Altrincham Football Club News Archive
July 2006

First Round w/c 11th September

Dates for following rounds:-

TUESDAY'S GAME

Runcorn Town players can't wait for Tuesday's visit of Altrincham after weeks of hard training sessions with new manager Tony Murphy. They feel a lot fitter than previous years with many players commenting that the training they have done this year has been a lot harder than previous years, and they are eager to put training ground ideas into practice in a full match.

Altrincham have confirmed that it will be mostly their reserves who visit, with most first teamers playing at Leigh RMI tonight. Former Runcorn Town player Ste Savage will line up for Altrincham after impressing there on trial during pre-season.

Entrance to the game will be just £2.00 for Adults and £1.00 for Concessions. Pavilions bar will be open before and after the match."

Parking is good with about 150 spaces in the Pavilions car park and about another 50 on the private road leading to the club. Parking is of course free.

MONDAY'S GAME

FRIENDLY OFF

OLD BOYS

CONFERENCE NEWS

NL Dailyreports that "Former Scarborough boss Neil Redfearn has signed for UniBond League Division One club Bradford Park Avenue... Redfearn's father was a professional at Park Avenue during the 1950s... Other newcomers in the starting line-up against the Tykes [included] Guiseley`s Jeremy Illingworth [ex-Alty] and ex-Halifax Town forward Matty Hoyle".

Though Crawley's owners, the Majeed brothers, proclaim that "We will be continuing woth the club", a creditors' meeting on Tuesday could see them ousted "To retain control the Majeeds must poll at least three-quarters of all [creditors'] votes.. If the Revenue, [ex-MD] Steve Duly and Francis Vines [ex-manager] all opposed [the settlement offer to creditors] they would have at least 53%, enough to defeat any proposal" of settlement.

"Kidderminster Harriers have suffered a blow with news that Burnley defender Duane Courtney has turned down a move to Aggborough. Harriers` boss Mark Yates had targeted the young stopper as an ideal summer signing... 'We were allowing Duane Courtney to go to Kidderminster', said Burnley boss Steve Cotterill. 'But he has since had a chat with his agent and he thinks he can get Duane somewhere else'".

The Football Conference says that "Swindon have offered former Crawley Town goalkeeper Phil Smith the chance to play in the Football League on a one-year contract... He would become the understudy to Peter Brezovan... The 26-year-old stopper has impressed during the pre-season tour of Ibiza and boss Dennis Wise had no hesitation in offering him a deal".

Grays Athletic confirm that "Following an incident which happened prior to joining Grays Athletic, Ashley Sestanovich has been arrested and is currently in Wandsworth Prison awaiting trial. The club were unaware of any problems prior to signing Ashley Sestanovich and this has come as a shock to the club, due to the seriousness of the incident the club has terminated his contract.". Reportedly an arrest warrant was issued recently against Sestanovich by Grimsby magistrates for failing to attend court in regard to motoring offences. Grays' boss Frank Gray told the NL Paper, "I believe we need to add one or two more defensively but I've got a good squad". New signing Lee Boylan from Canvey "is a proven scorer at this level... and looks capable of forming a good partnership up front with Aaron McLean".

Bullsnews says that "Former Bull, Bertrand Cozic, is currently on trial at Exeter. The French midfielder, who played for Team Bath last season, has seen service with a string of clubs since a brief spell with the Bulls late in the 2003-4 season. He managed four substitute appearances for the Bulls, and was a sub yesterday for the Grecians in their 1-0 friendly defeat to Bristol Rovers".

FRIENDLY AT LEIGH

ALTY v CITY

CHESHIRE NEWS

CONFERENCE NEWS

NL Daily confirms that "Gateshead have clinched the signing of Scarborough captain Steve Baker".

In weekend friendlies, Gainsborough Trinity beat York City 2-1. The York unofficial site confirms that in the game "The visitors had earlier started with trialist keeper Tommy Evans (Scunthorpe United), while Jeffries, centre-back Simon Weaver (Scarborough), midfielder Tom English (Queen of the South) and strikers Wilkinson and Andy Appleby (both Hartlepool United) were introduced during the second period. The match kicked-off 45 minutes late after a malfunctioning bridge had delayed fans' arrival". But thunderstorms created havoc for other games in the Midlands with Stamford v Hucknall, Alfreton v Tamworth and the match at Kettering all abandoned.

Southport report that "Experienced Conference goal scorer Dino Maamria has re-signed for Southport. The ex-Stevenage and Leigh RMI leading goal scorer will add experience to Paul Cook's squad as the team building exercise continues". Meanwhile Southport beat a Macclesfield team 2-0 on Saturday. "Southport dominated proceedings throughout, with Steve Dickinson rarely called into action... Cook gave second half opportunities to Francis Barry, Griff Jones, Paul Brown, Chris Lane and Joe Fowler". Jones was briefly in Alty's Reserve side a year ago. And "Chairman Charlie Clapham announced today that Haydn Preece will be the clubs first Chief Executive. The Chairman stated that "With the club going full time this summer and with the need to continue to raise the club's profile in the town Haydn Preece will be responsible for all day to day activities at Haig Avenue... and will be working very closely with the clubs new progressive Trust in Yellows supporters' trust... Haydn Preece has left education after 25 years, the press after 16 years and has experience in sales and marketing". He said, "For example on match days we are redesigning the programme and intend to involve our supporters a lot more in its content. I am passionate about youth development, our junior section, the profile of the club in the town, the need for regular half termly soccer camps and integrating the club on non match days as a great place to come with events and activities for the community".

TRAFFORD VIEW

OLD BOY

CONFERENCE NEWS

Aldershot Town "confirmed on Thursday evening that the club has added a further three players to its ranks as preparations for the 2006/07 season continue... Defender Phil Anderson has actually played in all four matches so far. Phil is a left sided defender who can also play as a central defender. He was previously at Southend United. Mark Pritchard scored three goals in his first two friendly appearances and arrives from Swansea City... Kirk Hudson requires little introduction to Shots supporters. The 19 year old spent his youth career at Glasgow Celtic and Ipswich Town. He arrived at the Rec earlier this year after a spell at AFC Bournemouth... After joining the Shots Kirk had an extended run in the first team towards the end of last season and scored in victories at Gravesend and Northfleet and Kidderminster Harriers featuring a dozen times in Conference action".

The Cambridge Evening News says that "Shane Herbert could be the man to battle against Paul Crichton for the place in Cambridge United's goal... And United manager Rob Newman said he would be talking to Herbert, who was released by Norwich City at the end of last season, about the possibility of moving to the Abbey. Herbert spent the second half of last term on loan at Gillingham under the eye of Crichton, the former player-goalkeeping coach with the Kent side... With Jamie Waite likely to be out of action for some time while having chemotherapy for Hodgkin's disease, Herbert could be the answer to Newman's search for another keeper".

The unooficial This is United site says that "Oxford United's pre-season campaign got off to a morale-boosting start with victory over Didcot last night... Goals from Barry Quinn, Yemi Odubade [who played against Alty for Eastbourne last May] and a stunning strike from Josh Kennet gave Jim Smith's side a deserved success... [But] new signing Eddie Anaclet and youngster Ben Weedon both forced off with injuries... U's triallist Mohammed Lamine, who hails from Guinea, impressed down the right flank, linking well with Odubade.... United finished the game with ten men, having used all their subs before Weedon was carried off with a nasty ankle injury... Oxford Utd: Tardif (Turley HT), Anaclet (Gunn 55), Johnson (Weedon HT), Quinn (Kennet HT), Willmott (Dempster HT), Gilchrist (Day HT), Pettefer, Winters (Lamine HT), Dale (Duffy HT), Beechers (Odubade HT), Burgess".

St Alban's City report that "Referee Darren Deadman has been charged by the F.A. with failing to correctly apply the Laws of the Game. The charge relates to a disagreement over the number of permitted substitutes prior to a pre-season friendly between St Albans City and Luton Town on Wednesday 12 July". The referee refused to continue officiating a St Alban's friendly after a limit of six subs per side was exceeded and another official had to take over.

Weymouth confirm that "Andy Harris will miss the start of Weymouth's Conference National season. The influential midfielder has undergone an operation to repair damaged cartilage in a knee and has been told he'll be out of action for up to a month... Boss Gary Hill said: 'It is better we get Andy 100 per cent right before he comes back to full training because we always want players fit and healthy. There's no point rushing Andy back when it's not necessary'. Harris's place in midfield is likely to be taken by summer signing Simon Weatherstone who joined Terras from Stevenage Borough".

Halifax Town's "Portuguese midfielder Luís Melo and winger Lee Thompson were on the scoresheet as Town opened their pre-season campaign with a 5-2 win at Brighouse Town... The duo were among six trialists used by Shayman manager Chris Wilder in the annual match at St Giles Road. Neil Prince, Chris Clarke, Laurence Hunter and David Scarcella were the other new names in the Halifax squad". Wilder said, "A couple of the lads on Wednesday night - Luis Melo and Neil Prince - don't really know the structure of how we want to play, but they were clever enough to have picked it up". The Halifax Courier adds that "Melo played on a recommendation from one of Wilder's contacts while Thompson, who was at Kidderminster last season, has been training with the squad... Prince is a former Liverpool trainee who was with Stalybridge Celtic last term, Hunter is a youngster who had been at Leicester City and Clarke is bidding to secure a third contract with Town. Scarcella is an Australian keeper who has been on Barnsley's books for the past couple of seasons and also played a dozen games for Tooting & Mitcham United in the Ryman League last season."

"British Gas Business Southern League Premier Division club Bath City have targeted former Swansea City front-man Julian Alsop as the man to boost the club's strike force... Alsop, 33, is currently contracted to Forest Green Rovers, but has already held talks with Newport County while City have also made inquiries... Alsop, who is well known as a tough-tackling target man, has enjoyed a colourful League career" says This is Bath.

TWO RELEASED

Further exits from Moss Lane can be expected shortly as the management has to trim the squad to match the wages budget.

However, two of this summer's trialists Lee Mannion and Steve Savage will be staying at Moss Lane with the Altrincham Reserves. Midfielder Lee was released by Crewe this summer whilst striker Steve is a former Mond Rangers (now Runcorn Town) player with experience in Welsh football. Tuesday's match at Runcorn will feature the Altrincham Reserves squad. Before that, on Monday, Altrincham's first team squad travels to Leigh RMI (k.o. 7.30pm).

