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September, 2007 |
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September, 2007 |
Above: The Glenn McGrath squad. Below: The All Stars' squad.
There was something for everyone at Moss Lane on Sunday afternoon when Australian cricket star Glenn McGrath's XI played an All Stars XI at football. As well as cricket stars such as Glenn, Michael Bevan and Chris Adams, there were famous footballers like Peter Reid, Bryan Robson and former Everton and Oldham keeper Paul Gerrard showing their skills on the pitch, alongside ex-Alty stars Rod Thornley and Dave Gardner. And at half-time boys and girls from Altrincham FC Junior team teams displayed their skills. Manager Graham Heathcote also played for Glenn's side, as did chairman Geoff Goodwin. The All Stars, led by Coronation Street's Michael LeVell included numerous TV stars as well as the likes of Alan Kennedy, the former Liverpool defender. Rugby was represented by Brad Drew. The entertaining game ended in a 4-4 draw, with Glenn's side winning the shoot out 4-2 despite the captain striking the bar with his spot-kick. A crowd of 667, more than 20% bigger than that which turned up for yesterday's Blue Square Premier match at Northwich, watched the game, whose proceeds were going to the McGrath Foundation (for cancer relief) and to Altrincham FC. The press and TV were in strong numbers at the match so watch out on BBC North West, Channel M and elsewhere for coverage tonight and tomorrow. More photos, player names and a brief match report are to follow...
Above; A turning point in the game at Crawley was Guy Madjo's penalty miss after 23 minutes, as shown above. Below, right: Steve Evans (white shirt) is about to be sent to the stand
The Crawley Town website says that "Crawley Town conceded their unbeaten record at the Broadfield to a scrappy Altrincham side but not without a centre stage performance from the referee. Match official Ian Cooper [who gave a doubtful first-half penalty to the home side] lost total control of the second-half, giving countless poor decisions against the Reds, and sending Town manager Steve Evans to the stands. It can not be ignored though that it was the Reds' poorest performance of the season at home, and they were duly punished when Warren Peyton’s crisp twenty yard volley found its way past Ashley Bayes and into the net with just seven minutes of the ninety left to play. The Reds struggled for most of the game to impose their attacking style of play on the visitors with the Robins camping plenty of men behind the ball at most times". The BBC match statistics show that Crawley had 67% of the possession but no shots on target (which is not correct, as they had at least one, which Acton saved).
Ryan Shotton (named as Ray Shotton) was named in the NL Paper's Team of the Day for Saturday's performance.
Above: Alty celebrate their victory.
Saturday 29th
Graham freely admitted that the team spirit at the club was not yet as good as it had been when we were promoted back to the Conference in 2005. At that time the squad mostly comprised players who had been at Moss Lane for several years and had had time to bond and develop together. Now, with many of those players having moved on and many new faces having come in, it was inevitable that it would take time for the team to gel in the same way. The manager said that he felt the individual quality of the team members had improved over the last couple of seasons but that bringing in so many new faces combined with the unhappiness of one or two of the older "regulars" (who had now moved on) at no longer being automatic choices had created its own difficulties. Graham was confident that, given time, team spirit would match its previous levels.
The Alty boss then explained the complexity of the rules governing transfers and loans as well as the problems of having to compete against richer clubs. Transfers windows, loan regulations, international clearance and other factors all conspired to make the manager's life a difficult one. Over the last five years Altrincham have not paid a penny in transfer fees and have never overpaid their players. Graham recalled how in the past he had been present at Moss Lane when the bailiffs had called with a view to recovering debts. He never wanted to go through that again so he would never jeopardise the future of the club by paying out excessive wages or fees.
The meeting was then handed over to a number of Alty Exile questioners who had e-mailed queries to Grahame and Karen Rowley. The first question was why we appeared to play a long-ball game on occasions even though most BSP sides had bigger defenders than our own strikers. Graham was adamant that he had never sent a side out to play long balls into the box - except when desperately chasing a game which we were losing, when he might have sent Gary Talbot up front. In other words, the players sometimes may resort to the long ball, but it is not what they are told to do.
Questioned as to whether he was "over cautious", Graham admitted that he probably was but that he believed in living in the real world. He would rather keep Alty "in the game at half-time" than throw caution to the wind and get a hiding. That was why he often put his "impact players" on the bench and brought them on after the interval.
Asked about the left-back position, Graham mentioned that he had been after one particular left-back for a couple of years as he had been expected to go part-time but each time he approached the club concerned, the player's contract was improved. Graham also explained how he was trying to build team spirit. He had been heartened recently by the fact that more of the players were beginning to come into the bar after a game to meet the supporters. Graham encouraged this behaviour but did not force players to do so. When players were willing to come and meet the supporters after games, win, lose or draw, that was a mark of good team spirit.
Graham then discussed a number of current players and why he played them in certain positions and the reasons why he would pick some ahead of others depending on the characteristics of the opposing team. Asked about the disbanding of the Reserves League set-up this season, Graham defended the decision insisting that playing friendlies against good quality teams like Stockport County Reserves was a better way of proceeding than staying in the Lancashire League.
Returning to performances on the pitch the Alty manager stressed the difference in "tempo" and "levels" between the Blue Square Premier and lower leagues and that bringing in players from lower leagues sometimes was a step too far for the individuals. He named a couple of players at other clubs who were successful at Blue Square Noirth level but not at Premier level. Graham also explained how signing players from lower leagues was very difficult nowadays. Most of the best players in leagues lower than the BSP are on contracts and/or on higher wages than we could afford. He cited one local UniBond League side who had recently paid out a four-figure transfer fee, to prove his point.
Altrincham prided itself on its professionalism, Graham said. He would rather spend a bit of money on a good physio set-up, for example, than on excessive wages.
Graham mentioned, too, that he had been very impressed to see WItton Alibion's "museum" at Wincham Park and he declared that he would make it one of his objectives to create something similar at Moss Lane so that everyone could see what a fine club Altrincham FC was. Finally Graham paid tribute to Colin Little whose goals had been the chief reason we were where we are now. He reminded the audience that each summer that he had been at Alty, Colin had turned down offers of better money elsewhere. The manager also indicated that he was now obliged to make more use of the loan system than previously. Whilst this was not always successful, in central defender Ryan Shotton he felt he had a very good player in the making and he hoped to conclude an extension to his current one-month loan. Ryan's celebrations when Alty won on Saturday had been very much appreciated by the Alty fans as they showed his commitment to the cause.
After the meeting Graham indicated that he had not had time to get on to other topics such as team formations. Hopefully, a follow-up can be arranged for the supporters to gain more insights into the realities of football at our level.
