SUNDAY SCORE

OLD BOYS

"SCRAPPY ALTRINCHAM"

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.

CRAWLEY TOWN 0 ALTRINCHAM 1

Match report here.

Above: Alty celebrate their victory.

Saturday 29th

MANAGER IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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.

NEW RECRUITS

ALTY LINKED TO RHEAD

FROM THE AIR

NEIL LEAVES LEEK

BSP NEWS

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".

CRAWLEY PREPARE FOR ALTY

LEGENDS RETURN

GRAHAM'S REASONS

YOUTH TEAM LET IT SLIP

WITTON VERDICT

BSP NEWS

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".

THURSDAY GAME

CLANCY RELEASED

Photo copyright of www.altrinchamfc.com

OLD BOY

YOUTH CUP

BERKELEY RELEASED

GRAHAM'S VIEWS

LEGENDS TO RETURN?

GOOD & BAD NEWS

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.

COBURN NO.3

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

CHARITY MATCH

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'"

BSP NEWS

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".

CSC QF

CRANEY RETURNS TO STANLEY

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.

TORQUAY DATE FIXED

WITTON ALBION 0 ALTRINCHAM 3

Match report here

Monday 24th

CSC Round 1

Tuesday 25th

CSC Round 1

TALK TO THE MANAGER

MIDWEEK BSP

BSP Games

SUBS DO WELL

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.

FRIENDLY GAME

BIG NAMES AT MOSS LANE

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.

TEAM TONIGHT

For more on the Witton game, see below..

ALTY-ENGLAND LINK

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!

GETTING TO WITTON

ENGLAND STARS AT ALTRINCHAM

DROYLSDEN GAME

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).

CRAWLEY GAME

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'".

NEIL'S JUDGEMENT PAYS OFF

BSP NEWS

"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) :

YOUTH REPORT

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'".

SIDEBOTTOM BAN?

YOUTH TEAM DEFENDS TROPHY

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.

YOUNG VISITORS

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.

BLOODS TO GO CAMPING?

This site's match report details are lower down this page...

Altrincham v Droylsden photos from a Bloods' supporter are here

ON THE ROAD WITH ALTY

GEOFF HAS HIS SAY

LOCAL FOOTBALL

WITTON GAME

ALTRINCHAM 3 DROYLSDEN 2

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.

SATURDAY GAMES

Right: Recent signing Carlos Logan is seen in action against Cambridge in this shot by Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography.

BLOODS STRENGTHEN, TOO

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'".

ALTY's A RUM PLACE!

GRAHAM'S FORUM

WITTON READY

BSP NEWS

"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".

OLD BOY

TALKING TACTICS

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

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

KEEPER SIGNING ON LOAN

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:

YOUTHS HONOURED

MOVE ON

ALTRINCHAM FC RECEIVE FA CHARTER STANDARD CLUB AWARD

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"

PHIL STEPS DOWN

RICHARD HOGG

SAM'S VIEW

RYAN MAKES AN IMPRESSION

BSP NEWS

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.".

THURSDAY

GEOFF'S RESPONSE

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.

GRAHAM STANDS FIRM

THE ROAD TO WITTON

CAMBRIDGE VERDICT

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'".

NEXT OPPONENTS

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".

OLD BOY

BSP NEWS

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 will give us more options up front where we are still a little bit light', Daish told his club's website".

ALTRINCHAM 0 CAMBRIDGE UNITED 3

Match report here..

Amazingly, the bottom four in the table have all played ten matches this season and not won a single game between them, whilst York, fifth from bottom, have won just once.

Tuesday 18th:

GEOFF'S EBAY AUCTION

BSP NEWS

Extere City report that "Paul Tisdale has confirmed that Steve Basham suffered a broken rib in the 2-0 victory at Farsley Celtic on Saturday. 'He did it early in the game but carried on which is admirable. However in training yesterday he felt a bit of discomfort so we sent him for an x-ray last night. It has shown a fracture but as yet we don't know how long he will be out, it could be a four to six week lay off, but he could be back sooner. A lot will depend on his pain threshold. It's another blow but we will just have to get on with it'".

From Ebbsfleet United we read that "In a tie-up with our official club caterers, the Fleet and Cafe Taj offer you the chance to enjoy a curry and watch the Fleet's game against Crawley Town for free. Spend over £50 in The Café Taj on Thursday 20 September and receive two free complimentary tickets to Ebbsfleet United vs. Crawley Town".

LAST GAME

Before last night's game Cambridge United boss "Jimmy Quinn warned that struggling Altrincham should not be underestimated.. The U's boss cautioned, 'There are a lot of difficult games and we have a very difficult one tonight at Altrincham... We have an abundance of midfield players and I really do want to keep them all fresh, so it's nice to be able to rest them from time to time. I rested Courtney on Saturday and Mark Convery started for the first time since he was injured, but we've got a lot of games coming up in the next few weeks so we're going to need everybody. I think when you take a step back from it and have a rest it keeps you fresh, so I'll continue to do that when I can. I was able to rest Michael Morrison a couple of games ago and he came back better for it... It doesn't matter who's left out of the team - they all stick together. When I was leaving people out of the team last year, even when they weren't playing well, they got the hump, but there's none of that this year because there's a great spirit'. Quinn is struggling in his search to bring in a striker on loan to complement Leo Fortune-West and Scott Rendell: 'The lads I've enquired about are injured or not yet match fit. There's one at Norwich and a couple of lads of different clubs but it's not been fruitful because teams are reluctant to let people go this early in the season'... United travel to Altrincham looking to extend the current unbeaten run to ten games. The Cheshire side are currently 21st in the table and still seeking their first win of the season, but Quinn knows they cannot be underestimated. 'It's an awkward place to go. In their last home game against Oxford they didn't deserve to lose and they're coming off the back of another defeat on Saturday against Woking so their confidence won't be too high, but when you're at home you always like to start the game at a high tempo so I think if we match them in the 'dirty' side of the game, like making sure we do the man-to-man stuff, then hopefully we can grind out a result. Even a point away from home isn't a bad result these days but we should be going there with confidence after Saturday. I spoke to (Oxford manager) Jim Smith the other day and he said Oxford didn't deserve to beat Altrincham. He said Altrincham had a lot of chances but they just couldn't score on the day but they were actually the better footballing side and he was disappointed with Oxford, so if Oxford - one of the sides that will be up there or thereabouts - found it difficult going there then a lot of teams will. I think Altrincham are one of those teams that once they're off and running they will cause anybody a problem. They've got some decent players but we've got to be professional; we've done it many times and we have to go there with the mentality we've had all along that we're not going to get beat'".

BIDDING HAS STARTED...

Geoff advises that the eBay item number for the above prize is 300152680468, so please keep the bids coming. The eBay description is as follows:

"A once in a lifetime opportunity - play football with Glenn McGrath and other sporting legends and celebrities. Glenn McGrath, the famous Australian fast bowling Cricketer, will be in the UK on Sunday 30th September 2007 and together with his team, of which you will be bidding to be part, will play football against the ‘All Stars’ Football Team.

Your team mates will be some of the best international sporting legends including Darren Gough, Michael Bevan, Bryan Robson, Clayton Blackmore, Chris Adams, Blair McDonough (Australian ex-Neighbours actor), Jonathan Dutton (ex-Neighbours), Tim Bresnan, Anthony McGrath, Scott McAllister, Gerard Brophy, Brad Drew (rugby) and others. The All Stars Football Team includes actors from of Hollyoaks and Coronation Street, as well as Jeff Brazier and Ralph Little and captained by Michael Le Velle (better known as car mechanic Kevin Webster).

The event is a charity event to raise money for the McGrath Foundation and Altrincham Football Club and your bid, less eBay fees, will be donated in full to this cause. Not only will you be bidding for a place to play on Glenn’s team, you will also receive 2 tickets to the evening function, which is to be held at the Cresta Court Hotel and overnight accommodation on Sunday 30th September 2007 . The evening function will consist of a champagne reception, four course dinner, wine on tables, entertainment by the impressionist Mike Osman and a question and answers session with Glenn McGrath and Darren Gough. Tickets to the evening function alone are selling at £150.00 each.

Before bidding please note that you must be over the age of 18, and available on the 30th September 2007 , and have your own football boots (kit will be provided). You must also be able to make your own way to Altrincham Football Ground, and return from the Cresta Court Hotel. You will also have the opportunity to get your playing shirt signed by your team mates".

LEO HOPES FOR RAIN

Altrincham will again be without suspended centre-back Karl Munroe but have loanee defender Ryan Shotton available after his good debut on Saturday. Val Owen and Gary Scott missed Saturday's game and it would be a surprise if either started tonight. Goalkeeper Stuart Coburn is also a doubt after limping through much of the game at Woking last Saturday.

MEN IN BLACK

The official for the game against Droylsden on Saturday 22nd September is Mr C. L. Pawson who, by coincidence, ran this season's game against Exeter at Moss Lane on 11 August 2007.. Other Altrincham FC matches that he has reffed include Altrincham v Rushden & Diamonds on 6 January 2007, Altrincham v Tamworth on 23 September 2006 and Bradford Park Avenue v Altrincham on 22 November 2003.

SHEDDING LIGHT ON MOSS LANE

In that programme, "The Editor" wrote "Who would have thought when the football season started last August we should be gathered here tonight at one of the most momentous occasions in the long history of Altrincham FC - the first game under £10,000 worth of floodlighting equipment?" The article went on to remind spectators of the impending "opening of the £37,000 Red Robins' Club" - which now sadly lies derelict and awaits demolition prior to the construction of housing on the Moss Lane car park. The 1966 programme reminds us all that the floodlights and social club came about from the "sheer hard work" of the Board - and much the same is true of the floodlight and car park redevelopment project in 2007.

Now, in September 2007, Altrincham FC has issued the following Press Release:

Altrincham F.C. Score with FSIF Grant.

Grass roots sport in Altrincham received a boost today following a £9,269 award to Altrincham F.C. by the Football Stadia Improvement Fund (FSIF), supporters of the Football Foundation, and the largest funder of non league football in the country. The funding represents 20% of the cost of the new floodlights which will be used for the first time when Altrincham host Cambridge United at 7.45pm on 18 September at Moss Lane.

Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the FSIF said "We warmly congratulate the club for their hard work and dedication in securing this award. Non league football has a long and proud history in this country and with the unprecedented amounts now being invested by the FSIF, the game can look forward to an increasingly bright future".

David Burns, Director of Altrincham F.C. said: "We are delighted to receive this tangible support from the FSIF which contributes to our aim to develop Altrincham F.C. and establish it as a central focus in our community. We look forward with excitement to the 'switch on' on 18 September and to a memorable game against Cambridge United".

David Burns, Director Altrincham FC.

Altrincham FC Director Barry Pond added that the new installation showed that the "Club's point of view is to look to the future. The new state of the art lights produce better light levels yet have lower amounts of light spillage to affect neighbouring properties. The new lights also come up to modern television broadcasting levels which improve our chances of having games broadcast".

MEET THE NEW BOYS

LAST TIME OUT

BSP NEWS

The BBC confirms that "Neil Redfearn has parted company as manager of Northwich Victoria after just nine games in charge. Redfearn resigned following talks with chairman Mike Connett in the aftermath of Saturday's 3-1 loss against Histon. Paul Warhurst, who made his debut in that game after signing on non-contract terms, will take charge of the Vics for their game at Halifax Town on Tuesday". Warhurst was set to join Altrincham in February 2006 but chose to go elsewhere.

The Burton Mail says that "Daryl Clare could be poised for a timely return to the firing line for Burton Albion this week. The striker has been given the all-clear to resume training".

The Yorkshire Evening Post says that "Farsley go to leaders Stevenage with stinging criticism from manager Lee Sinnott ringing in their ears... After an opening ten minutes of supremacy [against Exeter] Farsley rarely looked like turning possession into goals and their undefeated home record bit the dust... and Sinnott gave his side just four marks out of ten. He complained: 'It reminded me a bit of watching the England Rugby Union team the night before. England didn't deserve to score a point and we didn't deserve to score a goal... If we had scored at the end it would have flattered us. You make changes and try to instigate things. You have words with them at half time but it just didn't happen for us and I find that disappointing and frustrating... We started strongly and had a couple of half chances but they went away and scored. It was like a boxer being caught cold with a punch, but it shouldn't have been a sucker punch that lasted 80 minutes... It is not alarm bells ringing – just a word with the players about where we have got to, only to let ourselves down, which is unlike us'... Sinnott absolved right back Stephen Downes from blame".

"Stafford Rangers were plunged into further trouble near the foot of the table when they crashed to their eighth defeat in nine games" says This is Staffs. "New signing Cedric Avinel, making his debut after being loaned out by Watford, was unable to make a big enough difference to a Rangers team for whom losing is fast becoming a habit... Manager Phil Robinson has promised a shake-up to get their momentum going and that has to be sooner rather than later. He said: '"We have shot ourselves in both feet - again, conceding from a set piece. There are things we have been working on all week, like concentrating just before half-time, but the players let themselves down again and it is another mountain to climb. A win would make a lot of difference, but at times like this, players have to play with some passion and desire to get out of the situation'" .

This is Weymouth says that the Terras' "manager Jason Tindall was left disappointed his side didn't score more in their 3-1 victory at Droylsden on Saturday... He said: "It should have been more convincing... Five or six nil would have been fair at half-time'... Tindall is happy with the position they are in, saying: 'We are slowly creeping up the table with every game we play right now. You could compare it to a horse race in which we are towards the end of the pack but remain within touching distance. Hopefully we can work our way through the pack gradually and be towards the front when the finish line approaches'".

"Striker Michael Malcolm has today signed for Rushden & Diamonds, following being released by Kettering Town. The twenty one year old striker started his career as a school boy at Wycombe Wanderers, being spotted by Tottenham Hotspur and signed for £10,000. In 2005 Malcolm joined Stockport County, earning interest from Werder Bremen of Germany and FC Utrecht of Holland after impressing their scouts. The unlikely move to the Bundesliga failed to materialise and Malcolm found himself on the bench at Stockport. Michael was released by the Hatters and signed for Kettering Town, being released in September 2007".

"Stevenage Borough's "latest signing, winger Alistair John, was stabbed outside his house on Sunday evening. The 19 year old was taken to hospital where he underwent exploratory surgery and the Club understand that he's comfortable and in no danger. Chairman Phil Wallace said 'We don't quite know the full details of what happened yet, only that Ally left his house to go outside and see a group of people, was stabbed and staggered back to his house. The reports we've had tonight are that he's in hospital but in no danger and that no organs have been damaged, so we're relieved to hear that above all else'. John joined Boro last month after being released by Charlton in the summer and has already settled into the squad".

Watford confirm that "Scott Loach has joined Stafford Rangers on loan for one month. The 19-year-old goalkeeper is currently third choice at Vicarage Road and will join the Blue Square Premier outfit to get some regular games under his belt. He will join fellow Hornet, Cedric Avinel, who made his debut for the club on Saturday... Loach joined the Golden Boys from Lincoln City in August 2006 and has yet to feature for the first team although he has been a regular for the reserve side over the past year".

NEIL'S TOUGH DEBUT

VICS' BOSS GOES

NEXT OPPONENTS

Chairman Lee Power adds that "We've demonstrated a never-say-die attitude throughout the start of the season. We've been behind in so many games [6 times], and that's something that Jimmy is keen to address, but it does show also the fighting qualities we have... Scott Rendell has come into the side and has taken his chance well and when Lee Boylan's back he is going to give Jimmy a selection headache, while Leo Fortune-West has been a revelation. He's 36-years-old and when we signed him we thought that we'd need to give him a rest every now and again, but he's running round like a 17-year-old and, at the time of writing these notes, is top goal scorer in the league and has just won the Player of the Month award. That's a credit to Leo himself and how well he's kept himself in shape... We've allowed Jimmy to go slightly over the playing budget, so we are up to our limit, but the budget that we have given him is a healthy one... Going back to the traditional stripes on the home shirt has gone down fantastically well and sales have been going phenomenally well".

Cambridge and Crawley are our next two opponents and they met last Saturday in what the United website calls a "bruising encounter". Manager Jimmy Quinn said, "I told the players before the game that I didn't want them thinking about the run coming to an end and wondering when we were going to lose. I said 'let's keep taking it forward and believing we're going to win every game we play', and I thought we played some terrific football with some good balls into the box today. I would like to see us have a few more shots from outside the box. I think we get in areas where we're happy to pass it wide at times, and it's all about how many shots and how many crosses you can get in". In that game Quinn left "out Courtney Pitt for the first time this season, recalling Mark Convery for his first start since the opening day... 'Leaving out Courtney was two-fold really; because I haven't been able to bring in another striker in yet I thought that Courtney could go on up there with a bit of pace and he did that for 15 minutes, and then we reverted him back to his left-hand side because I've got a lad (Robbie Willmott) coming in from the youth team who's got a lot of pace as well' said Quinn...Of debutant Robbie Willmott, the 17-year-old youth team forward, Quinn enthused, "The one thing you can't defend against in football at any level is pace and he's got that in abundance. I always say 'it's not how old they are, it's how good they are' and the lad's a good player. I want to make sure he keeps his feet on the ground, but certainly what an option he is - particularly away from home with some big pitches in our league... He likes to run at people... it's great for me to see these young players coming through... That's the benefit of playing in a really tough league in the Ridgeons where they play against men every week'".

DISCOUNT COACH TRAVEL

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GRAHAM LOST FOR WORDS

Once again the press statistics of the game involving Altrincham this week are significantly different depending which match report you read. The NL Paper and NL Today differ as regards the numbers of offsides, shots on/off target, fouls and corners. The one thing they agree is that Alty had one yellow card and Woking had none; but in reality Woking's Morgan was booked. The BBC has Woking receiving two yellows and Alty none! Neither newspaper report mentions that Alty keeper Stuart Coburn was a virtual passenger for almost an hour of the game. More understandably, the NL Today gave the match one star out of five for entertainment and the NL Paper gave it two.

Woking record that "The Cards gained a valuable three points against lowly Altrincham. A header from Tom Hutchinson in the first half, diverted into the net by Darren Tinson, from a free-kick, and a goal on the stroke of full-time from Danny Bunce, saw Woking register a 2-0 win: the first time this season that they have scored more than one goal". Meanwhile Cardsweb adds that "At the fifth attempt the Cards came away with all three points at Kingfield. However, this was far from a comprehensive victory as visitors Altrincham were woeful and judging by their performance it is clear to see why they are current in the bottom three [no they are not!]. A better team may well have scored a lot more than two. To be fair, Frank Gray was hampered with injuries losing all his central midfielders (Pattison, Gray and Quamina) and he changed the team around, strangely dropping Sole and leaving out Maledon in favour of loan signings Kevin James and Joe Gatting as well as giving Izzy Harusha a chance in midfield. Going back to 3-5-2 Hutch returned to marshal Gasson and Lorraine with Gindre in goal and Lambu (right) and Green (left) on the wings. Harusha, James and Bunce made up the midfield with Gatting and Morgan up front.... Altrincham had some half chances too when Colin Little ballooned an ambitious volley over the bar from an awkward angle and Carlos Logan tested Gindre with a shot from outside the area.. Although Woking were edging the game they couldn't seem to create anything of note.. Lambu won a free kick having been upended and Bunce stepped up to loft in a long crossfield ball. Keeper' Coburn came and got nowhere near it leaving Hutchinson to rise above the masses and nod it towards goal, it took a deflection off Tinson and ended up in the back of the net".

This site's match report is here

LOOKING FOR POSITIVES

But on the positive side, Alty remain just a win away from escaping the relegation spots as, amazingly, all of the bottom four clubs have failed to win a single match between them because the Blue Square Premier has polarized between the haves and the have-nots. If you disregard Crawley's pending six-point deduction there is already a five-point gap between 19th and 20th in the table. Alty's next opponents are the only unbeaten side in the division, Cambridge United, who last season lost 5-0 to Alty at Moss Lane.

OLD BOYS

For Witton, "Cavell Coo failed to deal with a loose ball" when Prescot Cables scored to knock the Cheshire side out of the FA Cup.

