visited the J. Davidson Stadium towards the end of last season it was Altrincham who won 2-1, thanks to a late goal from Lewis Baines.

The result constituted Altrincham's first win in eight league games and a first home win in six outings in the National League.

But this was a match of low quality on a difficult bobbly surface. Altrincham took the lead on the half-hour when Tylor Golden nipped in to divert a curling shot from Crawford into the net after a Regan Linney effort had been blocked at the near post.

Just two minutes later, Yeovil were level when a defensive error allowed Terry to poke the ball past an exposed Caleb Ansen.

With the second half also largely devoid of quality, Alty applied some sustained late pressure and it paid off when Lewis Baines fired home after an Osborne corner had come back out to him in the 89th minute.

ALTRINCHAM : 21. Caleb ANSEN (gk), 2. Lewis BANKS, 31. Charlie OLSON, 4. Lewis BAINES (c), 23. Tylor GOLDEN, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 22. Tom CRAWFORD, 14. Matty KOSYLO, 77. Callum DOLAN, 11. Justin AMALUZOR, 9. Regan LINNEY. Subs: 8. Isaac MARRIOTT, 10. Alex NEWBY, 17. Lucas WEAVER, 20. Kahrel REDDIN, 30. Harvey RANDLE (gk), 33. Brandon POWELL, 42. Matt PENNEY. .

YEOVIL TOWN : 1. Aidan Stone, 3. Alex Whittle (c), 40. Frankie Terry, 26. Kyle Ferguson, 33. Dom Bernard, 29. Otis Khan, 5. Finn Cousin-Dawson, 16, Sonny Lo-Everton, 24. Charlie Cooper, 35. Ciaran McGuckin, 19. Josh Sims. Subs: 22. Matt Gould (gk), 6. Jacob Wannell, 27. Harvey Greenslade, 8. Harry Kite, 37. Ryan McLean, 28. Marcel Lavinier, 23. Michael Smith

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : ALI SMITH was credited with the assist for the only goal, as AFC Wimbledon won at Port Vale.

League Two : Bristol Rovers had already wrapped up their 2-0 home victory over Walsall by the time they brought JOEL SENIOR off the bench.

National North : CHRIS MERRIE started for AFC FYLDE against Peterborough Sports. GEORGE WILSON (right) was a 75th minute substitute, by which time the Coasters led 5-1. Sports did manage to add a late consolation. LIAM BROCKBANK, returning from injury, was an unused substitute for the home side.

Macclesfield strolled to a 5-1 home win against Kidderminster Harriers, who brought ASHLEY HEMMINGS off the bench at the start of the second half. SAM HEATHCOTE, KACPER PASIEK and ELLIOTT OSBORNE started for the Silkmen, JAMES GALE was an 87th minute substitute, while Kacper was substituted after 90 minutes. MIKEY STONE remained on the bench.

JORDAN HULME captained Radcliffe, as one goal was enough to dispatch visitors Oxford City. He was substituted after 65 minutes, while BRAD JACKSON was an unused substitute.

National South : Torquay United will be without CALLUM DOLAN for the rest of the season after he picked up an injury two weeks ago.

NPL Premier Division : JAMES HARDY played 70 minutes for Ashton United, but visitors Gainsborough Trinity had already scored all three goals in the match by then, with JONNY MARGETTS claiming two of them.

DONTAI GABIDON has made a short journey from Stalybridge, and both he and JACK REDSHAW came on for Hyde United at the same time as MAX HARROP (right) came off. Hyde led at that stage, but hosts Lancaster City eventually forced a 1-1 draw.

DEAN FURMAN captained Warrington Rylands to a 3-0 home win over Rushall Olympic.

NPL Division 1 West : Despite the best efforts of DAVE PARTON, and a goal in the opening minute, Congleton Town had to wait until the 91st minute to add to their tally at Mossley - by which time the hosts had scored three times. REMI RAYMOND was a 77th minute substitute for the Bears. For Mossley, skipper MARK LEES (right) scored the goal that put them ahead, and MASON FAWNS played the whole game.