Once this is confirmed, it will be announced here. We have not come out of this as badly as some; Halifax, for example, will now have to travel 200+ miles to Crawley on a Tuesday night if the following fixtures are confirmed:
Tuesday 22 April: Aldershot v Weymouth, Altrincham v Histon, Cambridge U. v Torquay U., Crawley T. v Halifax T., Droylsden v Woking, Exeter C. v Stafford R., Forest Green R. v Ebbsfleet U., Grays A. v Salisbury C., Kidderminster H. v Burton A., Oxford U. v Rushden & Diamonds, Stevenage B. v Northwich V., York C. v Farsley C.
Saturday, 26 April: Burton A. v Exeter C., Ebbsfleet U. v Oxford U., Farsley C. v Grays A., Halifax T. v Stevenage B., Histon v Forest Green R., Northwich V. v Cambridge U., Rushden & Diamonds v Aldershot T., Salisbury C. v York C., Stafford R. v Droylsden, Torquay U. v Crawley T., Weymouth v Altrincham, Woking v Kidderminster H.
The BBC says that "Burton Albion have extended the loan spells of Coventry's Andy Gooding and Northampton's Sam Aiston. Midfielder Gooding, 19, has made seven league appearances since joining the Brewers just before the end of August. Winger Aiston, 30, has started four games for Burton and come on as a substitute in another. Boss Nigel Clough had been unsure whether to retain Aiston for longer, but the pair will now both spend a second month at the Pirelli Stadium".
From the Burton Mail we learn that "Tony James has taken a huge step towards returning to action with Burton Albion. The 31-year-old defender came through a reserve team outing on Wednesday and could be back in Albion's squad in 10 days' time. Manager Nigel Clough said, 'Tony probably needs one more reserve game, and we'll try to fix that up for next week'. The defender, a summer recruit from Weymouth, played for 75 minutes... It was his first action since the opening day of the season when he suffered knee ligament damage only a minute after the kick-off at Histon... Clough said: 'The fact that Tony is a senior player and was one of our major summer signings doesn't count for anything. Like any other player in the squad, he has got to work his way back and earn his place in the team on merit'. James is the last of Albion's injured central defenders to make his way back to fitness... The sudden surfeit of defenders means Ryan Austin is likely to go out on loan now that he has recovered from an ankle injury picked up in a pre-season friendly... Midfielders Danny Holmes and Marc Goodfellow, and striker Jake Edwards also had a full game at Tamworth".
Farsley Celtic "Club representatives who were present at the Leeds Metropolitan University Fresher’s Fair this week were delighted at how many new students to the area showed an interest in attending Celtic’s forthcoming fixtures. All students are reminded that presentation of their complimentary vouchers entitles two students, presenting their NUS cards, entrance for the price of one, and we very much look forward to seeing you at Throstle Nest this Saturday".
The Cambridge Evening News says that "Steve Fallon is ready to ship out some of his Histon squad on loan in order to give them first-team football... The likes of Chris Dillon, Mark Coulson and Dean Bradshaw have all been playing for the reserves in the Ridgeons League, but Fallon admits the gap between the Eastern Counties and the Premier is too big. The boss said: 'There are some players that haven't been too involved first-team wise for the first 11 or 12 games and obviously they are a bit anxious. The reserve level in the Ridgeons League is good, up to a point, but to expect someone to step up to the Conference is too big a step, so it might be time to start looking at sending one or two out on loan to get them ready to step into our first team when needed'".
"Liam Daish insisted the valuable lessons learnt from last Saturday's stalemate at Exeter contributed to Ebbsfleet United's single-goal victory over Crawley just three days later. Michael Bostwick put the Fleet in front at St James Park last weekend only for James Mackie to equalise close to full-time - the third time Daish men's have been pegged back late on after similar scenarios at Burton and Cambridge" says the Gravesend Reporter.
The Northants Evening Telegraph reports that "Rushden & Diamonds and manager Garry Hill must wait to find out their punishments after both admitting Football Association charges. They have requested personal hearings – although disciplinary dates are yet to be scheduled – while midfielder Andy Burgess has so far failed to explain his comments following the controversial clash at Salisbury City nearly three weeks ago. Diamonds and Salisbury were accused of failing to ensure their players and staff 'conducted themselves in an orderly fashion'. Hill was charged with violent conduct for a headbutt on Whites player-coach Tommy Widdrington who suffered a broken nose and facial injuries. The Diamonds' boss has already been fined the maximum amount allowed by the FA – believed to be two weeks' wages – after an internal investigation by club chairman Keith Cousins. Salisbury have denied their charge and assistant-manager Barry Blankley denied an allegation of improper conduct. Blankley was dragged away from any further confrontation with Hill following the attack on Widdrington which happened in front of referee Andrew Rodda immediately after the 1-1 draw at the Raymond McEnhill Stadium... The match also featured a 21-man brawl with red cards for Diamonds star Curtis Woodhouse and Salisbury midfielder Mike Fowler".
NL Daily says that "York City have re-signed left-back Anthony Lloyd and landed midfielder Russell Fry... Manager Billy McEwan moved to re-sign 23-year-old Lloyd, who had a spell with Farsley Celtic after being released by City in the summer, as cover for the suspended Mark Robinson. Fry, 21, spent four years as a trainee with Hull City and also had a brief spell with Halifax. Both have signed permanent deals at KitKat Crescent and have been added to the squad to face Town". Halifax Town themselves add that they "have signed 18 year old Junior Dadson on non contract terms. Dadson, who has come through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers, can play in midfield and as a winger. He played for Blackburn's reserves last season".
At Ebbsfleet United "striker Chukki Eribenne, who was taken off during the game against Crawley on Tuesday night with a hamstring strain is expected to be out for a month, Fleet physio Paul Wilson told the club website. It is a major blow for Liam Daish's plans, but he will be thankful for John Hastings's earlier loan signing to plug the gap up front. Defender James Smith is two weeks away from a return to full training... Danny Slatter has improved over the last few days and is now able to ride a bike and is strengthening the muscles around his knee. Warren Goodhind is concentrating on a strength programme this week to help him overcome a niggling groin injury and is expected back in full training next week. Long-term absentee Gary MacDonald is beginning his road to recovery and is now walking without the Aircast boot and is starting early movement of his achilles".
Photo copyright of www.altrinchamfc.com
But it is bad news about loan goalkeeper, Russell Saunders from Wigan Athletic, whose injury last Saturday will sideline him for 6 to 8 weeks.