Lewis Chalmers scored the late winner for Aldershot at Oxford yesterday. Former Alty captain Steve Hawes was sent off whilst playing for Worksop. Ex-Alty Reserve Colin McAllister netted an own goal for Warrington Town and ex-Alty trialist Steven Moore scored twice for Flixton in the FA Cup. Mark Maddox was a used sub for Leigh RMI for whom Kieran Lugsden also played.

BSP NEWS

WOKING 2 ALTRINCHAM 0

Right: Joe O'Neill (in blue) in action against Woking.

SATURDAY GAMES

Saturday 15th

CARDS' NEW TRIO

AUSSIES PREPARE FOR MOSS LANE

The article on Geoff concerns the charity football match and dinner to be held on 30th September. Playing in the football match wil be famous Australian and England cricketers as well as football stars of the past. Australian pace bowler Glenn McGrath, whose wife Jane founded the McGrath Foundation, (which educates women about breast cancer and is one of the main recipients of the money raised by the events organised by Geoff Goodwin and his wife Suzanne), said of the football match, "I can't promise a skilful performance from the cricketers, our boots are better suited to the cricket pitch. But it will definitely be fun for the fans to watch. Footballers, cricketers and televison celebrities going head to head on the field will be great entertainment for a Sunday afternoon". Also in Glenn's football team will be fellow cricketers Darren Gough, Stuart Law, Michael Bevan and Alec Stewart as well as footballers Bryan Robson and Clayton Blackmore, not to mention Superleague player Brad Drew. The opposition All Stars XI includes Coronation Street's Michael LeVell, Bill Tarmey and Ryan Thomas, as well as stars from The Royle Family, Hollyoaks and other TV shows.

Batsman Stuart Law told Metro News, "Glenn is a top bloke and Jane is an incredible woman and together what they have done to raise money and awareness of breast cancer can only be applauded". Last year Alty raised £24,000 for the foundation at a joint fundraising gala. The link between the cricketers and Altrincham is Alty chairman Geoff Goodwin who drove the Aussies team coach around the country on their last tour of England. Geoff, the owner of Go Goodwins coach company, said of Glenn "I think we''ll have to put him in goal!". The match starts at 1pm at Moss Lane on Sunday 30th November and costs just £5 (£3 under-14s, £10 family ticket) .

GOOD LUCK, NEIL!

BSP NEWS

Barnsley confirm that "Barnsley youngster Simon Heslop has joined Northwich Victoria on an emergency [??!!] loan. The talented midfielder will join up with fellow-Red, Michael Coulson and Oakwell hero Neil Redfearn at the Wincham Avenue club. Simon joined the Reds as an Academy scholar in the summer of 2003 after impressing through the youth teams ranks. He made the breakthrough to the reserve team during his first year at the Academy. A string of excellent displays for both the U18s and reserves saw him handed a first team squad number in October 2004. Highly-rated both at Oakwell and elsewhere, Simon enjoyed a work experience spell with Kidderminster Harriers during the 2005/2006 campaign, making 22 appearances for the Conference side. He returned to Oakwell and put in a string of excellent displays at Academy and reserve team level to earn a new two-year deal. Although Simon did not make the breakthrough at first team level at Oakwell at the start of last season, he enjoyed a very productive six month spell on loan at Tamworth, making 29 appearances in all competitions. He was handed his Barnsley debut on the final day of the 2006/2007 campaign at West Brom. Simon will spend the next month on loan at Northwich Victoria and could make his debut against Histon [today]".

FRIDAY SCORE

STRUGGLING ALTY

The Cards were without Tom Hutchinson and Bradley Quamina for the visit to Halifax on Tuesday evening, but both resumed training during the week and Frank Gray is hopeful that they will be available for selection this weekend. Young striker, Joe Gatting, has joined the club from Brighton & Hove Albion for a three month loan period and Paul Hakim from Stevenage Borough is expected to sign today (Friday) on an initial month’s loan. Liam Marum and Matt Gray remain on the long-term injury list... Alty’s prize asset is striker Colin Little: without his goals in recent seasons the Robins would have been dead and buried.

We have won all four games played against Altrincham since they were [last] promoted. In December 2005 the Cards had a superb 4-0 away win over the Robins, having put thirteen past Camberley Town in a midweek Surrey Senior Cup game. Justin Richards and Steve Evans gave us a 2-0 lead at half-time, and Justin again and Steve Ferguson added two more in the second half. In the last league game of that season the Cards triumphed 3-1 over Alty in a sparkling display... Last September the Cards won 3-2 away during our Jon Nurse-inspired run of good form... In January... the Cards gained a vital 2-0 victory".

ALTY SIGN LOAN PLAYER

FIVE OUT TOMORROW

GET YOUR BID READY

Do come along and make the day a great success. The football match is a bargain at just £5 for adults, £3 for under-14s and £10 for a family ticket for two adults and two children.Almost all of the dinner tickets have been sold but if you would like to get one, please e-mail Suzanne and Geoff Goodwin, who are organizing the event.

WOKING SIGN ANOTHER STRIKER

Off the field change is afoot at Kingfield. The Woking News & Mail reports that "Opinions are split and tempers are fraying over a land deal between the borough council and Woking Football Club. Woking Borough Council has agreed to sell land around the club’s Westfield ground to the club for an estimated £1.6 million. As well as redevelopment of the ground, the deal could bring the total of new homes for the area to almost 500 and football fans hope it will usher in a golden age at the club. But others fear the agreement will lead to over-development, stretching the local infrastructure to breaking point. Bob Shatwell, who lives in Lime Grove near Kingfield Stadium, said: 'It’s awful and should not be allowed. It’s typical of Woking Borough Council. They are riding roughshod over the rights of residents at every turn. We have told them we’re opposed to development of the football club but they just don’t take any notice'. Householders say an influx of new residents to the area will reduce traffic to a crawl and increase the risk of flooding. Even some of the Cards’ fans believe the new development could cause huge problems.

... But for the council the deal will provide a cash cow to help it progress the long-awaited Hoe Valley flood defence scheme, which will include the construction of 150 homes on the Westfield Tip site... If approved, the work would take place in three phases, starting with the construction of a 2,646-seater West Stand for the club. Phase one would also include the development of 187 new homes and more than 5,000 square metres of space described as “commercial, operational and rentable”. The second phase would see the snooker and gym club sites being redeveloped to provide a new 2,368-seater North Stand. This stage would involve the creation of a further 59 homes and more than 1,400sqm of “commercial, rentable space”. Details of the third and final phase have not been finalised but residents fear this could involve a further 100 homes being built".

NOT GUNG-HO

OLD BOY

BSP NEWS

And news of more loan activity comes from Rushden & Diamonds where "Simon Rusk has today signed on a month's loan from Northwich Victoria. The twenty five year old midfielder started his career as a youth player at Peterborough United, moving to Cambridge City and then Boston United, where he spent 6 years, becoming one of the Pilgrims most capped players with over 150 appearances. He was signed in July 2007 by Neil Redfearn at Northwich... Lawrence Lambley has also gone out to Corby Town for three months".

The Oxford Mail tells us that "Oxford United boss Jim Smith has told defender Luke Foster to improve his lifestyle if he wants to get back into the team... There had been high hopes that the Mexborough-born player would have a significant part to play for the U's this season after he shone in his seven appearances last term following his February move from Stalybridge Celtic. But Smith has not been impressed with the 22-year-old. Foster has already been sent home and disciplined after arriving late for the pre-match meal when the U's were preparing for their big, televised Bank Holiday battle at Stevenage... Smith said: 'Fozzie has been disappointing in his attitude, which has affected why he's not involved. Lifestyle is very important for a footballer and he maybe needs to look at changing his'".

The Droylsden Forum has unconfirmed reports that [former Alty winger] Blake Norton has now left the club".

At unbeaten Cambridge United "Gavin Hoyte will miss the next couple of weeks with a hamstring injury. The young defender has been substituted in the last two games with a calf problem and Jimmy Quinn confirmed today that he is being treated for a hamstring strain... Mark Peters will return to the team in his place on Saturday... and first year pro Josh Coulson will provide the defensive cover on the bench. 'He hasn't played yet but I wouldn't hesitate to throw young Josh on at any stage', said Quinn. 'I've told him he's been a bit unlucky that we've got so many decent centre halves this year, but it's a long season and over the course of this season we'll be picking up injuries and suspensions and he will play his part'". Meanwhile the Cambridge Evening News tells us that "Danny Brown has been ordered to stay away from Cambridge United's training sessions for his own good to help his recovery from a bruised bone on his left foot. The influential U's skipper has missed the last four league games with the injury... And although he was relieved not to have broken the bone, Brown is now getting frustrated by the fact he is unable to put a timescale on when he might be able to return. He said: 'I started to train again last Thursday, but my foot just kept swelling up, so I've been sent home and told to keep off it. It's painful. I was prepared to play through a certain amount of pain, but at the moment that's just not possible'".

And the News also states that "Quinn has been forced to step up his search for a new striker after learning that Dan Chillingworth has suffered a further setback in his comeback from injury. The U's boss is bereft of forward options with the news that Chillingworth is now likely to be out for at least another two months after discovering the ankle ligament injury which he picked up in pre-season, is worse than first thought. United are also without goalscorer Lee Boylan, who is also sidelined with ankle ligament damage, leaving Quinn with only Leo Fortune-West and Scott Rendell as recognised strikers. The manager said: 'It is now a priority to find someone as soon as we can because we have no cover up front at the moment. We just need to get someone in for a month's loan because Lee Boylan is still a couple of weeks away'... But Mark Convery's return to fitness from a hamstring problem, will be a boost".

THURSDAY GAME

STAR PLANS

The STAR Board have been battling with a problem regarding the auditting of the accounts from year 2005/6. However a solution has been found which members will have to vote on. A voting form with full details will be on it's way to shortly and will appear on this site in the next few days. If members vote for this solution then the STAR Board will be able to organise pt2 of the 2006/7 AGM (finally!) and present accounts at a simultaneous 2007/8 AGM bringing us right up to date".

OLD BOYS & LOANEES

This is Staffs reports that "Leek Town clawed their way back from a two-goal deficit to claim a deserved point against a physical Stamford side... As early as the ninth minute, Stamford keeper Chris Sanna was forced to go full length to deny Pat McFadden".