SEAN MILLER played throughout Runcorn Linnets' 1-0 win over Chasetown, while ELLIOT ROKKA was substituted after 77 minutes, with RYAN BROOKE (right) coming off the bench 3 minutes later.

NWCL Premier Division : DANNY HEFFERNAN wasn't in Abbey Hey's squad at Irlam. The home team's player coach JOHN JOHNSTON was among the scorers in their 3-2 win.

Cheshire Senior Cup Quarter Final : Both YASSINE TOURE and KEVIN ELLISON, who scored their third goal, played the whole of Vauxhall Motors 2-4 victory at Sandbach United.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The centre-back returns to Tyneside on temporary terms until the end of the 2025/26 season, linking up witn Rob Elliot and Louis Storey for the third time after joining the pair at Crawley in January 2025...

Radciffe made 24 appearances during his first spell at Gateshead... in addition to being named the club's Player of the Month in September 2024".

3 February 2026

ALTY SIGN MIDIELDER

The 22-year old, who has signed in time for tonight's big Enterprise National League clash with Morecambe at The J.Davidson Stadium, comes from a notable sporting background.

His dad Ian clocked up around 700 appearances for Rotherham United, Chesterfield, Wigan Athletic and Nottingham Forest, great uncle John played for and managed Rotherham and mum Leanne is a former international gymnast".

Kian joined "City's Academy as an 11-year old in 2015... Such was the family's commitment to helping Kian flourish at City, they moved from Rotherham to Sale...

A loan spell with League One Wycombe Wanderers in July 2023 and another with Crewe Alexandra the following year that lasted just over five months and included 18 appearances, 13 of them in the League, further aided his development...

Said Neil Gibson, "He is someone we have been tracking for three or four weeks now, and he has a fantastic pedigree...

"He is a local lad who lives in the area, and it's good that he has connections with where we are based as well as having gained senior first-team experience on loan at Wycombe and Crewe.

"There were a number of clubs chasing his signature, but we were a bit more advanced with it because Lee Jones knows the family and has worked with Kian's dad. So, we were ahead of the game with this one, which helped a lot".

Footnote: The Breckin family has an association with Alty which goes back to the 1970s. All is explained by Barry Pikesley who reminds us that "The Millers’ [Rotherham United] team which confronted the Robins in 1979 contained four survivors from that previous FA Cup meeting between the two clubs three years earlier, namely: defenders John Breckin and Paul Stancliffe; midfielder Mark Rhodes and winger Richard Finney". John Breckin was Kian's great uncle.

NEXT: MORECAMBE

Altrincham go into the game with new signing, centre-back Charlie Olson (right), added to their squad.

Media officer Brian Flynn conducted a brief interview with Olson for Alty TV.

Right: Charlie Olson pictured on his debut for Altrincham against Soilhull Moors.

ENL FIXTURES

• Altrincham v Morecambe
• Forest Green Rovers v Woking
• Rochdale v Boreham Wood

ALTY OLD BOYS

Premier League 2 : DERMOT MEE (left) conceded the first shot he faced to leave Manchester United U21 chasing the game at West Bromwich Albion U21 after only 4 minutes.

And chase it they certainly did! PADDY LACEY'S kid brother Shea had notched a hat trick by the time the second half was ten minutes old, and with SONNY ALJOFREE putting in a full shift they eventually won 1-5.

On transfer deadline day came news from Rotherham United of "the signing of DUNCAN WATMORE on a permanent deal until the end of the 2025/26 season...

Boss Matt Hamshaw has made no secret of his admiration of the 31-year-old's talents and has remained patient to finally conclude a deal to secure his services on Deadline Day.

The forward, who has been a Millers target for a number of weeks, can call upon a wealth of top flight and second tier experience after spells with Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Millwall over the course of a storied past decade.

It was humble beginnings for Duncan following his release from Manchester United aged 12. At 16, he signed for the youth side of National League North outfit Altrincham, where he eventually broke through into the senior team just a year later.