He told SAM Sport: 'I hope Alty fans and people in the area will come along to the game on Sunday and support a really good cause. I'm really looking forward to it because it's amazing that Glenn's agreed to come along and it will be a chance for everyone to just enjoy themselves. I just wish I could have played in the game myself. I would have done but I've recently had a cartilage operation so it makes it impossible. I'm gutted. But Glenn will give the club a lift and it's this kind of event which will make us better and better. Everyone will remember the day Glenn McGrath played on that pitch'"
The BBC reports on our next opponents, Crawley Town, who lost 1-0 at Ebbsfleet on Tuesday. "Crawley came into the game in a rich vein of goalscoring form but never troubled home keeper Lance Cronin... Crawley Town: Bayes, Bull, Mills, Stevens, Wilson, Bulman, Thompson, Pinault, Cook (Vieira 83), Madjo, Pittman (Joseph-Dubois 83). Subs Not Used: Evans, Clapham, Krause. "
Meanwhile "In-form Forest Green Rovers striker Stuart Fleetwood dampened down transfer speculation after he scored twice in Tuesday night's 4-2 win over Stevenage. Fleetwood has now scored seven times this season to reportedly attract the attention of League scouts. 'I'm settled as I am. Other clubs can look at me but I'm a loyal player and I'm here until the end of the season', the 21-year-old said... Fleetwood signed for Forest Green in June on a 12-month deal following his release by Hereford United at the end of last season".
From This is Staffs we learn that "Stafford Rangers inched nearer to Blue Square Premier respectability with a precious point-grabbing goal from veteran Neil Grayson.Phil Robinson's side followed up their win at Weymouth with a battling draw against a Histon team who beat Oxford in their last outing... Rangers were already beginning to dominate when Roscoe Hipperson was shown the red card in the 64th minute for tripping Marco Adaggio, who had raced clear... 42-year-old Grayson came off the bench and in the 74th minute he latched on to a cross from Fred Murray to fire his first goal of the campaign... Midfielder Greg Stones has been released by Rangers. The former New Saints player made nine starts and one substitute appearance in Rangers' first 10 matches". Stafford Rangers report that "In addition to Greg Stones, Rangers have also released midfielder Ramon Manak"
Grays Athletic report that "With immediate effect Simon Downer and Ben Watson are available for loan.Donny Barnard has not had his loan agreement renewed"> Meanwhile chairman Mick Woodward says that "I have been informed that following Saturday's game against York City certain supporters felt the need to criticise the way I run the club to the Boardroom Manager. It was suggested that I had no right to sell the club as I only had a 1% share in the club, I would like to state that the ground is owned by the Billings and they have agreed to sell to Fairview and Galliard Homes, from the proceeds of this sale they have kindly donated a substantial amount towards the new stadium. We are looking in the first instance to move to Blackshots but if this falls through with the council we will be looking at the Aveley Sports and Social Club, if people wish to stay at the Recreation Ground then please let me know as this would mean that we play at a lower level of football and I would not wish to stay with the club at that point. If people are of the idea that I am not fit to run the club then I am prepared to walk away and take my whole investment with me, Grays Athletic is a passion of mine and to be criticised in this way after all that I have done is both disgusting and hurtful. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank those of you who let me know of the indiscretions of a few of our players during the game".
Hereford's unofficial but very reliable Bullsnews reports that "Accrington have re-signed midfielder Ian Craney (right) on loan for three months. Craney signed for Swansea from Stanley less than a year ago, but has drifted out of contention under new boss Roberto Martínez".
Last season Altrincham received £75,000, which was a half of Ian Craney's £150,000 transfer fee, when he moved from Accrington Stanley to Swansea City.
Match report here
Monday 24th
CSC Round 1
Tuesday 25th
CSC Round 1
BSP Games
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Above: Jake Sedgemore and Warren Peyton were both on the bench, rather than starters, for the first time last Saturday but both came on and played vital roles. Jake kept a clean sheet for 35 minutes when he took over in goal, whilst Warren helped to stifle the threat of Droylsden's Chris Denham. Here, they leave the pitch after the game, followed by Darren Tinson (far left) and the three "C.Ls", Colin Little, Carlos Logan and Chris Lane.
This Sunday at 1pm at Moss Lane, there is a major fundraising football match between a side captained by Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath and an All Stars XI. Glenn's team is expected to include many famous cricketers and other sportsmen, including Darren Gough, Michael Bevan, Alec Stewart, Bryan Robson, Clayton Blackmore, Tim Bresnan, Stuart Law and Sussex's Chris Adams. The All Stars are led by Coronation Street's Mike LeVell. Entry to the game is just £5 for adults, £2 for concessionaries and just £10 for a family of two adults and two children.
The event has been organised by Altrincham chairman Geoff Goodwin and his wife Suzanne with the proceeds going to the McGrath Fiundation, a cancer chairty founded by Jane McGrath, and to Altrincham FC . As the the McGrath Foundation website explains, "Jane McGrath co-founded the McGrath Foundation with her husband Glenn after her initial recovery from breast cancer. Jane experienced first hand the shortage of breast care nurses in Australia during her treatment and became determined to help others in her situation. Today, the McGrath Foundation aims to raise funds to place more breast care nurses throughout the country while generating support and raising awareness of the cause".
The same evening there is "An Evening with Pigeon and Dazzler" where Glenn McGrath and Darren Gough will conduct a question and answer session with the guests at the Best Western Cresta Court Hotel in Altrincham.
For more on the Witton game, see below..
As reported below, Steve McLaren's England side will be using the Blessed Thomas Holford School's all-weather pitch in Altrincham to prepare for their vital Euro 2008 qualifying match with Russia, as the School's pitch is the only one in the UK identical to the state-of-the-art Russian pitch. In the picture above, Altrincham FC Youth are seen playing on the BTH pitch in a pre-season friendly. The way in which England came to hear about the pitch was via Alty manager Graham Heathcote and our former striker and captain Rod Thornley, who is the England team masseur. Both Altrincham's first-tem and youth team use the BTH pitch for training. As ever, what Altrincham does today, the nation does tomorrow!
Above: The world of non-league football is summed up in this after-match picture of Chris Senior saluting an Alty ballboy, watched by a smiling vice-chairman Grahame Rowley (right) whilst busy Alty physio Sean Riley (left) leaves the pitch after a taxing afternoon dealing with two stretchered-off players. Below: Sean is seen with Security Officer Darren Gregory, steward Peter Lewis and two helpers carrying off Alty's injured keeper Russell Saunders. Russell endeared himself to Alty fans by giving a thumbs up to the crowd to acknowledge their applause as he was stretchered off.
The Manchester Evening News quotes Droylsden boss Dave Pace after defeat at Moss Lane, "Take nothing away from Alty, they worked hard for their win but we were a disgrace from back to front. I've told the players they could get a manager sacked with a performance like that but they won't get me sacked because I'm also the chairman and I'm going nowhere. If I didn't have to wait until January for the transfer window to repopen, I'd bring in six new faces tomorrow. I'll replace the lot of them if I have to, when the opportunity comes. We're clearly not good enough".