FITNESS

LOST KEYS

TRAFFORD 1 ALTRINCHAM 2

Above: Richard Norris, Blake Norton and Val Owen take a breather at Trafford. For Richard and Blake it proved to be their last game for Altrincham.

Match report here.

METHOD IN GRAHAM'S MADNESS

Above: Gavin Rathbone has set himself a high standard for the coming season with this magnificent shot of Joe O'Neill's diving header against FC United on Wednesday night. This and more of Gavin's photos are available on the GR Photographysite and via the Robins' Shop.

SAM says that "Alty got their preseason campaign underway in earnest on Saturday when they kicked off a run of eight games in 15 days with a trip to Birkenhead... And in the main, the new boys gave a good account of themselves. Robbie Lawton showed plenty of endeavour working on the right flank, Joe O'Neill was neat and tidy in possession, while Peter Thomson could be just what Alty need up front, a bona fide targetman. But it was 20-year-old winger Justin Bowler who stole the show. There are undoubtedly parts of his game that the youngster will need to work on, but he showed blistering pace and an ability to get to the byline and deliver that killer ball the Robins so often lacked last season... Possibly even more pleasing for the Robins' faithful was the return of both Eddie Hussin and Richard Norris from long-term injury".

Graham Heathcote told SAM Sport, "The early [friendly] games are not necessarily the type of games we would be playing in during the season. But there is always a method in your madness and these games are more hurly burly, they will give the lads a physical test. People also have to appreciate what level we are working at and we can do that by showing them what level they could be playing at if they don't get it right. The way the players play in these games is completely foreign to what they would usually do within a game. I'm looking at them as a completely different exercise to the fans. We've come in earlier this year for preseason training with three sessions in June and hopefully we realise that we need to be up and running by August 12. We can't be found wanting in the first two months of the season because we have a lot of games to play in a short space of time and we need to make sure we get off to a good start".

CONFERENCE NEWS

"Forest Green Rovers are ready to do battle with rivals Kidderminster Harriers for the signing of defender Mark Preece. Rovers` manager Gary Owers will step up his pursuit of the 18-year-old, who had a spell on loan at Gloucester City from Bristol Rovers last season, after allowing Chris Giles to leave Nailsworth. Centre back Giles joined from Crawley Town only last month, but a routine medical highlighted a thigh injury which requires a minimum of three months' complete rest. After lengthy discussions with Owers, it was agreed that his season-long contract be declared null and void. This leaves Preece, who has so far played for Rovers on trial in pre-season friendlies against Swindon Town and Bristol City, as the most likely replacement. Owers said: "The problem we have is that he's playing half a game for us one day and half a game for Kidderminster the next, when ideally I would like a longer look at him". Regarding Giles's injury, Owers said, "With Darren Jones suspended for the first three games of the season, and Paul Wanless out until September, we couldn't afford to carry any more long-term injuries". And "Owers has handed trials to a number of central defenders this pre-season, including former Swindon man Steve Jenkins and ex-Scarborough man Simon Weaver. New recruits Tony Butler and Matthew McEntegart have bolstered the ranks, but Rovers urgently need cover in that position before the start of the season on August 12th" says the Gloucester Citizen.

"Central defender Andy Edwards has signed for Aldershot Town after impressing during the pre-season campaign so far. The 34-year-old 6` 3" Epping-born player has featured in all three home friendly fixtures so far and has linked up well with fellow new signing Rhys Day. Edwards started his career as a trainee at Southend United and in a distinguished career he has made 623 senior appearances.... [He joined] manager Barry Fry again at Birmingham City for a fee of £400,000. After making 59 appearances for the "Blues" he linked up again with Fry at Peterborough United where he made a further 310 appearances between 1996 and 2003... Manager Terry Brown said: 'Andy's leadership and ability to instruct players around him and deal with the ball itself is going to be a massive advantage to us. I think that it is a fantastic signing for the club and I absolutely chuffed to have him on board'" reports NL Daily.

The BBC says that "Defender Gary Rowett is relishing the prospect of helping Burton's promotion push... A serious knee injury appeared to have ended his career and he was forced to retire from professional football in July 2004. Rowett, 32, told the Burton Mail: 'It's great to have the chance to be as near to full fitness as I'll ever be. I can't physically do every training session but I'm enjoying it'".

"Grays Athletic have been dealt a huge blow to their pre-season preparations after captain Stuart Thurgood broke his leg, reports BBC Essex. Thurgood, 24, sustained the injury in the 3-2 pre-season friendly defeat at home to Leyton Orient on Wednesday. The midfielder has broken his fibula and has had an operation to pin the injury on Thursday morning". We wish him well for a speedy recovery.

"York City have completed the signing of young Huddersfield Town full-back Anthony Lloyd. The 21-year-old was on loan at Torquay for the whole of last season, having previously made 40 appearances in the Terriers' first team. Lloyd is a versatile player who can also play in midfield" states the BBC.

FC UNITED STATEMENT

Right: Warren Peyton's chipped goal on Wednesday against FCUM is captured here by Gavin Rathbone. This and more of Gavin's photos are available on the GR Photographysite and via the Robins' Shop.

The official FCUM site has published a Board statement on last night's match at Altrincham:

The club are currently thoroughly investigating the facts surrounding an incident that occurred during our friendly versus Altrincham. The club are aware of the allegations and are aware of who are alleged to have been involved. Once the full facts are established the individual(s) involved will be invited to explain themselves to the club with a view to taking appropriate and proportionate action.

Despite the actions of only one or two individuals, it is the whole of the club and our support that ultimately suffer. As supporters we have rightly taken pride in the ability to self-police over the last 12 months; a policy that has served us well, negated the need for authoritarian stewarding, enhanced our reputation and made us countless friends throughout the North West Counties League. That reputation and the very future of the club is imperilled if we allow the actions of one or two individuals to prevail.

Further, the club would like to make it clear that it will not absolve its own responsibility in these matters. We will continue to defend our own supporters when unfair accusations are made of them. We will continue to correct what we deem injustices.

We will not however defend or ignore incidents of unacceptable behaviour and anyone found to be involved in such behaviour will face the appropriate consequences. The club reserves the right to protect its good name including, should the circumstances merit it, a ban from all our games.

FC United Board

Below is Altrincham FC's statement on the events.

LAST NIGHT'S GAME

Altrincham FC would like to make it clear that it will not tolerate such exceptional behaviour as was seen last night at Moss Lane from a very small minority of the travelling supporters, who spoiled the occasion for everyone watching. Altrincham FC is concerned that, whilst the regular attenders at Moss Lane well know that such behaviour at Moss Lane is very unusual, any supporters attending Moss Lane for the first time should be aware that the situation last night was a very unfamiliar one for our Club.

It is unlikely that Altrincham FC would ever put on a similar match again and the Board of Directors will be looking very closely as to whether to hold some other requested fixtures from clubs who have to play FC United of Manchester in their league and wish to do so at Moss Lane.

Altrincham FC is well aware that it is only a very small minority of irresponsible supporters who caused the trouble last night and the Club would hope that they gave a false picture of the majority of supporters of FCUM. However, Altrincham FC feels that even a handful of supporters behaving as they did is not acceptable as the norm in non-league football and certainly has no place at Moss Lane. The Club apologises to all supporters who had to witness the short, unsavoury scene. In hindsight, segregation might have been applied but there was no real evidence beforehand that this would be necessary. The Club reiterates that it was a just a handful of mindless people who caused the problem and it is not a familiar occurrence at Moss Lane.

The Club wishes to praise its stewards for their prompt action in dealing with the situation and preventing it from escalating. The stewards' actions proved the value of their training, which has been beneficial to us all.

Trafford FC are provisionally set to play FCUM at Moss Lane on 9 September in a NW Counties league match.

ALTRINCHAM 3 FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 1

Match report here

The unofficial and official FCUM sites also have reports.

MORE FRIENDLIES

And there is a double-header between the Reserves and Wythenshawe Town; both games at Wythenshawe Town FC next to Tesco at Baguley.

On 29 July Alty are away at Marine in a friendly. "Marine have announced that they have entered into a sponsorship agreement with bus operator Arriva to change the name of its ground that has been known as Rossett Park since 1903. The new name of the ground from the beginning of this season until May 2011 will be 'The Arriva Stadium'. The sponsorship agreement of a significant four-figure sum per annum for each of the next five seasons... Marine chairman Paul Leary said: "This has been an excellent summer having now secured a ground name sponsorship for the very first time and this follows our recent announcement of the double stand and shirt sponsorship deal with the Ascot Property Group... John Rimmer, operations director for Arriva North West and Wales, added: 'The work we have done in partnership with Marine FC in recent years has clearly benefited both parties... Arriva always looks to provide support for the local community and Marine form an integral part of the area we serve". And the Arriva service 263 is just one of the company's routes that runs to Altrincham!

OLD BOY

KIDSGROVE REPORT

CONFERENCE NEWS

Also "Tamworth midfielder Michael Touhy will miss the start of the season after undergoing an ankle operation. Touhy, 19, had surgery on his left ankle after suffering inflammation and discomfort during pre-season training. The former Aston Villa youngster is expected to be out of action for four weeks... [He] started 15 games for the Lambs before the end of last season".

"Aldershot have completed the signing of former Southend defender Andy Edwards. The 34-year-old was released by the Shrimpers in May. 'Andy's leadership and ability to instruct players around him and deal with the ball itself is going to be a massive advantage for us'" said manager Terry Brown.

NL Daily confirms that "Eastbourne Borough have announced the signing of Neil Jenkins from troubled Crawley Town."

"UniBond League Premier Division `golden boot` winner Robbie Dale is set to stay at Blyth Spartans, despite the possibility of a full-time contract at relegated Football League club Oxford United. Dale is in the middle of a month's trial with the Nationwide Conference National newcomers and unless he's offered a good deal will return to Croft Park... Dale, who scored thirty-three goals in his first season at Blyth, has yet to be offered terms by Oxford's former Newcastle boss Jim Smith, who took the 22-year-old on trial without contacting Blyth. Spartans' manager Harry Dunn said: 'It will take a hell of an offer to tempt Robbie and if it's a short-term contract then there's no chance of him going. He's a very good player and we'd obviously want a fee for him. It wouldn't be one that prevented the deal from going through but we would certainly want a good sell-on clause'" . Meanwhile at Blyth, "Former Halifax Town defender Paul Stoneman, 33, could be one new face" says IC Newcastle.