WOKING STRENGTHEN

BSP NEWS

THe Cambridge Eveneing News says that "Jimmy Quinn has put Cambridge United's impressive unbeaten start to the season down to team spirit. The U's boss paid tribute to his players' never-say-die attitude that has seen them pick up 16 points from eight matches - coming from behind five times. But Quinn also recognises the need for a well-earned rest - which is what he will be giving his charges this week... He said: 'I get frustrated from time to time and have pops at them, but that's my job. I hope most of them know me well enough by now to know it is never personal, but I just want to win... But we need to balance out that hard work with rest. A few of the lads felt tired with all the travelling we've done, so they had yesterday (Monday, 10 September) off and will rest again tomorrow (Wednesday, 12 September). The pleasing thing for me is that everyone has played their part, even the young players like Michael Hyem and Robbie Willmott... The players that have come in like the goalkeeper Danny Potter, who is as good as anyone at this level, and Mark Albrighton have been great for us. But this is the first week we haven't had a midweek game, so we need to take advantage of that with the right rest to keep us fresh for the visit of Crawley on Saturday'. United are the only unbeaten team left in the Blue Square Premier after Torquay lost 3-1 at Burton last night".

MeanwhileCambridge United say that "Mark Convery is delighted to be back in action for United. The midfielder strained a hamstring during his debut appearance at former club York, but made his comeback with a late appearance from the bench in our win at home to Grays last week and played for the final 30 minutes of the 1-1 draw at Exeter on Saturday. He said 'It'll be difficult to displace the lads who are in the starting eleven because they have done so well but that's the goal that I'm aiming for'".

From the Argus we learn that "Crawley manager Steve Evans has dismissed reports linking striker Leroy Griffiths with a move to Broadfield Stadium. Griffiths, 30, was rumoured to be on his way to Reds after having a bust-up with his Conference south club Havant and Waterlooville. The former QPR frontman only joined the Hawks in the summer after failing out with Fisher Athletic. Evans said: 'It is absolutely not true. I haven't seen him or spoken to him, it is pure fabrication'".

The Halifax Courier says that "Town climbed into the top half of the Blue Square Premier for the first time this season after extending their impressive run to 10 points from the last 12 on offer with victory over Woking at the Shay. A second-half wonder strike from midfielder Anthony Griffith proved to be the difference... But the gulf in class on the pitch was far greater than that and Halifax's latest performance left manager Chris Wilder purring. 'I thought the standard of play from the first minute to the 90th was first class', he said. 'I also thought Tom Kearney was absolutely superb. He has had his doubters, although I cannot see why, because he keeps the ball, he probes, he passes and keeps us ticking over'. As Wilder had predicted before kick off, Woking did everything they could to stifle the Shaymen, getting as many players behind the ball as they possibly could. 'There were times when their forwards didn't get forward a lot', he said. 'I think it is a massive respect to us and you have to break them down... We wanted to play at a high tempo, we wanted to put Woking under pressure and we wanted to get after them... We are gathering momentum and players are playing well'".

"Harriers' chairman Barry Norgrove has made an impassioned plea to stay-away fans to come back and support the team at Aggborough this season" states the Kidderminster Shuttle. "Norgrove was disappointed with Saturday's 1589 strong crowd for the 3-0 win over York City... The chairman believes the club has done its best to try and attract fans to home games, keeping season ticket prices the same and allowing manager Mark Yates to invest heavily in order to strengthen the squad... However, so far Harriers have yet to beat the opening day's attendance of 1976, when Aldershot came to Aggborough. 'I have been wracking my brains about how to attract more fans to games and am not sure what more I can do', said the chairman. 'We have one of the best grounds in the league and invested heavily in the playing squad'... Last season Harriers averaged crowds of 1,500 at home, but the chairman believes that it needs to be raised to 2,000 in order for the club to break even. Norgrove said: 'Myself and the board have put a lot of money into the club and it can't last forever. If we don't start to get over gates of 2,000 at home games then at the end of the season we'll have to put our hands in our pockets once again... We have sold all the billboards around the ground, which is the first time in a long time...I don't want to pull out of the club and the only offer I would consider would be from someone with substantial financial power. We need someone like a Russian billionaire but unfortunately you don't get many around Kidderminster'".

The Northwich Guardian says that "Mike Connett has asked his players to stand up and be counted. The Vics' chairman told the Guardian today that every player had been called in individually as an inquest into Saturday's humiliating defeat at Aldershot continues. Five of them - three of whom signed this summer - have been told they have no future at the club. Simon Rusk, made captain by Redfearn after he dropped original choice Michael Welch, is perhaps the biggest surprise on the list. Brad Maylett, Michael Byrne, Kevin Townson and Greg Strong are the others. 'The lads who have been here longest are the ones who knows what it means to play for Northwich', said Connett. 'They're the ones with pride and who are giving us 100% - others are not'. The quintet are unlikely to feature for the crunch weekend clash with Histon, by which time Redfearn hopes to have added at least two players on loan".

This is York says that "Setanta Sports executive producer Stephen Cook has apologised to Blue Square Premier clubs for any inconvenience caused by the company's constant fixture tinkering. But Cook has also defended the Irish broadcasters' decision to switch games to Sunday and Thursday nights as a means of maximising the exposure for clubs in the highest echelon of non-League football. York City's home match with Torquay United and trip to Farsley Celtic were recently rescheduled for Sunday, October 21 and Sunday, November 4 respectively to avoid a clash with midweek Champions' League fixtures but the 7.15pm kick-off times have proven unpopular with supporters of all three clubs... Cook said: 'We have to look at what's best for the Blue Square Premier in terms of exposure. Having considered viewing figures so far, a clash with the Champions League is not in anybody's interests and we will be avoiding all clashes with the competition in the future. That's not to say we haven't had encouraging viewing figures. In fact the Exeter v York game achieved over a third of the audience for the Tyne-Tees derby between Newcastle and Middlesbrough which I thought was extremely encouraging. That shows there are an awful lot of York fans who are getting an opportunity to watch their team that wasn't there before. That can only heighten the profile of the club and I would hope potential sponsors would sit up and take notice'. Cook expressed sympathy for supporters who have been unable to attend games or been affected financially by any switches this season but insisted the company make every effort to announce changes in reasonable advance. He said: 'Whilst we appreciate some fans have had to rearrange their plans and are sympathetic towards them, we would hope that we have given them quite a lot of notice'".

TORQUAY GAME

Curiously, the Conference website fixture list and the Blue Square site have no Torquay v Altrincham fixture in December at all; indeed the Gulls are not shown as playing at all in the league in that month until Boxing Day! But the Torquay club site still has the game as Saturday 8th at 3pm. All very confusing!

COME TO WOKING!

Right: Alty on their last visit to Woking in January 2007.

Saturday's referee for Woking v Altrincham is Mr K G Yeo who was a linesman in the Luton v Bristol Rovers' match last Saturday.

On their last visit to Kingfield, Alty lost 2-0. The sides that day were:

With Karl Munroe suspended and Val Owen doubtful through injury, only Coburn, Aspinall, Peyton, Lawton, O'Neill, and Senior from the starters in January are likely to be involved this Saturday for Altrincham.

THANKS TO THE STEWARDS

SHIRTS DELAYED

BSP NEWS

The NL Daily says that "Midfielder Frankie Artus will be with Exeter City for a further month after agreeing a one-month extension to his loan deal. The Bristol City teenager arrived at St James's Park before the start of the season to ease a central midfield injury crisis... The new deal will mean Artus is available for the next seven league fixtures, with the contract running out after next month's home clash with Grays Athletic".

Bullsnews reports that on Tuesday a "friendly between Kidderminster Harriers and Hereford United ended in a 1-1 draw... Several of the Harriers management team played including a full ninety minutes from Mark Yates".

The Farsley Celtic Forum confirms that the Yorkshire club has signed "Colin Heath, ex-Macclesfield ex-Chester, ex-Man U, 6ft striker". He came on as a sub for Celtic last Saturday having earlier been linked with Droylsden.

NEIL'S CHALLENGE

TUESDAY

WOKING'S NEW BREW

Meanwhile Woking FC announce that "Further to the success of the Cardinals' Own Bitter, the Club have now launched their very own lager, Cardinals' Gold. This is an organic lager and made purely from organic produce. No additives or preservatives. The organically grown hops deliver a floral note to the brew and the purity of flavour is protected by meticulous cold filtration. This is a long, powerful brew with a firm body and a luxuriant head. Each 660ml (bigger than a pint) bottle is 5% vol and on sale from the Club bar for £3.00. The lager also comes in a ‘mini cask’ containing 8 pints. These will be ideal for home BBQ parties with each cask coming fitted with tap for easy pouring.

Andy Morgan comments: 'We have been delighted with sales of our bitter and this new lager will be even more popular with our supporters. The 660ml bottles will be on sale from our clubhouse every home matchday, starting with the Altrincham match this coming Saturday, 15 September. This new initiative is one of many the Commercial Team here at the club will be launching throughout the coming months. It is an exciting time to be involved with the club especially with the recent news that the Council have agreed to sell an area of Council-owned land to the local football club at open market value. Woking Football Club will now be able to move forward with its development proposals'".

VICS' CLEAR-OUT

OLD BOYS

Meanwhile, former Alty keeper Ashley Timms is now playing for Tamworth.

KARL'S BAN

BSP NEWS

NL Daily confirms that "Former Bradford Park Avenue player and manager Phil Sharpe [an ex-Alty player, too] has been appointed assistant-manager to Neil Redfearn at Blue Square Premier strugglers Northwich Victoria. After a playing career with around thirteen clubs, Sharpe has since been assistant boss at UniBond League sides Guiseley and Wakefield and manager at Frickley Athletic and, most recently, Bradford Park Avenue where he signed Redfearn last year".