Two loans in early 2012 at Clitheroe and Curzon Ashton preceded a move to the top flight in May 2013...

After just shy of 90 appearances for the Black Cats, Duncan switched the red of Sunderland for that of Middlesbrough in 2020...

This permanent January switch represents the second of Watmore’s career, after he joined Millwall in January 2023 for an undisclosed fee from Boro. A composed and clever forward, Watmore was likened to Gareth Bale by former Sunderland teammate Jermaine Defoe, citing his exceptional ability to control the ball as reason for a comparison between their talents".

Meanwhile, Shrewsbury Town "have completed the signing of KEVIN BERKOE (left) on deadline day, with the defender joining the club from Salford for an undisclosed fee.

The former Chelsea and Wolves wing-back arrives at the Croud Meadow after spending four years at The Peninsula Stadium.

Kevin, who can play on both the left and right, becomes the first signing of the Gavin Cowan era...

Gavin said 'We've come in [from Brackley Town] at a really late stage, but we looked at the squad and felt we had to balance it out... 'Kev has joined us to offer some versatility on both sides.'"

ISUZU FA TROPHY DRAW

• Wealdstone v Woking
• Southend United v Southport
• Horsham v Yeovil Town
• Kidderminster Harriers v Marine

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 21-year-old, who has made 15 appearances so far in amber and black, will now spend the remainder of the campaign as a Pilgrim.

He arrived at the Jakemans Community Stadium in November – following loan spells with Stevenage and Colchester United last season.

Aboh has one goal to his credit so far".

At FC Halifax Town "midfielder Josh Hmami has handed in a transfer request amid interest from a number of EFL clubs.

Hmami was named the National League player of the month for December".

He was again excluded from the Shaymen's squad last weekend when they lost in the FA Trophy at home to Kidderminster Harriers and is believed to have played his last game for the club.

Wealdstone report that "Sean Adarkwa SEAN ADARKWA was delighted to be back on the scoresheet - and even more delighted to be able to come onto the pitch with his teammates having all but wrapped up an outstanding Isuzu FA Trophy win at Forest Green Rovers.

The big striker rounded off the goalscoring in Gloucestershire, with a cruel injury lay-off meaning it was his first goal since an early September double over Southend United...

'The lads who started set the foundation for all us subs who came on. It was about us following their lead and bringing that last bit of energy to help get us over the line' [he said].

'Let's be honest; it could have been more than 3-0 because I thought we were by far the better side... I've had to battle against a few injuries for quite a while,' admitted the 25-year-old...

He added 'I'm still doing extra strengthening work because you tend to focus on one area then another during your rehab'".

Sutton United "confirm that Dillon De Silva has returned to the club following the conclusion of his loan at Dagenham & Redbridge.

The Sri Lanka international appeared eight times during his brief stint in East London, including three starts as the Daggers sit 13th in the National League South.

He had previously spent a month on loan at Tamworth after playing nine times for Sutton during the opening couple of months of the season, starting twice in defeats to Fulham and Brackley Town, and scored his first goal of the season for the Lambs in a 3-1 defeat against Boston United".

2 February 2026

CHARLIE OLSON SIGNED

"Highly-rated centre-back Charlie (left) had no shortage of admirers... But when he assessed his options after being recalled [from a loan to Oldham Athletic in EFL2] by Blackburn a month ago, he came down in favour of relaunching his career as a fully-fledged Alty player...

"At the end of season awards for the 2024-25 campaign, he was voted Alty's young player of the year".

Background: This is Charlie's third spell with the Rbins. The first occasion was implemented just three days after Charlie had against Altrincham for Blackburn Rovers U-21 in the National League Cup. That was on 11 October 2024 when the club announced that Charlie was joining Altrincham on a loan until the end of November.

A centre-back, Charlie was the captain of Rovers' U=21 side. He made his Alty debut as left-sided centre-back against Solihull Moors in the FA Cup on 12 October 2024.