KIDSGROVE ATHLETIC 2 ALTRINCHAM 2

Right: Eddie Hussin at Kidsgrove.

Match report here..

FIXTURES

FANS' FORUM

SUPPORT THE TEAM

STAR aims to arrive an hour before kick off to allow supporters to enjoy a drink or look around the towns we visit, and return after the final whistle so people can return home in good time. We hope as many fans as possible will support the coach travel as we look to continue our reputation as being well supported away from home. Full booking details will be available at the Stevenage game on August 12th.

CONFERENCE NEWS

Also, "Bruno Teixeira looks almost certain to leave Forest Green Rovers after a row with boss Gary Owers over a new contract. The Portuguese striker was axed from the squad for Saturday's game against Sunderland after the Rovers boss objected to being 'held to ransom' over wage demands. However, Rovers fans could soon have another overseas signing to get excited about in the shape of South Korean frontman San Lee. Recently released by Premiership newcomers Sheffield United, Lee is a former under-20 international and was impressive as a 61st minute substitute against the Black Cats". Owers told the Gloucester Citizen , "Bruno's been made an offer, and then another offer, but thought he could get some more money somewhere else. That turned out not to be the case, so he's come back and he wants to have his cake and eat it. Well he's not going to get it because he needs to respect the players in the dressing room and also the supporters. He needs to make a decision pretty quickly and I won't be on the end of the telephone being held to ransom by anyone, which is the reason why he's not here. There's something there for Bruno at this club if he wants it, but if he doesn't then let's all move on"

Bullsnews says that "Former Hereford striker Guy Ipoua played for Forest Green Rovers in their 6-0 defeat by Bristol City. Ipoua is looking for a contract after being released from United in May". But theBBC says that "Defender Chris Giles has left Forest Green Rovers less than two weeks after joining the club. Giles had agreed a 12-month deal after leaving Crawley but is not fit to play because of a thigh problem which is set to keep him sidelined for three months. The 24-year-old has had his contract scrapped, although Rovers may look to revive a deal in the future".

LOCAL NEWS

ALTY PLAYERS AT RADCLIFFE

CONFERENCE NEWS

Northwich Vics report that "This week will see a £30K Investment on a pitch irrigation system & extending players' tunnel. A specialised irrigation contractor has commenced work installing an automatic pop-up sprinkler irrigation system at the Victoria Stadium & the system should be fully installed & operational by Friday of this week. The system will be able to use water from either the mains supply or collected surface water".

"Boss Liam Daish wants an improvement from Gravesend in the coming matches after the 3-1 loss against Folkestone Invicta in their first pre-season game. Daish told BBC Radio Kent, "Each game we should be getting better and that is what pre-season is about". The report adds that "Amongst the Fleet trialists were former Charlton man Stacy Long and ex-Fleet player Jefferson Louis".

"Cambridge United manager Rob Newman has warned his players that slipping up against sides from a lower division will not be acceptable. The U's lost 3-1 against Norwich at the weekend and... Newman told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: 'We have friendlies coming up against Fakenham Town and Enfield and we must deliver".

"Halifax Town boss Chris Wilder hopes to clinch the signing of New Zealand international striker Shane Smeltz. Smeltz, 24, has impressed during a trial spell and will be offered a deal provided he does not have too many international commitments next season. Wilder told the Halifax Courier: 'Shane has done well but we want to check at the New Zealand end how many games they have coming up over the next season. If he'll be away for long periods then we would have to reassess'. Smeltz spent last season with AFC Wimbledon following a brief spell in the Football League with Mansfield Town". Meanwhile, NL Daily confirms that "Former Halifax Town midfielder Craig Midgley is training with Nationwide North side Scarborough... If he joins it will be Midgley's third spell at the McCain Stadium having twice been on loan there when a Bradford City player".

"Woking have signed former Cambridge United defender Danny Bunce. The 20-year-old full-back has agreed a 12-month deal with the Cards to become the second new arrival this summer... Bunce, who started his career at West Ham, made a dozen appearances in the Conference for Cambridge last season before being released by the U's" states the BBC.

NL Daily confirms that "Three new players who have joined up with UniBond League Premier Division club Whitby Town for pre-season training are being given trials ahead of the new season.. New boss Lee Nogan is taking a look at left back Sean Davies, who he knows from his days at York City. Davies also played for Cambridge United in the Nationwide Conference National last season".

"Billy McEwan has added another talented player to his growing squad for the new season" reports the York City website. "The latest addition to the squad is 20 year old local boy Ross Greenwood. York born Ross has previously had spells with Sheffield Wednesday & Stockport County... The versatile youngster can play at Right Back, Right Midfield or as a holding Midfield player".

THIS WEEK

Right: New striker Peter Thomson on his Alty debut at Cammell Laird. For more on the match, see yesterday's news, below...

Alty have three more friendlies this week:

Details of all these matches are on the Friendlies Page.

Our next opponents, Kidsgrove Athletic who, like other recent opponents Woodley Sports and Cammell Laird, play in the UniBond First Division, have recently signed former Alty and Marine defender Neil Murphy as well as ex-Leigh RMI player Andy Scott. In their previous pre-season games, Kidsgrove have drawn 2-2 at home to Northwich Vics and 1-1 with Hyde United.

SEVEN PUNISHMENTS

OLD BOYS

Kevin Ellison is named in Nuneaton player Gez Murphy's "Dream Team" in the NL Paper. Gez says, "I played against Kevin when he was at Altrincham and it was clear he had a great left foot. He could cut inside and crack a shot in and beat you for pace on the outside".

Striker Josh Mitten is currently a trialist at Barrow; he took part in a recent match against Gretna.

CONFERENCE NEWS

New Stevenage boss Mark Stimson has spoken to the NL Paper about the Conference title, saying that "There are about 12 teams in all that can win it... I see Morecambe and Halifax as strong sides. Grays.. .should be up there... and Burton Albion finished well... You've got Weymouth, who are financially well-backed. Exeter and Aldershot as well and there's always Rushden & Diamonds and Oxford, who've come down... I don't see anyone running away with it". Stimson added that in the Conference, "The long ball [game] is not the way to go anymore. It used to be the way because the pitches were so bad".

Woking's Ian Selley is reportedly sidelined for six months after snapping his Achilles tendon on an exercise bike last Friday. But Cambridge United's Andy Duncan is starting training after a heel operation. Exeter City have released Jefferson Louis after trials and Northwich have allowed goalkeeper Kris Rogers to leave . "It was a bit of a shock when I found out while on holiday" said the Cardifff-based keeper.

The Football Conference reports that "Kidderminster Harriers' veteran striker Bob Taylor believes the club can do good things when the new season gets underway. Taylor, now 39 years of age, is on trial at Harriers and... has played in the Conference with Tamworth".

Stevenage Borough "have awarded a 2 year contract to 18 year old striker Hector Mackie. The young forward trialed at West Brom, Reading and Spurs last year... A club spokesperson said "Mark Stimson is well known for giving young players an opportunity. Hector has pace, strength and determination and is keen to carve out a career as a professional footballer'".

CAMMELL LAIRD 2 ALTRINCHAM 1

Right: Joe O'Neill and, behind him, Peter Thomson, Alty's strike pairing at Cammell Laird.

Match report here

CONFERENCE NEWS

"Halifax Town face Oldham Athletic in a behind closed doors friendly on Saturday... The players have been back in training for a fortnight and will play a maximum of 45 minutes each, with several triallists hoping to make their mark. New Zealand international striker Shane Smeltz, with AFC Wimbledon last seasaon, and centre back Chris Clarke will both be included in the squad. Both players have been with the Shaymen since the start of pre-season training. Alan Russell, a 25-year-old striker who has had League experience with Macclesfield Town and Mansfield Town, will also get a game, as will Lee Thompson. He is a 24-year-old winger who has had spells with Kidderminster Harriers and Boston United". Manager Chris Wilder added, "During the off season all the players were given their own programmes to follow. They all met their targets with some going beyond them", reports the Halifax Courier.

"A player with European Cup experience is among the triallists trying to impress Mark Yates at Kidderminster Harriers... Yates is looking at a string of young players alongside attacking right back Martin Naylor, 28, released in the summer after four seasons with one of the Welsh Premier's top clubs, TNS... He has previous Conference National experience with Telford United in the 1999/00 season and featured in a handful of matches for Shrewsbury Town... Winger Brian Smikle, 20, who has had spells on loan at Hereford United and Halifax Town, is also likely to feature following his release, ironically, by Albion. Also on trial at Aggborough are ex-Aston Villa youngster Ashley Edkins, 19, a right back who played a single game for Boston United last season, and former Wolves midfielder Jordan Fitzpatrick. Stuart Sinclair, 18, released by Luton Town, and last season's Harriers youth teamers, centre half Ashley Walker and striker Scott Eaton, join them". Yates said, "We've got a number of young pros that have been released by league clubs who we're having a good look at. "They've come in, worked hard with the rest of the squad and they've got a good spirit about them" according to This is Worcester.

The Football Conference confirms that "Fisher Athletic have clinched the signature of defender Matt Hocking on a free transfer from Stevenage Borough".

Southport report from their game with a Crewe side that ex-Alty man "James Olsen put the Port ahead mid way through the second half. Richie Sutton powered in a fine header to equalise 7 minutes from time. Paul Cook certainly saw plenty of encouraging signs as he puts his new look squad together".

CAMMELL LAIRD 2 ALTRINCHAM 1

BEHIND THE SCENES

In a repeat of a step taken last season, "young striker Kieran Lugsden is due to turn out for Radcliffe Borough in their friendly against FC United on Saturday.Lugsden will join up with Radcliffe in order to get some match practice under his belt - an agreement which may be continued into the forthcoming season". Kieran played one match for Boro under a similar arrangement last season but was injured in the process.

YOUNG STARS

PLAYER SPONSORSHIP

MAD DOG JOINS LEIGH

All at Alty wish Mark well at his new club.

JOHN REMEMBERED

FRIENDLIES TO COME

Postings on the Marine Forum suggest that Alty's game at Marine on 29 July may be in doubt. A posting says, "We have had new drains put down at both sides of the pitch and despite the fact that some of us have been down with watering cans to enhance the sprinklers I think it will be several weeks before the grass comes through. We are not the only ones with these sort of problems as the hot weather has played havoc with pitches throughout the country". Another writer adds, "I asked Chairman Paul the exact same question on Tuesday night before the quiz & he assured me the club are doing everything within their power to make sure the game will be played. I'm sure all will be revealed at Monday night's AGM". Last Monday Marine announced - "It is with extreme disappointment that we have today advised Tranmere that our pitch will not be ready for the game a week on Saturday (22nd July)".