The Cambridge Evening News says that "Jamie Guy could be on his way back to Cambridge United if Jimmy Quinn suffers any further injuries to his strikeforce. The Colchester marksman scored two goals during a loan spell at the Abbey in 2006 under former boss Rob Newman. And Quinn said he has made inquiries to the Championship club about taking Guy, 20, on another temporary deal if Scott Rendell or Leo Fortune-West take a knock before Lee Boylan returns from an ankle injury... Quinn said: 'Jamie Guy is an option we've got if we need it, but Willy (Wordsworth, chief scout) has given me a couple of other names to look at with League clubs as well'. Quinn added: 'It's going to be a tough game because Exeter are one of the teams I fully expect to be up there at the end of the season with Oxford and Torquay. We're going there as a confident side, so it's a little bit different to last season in that respect. Their strength without a shadow of a doubt is their three front-runners. but we're solid at the back, so something has got to give'. Meanwhile, Quinn has ruled out a move for Craig Fleming after United were linked with the former Norwich City defender following his exit from Rotherham last week... Robbie Willmott has a big future with Cambridge United, according to Jimmy Quinn. The 17 year old attacker was set to make the trip to Exeter with the first team today, depending on a late fitness test for skipper Danny Brown... Quinn believes the youngster, who can play on the wing or up front, is one for the future... 'With his pace and shooting ability, Robbie could turn a game for us, and, although I didn't bring him on against Grays, I wouldn't hesitate to use him if we needed to'".

From the Yorkshire Evening Post we learn that "Lee Sinnott was full of praise for his Farsley Celtic players, who grabbed their first Blue Square Premier away win in a 2-1 defeat of Histon, and he promised there is more to come from his side. Celtic controlled the game more than the scoreline suggests with Damien Reeves getting both goals, on 48 and 59 minutes, either side of a Histon strike... Sinnott said: 'It was a difficult game. To be fair they caused us a few problems and put us under pressure... The mental approach has to be right when you come to a place like Histon and I am sure other sides will find it hard here. They've got the long throw which came into the box about 20 times in the second half and you have some defending to do, but we got through that and I was very impressed with the way we defended... We have now started to transfer the form we've shown at home into performances away from home'".

"Salisbury City will await the outcome of an inquiry by the Football Association before commenting in depth on the post-match incident involving player/coach Tommy Widdrington, who was the victim of an alleged head butt by Rushden & Diamonds manager Garry Hill" says the Salisbury Journal. "'Tommy's got a bloody nose and a bit of a headache and we're now waiting for the x-ray results before we know what damage has been done', said City manager Nick Holmes. 'The referee and his assistants all saw the incident and we've watched it on the DVD. Like I said immediately after the game, we're happy to let the officials deal with it through the correct channels, but we'll reserve the right to take the matter further depending on what Tommy wants to do. The FA are now looking at the DVD and they have the referee's report. Once we hear back from the FA we'll comment further'".

From This is York we read that "York City boss Billy McEwan told angry supporters he shares their frustration at the club's disappointing start to the season. Chants of 'What a load of rubbish' were directed at City's players at half-time and at the end of Saturday's 3-0 defeat against Kidderminster Harriers. McEwan's first-half substitution of Ben Purkiss, which the City boss later attributed to injury, was also greeted with a chorus of 'You don't know what you're doing'. The Minstermen have now won just one of their first eight Blue Square Premier fixtures and McEwan, who guided the club to eighth and fourth-placed finished during his first full campaigns with the club, admitted: 'We are going through a very difficult time and I feel for the fans, but it's the challenge I took when I came to the club and it's got to be sorted out sooner rather than later. The supporters are unhappy, but nobody is as frustrated and disappointed as I am. I hate it, but that's my job... You don't become a bad manager because the team's not winning. We've not done too bad in the previous 100 games. We can't keep harking back though. It's what's happening now that's the most concerning thing and this team is not playing as well as I expect it to play. Players are losing confidence and there's also indecision between units at the minute... We had them watched and knew what their strengths and weaknesses were and felt we had to bolster the team more in the middle of the park. Rafa Benítez changed his team 99 times on the trot at Liverpool so there are no problems from that point of view'... While not offering it as an excuse, McEwan also felt traffic delays that saw the team sat on a coach for four hours did not help preparation for the game. 'Instead of the pre-match meal we booked at our hotel for 11.45am, we had tea and toast when we got there at 1pm and then we were straight back on to the coach 20 minutes later', he said".

NL Daily also says that "Mangotsfield United have signed the experienced Jon Beswetherick on a month`s loan from Blue Square Premier club Salisbury City. The vastly-experienced and versatile 29-year-old has made fifty-two appearances for Salisbury since signing for the club in November 2005... He has also played for Swindon Town, Bristol Rovers, Macclesfield, Kidderminster Harriers and Forest Green Rovers, from where he signed for Salisbury in November 2005".

STEVENAGE GO TOP

Monday 10th

YOUTH GAME REPORT

LOOKING AHEAD TO WOKING

OXFORD'S DELIGHT

The Oxford Mail adds that "Jim Smith played a 3-4-1-2 formation for the first time, deploying Paul Shaw just behind Rob Duffy and Yemi Odubade... Odubade received a yellow card shortly before half-time for using his elbow as he jumped, which seemed slightly harsh as the Altrincham player who had blatantly body-checked him a minute earlier didn't even get a telling-off from the officials... Substitute Carlos Logan got past Pettefer with ease and when his cross from the left was only half-cleared, Sedgemore fired home a 22-yard drive. Tardif got a hand to the shot but couldn't prevent it going in. Logan continued to cause the U's problems, and he was allowed too much space".

The official site of Oxford United says that "It turned into a lovely Day at Altrincham this afternoon as Matt Day's first goal of the sason and a last minute strike from Yemi Odubade earned United an invaluable win at Moss Lane... With the home side playing with just one man up front and clearly worried by Odubade's pace. That almost bit them on the bum on 17 minutes as Altrincham had the first truly threatening moment of the match and former York striker Joe O'Neill flicked a header over Tardif and onto the bar... It wasn't perhaps the most pleasing game on the eye, with both sides managing one shot on target by 75 minutes, but then on 77 the home side finally found a way through with their second effort. Once again a sub called Logan did the damage, Carlos crossing from the left and Gnohere getting in a goal saving header away. Unfortunately the ball only reach Jake Sedgemorer on the edge of the box and his thumping shot flicked off an outstretched leg and into the right corner of the helpless Tardif's net".

This web site's match report is here.

OLD BOY

BSP NEWS

YOUTHS HELD

Above: Alty (in blue) go close to scoring in the first half.

Altrincham Youth were held 2-2 on Sunday afternoon by Morecambe. Alty led till the 89th minute. The first goal was attributed to Sam Madeley but there was no doubt at all that Madeley got the second.

WOKING

WELCOME GUESTS

The pupils of Stamford Park Junior School were the welcome guests of Altrincham FC on Saturday - and as well as meeting manger Graham Heathcote, they also met Rocky Robin, as the picture above shows!

AFTER THE GAME

The statistics produced for football matches are far from reliable as the following comparison of three reports on yesterday's Altrincham v Oxford game shows. The figures quoted below are respectively from the BBC, the NL Paper and NL Today.

ATTRACTING BIG CLUBS' FANS

FAN'S LETTER

OLD BOYS

ALTRINCHAM 1 OXFORD UNITED 3

Above: Alty celebrate their goal.

Though it is now eight games without a win this season for Altrincham, the final score again did not reflect the balance of the game. With four minutes to play the score was 1-1 and Alty looked more likely to win the game than their visitors

Match report here.

SAM'S VIEW

OLD BOYS

Paul was briefly a player with Altrincham, whilst Neil Brown is the former Alty Reserves' manager and is still the groundsman at Moss Lane. We wish Paul a speedy recovery and wish Neil good luck as he takes temporary charge pending next week's board meeting.

Kieran Lugsden played for Leigh RMI on Friday night.

SATURDAY

Saturday 8th

£5 ENTRY OFFER TODAY

And after the match England v Israel will be screened live in the bar on the new wide screen television which has been installed there!

HELP TO PUBLICIZE THE CLUB

Right: Copies of the above fixture poster are available at the game against Oxford to anyone who is able to display them in a workplace, club or other public space.

JOE LOOKING FOR A RUN

JIM EXPECTS A WIN

The official Oxford United site says that United "look to get back to winning Blue Square ways at Altrincham on Saturday. Out through injury: Gary Twigg, Billy Turley, Chris Willmott and Phil Gilchrist. Chris Tardif starts his first game of the season in place of Billy Turley, who is out with a calf strain. Youngster Sam Warrell travels with the squad as cover. Joel Ledgister and Eddie Hutchinson both return to the squad, with Hutchinson likely to start and Ledgister on the bench. United won 3-0 at Moss Lane last season with goals from Eddie Anaclet Michael Corcoran and Marvin Robinson.

The Opposition: Don't go making a song and dance about it because you know how these things work, but Altrincham have lost all three home matches so far and picked up all of their three points on the road, with draws at Halifax, Stafford and York. Former York striker Joe O'Neill's late equaliser against his old club is the only goal his side has scored after half time this season".

The Oxford site adds that "Jim Smith... is demanding greater mental strength from his youthful side as they look to get back to winning ways at Moss Lane. 'We were all down after the game, very down, but football is all about bouncing back up again... There has to be something other than ability because I look at the individual ability here and some of the players are up there alongside players I've worked with in the Premier League. But it's the mental strength. We haven't got too many Ronaldinhos, but we do have good, skilful players and it's the mental part of the game that makes the difference between playing at this level and going higher. Michael Corcoran and Matty Day have done very well, but they are young boys, and two games at home with a mistake in the first means they get nervous. You need a Gilchrist or a Willmott to be with those young lads, and those two are getting closer all the time. Look at our side and you've got Eddie Anaclet, Danny Rose, Yemi, who are all young, Phil Trainer who hasn't played at this level. We haven't got that much serious experience...The midfield three haven't got much experience but Eddie Hutchinson is back for Saturday and that adds a bit of know-how'... Jim must decide whether to call youth team keeper Sam Warrell on to the bench as back up to Chris Tardif, or go with no keeper on the bench, something that Jim is not keen to do. 'I have never done it. A manager who does that must be luckier than me. I have someone who could fill in, so I'll put him in goal in training on Friday and have a look at him just in case'".

BSP NEWS

As for the Manager of the Month, "Salisbury City boss Nick Holmes has won the Blue Square Manager of the Month award for August. Holmes guided his newly promoted team to three wins and two draws... In the Blue Square South the award goes to Bath City manager John Relish... Mark Cooper the Kettering Town manager scooped the award in the Blue Square North".

NL Daily quotes Nick Holmes: "I certainly won't be winning the award for September!". Salisbury have lost both of their matches so far in September.