After playing in the replay at Solihull, he also played against Gateshead in the Vanarama National League before injury curtailed his stay.

However, on 5 December it was announced that he had returned to Altrincham on a further month's loan, his first match back being against Wealdstone five days later, though that was shortly before Neil Gibson assumed that club's management.

On 6 January 2005 it was confirmed that his loan would continue for the remainder of the season.

A measure of the impression that he made on Phil Parkinson was that all 25 of the appearances that he made for Altrincham were from the starting eleven. Twenty of those appeaarances were in the National League with the other five being in cup competitions, in which he also netted a goal, in the FA Cup against Solihull Moors.

NEXT: MORECAMBE

Morecambe FC almost went under last summer before a last-gap takeover by the Panjab Warriors saved them and saw them start the season late, on matchday four, when their first opponents were... Altrincham. The euphoria of the Shrimps' salvation fuelled a large crowd and Altrincham duly lost to a hastily assembled Morecambe side, 2-1.

That was Ashvir Singh Johal's first match as manager and on 3 January he arrived with his team at the J. Davidson Stadium expecting to play the return fixture against Altrincham, only for the match to be postponed. He is pictured, right, on that occasion.

However, a few days ago the club parted ways with Johal and, on Sunday, Morecambe announced "the appointment of Jim Bentley as the club’s new First Team Manager until the end of the season.

"Jim returns to the club bringing extensive managerial experience and a strong understanding of the club’s identity and values, developed through his previous, long-standing association with the Shrimps...

"He has built a reputation for creating organised, competitive teams that mirror the commitment and resilience of their supporters.

"His familiarity with the club, its people, and the local area allows him to step into the role with immediate focus as the squad prepares for the remainder of the season".

So, for the second time this season, Morecambe will have enjoyed a pre-match boost before facing Altrincham and will also be hoping to benefit from the "new manager bounce" phenomenon.

Morecambe had no game last Saturday so their last result was a 0-2 home defeat by Solihull Moors on 24 January. Their squad that day comprised: 40 Jamal Blackman, 2 Lewis Payne, 3 Raheem Conte, 5 Harlee Dean, 7 Gwion Edwards, 8 Miguel Azeez, 17 Paul Lewis, 18 Ben Tollitt, 28 Tommy Fogarty, 36 Jack Nolan, 42 Christopher Popov. Subs: 41 Myles Boney, 19 Ma'kel Bogle-Campbell, 21 Joe Nuttall, 24 Yann Songo'o, 29 Ashton McWilliams, 32 George Thomas, 33 Timothy Akindileni.

Footnote: The BBC adds that "Bentley managed the club between 2011 and 2019 and returns to the Mazuma Stadium with the Shrimps in 23rd, and in danger of being relegated from the National League.

Having resigned as Morecambe boss in October 2019, Bentley went on to manage AFC Fylde and Rochdale but had not managed since March 2025 after being sacked by Southport".

HOME RUN

Any optimism engendered by such a sequence of home games should be tempered by the memory of last season when Altrincham had a sequence of four home games in succession from which they emerged with just a single point.

However, under Neil Gibson, Altrincham have won four of their six home games in the National League with their only defeats being to the current top two clubs, Rochdale and York City.

UPDATED CHRONICLE OF MANAGERIAL CHANGES

Changes between the end of the 2024/25 season and the start of 2025/26:

1. FC HALIFAX TOWN Chris Millington left and Adam Lakeland was appointed
2. FOREST GREEN ROVERS sacked Steve Cotterill and appointed Robbie Savage
3. GATESHEAD Carl Magnay resigned and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
4. WEALDSTONE Neil Gibson resigned and the club appointed Sam Cox

Departures since start of the 2025/26 season:

The fourteen departures (so far) since the start of this season are listed below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard
3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington
5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett
7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley
8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
9. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
10. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
11. GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
12. BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
13. BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town
14. MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley

The nine clubs still employing the manager who was with them at the end of last season are Rochdale, Boreham Wood, Carlisle United, Scunthorpe United, Southend United, Woking, Tamworth, Braintree Town and Truro City.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Although just 19 years of age, Patton is no stranger to men’s senior football, having featured 17 times for Derry and 13 times for fellow Irish side Finn Harps during a 2024 loan spell.