CONFERENCE NEWS

And there is confirmation of another new face at Southport from Hucknall Town, "Hugh McAuley has gone to Southport and Lee Morris is believed to be joining Stalybridge Celtic". IC Southport adds that Southport boss Paul Cook "gave a number of his younger hopefuls a trial at Chorley on Tuesday night with several impressing. Cook and coaches John Durnin and Mike Marsh now have to whittle down the bumper squad of ex-Football League apprentices. On Tuesday night Southport beat Chorley 4-0. Scorers were Aaron McConville, Paul Hart, Steve Daly and Dan Bromilow... The midfield is looking like the first element to come to shape with potential quality in new signing Mark Boyd, plus Carl Baker, Liam Blakeman, Michael Powell and Robbie Booth".

Our first league opponents in August, Stevenage Borough, have completed a double signing. Striker Tony Thorpe joins from Colchester United and winger Craig Dobson joins from Cambridge City. Both join Boro on two-year contracts... Former Luton man Thorpe (pictured), 32 was the subject of a £1m move to Bristol City and an £800,000 move to Fulham.... Dobson is a 22-year-old pacy right sided winger who won the Nike UK Free Skills competition five years ago and has played his recent football at Lewes and Cambridge City after appearing briefly for Barnet. Boro agreed a small four-figure fee with Cambridge for his transfer".

"Cambridge United defender Michael Morrison has the chance of joining Chelsea after going on trial with the Premiership giants", says the Football Conference. Morrison has had trials recently with Watford and Newcastle United. But Cambridge boss Rob Newman [said]... 'He's a Cambridge player and he appreciates that, so after this spell at Chelsea he'll concentrate on being here'".

The BBC states that "Crewe have handed a one-year contract to triallist Darren Kempson... Defender, 22-year-old Kempson, joins the club from non-league side Morecambe".

Bullsnews reports that "Kidderminster Harriers have give one time Bulls loanee Brian Smikle a chance to shine at Aggborough.The former West Brom player, released in May, was part of the Halifax squad to make the play-off final in May after tasting Conference action with the Bulls the year before. Smikle [recently] played the second half as Kidderminster defeated Gloucester City 5-1, scoring the fourth".

Bullsnews also has an insight into the world of League Two, to which Conference clubs aspire. Boston manager Steve Evans is quoted as saying, "I know of at least 11 clubs in League Two that have a playing budget of around £1.5 million. When you look at Darlington's (£250,000) offer for the boy Bridges, it really does show what the likes of Boston United are up against. We have a team budget of £575,000 and out of that, we pay our travel and any accommodation costs we may have over the season. I accept that we are one of the smallest clubs in League Two, if not the smallest". Bullsnews adds that promoted Hereford United's "budget for this season is estimated... to be around £750,000".

SEASON TICKETS

WORK AND PLAY

COMING UP

"Former British Universities' goalkeeper Tim Mullock is contemplating a comeback with Kidsgrove Athletic. The 26-year-old, who took part in the 2002 World Student Games in Japan, has played little football for 18 months, but turned out for Kidsgrove in their 2-2 friendly draw against Nationwide Conference National outfit Northwich Victoria on Monday. He said: 'I've been concentrating on my tiling business, so I'm feeling my way back into football. I have not done much training and I've not signed for anyone... But I really enjoyed the Northwich game and was impressed with the Kidsgrove squad'... Mullock completed two league and cup doubles with Hyde United after a previous spell with Kidsgrove four years ago. He said: 'Kidsgrove is a completely different club from when I was there before. They have some good lads and I can see them as a team to watch'. Kidsgrove had attracted goalkeeper Tony McMillan from Lancaster City, but he has now joined Rossendale United. Joint-manager Paul Ogden said: 'We are trying to whet Tim Mullock's appetite. He is not on trial with us - we are on trial with him', rpeortd This is Staffs.

CONFERENCE NEWS

NL Daily confirms that "Forest Green Rovers have secured the services of Wycombe Wanderers` striker Charlie Griffin on a twelve-month loan deal. The Bath-born forward returns to The Lawn after previously enjoying a season-long spell with Rovers between April 2004 and May 2005".

Elsewhere NL Daily reports that Mossley have suffered a setback in the build up to the UniBond League Premier Division campaign. Captain and central defender Danny Meadowcroft has moved to Morecambe. Meadowcroft initially joined Mossley at the age of 17 in a loan deal from Stockport County, where he was a trainee... [and then] spent almost two years at Seel Park".

The Football Conference says that "Grays Athletic have shocked their supporters with news that teenage sensation Gary Hooper has been released. The 18-year-old came to prominence last season, scoring eight goals in 16 starts from the midfield but this was not enough to convince manager Mark Stimson [actually Stimson is now manager of Stevenage!] to retain his services... He is currently on trial at Barnet... Grays turned down a transfer bid from Championship side Reading last season but in a complete turnaround he has been released on a free transfer". But Grays Athletic have confirmed he signing of Lee Boylan, from troubled Canvey Island; he has signed a one-year contract.

The BBC states that "Portsmouth have appointed veteran defender Paul Groves from Stafford Rangers as their reserve-team coach. Groves, 40, helped Stafford win the Conference North title last season after spells with York and Scunthorpe".

Also in the Midlands, "Tamworth are set to winger John McGrath... after a spell with Weymouth last season. The 26-year-old has also had previous stints at Doncaster and Kidderminster after beginning his footballing career with Aston Villa. Tamworth manager Mark Cooper has also snapped up 22-year-old striker Steve Burton, following his departure from Crawley Town".

CONFERENCE NEWS

"Blyth Spartans' hopes of making an impact in their first Nationwide Conference North campaign could receive a blow from former Newcastle United boss Jim Smith. The `Bald Eagle`, back where his career began at Oxford United, has swooped to take Blyth's top scorer Robbie Dale on a month's trial. And the offer of a contract for the 6ft 6in striker would complete a meteoric rise for the 22-year-old, who only joined Blyth from Arngrove Northern League Second Division club Ryton last season... He has scored 33 goals in 56 appearances since moving to Croft Park... Dale said: 'Oxford will be full-time in the Conference and, hopefully, I'll do enough to earn a contract. It's been quite easy so far.. It'll be up to Jim Smith whether he wants me in the squad. He's a man of few words, but when he does speak everyone listens'.. Blyth chairman Tom Hedley said: 'I don't think Dale will sign for a club outside the Football League, but if he did go we'd be looking for a five-figure fee after the season he had at Blyth'" reports IC Newcastle.

"Swindon Town's youth team manager Ian Woan is set to leave The County Ground to take up a first-team coaching role at Rushden & Diamonds... where he teams up with ex-Forest manager Paul Hart and coach Ian Bowyer, on Thursday" says NL Daily.

York City confirm that "Three players have signed contracts with the Minstermen [recently] for next season in a very busy day at Kit Kat Crescent. Mark Convery, Neil Bishop & Nathan Peat have all put pen to paper to become Billy McEwan's latest signings... All three players were regulars for City last season and have been back in training since the end of June".

At Woking manager "Glenn Cockerill... has been in talks with Charlie Griffin from Wycombe Wanderers and had come to an agreement with the player over a move to Woking. Glenn confirmed that the talks had gone smoothly and that the deal was firmly in place with both Wycombe and the player, and as far as all parties were concerned, he would be playing for the Cards for the 2006/07 season. However, Griffin asked for an extra day before putting pen to paper and, in what Glenn feels is a 'shock move', he did a sudden u-turn on the deal and has now signed for Forest Green Rovers. Griffin's unexpected change of heart is likely to be a result of location, since he lives close to Forest Green.... The Woking Manager went on to say that despite this setback, both he and his assistant Matt Crossley will continue to work hard to find the right players that they want to join the Woking squad".

Meanwhile "Forest Green manager Gary Owers feels the club's facilities have played a major part in him recruiting seven new players for the forthcoming season. The Lawn was demolished over the summer and a new stadium has been built. Owers told BBC Radio Gloucestershire 'Last season we didn't have the best stadium in the league, some people were hesitant about coming here but there are no problems there this year'".

In a recent friendly, Stafford Rangers "gained a draw at Rocester with a late equaliser from substitute Dave Walker. That goal, scored in the 82nd minute after good work by Jamie Phoenix, cancelled out a penalty scored 12 minutes after the restart by Rocester's Chris Rowley. Starting line-up: Williams, Rowling, Talbott, McAughtrie, Daniel, Lovatt, Downes, Street, Grayson, Murray, R. Gibson.". Phoenix was briefly at Altrincham player a couple of seasons ago.

The Argus reports that Crawley manager "John Hollins has named an impressive line-up for Crawley's pre-season opener, dismissing fears that the crisis-club would be unable to raise a side... Hollins has revealed a strong side made up of those who have remained - Danny Brown, Dave Woozley, Tony Scully, Lee Blackburn and Ben Judge - plus players recently released by other clubs. Former Manchester City, Birmingham and Portsmouth defender Scott Hiley is the most high profile. The 37-year-old has been released by Exeter and will play alongside another former Grecian Jake Edwards. Striker Ben Strevens, who played for Barnet in League Two last season, is due to turn out as well as former Southend and Oxford forward Mark Rawle. Crawley cannot sign any new players until after administrator Rob Sadler meets with the club's creditors on July 25. They must have at least 11 players registered by July 28 or face heavy punishment by the Conference. Hollins... said: 'I have been calling in a few favours and using my contacts and these are just some of the names we have got at the moment. We can't keep any of them until the administrator has sorted things out and we know that if somebody sees them do well against Millwall they will take them but that is the way it is... There will be more to come if things sort themselves out. We could have a couple of crackers but we will have to see what happens'. Hollins is hoping the line-up will stop fans boycotting the game. The Supporters' Trust have urged people to protest outside the Broadfield Stadium in a bid to force owners Chas and Azwar Majeed to leave"

BANGOR GAME OFF

FRIENDLY FOES

On Saturday (15th) Alty are away at Cammell Laird who report that "In the last few days [they] have scooped two major signings in their quest for Unibond League success... Ex-Blackburn Rovers defender Michael Cole has signed from neighbours Skelmersdale United for an undisclosed fee. Michael has a reputation for pinpoint accuracy in his passing and set piece play. The other signing, again from Skelmersdale United is Ex Preston North End and Morecambe midfielder Tony Hallam. Strong in the air and a skillful tackler Tony will be a welcome addition to the Lairds' squad. Lairds' assistant manager Paul Conboy in a statement said; "Our squad is pretty much unchanged from the one that did so well last season and the addition of Michael and Tony will enhance our chances of maintaining our rise up the football pyramid". Also, "Cammell Lairds are pleased to announce that prolific scorer Ronnie 'Rocket' Morgan has signed an extension to his contract.. Ronnie, top scorer in the last two championship winning seasons, has amassed an incredible 147 goals in the last three seasons and hopes to take that form into the Unibond League... A club statement said; 'We know that several league clubs have had their eye on Ronnie for a while now, we regard it as a bit of a coup to be able to hold on to Ronnie in the face of that competition'". Pictured left is Aaron Wilford, then a trialist with Altrincham, who scored the only goal of the pre-season match against Lairds on 19th July 2005.