Graham Heathcote said, "There's no euphoria for me but, for the first time this season, we've given ourselves a little platform which we must now try to build on. I thought we again played well in patches, although there was a lot of tension. Our players might have thought my job was on the line had we lost and that's a hell of a pressure".
The Sale & Altrincham Messenger says that "Five goals, two serious injuries, a pair of penalties and a goalkeeping crisis. Life's never dull down at Moss Lane but despite the drama, Alty finally broke their Blue Square Premier duck after beating rivals Droylsden 3-2. It wasn't all good for the Robins. Both playmaker Gareth Whalley and on-loan Wigan keeper Russell Saunders were stretchered off early in the second half, the latter setback forcing midfielder Jake Sedgemore into goal.... But anything other than an Alty victory just wouldn't have been justice" Altrincham have a Cheshire Senior Cup game away at Witton Albion on Tuesday night (7.45pm).
NL Today reported on Sunday that "Crawley Town owner Azwar Majeed is still waiting to find out whether or not he will be jailed. Hove Crown Court last month heard Majeed sent Danny Ullah to carry out the 60 hours of unpaid community service Majeed had been given in June 2005 after being found guilty of assault. He was due to be sentenced at Brighton Crown Court on Friday but the case was adjourned... The judge warned Majeed and Ullah last month, 'The overwhelming probability is a custodial sentence'".
Meanwhile Crawley Town report that "Pablo Mills has agreed to extend his loan spell with the club by a further month. The talented centre-back joined the club on an initial one month loan in August and would have made his last appearance of his current deal in Tuesday evening’s televised encounter with Ebbsfleet United at Stonebridge Road. The official website can exclusively reveal that following talks between the Rotherham United defender and manager Steve Evans, Mills has agreed to extend his stay. In a short space of time Mills has become a huge favourite amongst the Broadfield faithful with some outstanding performances... In Saturday’s match-day programme, Evans revealed that Rotherham United boss, Mark Robins, had already cleared the way for Mills to extend his stay with the Reds but it was just a matter of convincing the player. Evans said: 'Pablo has been nothing short of magnificent both on and off the pitch for us... He has helped bring on the youngsters around him... My discussions with Pablo have been going on for a few weeks now, and we will do what is within our structure to extend his loan'... Mills added: 'I have loved every minute of it at Crawley... The Gaffer is a superb man manager'".
"Goalkeeper Chris Tardif has left Oxford United and has decided to end his professional career" reports the BBC. "Tardif, 26, has terminated his contract at Oxford by mutual consent and plans to start a new job and play part-time. The former Portsmouth keeper joined Oxford in May 2004 and started 61 games for the club", including the recent match at Moss Lane. "Meanwhile, U's defenders Phil Gilchrist and Chris Willmott are set to return from long injury lay-offs in a friendly against Milton United next week". Meanwhile Oxford report that ""United have signed goalkeeper Alex Cisak on loan from Leicester City. The Polish born goalkeeper, 18, is six feet four tall and joined the Foxes on trial after playing representative football in Australia, his home since the age of two. A regular in the Leicester youth side Alex has found competition hard at the Walkers' Stadium where there are seven goalkeepers on the books, but is looking to be involved in the first team during his stay with The U's".
"Cambridge United have secured the services of striker Marvin Robinson in a loan deal from league rivals Oxford United" says NL Daily. "The 27-year-old joins Jimmy Quinn's side on a three-month long deal and will provide cover for Cambridge's only two fit strikers, Leo-Fortune-West and Scott Rendell. Robinson has been given permission by Oxford to play in FA Cup, FA Trophy and Setanta Shield games for Cambridge".
At "York City striker Chris Beardsley is likely to be ruled out for up to four months after sustaining a broken jaw in Saturday's 2-0 win at Grays Athletic. Beardsley was hurt in an off-the-ball incident involving Grays defender Jamie Stuart, who was sent off. 'We've got a lad in hospital with a broken jaw in two places', said York boss Billy McEwan. 'He will be operated on in Derby and will probably be missing for three to four months'", reports the BBC.
This is Glos reports that "Jim Harvey branded Forest Green side naive after they conceded three second-half goals at the Broadfield Stadium. Rovers never recovered from Jamie Stevens' opener on 54 minutes, shipping two further strikes from Jamie Cook to lose a match which had been evenly-poised. 'We lost our shape and discipline after the first goal went in and unfortunately from then on it was pretty poor', said boss Harvey. 'Two of the goals came from the second phases of set-pieces - it wasn't as if we were getting ripped apart by football. It was about concentration, which is very annoying. Crawley are a good side and this was always going to be a tough game, but the way we defended and played in the first half was terrific... but we just lost our way in the second half and that's hard to explain really. Sometimes this will happen with a young team... At Morecambe I had something similar, and we had to keep going back and back over things until they became second nature'".
The Northants Evening Telegraph claims that "Garry Hill was relieved to take away a point as Rushden & Diamonds stretched their unbeaten run to six games. They needed an injury-time penalty from Simeon Jackson to salvage a 1-1 draw at Halifax Town on Saturday after Paul Bastock pulled off a series of saves to deny the hosts... Hill told the BBC: 'We were very disappointing by the standards shown recently on a consistent basis... A few things were said at half-time... I felt we had to chase the game and we changed it around a little bit as well... We changed the formation to get something out of the game with Hope as a centre-forward... We are getting a bit of consistency now with players back to fitness in the squad. Marcus Kelly was involved and that's like a new signing'".
"Phil Robinson hailed an excellent all-round team performance after Stafford Rangers recorded their first victory of the season. An early strike from Marco Adaggio ended a goal drought lasting some 325 minutes and two further goals netted by David McNiven ensured the long trip back from the south coast was a happy one. 'It was a great performance', said the Stafford manager... The unavailability of two regulars - Chris Flynn (ill) and Greg Stones (broken-down car) - meant a reshuffle, with David Oldfield starting for the first time. The assistant-manager's experience in the centre of midfield eventually proved a key factor. Young Ross Draper, making only his fourth appearance, was among those benefiting from the presence of the former Manchester City and Leicester City star" reports This is Staffs
Halifax Town confirms that "There was an incident that took place outside the Weavers' Restaurant at around 6.10pm [on Saturday], which has now been reported to the Police. As the match officials were leaving, they were abused and threatened by a group of people stood outside.They had to drive past this group to depart the stadium, and at that point one individual threw the contents of a glass lager/beer at the referee's vehicle.The referee has reported the Club to the Football Association. This Football Club will not tolerate any form of abuse and violence, against any individual. There was a group of around 20 individuals outside at the time of the incident and we would ask for their assistance in ensuring the perpetrator is correctly identified and can then be dealt with by the Police".