Since then, Sean signed for Reading in September 2025, and has since featured for both the first team and U21’s 17 times this season.

Looking to continue his recent goal-scoring form, join us in welcoming our newest member of the Shots squad!".

Tamworth "confirm that Kwaku Donkor has left the club to join Sutton United for an undisclosed fee.

Donkor departs the Lambs having featured regularly and progressed well during his time at the Altair Group Community Stadium. More recently, competition for places has limited his opportunities, prompting a move in pursuit of a full-time football role.

Tamworth FC manager Andy Peaks said 'Kwaku was playing regularly for us and had been developing well as a footballer. More recently, his game time has been impacted by the strong form and performances of other players in the squad. Kwaku has decided to move to Sutton United in search of a full-time football opportunity, which unfortunately we’re not able to accommodate at Tamworth FC at this time. We respect his decision to pursue that opportunity'".

Also at Tamworth the Lambs "confirm that Ronan Maher will remain at the club for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, following an extension to his loan deal.

The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Team Builder... [they] have once again backed the football club by agreeing to contribute the player’s full wages for the duration of the loan.

This extension has been made possible following the outstanding backing shown by Tamworth supporters throughout the season...

Maher has made a positive impact since arriving at the Altair Group Community Stadium, and the club is delighted to retain his services".

Yeovil Town "confirm that Max Jolliffe has been recalled by Colchester United from his loan spell.

Jolliffe joined the Glovers in late October 2025 and made 10 appearances during his time at Huish Park.

We would like to thank Max for his contributions and wish him well for the future".

1 February 2026

SAME GAME, DIFFERENT OPINIONS

Ignoring the first-half booing from his own supporters, home manager Mark Hughes said of the match, "It was pretty straightforward from our point of view". He added a comment about Altrincham that "They're a good team, we made them look quite ordinary".

In contrast Alty boss Neil Gibson thought "We were the better team for large portions of the game".

"A MAD EIGHT MINUTES" SAYS NEIL

The Alty boss was "really frustrated, really disappointed" with the result though not too unhappy with the performance.

Indeeed, he felt that Altrincham were "very much in control" in the first 25 minutes.

In the first half, "they score from their first real chance". The second goal "is an issue, on too many occasions we concede one and concede a second shortly afterwards".

As for the second half, there was "not enough of an end-product or cutting edge for all the possession that we did have".

Neil hopes "to get a body or two in" to help the team. "We've come close with one or two [signings] that have not materialised" he stated.

He judged that "There was no real poor individual perfomance today, just a mad eight minutes of play"..

CARLISLE UNITED 3-1 ALTRINCHAM

The first goal came after Matty Kosylo conceded a freekick and was booked as he tried to shepherd a ball out of play. The freekick was half cleared but AJiboye put his side ahead with his first league goal of the season (26 mins).

Five minutes later, Ajiboye fed Armstrong who made it 2-0.

The third goal came as Embleton's cross was headed away by Sassi but into the back of Knowles and into the net for an own goal which was attributed to the centre-back (34 mins).

After a jittery few minutes, Alty stabilized and got to half time trailing 3-0.

Golden replaced Khan at half-time and Reddin came on soon afterwards for Kosylo.

Despite their heavy goal-deficit Altrincham had enjoyed nearly 60% of the game's possession by the hour mark, but without creating a threat up front.

Alty got a goal back as Knowles (right) converted a Golden feed with a near-post header, making it 3-1 (69 mins).

But that was the limit of the comeback.

Match report here.

CARLISLE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : ALI SMITH was booked in the 95th minute as AFC Wimbledon lost 0-1 at home to Bolton Wanderers, not helped by having 15 goal attempts, but not one of them on target.