OLD BOYS

The BBC reports that "Wrexham boss Denis Smith has three more players on trial at the Racecourse Ground... [One of whom is] released Crewe striker Kyle Wilson", who played 4(+2) games for Alty last season on loan from Crewe Alexandra.

CONFERENCE NEWS

The Football Conference says that "Mark Cooper, manager of Tamworth FC, will be running the rule over veteran Carl Muggleton as he looks to add a goalkeeper to his squad. The 37-year-old stopper started his career with Leicester City as an apprentice and has gone on to play for 15 different clubs... Cooper is looking for a new goalkeeper following Scott Bevan's switch to Kidderminster Harriers recently".

But "Stevenage have dismissed rumours that Crystal Palace are keen to sign midfielder George Boyd, who has also been linked with Leeds... Boss Mark Stimson said: 'That is the first I have heard of it, although there could have been some interest in George last season, before I took over... George has the ability to play at a higher level, but we are desperate not to lose him, because he is a phenomenal talent'".

"The Crawley Town FC supporters' group who call themselves 'Devils' Trust', are preparing a £100,000 bid as they look to take control of Broadfield Stadium. The Majeed brothers, who are the current owners, are close to steering the club out of administration but the supporters group feel that intervention is needed to get the club back on track. The Trust has received big-money pledges and could link up with former Bishops Stortford owner John Goodwin, who staked a claim to buy the Sussex outfit back in March. 'Everyone who has and understanding of the current situation will be aware that there is no real future under the present ownership', a Trust spokesman said".

The unofficial Shaymen website says that "Chris Wilder made one of the most important signings of the summer on Tuesday when Assistant Wayne Jacobs put pen to paper on a new 2-year deal. The former Bradford City defender joined the Shaymen last summer after Sean McAuley shocked the club by quitting... The manager is obviously keen on continuity with Lee Butler also agreeing a new deal. Butler is now in his third spell at The Shay and the popular goalkeeper will continue in his dual role of goalkeeper coach and back up to the first choice shot stopper. He also plays a vital role in the dressing room with squad morale".

a href="http://bullsnews.blogspot.com">Hereford Bulls News confirms that "The FA Cup prize money on offer this season has risen in the early rounds for the first time in three years. £16,000 will now be on offer to First Round winners, and £24,000 to Second Round winners, up from £12,500 and £18,000 respectively. 687 teams have entered this season's cup".

PLAYER SPONSORSHIP 2006-07

Meanwhile don't forget that you can bid for last season's shirt of Altrincham first team players, in an auction arranged by Grahame Rowley. Bids start at £50.

FRIENDLIES

CHEERLEADERS

LOCAL NEWS

CONFERENCE NEWS

The BBC reports that "Defender Michael Morrison has returned to Cambridge United after Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder opted not to pursue his interest in the 18-year-old. Morrison spent ten days training with Newcastle but was not offered a deal. 'Glenn said they don't think he's quite ready and it would be too big a gamble for them at the moment', Cambridge boss Rob Newman told the club's website. 'He's back with us and he's been invited to another Premiership club on trial, which is testament to the lad'".

Tamworth report that "Mark Cooper's squad is taking shape and below is a list of signed players and current trialists...

NEW CLUB SECRETARY

POSTS AT MOSS LANE

Please contact the club offices (928-1045) as soon as possible if you are interested in either of these positions.

COMPETITION WINNERS

Completing a Robins' Shop double is Jenny Heslop, manageress of the shop, who won the Altrincham FC Bonus Ball rollover prize of £50 when Saturday's National Lottery produced number thirteen as the bonus ball.

For more on all of Altrincham FC's fundraising competitions and ventures, please click here. By taking part you not only stand a chance to win prizes but also helping the club.

STUART, THE WANDERER

BIG BEN STRIKES 18

CONFERENCE NEWS

NL Daily reports that "Fleetwood Town have announced the signing of Lee Dodgson from neighbours Morecambe".

The Football Conference says that "Chester City have completed a raid on Exeter City to snatch midfielder Glenn Cronin from the Nationwide Conference National side. Former Ireland Under-18 player Cronin, 24, progressed via the youth ranks at Exeter and now signs on a two-year deal at the Deva Stadium. Cronin was sidelined with a knee injury during the 2004/05 season, but on his return to action last term he claimed the Exeter player of the year award".

"Canvey Island striker Lee Boylan admits he still has dreams of playing in the Football League despite the red tape prolonging his stay at Park Lane. Boylan has been linked with a number of Conference clubs since the Gulls' end of season demise and has revealed he is in talks with 'at least one' League side. Boylan told The NLP: 'I'm still under contract with Canvey and I'm in the process of finalising things there. That's the problem at the moment. I can't take my conversations with any other club any further because I've got to wait and see what happens with my forms. It's frustrating because I really don't know what's going to happen or how long it,s going to take".

"Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries are delighted to announce a 2 year shirt sponsorship agreement with Northwich Victoria. Marston Smooth, the official beer of the Nationwide Conference will take pride of place on the shirts of the newly promoted Champions. We believe this will be a fantastic partnership with Marstons, a National name, proud heritage and excellent quality, working with a club with the same characteristics. The club has show a huge desire and passion to succeed, and the substantial investment they have put into the new ground development to make it one of the best stadiums in the league, is testimony to that" said Phil Barnett, Sales Director for WDB Brands".

Burton Albion's pitch, which had drainage problems last season, has been relaid and, reportedly, it came through Saturday's friendly against Birmingham City well. Meanwhile, Forest Green's new stadium is set to be inaugurated next week and there is also a possibility that Bristol Rovers may play there in 2007-08 as they seek a ground whilst their own stadium is refurbished.

WORLD CUP AT MOSS LANE

OPENING GAME

The Herts-Essex News quotes Stevenage boss Mark Stimson: "It will be a very difficult league with a lot of big games against tough teams. We're not looking any further forward than winning our first game against Altrincham. You can only win three points from any one game so they are all just as important. The only thing we're concerned with is being ready to handle anything thrown at us on the opening day". Borough's first pre-season game is on Tuesday against Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, "Stimson is still looking to add a right winger and a centre forward to the squad, and may take a closer look at several trialists in forthcoming friendlies. He added: 'The pre-season games will help build the players' fitness and understanding of what I want from them, which is to enjoy the ball when they've got it and work extremely hard when they haven't'".

BONUS BALL

OLD BOYS

NW NEWS

CONFERENCE NEWS

FromThis is Exeter we learn that "Former Exeter City duo Scott Hiley and Jake Edwards have both spent a week attempting to relaunch their Conference careers with Crawley Town. But the experienced pair have been left in limbo following their week in West Sussex as the Red Devils can't sign any players because of their ongoing off-field woes. Crawley manager John Hollins invited right-back Hiley and striker Edwards to join a handful of trialists and the seven remaining contracted players - including ex-Grecian Tony Scully - at the club's first week of pre-season training". Hollins admitted "Scott and Jake both came up for a week but they have gone again now. It's like everything else for me at the moment, I've just got to wait and see what happens with the club... But we can't sign anybody or pay anybody. I'm having to take things day-by-day and just try to operate as a normal football club... Meanwhile, dialogue between Exeter City and Tottenham Hotspur in regard to compensation for Alex Inglethorpe is ongoing".

The Football Conference says that "Former Gills' skipper Chris Hope, who was released at the end of last season, has put pen to paper on a two year deal with Rushden and Diamonds.The 33-year-old spent six seasons at Priestfield and made over 250 appearances for the Gills scoring 15 goals. He was an ever present under Andy Hessenthaler when he was a rock in the back four". Hart said, "He is a gutsy battler who shows great leadership".

This is York reports that "Bryan Stewart has made it clear that he is still pursuing a career in professional football despite turning down a contract for next season at York City. The 19-year-old winger is currently training with Stalybridge Celtic and is on the lookout for another club after leaving KitKat Crescent. Stewart, who signed first-year professional terms last summer, rejected a new deal with City after the club refused to give him a pay rise but he has corrected comments made by youth development director Steve Beck in a press release that he is now seeking a profession outside of football. He said: 'The club offered me the same terms as last season. I asked for a rise and they have said they could not afford to do that. The money I am being offered makes it hard for me to live on so I asked for my release papers but I never said I was looking for a new career and I still want to be a professional footballer'".

IC Southport says that "boss Paul Cook has made a pre-season plea for the club's fans to be patient as he radically rebuilds the Southport squad... The words from Cook are cautionary: 'We are all building for that first game of the season at home to Woking. That is what it is all about. We will be ready then. Results in pre-season are not the priority'... The club's full-time squad will be virtually all changed and the highly experienced coach is not prepared to rush and regret as he needs real quality in a squad that, according to the new Haig Avenue supremo, will be a competitive force in the Nationwide Conference. Cook added: 'The training has gone very well so far. A number of lads have come in and I will be assessing them in the next couple of weeks'.

A Tamworth fan on the Conference Forum gives an interesting review on the Conference clubs' grounds. These include:

Unconfirmed admission prices at other Conference grounds this season include:

RESERVES PREPARE

YOUTHS DRAWN AT HOME

CONFERENCE NEWS

"Aldershot Town have completed the signing of defender Rhys Day. The 23-year-old Welsh centre-back moves from Mansfield Town, where he was one of eight players released... Day began his career at Mancehster City... He joined Mansfield in 2003 after an initial loan spell, and made over 100 league appearances for the Stags".