Alty visit Woking next Saturday from where Woking Council says that "Woking Football Club will be able to move forward with its development proposals after Borough Councillors at last night's Executive meeting (Thursday 6 September) agreed to sell an area of Council-owned land to the local football club at open market value. Woking Football Club has put forward proposals to redevelop the football ground in order to secure its long-term future through football and non-football related income. The proposals include a range of quality improvements to enhance the club and provide better facilities and activities for the club and the community. These include additional community facilities for conferences, improvements at the ground which will strengthen activities including Football in the Community and the Football Academy, plus improved spectator facilities with larger stand capacities. In order for the development to move forward, the Council has agreed to sell its land adjacent to the club's Kingfield Stadium to the football club. Councillors agreed that this would be the best possible way forward for the Council to honour its ongoing commitment to supporting the local club, plus securing full open market value for the disposal of land in Westfield... Chris Ingram, Chairman of Woking Football Club, added: 'We are delighted with this decision, which demonstrates the ongoing partnership between the club and council. We are especially pleased that this will help alleviate the threat of floods to residents in our surrounding area. We will now go forward to draw up detailed plans for new facilities on the Kingfield site that will provide a stadium worthy of our fans, our community and our town'".

Blue Square Football says that "Garry Hill, manager of Rushden & Diamonds, has given permission for youngsters Alex Bolt and Martyn Margarson to go out on loan.Midfielder Bolt is a product of the Rushden youth system and has joined St Albans on a three-month deal. Goalkeeper Margarson has impressed while on-loan at Long Buckby and will stay on for another two months".

OXFORD SELECTION

For more on the game, see below...

THURSDAY GAME

ASA IN FULL FLIGHT

Above: A superb shot of Steve Aspinall by Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography from the match against Aldershot Town.

AT PLACES LIKE ALTRINCHAM

Chris Benson's preview on Non-League Today says that "Oxford Manager Jim Smith sees Saturday’s clash with Altrincham as an important game for his club. He said, 'After drawing two home games we need a victory. In fact it’s important that we get one... My players are not complacent. In fact Altrincham’s position makes us more aware of how difficult the game will be. They’ve just had an excellent result in midweek at York and we know that they will be fighting and working hard. They will be desperate to pick up a win... The league has got stronger and we have played four teams who are likely to be near the top at the end of the season'.

Alty boss Graham Heathcote... says, 'I thought we played very well at York and put them under a lot of pressure in the second half'. But one major source of satisfaction is that striker Colin Little is now free from suspension. Heathcote said, 'He is important to us because he can score goals and that’s what we need. I hope he’s learned his lesson. We can’t afford to lose our top striker for three matches because of a bout of silliness'. Val Owen remains on the sidelines but Gary Scott has a chance of being fit and Sean Clancy – whose sister is currently featuring as a contestant on Hell’s Kitchen – has now had all his paperwork completed. So Robins’ fans can be hopeful that a first win is near". .

OLD BOY

JUGGLING ROUND ENGLAND

BSP NEWS

The Kidderminster Shuttle says that "Kidderminster Harriers Independent Supporters Trust (KHIST) has increased its share in the Aggborough club. The Trust gave Harriers £5,000 to help pay for new signings Paul Bignot and Dean Bennett and a further £3,600 to pay for an on-line scouting information system. A cheque for £8,600 was officially presented to the club before Saturday's clash with Exeter. It means KHIST has increased its number of shares by 12,208 to 26,708. Bennett, who scored seven goals in as many games for Kidderminster in 2001, has returned to Aggborough for a three-month loan from Chester City. Treasurer Steve Millington said: 'The trust is happy to have further strengthened its links with Harriers'"

Before last night's game the Halifax Courier reported that "Steve Bushell is set to return to the Town squad for tonight's clash at Stafford Rangers... Bushell limped from the field after an hour of the 3-0 win against Droylsden on Bank Holiday Monday... 'We have had three good days training and yesterday we spoke to the squad about the situation off the pitch. Considering what has been happening, I have had a magnificent response from them all'" said manager Chris Wilder.

This is Staffs says that "Stafford Rangers have suffered a devastating injury blow after defender Nathan Talbott was ruled out for the rest of the season. A surgeon has told the full-back he needs a major operation on his hip if he is to continue his career. The complex procedure involves a bone graft and manager Phil Robinson is resigned to losing him for at least a year. Robinson said: 'It's devastating news for Nathan and for the club because he is a fantastic talent and was one of our most consistent performers'... Talbott, who started his career as a trainee at Wolves, joined Rangers in 2004".

Alty's next away game is at Kingfield where Woking boss "Frank Gray has placed a flip chart in the players’ tunnel at Kingfield with a message to his squad that says simply: ‘Punctuality: Don’t be on time, be early, meet time might be different from start or leave time’. Perhaps the Woking boss should add a reminder that a game of football starts when the first whistle blows and not an hour later. There was no better example of a team not making it out of the dressing room for the first half than on Tuesday night, when Weymouth were made to look more like the footballing equivalent of the Harlem Globetrotters than a team who have won just once this season. That The Terras didn’t punish their hosts by finding the net in the opening 45 minutes was a mystery to everybody in the ground... With Woking completely outplayed and overrun, a casual observer might have wondered whether the Hoe Stream had burst its banks again given the tidal wave heading towards Nick Gindre’s goal. But after Jefferson Louis had finally headed Weymouth in front five minutes after the break, Woking raised from their slumber, levelled the scores with their first meaningful shot at goal through Giuseppe Sole, and made a fist of it.'We could have been three or four down at half time' said manager Frank Gray. 'We managed to claw our way back and get a point and it’s another game we haven’t lost'. Gray was at a loss to explain why his team have seemingly come to disregard the first half of matches as a meaningless irrelevance — a dangerous game to play if the opposition take their chances. .. 'I don’t know whether it’s something in their heads', added the boss. But we’ve spoken about it before every game that we’ve got to start brighter and think we are playing the second half of every game at the start. We haven’t done that again and it’s something that’s difficult to put your finger on'... With no wins at home as yet, what is serious is the tendency for Woking players to start playing too late in matches, but it’s early days for a young team. In fact, with most of his side in their early 20s, perhaps the explanation is something as simple as young men viewing a game of football as they would an invitation to a party — and preferring to leave the other half at home".

"Forest Green Rovers groundsman Matt Rainey, who has been in charge of the pitch at the New Lawn since their new stadium came on stream in May 2006, has been rewarded for his dedication by winning the top honour amongst his fellow professionals in the Blue Square Premier. At a dinner and awards ceremony held at Windsor Racecourse on Wednesday, 5th September, Rainey came top of the clubs in the Premier but was pipped to the overall title by his counterpart Charlie Skatchill of Hyde United from Blue Square North" reports NL Daily.

Changes to the Setanta TV schedules were mentioned yesterday on this site. Confguide confirms some of the changes. "The following York City televised fixtures have been changed by Setanta Sports to avoid clashes with Champions League televised matches.

Commenting on the changes, Communications and Community Director, Sophie McGill said, 'We apologise to our supporters for any inconvenience caused by these fixture changes. The changes have been made by Setanta Sports and York City Football Club has had no involvement or influence in this decision. As part of the agreement between the Blue Square Premier and Setanta Sports, all clubs have to adhere to any proposed fixture changes'".

The Football Conference says that "Basingstoke Town have announced the signing of striker Michael Charles from Blue Square Premier side Woking FC".

The Droylsden Forum reports: "As one of the few regulars not able to make it to Crawley on Saturday, I've been asked to take part in a 'Fan's Forum' on Jimmy Wagg's Saturday afternoon show, between 1:30 - 2:30, on Radio Manchester. It's apparently a discussion with fans of other clubs in the area. If you can't listen in, rest assured I'll do my utmost to put the Blood cause to the fore!".

YORK VIEWS

SAM says that "Alty may have finally turned the corner. After leaving Bootham Crescent with a point, the Robins look to be well on the road to recovery following their poor start to the Blue Square Premier campaign. Never mind relegation battlers, for a good 40 minutes in York, they looked like a team to be reckoned with. Once plan A had failed, the home side leading 2-1 five minutes into the second half, Graham Heathcote turned to plan B. It paid off with spectacular effect. Both Chris Senior and Colin Potts entered the fray and Alty proceeded to play some quite breathtaking attacking football, the likes of which has barely been seen at Moss Lane this season. And just as it seemed all that work would be for nothing, Joe O'Neill popped up to punish his former club in the second minute of injury time. It was a fitting finale, but one that had looked exceedingly unlikely during a tight first half. Alty's intentions were clear from the start. They set out their stall to stifle and stymie their hosts, flooding the midfield and maintaining a solid unit in defence... And after weathering the storm, the Robins hit back with the perfect sucker punch... But the joy was short-lived. The defensive dalliances that have often plagued Alty this season surfaced again... Brodie prodded the ball home... The pattern of the game changed completely after the break... Paul Brayson, swept home a cross from Emmanuel Panther... Alyu would have been level on 74 minutes had it not been for some slapstick refereeing. The man in the middle waved play on after Alty were caught offside but, not paying proper attention, York keeper Stephen Henderson assumed a free kick had been given and gathered the ball before rolling it out. A gleeful Senior pounced on his gaffe to fire home but the referee then decided to pull play back and instead, gave the home side a free kick... Another superb Potts delivery, this time from a corner, reached O'Neill and the striker headed home to leave his former employers reeling".

The unofficial York Rivals site has match statistics which show York had 14 shots, on target 8, off target 6, fouls 9, corners 5 against Alty's 8 shots, on target 5, off target 3, fouls 4, corners 5. The away attendance was put at 98 though there were certainly a few more counted in the home attendance in the main stand.