CARL PIERGIANNI and Stevenage were on the wrong end of a 3-1 scoreline at Barnsley.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA played the whole of Wycombe Wanderers' goalless draw at Mansfield Town.

After a 9 match absence, OWEN DALE (right) came off the Plymouth Argyle bench after 77 minutes. It was 1-1 at the time, but hosts Stockport scored in the 85th minute to win 2-1.

League Two : Bristol Rovers were already 2 goals up against relegation threatened visitors Newport County when JOEL SENIOR came off their bench in the 81st minute. The Gas scored again to win 3-0.

The scoring in Grimsby Town's 2-2 home draw with MK Dons was all over by the time they brought on JUSTIN AMALUZOR after 86 minutes.

Although JAKE BICKERSTAFF put in a full shift for Cheltenham Town, his team lost 3-1 at Accrington Stanley.

JAMES BERRY was another player to come on when the goals had all been scored, entering the action after 76 minutes for Chesterfield, who had been 2-0 up inside 20 minutes but had to settle for a 2-2 draw with visitors Walsall.

HARRISON HOLGATE played the full game for Fleetwood Town, and picked up a yellow card, but TOBY MULLARKEY was and unused substitute as they lost 1-2 to visitors Notts County.

ELLIOTT NEWBY has recently lost his starting berth for Barrow, and didn't make their bench today as they lost 3-1 at Swindon Town.

Tranmere Rovers were without the injured CONNOR JENNINGS, and were beaten 0-2 by visitors Salford City, whose squad didn't include KEVIN BERKOE.

National League : CONNOR TEALE (right) played the full game for Boston United, as they took advantage of hosts Boreham Wood having two men sent off, winning 1-2.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM came off Eastleigh's bench at Braintree Town in added time at the end of the first half. The Spitfires found an equaliser, but eventually lost 2-1.

It was an unhappy Hartlepool United debut for TYRESE SINCLAIR, who played the whole game as visitors Aldershot, without MATT PENNEY, won 0-3. A total of 22 minutes added time was played.

JEFF KING played the full game for York City at Solihull Moors. ALEX NEWBY didn't come off the bench until the 66th minute, but scored the goal that clinched York's 0-2 win.

Isuzu FA Trophy : AFC Fylde failed to make the last 8, a single Southport goal sending them through at Mill Farm. CHRIS MERRIE was the only Old Boy to start for the Coasters, while GEORGE WILSON came on after 68 minutes. LIAM BROCKBANK wasn't in the squad. Southport's LUKE BURGESS picked up a booking.

Yeovil Town succeeded where Altrincham had failed, winning 0-2 at AFC Telford despite a booking for KYLE FERGUSON. MATT GOULD was back on the Glovers' bench today.

ROSS BARROWS (right) was named on the bench by Scunthorpe United, who went ahead in the 11th minute, but were 1-2 down to visitors Horsham Town at the break. He joined the action in the 77th minute, but a goalless second period saw the Iron eliminated.

KENNEDY DIGIE played the whole match as Tamworth, having been held to a goalless draw by visitors Marine, contrived to miss two penalties in the shootout to exit the competition.

The quarter finalists are :

• Southend United, Wealdstone, Woking, and Yeovil Town (National League)
• Kidderminster Harriers, Marine, and Southport (National North)
• Horsham (National South)

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL lasted 79 minutes on his Kilmarnock debut, while MARCUS DACKERS only came off the bench in the 88th minute. Visitors Aberdeen were reduced to 10 men after 51 minutes, and, already two goals down, went down 3-0.

National North : CONNOR KIRBY scored to give Buxton the half time lead, but visitors Spennymoor won 1-2 despite having a man sent off after 84 minutes.

Chester also scored first, but visitors Radcliffe, with JORDAN HULME (right) among the scorers, won 1-3. DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY came off Chester's bench after 69 minutes, but TOM PEERS stayed there.