From Ebbsfleet United we leran that "Fleet midfielders Liam Coleman and George Purcell have joined Ryman League side Heybridge Swifts on an initial month's loan. With Fleet players beginning to return from injury, Coleman, who has made seven appearances this season (six from the bench), and Purcell with a goal and eight games to his tally, will be able to gain match practice and maintain their sharpness".
The Setanta Shield is the new league cup competition embracing all three Blue Square divisions. Until Round Four, only the North and South divisions are involved. The draw for the first three rounds has been made in one go. The Northern section of the draw is below:
Round 1 North (w/c 1 October) :
Round 2 North (w/c 12 November) :
Round 3 North (w/c 3 December) :
Right: Dominic Lillie in action against Runcorn in Sunday's match.
There is now a match report on the Altrincham & District FA Youth team's win over Runcorn FA on Sunday afternoon in the Youth section
Manager Steve Evans said: 'When you see Guy Madjo perform like he did in the last half hour, you want him to get a goal. I thought he was head and shoulders better than everyone else and showed why there are a lot of clubs further up the pyramid than us who would like to have him. He really is coming into his own now. He gets his share of goals as we know but his workrate for the team is fantastic'. Madjo scored in each of the previous five games, four of which came inside the first 12 minutes... Streaker [?striker] Madjo was even at the centre of a lighthearted moment of the game shortly after the hour when a streaker ran on to the pitch. He caught the male exhibitionist and kept hold of him until he was led away by stewards, much to the amusement of everyone else... The game was the first time at home this season Crawley had failed to score in the opening half and Evans revealed he gave his players the hairdryer treatment at the break. He said: 'It was the first time I've really had to shake them up and take the paint off the walls. But they responded in magnificent fashion'... Victory left Reds two points off the play-off zone, although they can still be deducted six points if they lose their appeal against a punishment for financial irregularities. But Evans does not expect his side to stay in promotion contention even if the Football Association uphold their appeal when it is heard on October 10. He said: 'We're having a great spell and we are performing way above our expectation levels. We don't have any right, with the expenditure we have here, to be as high up the table as we are but we will take it because it's early days. In all the divisions throughout the country, there are always teams either overperforming or underperforming and we are one of the ones overperforming'".
Above: Tom Bailey (second yellow shirt from left) turns after scoring Alty's opener.
Altrincham FC Youth represented Altrincham & District FA today and beat Runcorn & District FA 2-0 at Shawe View, Trafford. The goals came from Tom Bailey and Sam Madeley. The game was a group stage match in the Cheshire County FA District Youth Cup which Altrincham has won for the past two seasons. Altrincham have now won both their games to date in defence of the trophy. Report to follow.
Please come along to Woodley Sports on Thursday (7.45pm) when the Altrincham FC youth team starts its FA Youth Cup campaign on the artificial pitch at Lambeth Grove.
Above: Members of the Altrincham JFC Saturday Soccer School were guests at Moss Lane yesterday and are pictured above in the Family Stand. It was also good to see Alan Johnson (back row, right), the former Altrincham FC webmaster and club photographer at the game. Altrincham FC Juniors' Saturday Soccer Club is held at Blessed Thomas Holford school, 10am -12am. The school, offering FA Qualified Coaching, is for 5-8 year olds, both boys and girls. If you have a child who would like to attend, please contact Chris Bullock on 0161-962-2369 for further details.
This site's match report details are lower down this page...
Altrincham v Droylsden photos from a Bloods' supporter are here
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Above: Colin Little receives his team-mates' congratulations after scoring Alty's second goal against Droylsden.
In this bottom of the table clash Altrincham deservedly emerged with their first win of the season in a game in which they had two players stretchered off before the hour mark, including new loan keeper Russell Saunders. Match report here.
Right: Recent signing Carlos Logan is seen in action against Cambridge in this shot by Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography.
As already reported Alty go into the game without regular keepers Stuart Coburn and Richard Acton, as well as Gary Scott, whilst both Colin Potts and Carlos Logan have been laid low with a virus this week.
"Graham Heathcote has called on Altrincham fans to get behind the team ahead of their must-win Blue Square Premier match against Droylsden. The Alty manager has come in for strong criticism from the Moss lane faithful this week for comments made in SAM. But he is hoping fans and management can forget their differences and unite behind the team. He told SAM Sport:'I'm calling on all the fans to get behind the players on Saturday even if they don't want to get behind me. It would be good if everyone could put their feelings for me and my tactics to one side and just show their support for the lads out on the pitch. I'm comfortable with the people I have in my dressing room. We have eight new faces in there and we are still trying to build a squad. But I have faith in my team to turn things around. We have played well in patches this season but now we need to become more consistent, replicate the same performance in longer spells'.
The in-fighting which has plagued the club since Tuesday's 3-0 defeat against Cambridge has hurt Heathcote... 'What this club has now is a good reputation in the football world and that's how you build anything up - on trust', he added. 'We are trying to build links with the community and make this club stronger for the future. We will do the best to stay in this league but we also have a bigger picture to look at. People have said we need to stop talking about the [achievements of the] past five years but without the changes that have been made, we wouldn't have a club to go to now. I have turned down offers from other clubs to stay here and I will not walk away from my obligations to the community, neither will the chairman'".
"Exeter City will take a further look at QPR youngster Karl Yelland next week" claims This is Exeter. "The 18-year-old right-back, who played in City's second string win over Yeovil Town on Wednesday, will spend 10 days at the Cat & Fiddle [training ground]... Former Bristol City defender Shaun Lamb is still under the microscope at the club following an extended trial. City boss Paul Tisdale said: 'We are in the process of discussing a plan for him which will become evident from October 1 although it has not been done yet'".
It's been remarkably quiet at Crawley, where Alty visit next weekend, recently but The Argus now reports that "Crawley boss Steve Evans believes it is only a matter of time before fans return to Broadfield Stadium. Gate figures have been tumbling at a startling rate over the last few seasons and have now hit an all-time low. The first five home games of the campaign have brought in an average of just 948 fans, 1,068 less than the number turning up for Crawley's debut season in the Conference three years ago. There were 956 fans for Tuesday's 5-3 win over Woking and over 200 of them were supporting the visitors. There has been a growing apathy among fans for a while for various reasons. Many supporters became disillusioned with the way the club was being run after it went into administration with debts of £1.4 million last year. Some have been turned off by the constant bad press involving the club owners Chas and Azwar Majeed, including court battles with former employees, fights with supporters and trouble with police. Others have grown tired of seeing their club battle with relegation and the gradual increase in ticket prices is also likely to have had an effect. It was thought supporters would return after Reds finally paid off their long-standing debt at the start of this season. The arrival of a new manager and an influx of exciting players was also expected to have pulling power. Reds have been one of the most entertaining teams to watch in the Conference premier this season. They are unbeaten at home, scored ten goals in their last two games on their own patch and are sitting just outside the play-off zone. It begs the question, if fans are not turning up now, will they ever? Evans said: 'Whatever people think about Crawley Town, they are missing out because some of the football we are playing is exhilarating. I have said to the boys that if we keep doing it, then people will come. That is all we can do and who knows, some of the missing people will be running back after Christmas if we keep this up. But it is early days, it is not even eight weeks into the season and we have spoken about a three-year plan'.