"Cambridge United are poised to sign former Rochdale full-back Tommy Jaszczun, subject to a medical. The 28-year-old played 16 times on loan for the U's last season, and recently had the last year of his Dale contract terminated by mutual consent. 'He did well for us last season, so I'm hopeful we will have him on board', boss Rob Newman told the club website".

. "Rushden & Diamonds have appointed Tony Godden as their full-time goalkeeping coach... The 50-year-old enjoyed a prolific playing career, including spells at West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham City and Chelsea".

The BBC also reports that "Stafford Rangers' manager Phil Robinson hopes the winning habit will help his side gain a foothold in the Conference. Stafford are preparing for their first season at the highest level of non-league for 11 years". The boss said, "We have retained the players we wanted to. We have got the bulk of last season's squad", he told BBC Sport. "These players proved in the FA Trophy last season that we could compete against teams in the Conference. The players have got a good spirit and desire and hopefully we will take a winning mentality into next season. We beat Forest Green and Morecambe and drew with Woking, although we are aware that playing relentlessly against Conference opposition is a different proposition. We are under no illusions that it's going to be a difficult first season for us... I look at it as the Premiership being out on its own and then four divisions and the Conference is the fourth division. It has moved on incredibly since Stafford Rangers were in it before - I speak to other managers and I'm amazed how far the Conference has come. I'm proud that Stafford are now going to be playing at that level... Season-ticket sales have doubled and there is a big buzz around town". However, like Altrincham and St Alban's City, "Stafford will remain as one of the league's few part-time clubs. 'We know we will be up against it doing it that way. But it has to be evolution rather than revolution', Robinson added. 'If we maintain our status at this level then hopefully that (full-time) is the way we are going to go'".

NL Daily says that "Experienced defender Chris Hope is due to become Rushden & Diamonds' fifth summer signing. The 33-year-old centre half... is set to sign on a free transfer at Nene Park after being released by Gillingham... Hope has agreed a deal with Diamonds to join fellow new boys Leo Fortune-West, Glenn Wilson, Paul Watson and Jon Ashton. However, Hart is still hoping to bring in another midfielder and probably a striker as John Turner is set to leave... Utility man Ashley Nicholls has also left... Hart has brought in four trialists – Gresley Rovers hitman Aaron O'Connor, former Scunthorpe and Barrow striker Michael Rankine, ex-Nottingham Forest midfielder Andrew Rigby and Welsh under-21 international goalkeeper Kyle Letheran".

York City "midfielder, Emmanual Panther, has signed a new contract with the Club. The Glasgow born, 22 year old, joined the Minstermen last summer and... striker Clayton Donaldson has put pen to paper", too.

Tamworth report that "A decision has been taken by Tamworth Football Club to cancel the benefit match which had been planned for Saturday July 29 at The Lamb. Various factors have been taken into account and while the surprise news that Scott Bevan had signed for Kidderminster had a bearing, it is certainly not the sole reason for not going ahead with the game. Changes in the goalkeeper's personal circumstances plus the need to prioritise accordingly in Tamworth FC's pre-season schedule came into the equation. Local reaction and feedback regarding Bevan joining Harriers has certainly dampened enthusiasm for the benefit match which would have featured celebrities of sport and TV. A club statement said: 'The manager and officials have made no secret of their surprise and disappointment to learn that Bevan had signed elsewhere, especially after the way this club stood by him. Although Mark Cooper was aware of Kidderminster's interest, he and his assistant made it clear to Scott that should he decide to continue playing and prove his fitness, they would have been keen to sign him. The benefit match was suggested when Scott's future was uncertain but now he has signed a full time contract and will make his livelihood as a professional footballer. A large number of items were donated by many clubs to help the planned benefit game, these items will still be raffled and all monies raised will be donated to Kidney Research. Some people may be critical of the cancellation decision but we stress it was not to be a charity match. If anyone wishes to challenge this constructively and in writing, their points will be answered".

This Is United confirms that "Oxford United are back on live TV – but they're not going to make a fortune out of it. Their game at Crawley Town has been chosen by Sky TV for live coverage... But United, who received £100,000 when their FA Cup second-round tie against Swindon Town was screened by the BBC in December 2002, are not expecting to make more than £5,000 from their screen test this time. The Conference receives a set sum from Sky TV, who show 13 live games through the season – including the play-off semi-finals and final – and then distribute this to all the clubs in the league. John Moules, chief executive of the Conference, said: 'Last season when matches were on Sky, the home team got £5,000 and the away team received £3,000. But we do have, in addition to this, an amount which we put into a pool from the TV contract, and clubs also receive a payment from that. This is obviously so that every club receives some benefit from the TV contract, even if they're not chosen for a live game. It's the first game chosen by Sky – they always select one of the relegated clubs to feature in the first live match. Last year they chose Cambridge United, and this year it's Oxford United'... Meanwhile, Moules said the dates for the Conference play-offs have yet to be finalised because of a scheduling clash with the FA Cup final and FA Trophy final. At the moment, the Conference play-off semi-finals are scheduled for Tuesday, May 1 and Saturday, May 5, with the final on May 19 or May 20. But the FA Cup final is on May 19 and the FA Trophy final on May 20".

TUNE IN

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GRAHAM'S PLANS

CONFERENCE NEWS

"Rushden & Diamonds have handed one-year professional contracts to two of their youth products, both of whom made their first-team debuts last season. Midfielders Daniel Grainger and Tom Shaw, both 19, have both penned one-year contracts at Nene Park".

The NL Daily reports that "Leroy Rosenior, manager of Brentford, has completed the capture of Dagenham & Redbridge striker Chris Moore. The 26-year-old front man turned down a new deal with the Daggers at the end of last season".

"Sammy McIlroy, manager of Morecambe, has added midfielders Adriano Rigoglioso and Fraser McLachlan to his squad on a permanent basis. The pair joined the Shrimps on loan last season... Rigoglioso, 27, started a second spell at Christie Park in March after being released by Doncaster Rovers. McLachlan, 23, joined from Mansfield Town at about the same time".

"Nigel Clough, manager of Burton Albion, is ready to widen his search for new talent after finally missing out on Tom Curtis. The Chester City midfielder has ended two months of uncertainty by signing a 12-month deal with Notts County... The Brewers boss now plans to run the rule over Justin Walker, another midfielder released by Chester, and former Boston United man Lee Thompson. Walker, 30, began his career as a trainee with Nottingham Forest and has also had spells with Scunthorpe, Lincoln, Exeter and Cambridge United. Thompson, 24, is looking for a new club after being freed by Kidderminster Harriers. And Clough is also hoping to make contact with Lewis McMahon, a 21-year-old midfielder released by Notts County... Burton-born Danny Holmes is also training with the Brewers. The 19-year-old — a 6ft defender — has been released by Port Vale", says the Burton Mail.

"Newcastle United have handed Cambridge United defender Michael Morrison a chance to impress on trial", says the Football Conference. "The 18-year-old has been at Tyneside for the past week... The young centre-half was the youngest-ever player for the U's reserves when got a run-out as a 15-year-old schoolboy".

York City confirm that "Bryan Stewart has left York City by mutual consent. The left-sided midfielder was offered a new contract by Manager, Billy McEwan, but has instead decided to pursue a career outside football". But, "Byron Webster has today signed his first professional contract with York City... The 19 year old midfielder is a product of City’s youth development scheme and featured in the Minstermen’s first team line-up last season".

Weymouth say that "The Terras today completed the signing of Marcus Richardson from Chester City. The centre forward... had previously played for Yeovil Town , Rochdale, Lincoln City, Hartlepool Utd , Torquay Utd, Cambridge Utd and Harrow Borough".

This Is United reports that "Jim Smith declared himself 'very happy' with his new-look Oxford United squad as they got together... to watch as 21 professionals were put through their paces by coaches Andy Awford and Shaun North, and fitness coach Jordan Milsom. Among them were new signings Phil Gilchrist, Carl Pettefer, Eddie dhiambo-Anaclet, Gavin Johnson and Eddie Hutchinson, who only agreed a deal that morning after rejecting Swindon Town. Chris Tardif, Billy Turley and Barry Quinn were also present, having agreed new deals to stay with the club". Smith explained that "We put down a list of names at the start of the summer that we wanted to fill various positions, and we have had a 95 per cent success rate in attracting them to Oxford... We have got 21 professionals training, three of which are on trial so the squad is not the biggest, but there's quality there. I am very, very happy with the new faces... We wanted people who can adapt to this league – you have got to be aggressive and hard-working, as well as being skilful. We have probably got nine or ten players still here from last season, and that's good. I wasn't too unhappy with what I inherited, but there were some big problems. We couldn't score a goal for love nor money so we'll put that right. The defence wasn't too bad, but I didn't feel the midfield was strong enough so we've improved that. It's a much better-looking squad now, and I think the right balance is there".

The Oxford official site confirms that "United's away game at Crawley Town will be shown live on Sky TV... and will now be played on Monday September 19". This is quite a surprising choice by Sky given that Crawley had only five of last year's squad turn up for training this week, have been docked ten points and are in financial trouble. But Sky's money will no doubt help them.

Oxford United supporter Terry Winter has kindly provided me with some useful information for our first ever visit to Oxford United , later this season. He confirms that the price on the matchday is £18 but the booking in advance can be made by away supporters at a price of £16 (for the North Stand of the all-seater stadium). The stadium capacity is 12,500 - all under cover. The ground will take 4500 away supporters and you can sit where you like. Parking is free around the stadium which is next door to the bowling alley, cinema and Frankie and Benny's restaurant. However, if travelling by car, do not park on grass verges along the road as the police will issue parking tickets. Matchday programmes are £2.50 and all areas of the stadium have access to food and drink outlets, with Sky Sports being televised showing football results as well as other sports. Apparently the Kassam stadium is not known as such by most United fans in protest against previous chairman Firoz Kassam who bought the club when it was in the Championship (then known as the First Division) and oversaw a decline in the club's fortunes. The full ticket price details are:

The ticket office phone number is: 01865 337533. No money is taken at the turnstiles as supporters have to go to the ticket office located at the front of the stadium to buy a ticket and then proceed to the relevant turnstile.