KACPER PASIEK announced his arrival at Macclesfield by scoring the winner in their 2-1 home win over Bedford Town. He was joined in the starting XI by SAM HEATHCOTE, ELLIOTT OSBORNE, and JAMES GALE, while DANNY WHITEHEAD and MIKEY STONE were left on the bench. James lasted 67 minutes, but the other starters played throughout. The only Old Boy not in the squad was REGAN GRIFFITHS.

NPL Premier Division : MONTEL GIBSON played the full game for Hednesford Town at Gainsborough Trinity, for whom JONNY MARGETTS was a 71st minute substitute in the 1-1 draw.

While captain WILL HALL played the whole of Hyde United's goalless draw against visitors Warrington Rylands, MAX HARROP gave way to JACK REDSHAW after 68 minutes, while NYAL BELL wasn't involved. Captain DEAN FURMAN put in a full shift for the visitors.

ADAM PORTER played the full match as Leek Town won 1-3 at Ilkeston Town, who finished with 10 men, but HAYDEN CAMPBELL stayed on the bench.

JAMES HARDY played 74 minutes for Ashton United, who lost 3-2 at Lancaster City.

SHARIF DEANS played the whole of Prescot Cables 1-1 home draw with bottom club Workington.

NPL Midland Division : TOLANI OMOTOLA was an 83rd minute substitute for Boldmere St.Michaels as they won 4-1 against visitors Coventry Sphinx.

ANDY DALES was substituted by Mickleover in the 90th minute of their 3-1 home win over Corby Town.

NPL Division 1 West : Having been absent from the Atherton Collieries squad last week, SAM SHERIDAN took over the captaincy from the departed JOE PIGGOTT, and led them to a 2-1 home win over Witton Albion. JOEL BEMBO-LETA played the full match for Albion, while DAMOLA SOTONA and JAMES LAWRIE were substituted in the final quarter.

Congleton Town, with DAVE PARTON in goal, were 3-1 down at Avro, for whom DAVID FITZPATRICK played the full game. However Robins loanee REMI RAYMOND (right) came off the Bears bench in the 87th minute - and 2 minutes later he scored to earn them a 3-3 draw

JOE PIGGOTT played the full match as Bury won by the only goal at Chasetown.

Nantwich Town, with BYRON HARRISON and AIDY ROXBURGH playing throughout, led at Runcorn Linnets. SEAN MILLER had been booked for the home side, and ELLIOTT ROKKA came on soon after the goal, but it was the return of RYAN BROOKE after a long absence that earned them a draw. Coming off the bench after 69 minutes, he equalised 15 minutes later.

Although TONY THOMPSON conceded twice at Sporting Khalsa, he and TOM HANNIGAN would have been happy with Bootle's 2-4 win.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game for Stalybridge Celtic, while DONTAI GABIDON came off the bench, and GREG WILKINSON stayed there. Visitors Shifnal Town, with ELLIOTT DURRELL a 68th minute substitute, earned a 2-2 draw.

Captain MARK LEES played throughout for Mossley in their goalless draw at Trafford, while MASON FAWNS was substituted in the 90th minute. SEAN HIGGINS was left on the home bench.

Vauxhall Motors were 4-1 up against visitors Clitheroe when KEVIN ELLISON and YASSINE TOURE came off the bench after an hour, and they went on to win 4-2.

Captained by ASTLEY MULHOLLAND, Wythenshawe Town lost to only goal of the game at home to Newcastle Town.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Altrincham v Morecambe
• Forest Green Rovers v Woking
• Rochdale v Boreham Wood

Saturday 7th February 2026

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

ISUZU FA TROPHY RESULTS

• Forest Green Rovers 0-3 Wealdstone
• Chatham Town 0-1 Southend United
• Scunthorpe United 1-2 Horsham
• FC Halifax Town 1-1 Kidderminster Harriers (Kidderminster Harriers win 4-3 on penalties)
• Walton & Hersham 1-2 Woking
• AFC Fylde 0-1 Southport
• AFC Telford United 0-2 Yeovil Town
• Tamworth 0-0 Marine (Marine win 4-1 on penalties)