Crawley's gates are five times less than fellow Conference club Oxford United and are the fourth worst in the division. Part-timers Farsley Celtic (573) and Droylsden (732) attract the least fans and Stafford Rangers, who have a mixture of full and part-time players, have only brought in an average of 920. Gate money cannot sustain Crawley's full-time status, leaving the club more of a financial burden on the Majeed brothers. Their aim was to make the club self-sustainable in two years time but that seems very unlikely. It means Crawley are once again financially vulnerable as they can only stay afloat for as long as the Majeeds are willing and able to keep pumping money in. Evans said: 'There has been a lot of criticism of the Majeed family but all I see is them paying out a lot of money. I don't think the club runs on terraces of 800, it comes from their pockets'. Crawley should look at tomorrow's visitors as an example in how to attract more fans.
Forest Green Rovers have traditionally had poor attendances as they are located in the small village of Nailsworth in Gloucestershire, which has a population of less than 7,000. But they have increased their popularity over the last few seasons thanks to good relationships with the local community. They now average over 1,200, which is almost as much as historically well-supported clubs Halifax (1,321) and Weymouth (1,414)".
The Cambridge News says that "Jimmy Quinn wants to commit himself to Cambridge United beyond the end of the season... Although Quinn has not spoken to chairman Lee Power about a new deal yet, he said he had made him aware of his ambitions at the Abbey. He said: 'I came here to do a job and I'd like to stay here for a while. It's a club that has been in the doldrums, but I feel has the potential to get back in the League and go even further. It was very difficult last year, but I always knew if I could get some good players in that we'd have a better season... I get on well with the board. I know managers have a certain shelf-life, but I've got plans I want to take forward... My ambition is to manage in the League and I want to do that with Cambridge United'. Quinn said he was still looking for a new striker on loan but did not expect anything to happen before the top-of-the-table clash at Stevenage Borough" today.
"Kidderminster Harriers have eased worries over their goalkeeping situation by agreeing a deal to bring in experienced shot-stopper Chris MacKenzie from Shrewsbury Town. Harriers' stopper Scott Bevan has been struggling with a quadricep injury over the past couple of the weeks, and with the former MK Dons man unlikely to be fit for tomorrow's game with Torquay, boss Mark Yates has swooped for cover. Youngster Dean Coleman has performed admirably for Harriers during Bevan's absence, but with Coleman himself picking up a hairline fracture to a finger, MacKenzie's arrival should help settle the situation. 35 year-old MacKenzie arrives at Aggborough with a wealth of experience, with close to 400 career appearances under his belt...
MacKenzie goes straight into the squad to face the Gulls tomorrow, and will stay at Aggborough for the next month".
There is dismay at Oxford United. "The disappointment was evident as Jim Smith gave his thoughts on the game at Histon last night. Jim told Yellow World: 'I haven't been as disappointed for a long time at our performance. If you look at the stats on possession we were way ahead but didn't have the desire or determination to turn that into success. I didn't shout at them because they knew they had let themselves down. They trained the other day and it was the best I've seen since I came back to Oxford. We were hoping they would take that into the game, but it's easy doing it when you're not out there in front of a crowd or trying to win points... It's my job, and everyone else in and around the club, to try and stop the rot.. We have two home games and have to win both of them, simple as that. The fans can sometimes appreciate a performance if you lose but play well, but that didn't happen and we can't afford those performances to happen again.. At Histon we didn't make the keeper save a shot... Our next problem is to get them up and ready to play on Tuesday night and to get a performance... We have to lift the fans, we can't expect them to lift us".
NL Daily reports on a few players dropping out of the Blue Square Premier. Firstly "Frickley Athletic... following the departure of manager Billy Heath, have boosted the squad with the signing of the highly-experienced Neil Redfearn. Although now 42 years of age, Redfearn can still compete at UniBond League level". Redfearn left the manager's seat at Northwich Vics last week And also in the UniBond, "Peter Rinkcavage, manager of Worksop Town, made it two signings in 24 hours when he snapped up hit man Kevin Sanasy. The 22-year-old Leeds-born former Bradford City striker hit top form with Farsley Celtic after netting eighteen goals in thirty starts, helping the Yorkshire side into the Blue Square Premier... Earlier Rinkcavage had signed former Burton Albion right back Terry Henshaw". Meanwhile, "Blue Square South club Thurrock have announced the loan signed of Matt Bodkin from Grays Athletic until the end of the season". And Grays Athletic have released midfielder, Jamie Day, on a month's loan to Blue Square South side Eastbourne Borough". But heading the opposite way we learn that "Peterborough United have loaned winger Alfie Potter to Grays Athletic for a month. Posh manager Darren Ferguson is keen to give the 18-year-old some competitive match practice".
This is South Devon says that "Torquay United have completed their second loan signing in the space of 24 hours, to help them through a selection crisis which currently robs manager Paul Buckle of half-a-dozen players. Following the arrival of Plymouth Argyle utility player Scott Laird yesterday, United today welcomed young Bolton Wanderers defender Mark Ellis on a one-month loan. Ellis, 18, has been at the Reebok Stadium for two years, having started his career in Exeter City's youth team".
"Under-pressure manager Phil Robinson has been hunting for further reinforcements ahead of Stafford's game at Weymouth" says This is Staffs. "After 10 games without a win and just five goals scored, Robinson's top target is almost certain to be a goal-grabber. The boss has already brought in two players on loan - keeper Scott Loach and defender Cedric Avinel, both from Watford - and has the option to sign up to three more loanees. 'We've had irons in the fire, but we've had a lot of knock-backs as well', said Robinson... First-choice keeper Danny Alcock was dropped to the substitute's bench and deputy Rob Duggan axed from the squad to make way for Loach at Salisbury on Tuesday... Weymouth's Wessex Stadium is a happy hunting ground for Rangers, who are unbeaten in their last three visits".