This is York disparagingly says that "Shot-shy striker Joe O'Neill managed just two goals in a whole season of home matches as a York City player but his injury-time header earned Altrincham a point at KitKat Crescent last night. Over 90 minutes, O'Neill offered little to suggest he has developed a clinical streak since leaving North Yorkshire and his record of eight goals in 49 outings for the Robins is conclusive evidence that he hasn't. However, if you allow any player the freedom of your six-yard box, there is always a strong chance the ball might end up in the back of your net... Both goals came from corners and both were headed past debutant goalkeeper Stephen Henderson in his own six-yard box with centre-back Darren Tinson opening the scoring on 44 minutes. Teenager Henderson was preferred to the struggling Tom Evans between the sticks but, after a promising start, endured an erratic evening following Tinson's goal. While a 'keeper's command of his six-yard box is crucial to all teams at set-pieces, however, basic marking is also a prerequisite for any side looking to make progress... Altrincham, playing with O'Neill as their lone striker, had failed to muster a single shot on target before taking the lead... But City went into the break on level terms after a scrappy goal. A Stuart Elliott cross from the left saw Brodie beat Coburn in an aerial challenge and the loose ball appeared to be turned in by Munroe under pressure from David McGurk. City's second goal, six minutes into the second-half, was much more aesthetically pleasing... Graham Heathcote threw on former Scarborough striker Chris Senior to partner O'Neill and City's nerves began to jangle uncontrollably... City then survived another scare when commonsense prevailed over the letter of the law for once. Referee Webb decided to play advantage as an overhit through ball bounced towards Henderson despite Senior being flagged offside. Henderson, though, assumed a free-kick had been given and rolled the ball out of his area, leaving Senior to fire into an empty net. The Durham official then gave the original offside decision much to the annoyance of Altrincham boss Heathcote, who turned to direct a verbal volley at the referee's assessor in the directors' box and was still chuntering about the decision more than ten minutes after the incident Move of the match: City's second goal, created by Elliott, Farrell and Panther and excellently finished by Brayson".

Meanwhile, City boss Billy McEwan "has challenged his players to prove if they are 'men or mice' following last night's 2-2 home draw against part-timers Altrincham... Last night's match also saw City surrender a winning position for the fourth time this season... the despairing City chief said: 'We are a soft touch at both ends of the pitch at the moment. We're failing to kill teams off and some of our marking is diabolical... they are showing naivety and their concentration levels must improve... I thought the young boy did OK in goal. He was positive and came for crosses and it was a big thing for him making his debut'".

YOUNG VISITORS

OLD BOYS

NL Daily reports on an FA Cup replay at Mossley which "went the way of visiting Woodley Sports by the odd goal in three. Ironically, Sports` winning goal came in stoppage time from former Mossley favourite Mario Daniel". Meanwhile in the Unibond League "Witton Albion moved into second spot after beating promoted Buxton 2-0 at Silverlands with goals from Brian Pritchard after 11 minutes and a Terry Bowker own goal".

BUCKETS

BSP NEWS

From the Northwich Guardian we read that "Neil Redfearn defended himself - and his players - after they sank to the foot of the table. Vics were well beaten by Burton, but their under-fire manager was unpeturbed by the first signs of discontent towards him from the Danebank. 'They'll call for my head but I'll stick by these players', he told the Guardian afterwards. 'I won't let them beat themselves up after their performance today, they showed the endeavour I've been asking for. If we score first I'm confident we could have got something from the game'". The paper adds that Vics suffered "their fifth successive defeat to leave them anchored to the foot of the table... Redfearn, joined on the bench for the first time by former Bradford Park Avenue boss Phil Sharpe, switched to 3-5-2 by the time he used all his substitutes but Vics were still soporific in attack".

ALTY LOSE TV COVERAGE

Altrincham FC had been planning to inaugurate its new floodlight system for the Cambridge United game but now only those who actually attend at Moss Lane will experience the new lights.

BSP NEWS

If you want to vote for the Blue Square Premier “Player of the Month” award, follow this link to the Blue Square Football site. The awards for managers and for players in the North and South are being decided by a panel of experts and will be finalised at the end of this week. I will send the list of winners on Friday afternoon.

OLD BOYS

YORK PHOTOS

YORK CITY 2 ALTRINCHAM 2

Match report here..

TUESDAY GAMES

BEFORE THE GAME

The York City website states that "The Minstermen will be aiming to recover from three successive home defeats when facing fellow strugglers Altrincham... Skipper Emmanuel Panther faces a late fitness test after limping out of the recent home defeat by Rushden & Diamonds... [But] boss Billy McEwan is refusing to ditch his attacking principles as a solution to the club's problems at the other end of the pitch... He said: 'I will never stop attacking. That's the way I am. I'm a Scottish manager with principles of playing football the correct way and attack is the best form of defence but we've got to make sure we concentrate more at both ends.. Altrincham are not the strongest team in the division, but they are not the weakest and, in Chris Senior and Colin Potts, they have players with pace who can hurt you... Our start to the season has been very painful because there are two things in football - winning and misery - but we've had cameos of quality play. That proves the quality is there but we have got to sustain those spells'... Having experimented with his frontline this season, McEwan indicated that he could keep faith with Richard Brodie and Paul Brayson tonight'... City will be looking to kick-start their season tonight against an Altrincham side without a win in ten matches. The miserable run stretches back to a 5-1 win at doomed St Albans back on April 7.... Misfiring front two Joe O'Neill and Chris Senior are likely to continue in attack. Both players have managed just one goal in their last 12 outings... First-choice central-midfielder Val Owen and defender Gary Scott are also currently sidelined with injury, although Altrincham bolstered their ranks before Friday's transfer deadline with the addition of former Southport left-back Sean Clancy, whose sister, Abigail, is the girlfriend of Liverpool and England striker Peter Crouch.... York City can boast a 100 per cent Conference record over Altrincham, having won the four previous encounters with a goal record of 13-0... Only once before have City lost their first four home league games. That was in Division Four in 1963-64".

Meanwhile the NL Today paper profiles Kit Kat Crescent: "York City purchased the land, which used to be a cricket ground in the summer of 1932. Bootham Crescent was opened on 31 August of that year... The stadium itself is a compact affair, situated against a backdrop of terraced housing. With a capacity for 9,034 supporters, it is large by nonleague standards... The view of the pitch - which at 105x67.5 metres (115x74 yards) is about the same size as Wembley - is excellent from the Main Stand although the supporting pillars can occasionally cause a problem. Supporting pillars are more of a problem in the smaller Popular Stand opposite. On its roof is a television gantry that at first glance looks to have been put together by a dodgy scaffolder... At one end is the David Longhurst Stand. This is a covered terrace where the home fans congregate... It was this end that was damaged by a Luftwaffe bomb. Opposite is the Grosvenor Road End, reserved for away supporters. Once through the turnstiles there is a feeling of travelling back in time as the terrace is uncovered and the mens toilets seem to have been there since the Vikings ruled the city. They are the open air 'stand up against a brick wall' urinals. At least there is a portakabin for the female fans... The club hope to move to a new purpose built stadium by 2015 which will no doubt be clean, well presented, have excellent facilities and no restricted views... Like York itself, Kit Kat Crescent radiates a rich sense of history ­ although that might be the open air urinals".

YOUTH REPORT

Last Saturday Alty Youth team's Tom Bailey, Chris Francis and Dominic Lillie were in the Cheshire County FA side which beat the Isle of Man 3-2.

TUESDAY

Howard Watts's Through the Years information for Tuesday's game, on 4th September is here.

Last season, on our last visit to York, on Bonfire Night 2006, Alty lost to the only goal of the match. The teams that day were:

SATURDAY'S REF

BIG GATE

OLD BOYS

AWAY TEAM'S VIEW

BSP NEWS

IC Surrey reports that "Football club owner Azwar Majeed could be facing jail for getting an employee to do his community service. Crawley FC owner Majeed, 31, of Dyke Road, Brighton, admitted dodging the 60-hour community service, punishment for an assault he committed in June 2005. Also in the dock at Hove Crown Court last Friday was co-defendant Danny Ullah, 29, of Seaview Avenue, Peacehaven, who carried out the community work on Majeed's behalf between July and September this year.By the time the offence was uncovered, Ullah had done seven, eight-hour gardening shifts and even posed for a photograph as Majeed. Judge Cedric Joseph said a custodial sentence was 'an over-whelming probability' after the court heard that Majeed used Ullah's previous address... after last November's sentencing. Although Majeed owned a property in the same building, the flat number he gave was Ullah's, not his,meaning his employee received correspondence relating to the punishment. Members of Majeed's family, including brother Chas, watched from the public gallery as both men pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. The offence usually carries a punishment of a short jail sentence or a fine. Nicholas Hamblin, defending Ullah, asked Judge Joseph to delay sentencing the men until September 21. He said Ullah had become a father 10 weeks ago and asked for this to be taken into consideration through a pre-sentence report. Majeed is also subject to a second 76-hour community service order for a separate offence, which has been suspended after a serious car crash in January. Both men were released on bail"

Another chairman in court is noted by the Oxford Mail, where we learn that "Oxford United chairman and owner Nick Merry has been bailed for two weeks after appearing at Banbury Magistrates' Court charged with failing to provide a specimen of breath for analysis. Appearing at court today, Mr Merry, 45, of Bloxham, did not make a plea and the case was adjourned because prosecution papers were not ready. Mr Merry will appear again on Monday, September 17".

This is Staffs says that "The gulf between the full- and part-time teams in the Blue Square Premier was evident again on Saturday as another encouraging performance by Stafford Rangers went unrewarded. A goal in each half sent unbeaten Torquay back to the top of the table, while Stafford remain in bottom position ... 'Last season it took a while for the part-time teams to filter down to the bottom', said manager Phil Robinson. 'The division is really strong this year - stronger than last year. Already there is a divide, but we are going to keep working hard to buck the trend and get back among the full-time teams higher up the table. I think we need a little bit of luck in front of goal'. There wasn't much wrong with Stafford's performance at Plainmoor before a crowd of 2,980. Indeed, they could well have taken an early lead as Marco Adaggio, Greg Stones and Kevin Street all went close to breaking the deadlock... Robinson added: 'I though we played particularly well in the first half and created some good opportunities'".

NL Daily says that "Joining loan signing from Coventry City, Andy Gooding, at Burton Albion ahead of the transfer deadline was Northampton Town midfielder Sam Aiston. The 30-year-old signed on a two-month loan deal but his signing was completed too late for the Conference deadline to allow him to play at Crawley Town on Saturday. However, he will be available for Tuesday's game at Northwich Victoria. Aiston spent time at both Newcastle and Sunderland, taking in spells with Chester, Stoke and Shrewsbury on loan. A permanent move to Gay Meadow saw him spend five seasons with the Shrews. Upon his release he nearly signed for the Brewers two summers ago before Tranmere Rovers offered him the chance to stay in the Football League. He signed for the Cobblers in the summer of 2006".