TERRY'S TALK

MOSS LANE

CONFERENCE NEWS

NL Daily says that "Aldershot Town have made an £8,000 bid for Wycombe Wanderers` striker Jonny Dixon as boss Terry Brown looks to piece together his new-look squad. The Shots chief contacted new Chairboys boss Steve Brown in the hope of forming a new three-pronged attack with Dixon leading the line with two other new boys — the experienced Marcus Gayle and Halifax Town hot shot John Grant. Dixon was on the verge of making a permanent move to The Rec in the summer after becoming a huge hit with Shots fans following two separate loan spells at the club. The deal broke down, however, in the wake of John Gorman's departure as manager and Dixon soon re-signed for Steve Brown at the Causeway... The Shots boss has revealed his intentions to unleash a new 4-3-3 formation on what he describes as 'the hardest Conference ever' this season... He said: 'We have to dig into the transfer kitty but Jonny Dixon wants to sign for us and that's the most important thing... I'm delighted with the calibre of signings we already have. John Grant is a proven scorer at this level, scoring 13 goals in a side that got to a play-off final and he even scored in that final. To nick Halifax's leading scorer is a major boost for us. Added to that, target men these days are like gold dust and after the disappointment of losing Jason Lee it says something about the ambition of the club to get someone of the calibre and pedigree of Marcus Gayle. When you've got Louie Soares and Ryan Williams on either flank you've got a decent strike force and it opens it up for me to get one more central midfield player... and we've been looking at centre halves from the Championship, League One and League Two. I'm confident we will get a decent, quality centre half in by the end of the week and another one the week after'".

"Assistant boss Paul Buckle has reiterated his commitment to Exeter City and... new boss Paul Tisdale. Buckle has been asked to remain in his current capacity.... [He said], 'I know all the players which will be a bonus, but Paul will be making up his own mind in the end and rightly so... I assume everyone will start with a clean sheet and be looked upon with fresh eyes'... Indeed, he was relieved that he was not asked for his thoughts during the interview process, adding: 'I wasn't consulted and I didn't want to be - I made that crystal clear. I didn't apply for the job and I didn't see it as my place to say something about the new manager'... Buckle was handed a two-year playing contract at the end of last season, meaning he is assured of a place in City's squad.... 'Paul could bring someone else in, I have realised that all along'... Buckle also revealed how he advised the board not to continue talks with the summer targets lined up by former boss Inglethorpe.... but Buckle felt that the new manager should be able to shape his own squad" reports This is Exeter.

The Football Conference. states that "Torquay United have completed the signing of midfielder Lee Mansell from Conference newcomers Oxford for an undisclosed fee... He can also play at right-back, and has agreed to sign a two-year deal at Plainmoor. The 23-year-old made 51 league and cup appearances for Oxford last season".

York City are holding an Open Day on Sunday 16th July 2006 from 10.30am - 3.30pm. "Admission is free of charge and York City players will be in attendance. Attractions Include: Bouncy Castles, Soccer Coaching, Tenpin Bowling, Food & Drink, Raffle & Tombola, Fire Engine, Face Painting, Hair Braiding, Team Mascots, Police Bicycle 'Tagging', Social Club Bar, Free Giveaways & Many other stalls. Fun for all the Family". A similar day is being organised when Alty visit on Bonfire Day.

Weymouth boss "Garry Hill declared himself a happy man as Weymouth's players began preparing for life in the Conference National yesterday. Last season's Conference South championship winning squad were joined by five of Hill's six summer signings... Tony James, Nick Crittenden, Richard Logan, Dean Howell and Simon Weatherstone linked up with their new team-mates for the first time... The only absentee was defender Ashley Vickers who joined Terras from Dagenham and Redbridge earlier this summer. The former Peterborough full-back works as a teacher and will link up with Hill's squad later this month". The boss said, "Full-time professionals are extremely dedicated these days and take more care of their bodies over the summer months than they used to... No longer do you have to spend the first couple of weeks of training having the players running in order to shed a few pounds... We've brought in Richard Logan (ex-Peterboro) this summer which I'm pleased about and we've got Wayne Purser back fit again now but I'm still looking to add another striker".

TWO MORE SIGN UP

CHANGES OF FIXTURE DATES

WOODLEY VIEW

SHIRTS FOR AUCTION

GETTING THERE

WORLD CUP AT MOSS LANE

83 PATRONS

SEASON TICKETS

CONFERENCE NEWS

This is United reports that "Jim Smith's squad is taking shape after the Oxford United manager signed three more players. One is vastly experienced, one a proven winner with successive promotions behind him, and one well-known as a former U's trainee. Former Ipswich Town defender Gavin Johnson is the best-known capture, and one who will, along with last week's signing, Phil Grilchrist, add vast experience to the defence. The 35-year-old helped Northampton to promotion last season, playing 24 times for the Cobblers... Joining him and the rest of the United players as they report back today to begin pre-season training – in typically scorching temperatures – are midfielder Carl Pettefer, who joins from Southend United, and 20-year-old Eddie Ancalet, who was a former trainee at Oxford, and used to be known as Eddie Odhiambo... Anaclet is returning to Oxford after four years with Southampton, and spells at Yeovil and Tamworth on loan last season. Smith said: 'I'm in talks with another midfield player, who will hopefully join us, and he's coming out of the First Division'. That player is believed to be Eddie Hutchinson, who was not offered a new contract by Brentford".

NL Daily states that "Paul Tisdale, the new manager of Exeter City, will cast his eye over three trialists this week... Former City defender Jon Richardson, ex-Stevenage Borough striker Jefferson Louis and centre back Patrick Ada will arrive at the Cat & Fiddle training ground as the squad returns to pre-season training... City's major priority is to recruit a defender to plug the gap left by Gary Sawyer, who has returned to Plymouth Argyle, and Santos Gaia, who last week signed for Stevenage. Richardson, who spent six years at St James's Park... has been at Forest Green Rovers for the past three seasons... And City will also run the rule over another centre back in the shape of former Barnet defender Patrick Ada", who was at St Alban's City last season... "With seven players heading through the St James's Park exit door - and only one arriving in the shape of Adam Stansfield - City are expected to be busy in the transfer market in the next few weeks. While a centre half is the main priority, the Grecians will also need to recruit a striker, a central midfield player and at least one winger" reports This is Exeter. and also "Following discussions between Paul Cook, the new manager of Southport and Tommy Lawson, boss of Skelmersdale United, it has been agreed to allow Carl Osman to join `Port for pre-season training. Midfielder Osman, the brother of Everton’s Leon, is currently under contract but Lawson said: 'Southport are going full time this season, and to deny Carl the chance of playing football at Conference level wouldn’t be fair to the lad" says NL Daily.

IT COULD HAVE BEEN YOU!

One of the new STAR initiatives, run by Paul Daine, is the Bonus Ball Bonanza and it started this Saturday. For just £1 per week each participant is allocated a number between 1 and 49 and if that number matches the Bonus Ball in the National Lottery each Saturday, you are the winner of £25. This Saturday the prize was not won as there were only 43 entries and the next number to be allocated was 15 – the Bonus Ball number this week. Thus if you had signed up before Saturday you would now be the proud winner of £25. There is now a roll-over for next week so don’t miss out on your chance again. Email Paul Daine or phone 929-3955 to join in the fun and help your club. Alternatively, call the club on 928-1045 and they will arrange for a number to be allocated to you. Good Luck!

ALLEZ LES BLEUS!

The website is not biased, but would just like to say, "Allez les Bleus!"

FRIENDLIES

A Runcorn Town press release confirms that "Nationwide Conference side Altrincham will be visiting Runcorn during pre-season with two games against West Cheshire League side Runcorn Town FC. The first game, on Tuesday 25th July, will see the visit of Altrincham's first team and will be a tough test for Town, with manager Tony Murphy busy building a squad that can challenge for promotion from West Cheshire League Division 2 next season. The following week, on Tuesday 1st August, the highly rated Altrincham Youth side will visit to play against the reserve team, who are now last season's cup winning youth team following a club restructure... Restructuring at Runcorn Town will mean... the youth team merging with the Reserve team to play West Cheshire Division 3 football next season... With no Sunday football being played, the club can work on getting the playing surface up to a higher standard, with the ground used far less than the 100+ matches that were played during the 2005/06 season".

FIXTURES

The blank Saturdays in Alty's league fixtures for 2006-07 are taken up by:

CONFERENCE NEWS

Cambridge United say that "Matt Bloomer has agreed terms... and is set to sign on Monday, subject to medical".

The boss of Gravesend, Liam Daish, "has recruited French defender Sacha Opinel to join his new look side for the start of the new Conference National season". Opinel played against us for Crawley Town last season.

The Football Conference says that "Colin Lippiatt, manager of Nationwide Conference newcomers St Albans, is set to run the rule over a number of trialists in the next few weeks. Lippiatt has already made a few summer signings but is not completely satisfied with his squad... Lippiatt told The NLP, 'We're short of one, maybe two players and we'll look at the trialists we've invited down to train with us - but we don't want to upset the balance too much'".

From Halifax Today we learn that "Centre-back Michael Taylor was expected to link up with Halifax Town when they returned to training after the summer break today. And the 23-year-old is believed to have been offered a 12-month deal as manager Chris Wilder looks for cover for Greg Young and Peter Atherton as they recover from summer surgery. Young is not expected to be available to train until next month having had a shoulder operation three weeks ago while Atherton has had a troublesome knee cleaned out... Liverpool-born Taylor started his career as a trainee with Blackburn Rovers and spent a spell on loan at Rochdale... He switched to Cheltenham Town in July 2004 and made 25 appearances for the Robins... Towards the end of last season Taylor was on loan at Forest Green... making 10 starts... Wilder is hoping to complete negotiations with his backroom staff - assistant manager Wayne Jacobs and coach Lee Butler - as soon as possible. The manager has already agreed an extension to his current contract.".

The Burton Mail states that "With the temperature expected to soar above the 30C mark, Nigel Clough vowed not to burn his men out. The Brewers' boss said: 'It is exceptionally hot at the moment, with high humidity, so we need to make sure the lads take plenty of water on board. But the hard work has got be done — it's just a question of getting the balance right because we don't want to kill anyone'. Albion will be joined this week by trialist striker Steve Scoffham and, unexpectedly, midfielder Tom Curtis. Only a week ago, Clough said he was no longer interested in signing 33-year-old Curtis because the Chester City player had stalled on making a decision on an offer made to him in May. Curtis, however, has asked if he can join the Brewers for training and Clough was in a more conciliatory mood today. He said: 'I'm not entirely sure what Tom's thinking is, but it could possibly mean a shift in his position'... Scoffham, who is 23 this week, is looking for a new club after being released by Notts County... Clough said: 'We're training twice a day for the first two weeks and Steve will hopefully be with us for all those sessions, as well as playing a few games so we can have a good look at him'".