It's been a pretty upsetting week for everyone at Altrincham Football Club & it feels to me that there is a danger that a lot of the progress that has been made in recent years could be washed away in a matter of a few weeks.I feel that recently published comments made by me have been misinterpreted & if those comments have upset anyone then I apologise......I can assure you that that was never the intention & I do not want to drive anyone away from supporting Altrincham Football Club.
I love Altrincham Football Club & I love the fans......they both mean an awful lot to me....but I have been upset with some of the comments on the Fans Forum,particularly when it is difficult to respond to a lot of them as individuals use nicknames & aliases.I am always happy to discuss any issues or concerns that any supporter has regarding the Football Club.
We are in a difficult situation in the league but I genuinely believe that Graham Heathcote is the best man to keep us in the Blue Square Premier & I feel that it would be virtually impossible to bring in a replacement who has the knowledge of Football at this level & who could work within our budget to maintain Blue Square Premier status.
It really is a shame that we have made such a poor start on the pitch as Altrincham Football Club is in the healthiest overall position that it has experienced for many years.We have eradicated the debt & now have money in the bank, but it would be foolish to risk everything & go for broke in terms of breaking the principles that we have built our progress on over the last five years. We have brand new floodlights & a superb playing surface & of course a large number of people who put their heart & soul into our club......many for little or no reward. Tomorrow, we will be recognised for achieving the status of being an F.A. Charter Standard Club, a reward for the investment made by the club in developing players at all levels.
As you know I am planning to finish as Chairman at the end of the season & I really do hope that I can look back proudly on my time as Chairman reflecting on the positive achievements over five years that we have made together rather than the negative events of the last few weeks. I am very hopeful that next week's Celebrity Football Match & Dinner will raise a significant amount of funds & raise the profile of Altrincham Football Club to help it move even further forward.
I can assure you that I have found the recent turmoil as difficult to deal with as all supporters & I hope that we can all focus our minds on beating Droylsden tomorrow so that we can start climbing this league.
Yours very sincerely,
Geoff
Russell becomes the eighth new player at Moss Lane this season and, as manager Graham Heathcote points out, that is a situation which means that the team needs time to settle.
Also missing or in doubt for tomorrow's game with Droylsden are the following:
Cheshire County FA has awarded Altrincham FC the prestigious FA Charter Standard Club award for grassroots football.
The FA Charter Standard programme, supported by FA partner McDonald’s, was established five years ago and helps clubs to improve standards of coaching, administration, player development and child protection. The FA Charter Standard award is presented to those clubs like Altrincham FC who have raised their standards in these areas and lead the field in promoting best football practice, both on and off the pitch in grassroots football.
Grahame Rowley Altrincham FC Vice Chairman, said ‘‘We are very pleased to be awarded this accolade but realise that the hard work that the club has put in over the last few years does not end here. We are very keen to develop further our links with the local community working hand in hand with our new branch of the club, Altrincham FC Juniors”
Sir Trevor Brooking, The FA’s Director of Football Development comments: “The FA Charter Standard award acknowledges the fantastic support that Altrincham FC is providing within the local community and its efforts to provide opportunities for players to develop their skills and play football in a safe and positive environment.”
Terry Harrop, Chairman of the Football Development Committee comments “The Cheshire County FA is committed to raising the standards of football at grassroots level and the dedication and achievements of clubs like Altrincham FC make this possible”.
Altrincham FC will be presented with their award at the Altrincham FC home game on Saturday 22 September, by Terry Harrop, Cheshire County FA Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Football Development Committee.
Since 2002, over 50 clubs representing more than 500 teams in Cheshire have achieved FA Charter Standard Club, Adult Club, Development or Community Club status.
The Robins' Review on Saturday will state that: At half time today the club will be presented with the prestigious FA Charter Standard Club award for grassroots football by Terry Harrop, Vice Chairman Cheshire County FA and Chairman of the Football Development Committee and Tom Spencer (Life Member of the Altrincham District Association). Many thanks must go to Paul Roberts (club welfare officer) and Karen Rowley for their tireless work in completing all the applications for this award"
18 year-old centre-back Ryan Shotton has made a favourable impression in his two games to date for Altrincham, after arriving on loan from Stoke City. He is pictured right, against Cambridge United, by Gavin Rathbone; more of Gavin's excellent action shots are on the GR Photography website.
The Northants Evening Telegraph reports that "Garry Hill has paid the penalty for losing his discipline as the Rushden & Diamonds manager faces further punishment over a head-butting incident. He was fined the maximum amount – believed to be two weeks' wages – when the club yesterday completed a full investigation into a post-match fracas at Salisbury City earlier this month. Diamonds chairman Keith Cousins said: 'The fine has been imposed after full discussions with Garry Hill who fully accepts the penalty for the loss of discipline at the game'. Hill must also respond to the Football Association by next Wednesday to admit or deny a charge of violent conduct... Diamonds and Salisbury City have until Tuesday to answer accusations that both clubs failed to control their players and staff at the game on September 8. Hill attacked Salisbury player-coach Tommy Widdrington following the match at the Raymond McEnhill Stadium which also featured a 21-man brawl and two red cards. Diamonds' midfielder Curtis Woodhouse is serving a four-match suspension while Salisbury's Michael Fowler was banned for three games after they were sent off for fighting. Andy Burgess, meanwhile, was asked by the FA to explain his comments in a national newspaper column over criticism of deaf referee Andrew Rodda during that game when he was booked for dissent".
This is Exeter says that "Exeter City's sporting director Julian Tagg has played down concerns over dwindling attendances at St James's Park.Just 2,753 fans saw Tuesday night's frustrating 3-3 draw against Forest Green - the Grecians' lowest gate for a year. The last time fewer fans attended a home game was when a crowd of 2,494 saw City defeat St Albans 4-2 on September 19 last year. Off the back of last year's run to the play-off final at Wembley, attendances had been significantly up so far this term".
The wealth of some BSP clubs is underlined by Thi is Staffs which says that "Dario Gradi admits Crewe could be priced out of landing non-league players such as Stevenage striker Steve Morison. The Alex technical director was an interested observer at Kit Kat Crescent on Saturday... Morison, aged 24, was Stevenage's leading scorer with 27 goals last season, scored one of his team's goals at York, and then bagged two more against Farsley Celtic on Tuesday...'It would be very difficult for us to get players from Stevenage because they are top of the Conference', admitted Gradi, 'some of their players will be earning more than ours are'".