CONFERENCE FIXTURES 2006-07

Right: The opening game of last season- at Stevenage Borough.

1. Sat 12.8.06: H Stevenage B
2. Tue 15.8.06 A Stafford R
3. Sat 19.8.06 A Exeter C
4. Sat 26.8.06 H St Albans C
5. Mon 28.8.06 A Gravesend
6. Sat 2.9.06 H Dagenham 1pm
7. Sat 9.9.06 A Rushden
8. Tue 12.9.06 H Halifax
9. Sat 16.9.06 H Woking
10. Tue 19.9.06 A Forest Green
11. Sat 23.9.06 H Tamworth
12. Sat 30.9.06 A Aldershot
13. Tue 3.10.06 A Cambridge U
14. Sat 7.10.06 H Weymouth 1pm
15. Tue 10.10.06 H Morecambe
16. Sat 14.10.06 A Oxford U
17. Sat 21.10.06 H Southport
18. Sat 4.11.06 A York C
19. Sat 18.11.06 H Crawley T
20. Sat 25.11.06 A Grays A
21. Sat 2.12.06 H Burton A
22. Sat 9.12.06 A Kidderminster H
23. Tue 26.12.06 H Northwich V
24. Sat 30.12.06 H Forest Green R
25. Mon 1.1.07 A Halifax T
26. Sat 6.1.07 H Rushden
27. Sat 20.1.07 A Woking
28. Tue 23.1.07 A Northwich V
29. Sat 27.1.07 H Kidderminster
30. Sat 3.2.07 A Southport
31. Sat 10.2.07 H York C
32. Sat 17.2.07 A Crawley T
33. Sat 24.2.07 H Grays
34. Sat 3.3.07 A Burton
35. Tue 6.3.07 H Cambridge U
36. Sat 10.3.07 A Weymouth
37. Tue 13.3.07 A Morecambe
38. Sat 17.3.07 H Oxford U
39. Sat 24.3.07 A Stevenage
40. Tue 27.3.07 H Stafford R
41. Sat 31.3.07 H Exeter
42. Sat 7.4.07 A St Alban's City
43. Mon 9.4.07 H Gravesend
44. Sat 14.4.07 A Dagenham
45. Sat 21.4.07 A Tamworth
46. Sat 28.4.07 H Aldershot T.

REVIEW OF THE SEASON

ALTRINCHAM FESTIVAL

CONFERENCE NEWS

The Aldershot Forum confirms that Aldershot Town have signed strikers Marcus Gayle from Brentford and John Grant from Halifax .

The BBC reports that "Rushden & Diamonds' boss Paul Hart will take a closer look at Gresley Rovers striker Aaron O'Connor this week. The 22-year-old... will spend a two-week trial period with Conference outfit Rushden. O'Connor has attracted attention after scoring 63 goals in 102 league appearances for Gresley".

"Notts County face a battle with four other clubs to sign ex-Brentford midfielder Eddie Hutchinson, according to Magpies' boss Steve Thompson. The 24-year-old left the Bees after he was not offered a new deal this summer. 'He has spoken to Port Vale, Barnsley and Huddersfield', Thompson told County's website. 'He doesn't really want to move away from London. Oxford have come in for him too'".

CHESHIRE NEWS

WOODLEY REPORT

NEW SIGNINGS

Steve had a spell with Altrincham last season when he was loaned to us as he recovered from a broken leg. In just 7 starts for Alty he made a great impression and Altrincham fans will be delighted to see him back again. A local lad, Steve has previously played with Alty's Colin Little. Steve (d.o.b. 28 December 1972, height 5ft 9in) made seven outings for Alty between his signing on loan on 24 November 2005 and his return to The Shay, where he once again figured in the Halifax first team. Steve's career record includes:

Like Steve, Justin Bowler played against Alty last season. A very fast wingman, (d.o.b. 26.6.1986), Justin joined Halifax last August from Leeds United, where he had been a trainee. He went on to make 5 Conference starts and 13 sub appearances for Halifax, two of which were against Alty. He also played in 2 FA Cup and 2 FA Trophy games for the Yorkshire club but was injured for part of the season.

WOODLEY GAME

WOODLEY SPORTS: 1. Liam HIGGINBOTHAM, 2. Dave SWANICK, 3. Russell HEADLEY, 4. Carlos MEAKIN, 5. Mark PHILLIPS, 6. Chris YOUNG (capt), 7. Mario DANIEL, 8. Chris CURLEY, 9. Danny QUEELEY, 10. Daniel DOUGLAS-PRINGLE, 11. Luke HORROCKS.

ALTRINCHAM (Pale blue shirts and socks, dark blue shorts.) 1. Craig ELLISON, 2. Stephen ROSE, 3. Richard GRESTY, 4. Karl MUNROE, 5. Peter BAND, 6. Steve BUSHELL, 7. Lewis CHALMERS, 8. Warren PEYTON, 9. Colin LITTLE, 10. Kieran LUGSDEN, 11. Jason BOWLER. Subs: 12. Ben DEEGAN, 14. Blake NORTON, 14. Laurence BALL, 15. Adie NEVINS, 16. Pat McFADDEN, 17. Astley MULHOLLAND, 18. MANNION, ?. Richard NORRIS

Those above who were not new signings or from last year's first team squad were: Richard Gresty (last season's Alty Youth captain and an English Colleges' player), Astley Mulholland and Ben Deegan from last year's Youth team; and Craig Ellison and Laurence Ball from Alty Reserves. Nevins and Mannion are trialists, Nevins being a former Manchester United youngster who emerged from local football and who later played under Alty reserves' manager neil brown at Fletcher Moss FC.

SUNDAY VOLUNTEERS PLEASE

CONFERENCE NEWS

WOODLEY SPORTS 3 ALTRINCHAM 1

FRIENDLY

CONFERENCE NEWS

The unofficial This Is United site reports that "Barry Quinn said he had 'unfinished business' at Oxford United, after agreeing a new one-year deal at the club. The Republic of Ireland international made 89 starts since he first arrived on loan from Coventry in March 2004. And after turning down approaches from League sides, he said: 'I could have moved to another club, but I think there's unfinished business here. I wouldn't feel right walking away after the club were relegated, and want to be part of the team that gets them back into the League. It's like another club anyway with the way things are run and the buzz around the place'". Indeed, "Jim Smith [has] made his first summer signing for Oxford United, bringing defender Phil Gilchrist back to the club where he enjoyed success in the mid-90s... while heading out of the revolving door was striker Tim Sills, who joined Hereford. However, it is the signing of Gilchrist that is sure to get the United supporters buzzing... His central defensive partnership with Matt Elliott is still regarded as one of the finest in United's history... He said. 'They have been in a bit of turmoil, but with a new owner and Jim Smith here, I am sure that this can be the start of something special'... Smith was hoping other signings would be on their way soon. 'We start training again on Monday, and I would like to have everyone in by then', he said. 'We have got four who we are hoping to sign very soon, two trialists and we are close to agreeing with the other two out-of-contract players – Billy Turley and Chris Tardif'".

From Southport we learn that "Robbie Booth and Michael Powell [have] signed full time contracts".

York City say that "Tommy Evans has joined City on trial. The keeper who has just been released by Scunthorpe, featured in 23 games for the club last season, and shared Number 1 duty with Paul Musselwhite... News of the other 6 players offered contract extensions by City: Nathan Peat, Emmanuel Panther, Neal Bishop, Mark Convery, Bryan Stewart and Clayton Donaldson, will appear on this website".

The BBC says that "Supporters' group Cambridge Fans United say they have loaned the club £20,000 to enable the U's to pay its wage bill... in June. A statement adds: 'CFU would like to state that the costs, lack of revenue and investment need to be addressed before the club can move forward. It would like to thank the supporters for helping to raise this money and for their recent messages of support'".

The Cambridge Evening News adds that "After turning down the terms of United's initial one-year deal offer, Matt Bloomer has been offered an improved contract and Newman is hopeful the versatile defender will sign.[Manager Rob Newman said that] Bloomer, 27, who was released by Lincoln City at the end of last season, would not be joining United for pre-season training unless he signed". Manager Rob Newman said that he "was still waiting to discover if his attempt to bring back Tommy Jaszczun, who spent the second half of last season with United, would be successful. The experienced left-back is midway through a two-year deal with Rochdale, but is keen for a move closer to his home in Northampton... 'It's down to both 'Blooms' and Tommy to say what they want to do. We can't wait a few weeks. We want them both in, but training starts on Monday and we've been talking to them for long enough'".

This is Glos reports that "New Forest Green Rovers defender Matthew McEntegart has been criticised by Newport County manager Peter Beadle after he pulled out of a deal to join the club. Former Cirencester Town man McEntegart had agreed to join the Exiles at Spytty Park before leaving for a month-long break in his native Australia. However, Rovers' manager Gary Owers announced this week that he was about to finalise a deal with the 22-year-old and Beadle was left seething. 'I was disappointed in Matthew', he said. 'I can understand why he decided to go to Forest Green, but he shook hands with me after we had talked with him, his dad and his agent... I will watch with interest how he gets on at Forest Green, because I feel at his age it is too early for him to make such a big step up. I don't think he is ready yet for Conference football, a year or two years in the Nationwide South would have been in his best interests in my opinion'".

The Woking News & Mail says that "Matt Crossley has stated that Woking will not rush into recruiting a striker despite the club not yet having replaced leading scorer Justin Richards. 'We won’t panic', said the Cards’ assistant manager in the absence of boss Glenn Cockerill, who returns from holiday at the weekend. 'There are players we’re interested in but some of them want to stay in the Football League so it’s a case of waiting to see who we can pick up if they don’t get their wish. We have Craig McAllister and Fergie up front and Chris Sharpling is looking like he’ll come through his injury worries so we have options'... Meanwhile, Woking have lost the services of Paul Watson who has signed a two-year deal at Rushden and Diamonds. With Shola Oyedele likely to stay at MK Dons, The Cards will soon know whether influential central defender Stuart Nethercott is available, his contract with Wycombe Wanderers ending on June 30. The Cards begin their pre-season training next week".