From This is South Devon we learn that "Torquay united's management is furious that the club cannot appeal against midfielder Darren Mullings's controversial sending-off on his debut at Histon on Tuesday night - because there is no film of the incident. Mullings, 20, who had marked his first senior appearance with a goal in the first half of United's action-packed 5-4 victory, was sent off by referee Jock Waugh apparently for elbowing Histon midfielder John Kennedy. But teammates, opponents and even home fans were mystified by the decision, and United had planned to appeal. But Gulls chief executive Colin Lee revealed: 'When we asked Histon for a copy of the film of the match, they told us that they had only the first 20 minutes because a technical fault developed after that. I have spoken to the FA and the Blue Square Premier about it, and the FA say they can only follow up an appeal if there is film evidence'. As things stand, former Bristol Rovers youngster Mullings will be automatically suspended for three matches... Lee explained: 'Under Blue Square Premier rules, every club is responsible for producing and supplying a DVD of every match. I don't know exactly what arrangements Histon make for filming their games, but we employ somebody to do it for us... Something like this can be hugely important. It can have a bearing on who wins the league or promotion'. Mr. Waugh also sent off Histon defender Mat Mitchel-King in the 89th minute - from the resulting free-kick, defender Chris Todd scored United's last-gasp winner - in another decision which enraged home fans this time. And the North Yorkshire official also awarded three penalties - two to Histon for disputed handballs against Todd and one to United for a trip on Elliot Benyon which nobody contested. Buckle did say: 'I thought the first two penalties were decent shouts, for us and them, but the third hit Chris Todd in the face... Although we were leading 3-0 at half-time, I told our players that Histon were still dangerous from set-pieces and if we didn't defend with our lives from them, they were still in with a chance. There was only one team in it at half-time, but losing three key players, especially players who are important when we defend set-pieces, played a big part in Histon getting back into the game'".
Torquay United have "signed Plymouth Argyle player Scott Laird on a month loan deal. Scott, 19, is a confident young player who is comfortable on the left side of defence or in central midfield, he is strong in the air and a fierce tackler. He started out at Plymouth's centre of excellence as a 12 year old and has represented Scotland at numerous levels including a recent call up to the U-19 squad. The Gulls are short in midfield at the moment with Lee Mansell and Darren Mullings both suspended and are awaiting news on injuries picked up during the Histon match so Boss Paul Buckle has moved to strengthen his squad.".
On Thursday night, Altrincham FC Chairman, Geoff Goodwin (left), spoke out strongly in response to critical comments posted on the "Alty Fans' Forum". Geoff said he was "very disappointed and upset at hurtful comments" directed at manager Graham Heathcote and the Board. "If these are the comments of a minority, the majority needs to stand up", said the Chairman. He reminded supporters of where the club had been when he and his fellow directors took over in 2003. Since then massive historic debts have been paid off, the ground now has an excellent playing surface whilst brand new floodlights and other improvements are about to start. Recalling his and the Board's five-years of investment in the Club he said that many clubs now admire our healthy financial state. "If some of the critics are unhappy with the current performances they can talk to me directly and I'll be straight with them. If they are that dissatisfied they don't have to come to Moss Lane. The Board is 100% behind Graham Heathcote. He is Alty through and through . No other manager would achieve what he has achieved with the budget available to him. We got some money from the car park sale but only some of that could go towards the playing side, so whilst Graham got a litle bit more for the playing side, it was not a lot".
Geoff underlined that the manager had lifted the club back to the national level of football. But, he added, fans should not forget that as recently as last summer we had been relegated to the Conference North but got a reprieve, just as happened the previous summer for different reasons. "In fact, for two years running, Graham has had to change course in the summer from planning for regional football to planning for national competition. He has lost players who would have come here but didn't because it looked like we would be relegated", said the Chairman. Geoff went on to recall how the team which got us promoted in 2005 did so because they had great team spirit and a "feeling for Altrincham FC. But they have now got older and in many cases moved on. New players have come in but it takes time for them to acquire the same feelings for Altrincham FC. Team performances have not been dreadful; we just haven't been able to score. What do people want us to do? Put more money in and pay players £1,000 a week and then wait till the bubble bursts and we end up in a mess with points deducted for financial problems? People expressing their opinions is fine but I think we deserve some respect and should not be slagged off". Geoff added that as well as achieving financial stability the club has also made huge strides in engaging with the community. A junior football structure has been set up and Charter Standard has been achieved, both of which are long-term projects which demonstrate the Board's dedication to the club's future.
Geoff pointed out that he personally was working hard now to put together the fundraising event for the Club and the McGrath Foundation which will bring Test cricketers, famous footballers and stars from TV to Moss Lane on 30th September. "All this has come through hard work, developing contacts and putting in time to plan the event. I am not looking for thanks but on the other hand I and the other directors have put a lot of money and effort into this club and unlike previous regimes, have not asked for any of it back". He also praised the rest of his Board for their tireless work for the club for no personal gain.
Alty were up against the big boys in more ways than one on Tuesday night. Right, Leo Fortune-West towers over the far from vertically challenged Warren Peyton under the new lights at Moss Lane. Also pictured, left to right are Chris Lane, Gareth Whalley and Darren Tinson.
Cambridge United report that they "extended the unbeaten start to ten games with three well-taken goals in an emphatic win at struggling Altrincham... Altrincham's five man midfield was proving effective and in the 10th minute Logan skipped forward and tried his luck from distance but lifted the ball into the United supporters behind that goal. With the home fans urging their win-less side on they won two more corners in the next few minutes... Having soaked up the early pressure, United took a welcome lead in the 17th minute with a very well-taken goal.... United's good start was capped by another goal in the 21st minute... The home side were clearly deflated after failing to capitalise on their early chances and conceding twice in four minutes, and a free kick on 27 was wasted when two Robins players collided with each other when chasing the ball... The home side came out charged up for the second half and Stephen Reed and then Courtney Pitt were on the receiving end of agricultural challenges in the opening exchanges". It concludes "'That was a professional performance tonight, to come to a place like this', said assistant manager Alan Lewer. 'They haven't won a game of football this season but the stats tell you they're going to win one here and we wanted to keep that record intact. You'd say in the end it was a comfortable 3-0 win but the boys had to work hard, as we knew we would. It's never easy to come here and if you look at their results you can see they drew at York and they were one-nil up against Exeter here, but we put them to bed quite early, to be honest... We've been telling them all week that this is a hard place to come, as Cambridge found out last season (5-0 defeat), especially when it gets a bit blowy here with a bit of rain on the surface, but it was a professional performance - three points, a clean sheet, you couldn't ask for more'".
The official Harriers site says that "Gavin Hurren was surprisingly shown a straight red card for a foul on Ged Murphy. At first glance the decision looked harsh, with both players going into the challenge two-footed and Murphy, who was not injured, perhaps a trifle theatrical in his reaction.. Hurren will now miss the next three Harriers' games".
The BBC says that "Ebbsfleet United boss Liam Daish has signed MK Dons forward John Hastings on a month's loan. Hastings, 23, has not figured for the Dons this season. 'He wil