The Yorkshire Evening Post reports that "Lee Sinnott admitted his side were fortunate to come away with the points after a late, late show saw off Northwich at Throstle Nest. Two last-gasp strikes from Simeon Bambrook and Tristian Whitman in the final ten minutes did the damage... He said: 'It was one of those games that drives a manager bananas. I didn't think we got out of the blocks in the game. That was the frustrating aspect, but the pleasing aspect was picking up three points... We played much better against Cambridge, Rushden and Burton and came away with nothing'".

The Northants Evening Telegraph says that "Imraan Ladak has hit back at Droylsden boss Dave Pace after a war of words broke out between the pair over the battle for sponsorship money in the Blue Square Conference. Kettering Town chairman Ladak threw his support behind Conference North chairman Bob Andrews of Tamworth last week after he called for a vote of no confidence in the board... Ladak maintains his problem is with the board being made up predominantly of Premier clubs who are deciding how much money is dished out. Ladak has hit back at Pace and said: 'I'm a little disappointed by his comments. But I have no problem with Dave. We are similar as we both tell it as we see it... Maybe he has been misinformed as to the points I am making. I agree that the Premier is the place to be and that is where the highest proportion of sponsorship money should be. I strongly believe that the decision of how much money ends up in the Premier, North and South should not be made by Premier clubs as there is a clear conflict of interest. The point I am making is a matter of principle and is nothing personal against any club or individual. I am unhappy with the system. I can assure Dave we are getting off our backside to try to get in the Premier and I sincerely hope that, if we do get there, he hasn't left "the pinnacle" as I do enjoy our games!'".

Droylsden's Craig Robinson who left the Bloods this week, played for Hyde last Saturday.

HALIFAX IN A FIX

Halifax owe more than £100,000 to the Inland Revenue and have been in takeover talks with the consortium since last year without reaching a resolution, despite the club saying last week that they were confident of agreeing a deal. The MyFootballClub website launched in May seeking fans willing to invest £35 each to buy a team, with each member an equal partner... Members will have a vote on transfers as well as player selection and all major decisions affecting the club.

A lawyer for MyFootballClub said: 'We are not privy to Halifax Town's internal financial dealings. However, the club is a popular choice among our members, so it is one we will consider'.. Simon Denton, editor of the Shaymen Down South fanzine and website said: "Given the recent history of Halifax Town, one is left to wonder whether a club run and owned by 50,000 could be any worse than what we have experienced to date...Richard Harris, board member of both the Supporters Trust and the Stadium Trust, added: 'A club run by the fans for the fans is a tempting proposition. We have got Shaymen Down South, why can't we have them north, east and west as well. I concede that this model for running a football club has its problems, but the challenge of solving them puts a smile on my face'".

SUNDAY AT MOSS LANE

SATURDAY VERDICTS

Match report here.

The Aldershot Town site says that "Gary Waddock's side battled to maximum points at Moss Lane; the first Aldershot victory against Graham Heathcote's side at the sixth attempt. In truth, after surviving an early onslaught, boss Waddock's side responded well after Jonny Dixon's 24th minute opener... The visitors showed tremendous battling qualities and rode their luck towards the end to secure another three points on the road. The boss said afterwards, 'This was a great result and it wasn't our best performance by a long way. We scored with our first attempt on goal and that makes a change because it has normally been the other way round. It was unfortunate to go in at the break on level terms. Nikki Bull has been outstanding in the games so far and he will make mistakes like all players but fortunately we went on to win the game. The players did respond after the break but it was not to the standard that we are looking for. There is lots of room for improvement...It was a relief at the final whistle'... There was a set back prior to kick off when striker John Grant was ruled out with a back injury... Former Shots trialist Chris Senior's pace and trickery caused problems... Joe O'Neill's 20 yard strike cannoned off the bar with Bull beaten on 13 minutes and Steve Aspinall also went close with a 20 yard lob. When Karl Munroe nipped in between Rhys Day and Anthony Charles to fire goalbounds only to see his effort deflect just wide for a corner Altrincham must have had visions of deja-vu. The was confirmed on 24 minutes when Ben Harding powerfully strode through the centre before squaring the ball to Jonny Dixon who, from 22 yards, shot delicately over Coburn to see the ball hit the roof of the net... The home side were fired up and came out after the break looking the more threatening side". The Shots' web site also has a wide selection of match photos.

YORK'S NEW KEEPER

MORE ROADWORKS

TODAY AT MOSS LANE

IMPROVED PERFORMANCE

Carlos Logan (above) had a promising debut yesterday but had to be taken off injured by physio Sean Riley. Meanwhile, Graham Heathcote (back to camera) adjusts his team to make up for the winger's departure.

After yesterday's game, Graham Heathcote told the NL Paper, "I couldn't ask for any more in terms of commitment. For 25 minutes we bossed the game and had quality chances. But we struggled to finish. I was looking to bring in a striker on loan but couldn't match the financial deal needed. We've lost but but the improved performance shows we might have turned a little corner". The NLP statistics show Alty had 6 shots on target to Aldershot's five, won seven corners against five and conceded only 10 fouls against 18.

LIGHTING PROGRESSES

SEAN HAS TO WAIT

ENGLAND GAME

BINGO!

OLD BOYS

BSP NEWS

In the NL Paper, various managers are quoted on the resignation from the Football Conference of John Moules. Our own Graham Heathcote says: "I had fall outs with John over referees at times but the bottom line is that huge strides were made during his time with the Conference and he made a massive contribution to those strides... Nobody should fail to acknowledge the job John did and nobody can argue the Conference didn't improve in his time there".

Droylsden's Dave Pace goes further, laying into Kettering owner Imran Ladak and Tamworth chairman Bob Andrews for their campaign to oust Moules. Pace said, "I'm hoping their campaign had nothing to do with John's resignation. They say it isn't but it all adds up. They ought to give the bloke a medal for getting North and South clubs two and a half times more sponsorship money than last year". Referring to Tamworth chairman Bob Andrews, Pace continued, "The fella at Tamworth is swapping sides like the Italian army. He wants to get his own house in order and get back up... Now he's not in the BSP, he's kicking off and making all sorts of waves. He should just start priaising John for what he did. Ladak has got to realise that he's got to get in the Premier and then get the rewards. Setanta TV doesn't want to watch Blue Square North and South clubs. They don't even want to watch Droylsden and we're up there!... I'm not moaning, just trying to make my team better so we might get a live game in future. Ladak wants to shut up and concentrate on getting up... Tamworth and Kettering wouldn't be shouting off if they were in the Blue Square Premier. They want to get off their backsides and get in it". Meanwhile, from the BBC, we learn that: "John Moules will be in the studio on the Non League Show this Monday from 9pm. (September 3rd) Email your questions to John - nonleague@bbc.co.uk. Listen LIVE to the Non League Show every Monday from 9pm www.bbc.co.uk/nonleague or in the greater London area by tuning to 94.9 FM or BBC London DAB and Sky channel 0152".

NL Daily reports that "Basingstoke Town have announced the signing of Michael Charles from Woking. It comes at the same time as Carl Gibbs has chosen to go the other way, leaving the Dragons for the opportunity of full time football with the Blue Square Premier outfit". Frank Gray, manager of Woking, has made a hat trick of signings ahead of the transfer deadline. Striker Carl Gibbs has joined... Gibbs played under Gray at Farnborough, and has joined on non-contract terms, as has Albanian forward Izedin Harusha, 22. The Kossova-born striker has recently been turning out for Corinthian Casuals in the Ryman League Division One South. Also joining the Cards is former Chelsea left back James Younghusband, who is a Philippine international, left Chelsea in 2006 and has recently been on the books at home-town Ashford Town".

ALTRINCHAM 1 ALDERSHOT TOWN 2

Right: Darren Tinson receives his team-mates' congratulations after scoring for Alty whilst goalkeeper Nikki Bull rues his error.

Altrincham were very unfortunate to take nothing from their best sustained performance over ninety minutes this season.

Match report here.

Saturday 1 September

The Manchester Evening News confirms that Altrincham's "Colin Little is suspended and midfielder Val Owen is likely to join Gary Scott, out through injury. Matty Berkeley is away having been called up to the St Kitts and Nevis u-23 squad". SAM confirms that "Rod Thornley has left Altrincham after more than six years with the club. The prolific striker was Alty's top scorer among actrive players but has decided to move on after finding opporunities limited recently... Alty boss Graham Heathcote said Thornley would be sorely missed. 'He's been fantastic for the club for the past six years. He's helped everybody pull this club around and he's a very popular figure. He'll be missed. "It's been a difficult couple of years for him though. After he picked up his knee injury he lost a yard of pace and has struggled to get back to his best. I'm now beginning to think we are in a bit of a transitional period and some of the lads who have been here a while are finding it hard when they're not in the team every week'".

SAM says that "Left-sided duo Sean Clancy and Carlos Logan have both arrived at Moss Lane in a flurry of transfer activity... Winger Logan is the more high profile of the pair, having recently been released by Darlington. Older brother of Manchester City youngster Shaleum, the 22-year-old also started his career at City before moving on to Darlo, where he scored four goals in more than 40 League Two appearances. Last season he also spent time on loan at Bradford, where he made just four appearances.

Clancy, meanwhile, featured in Southport's unsuccessful Conference campaign last season, while also spending time on loan at Burscough. He has returned to play in England after a spell in America this summer and recently turned out for Alty's Reserves in their recent game against Bradford Reserves, as well as spending time on trial at both Bury and Shrewsbury. Heathcote said: 'I'm pleased with both signings. Carlos wanted to stay in the Football League but when he didn't sign up with any club he decided to come here to get some football under his belt. He wants to get back into the League and sees this as a shop window. But if he can come in and give us a couple of good months then it would be a good deal. Sean will be coming in for an initial month so that we can both see if the deal works out. He's played in the Conference with Southport so he's a good standard... I have spoken to two clubs about bringing in defenders on loan', he said. 'But we couldn't meet the wages for one of them and although the other club would've been happy for their player to join us, they were short of cover so kept him there. I still want to strengthen the squad though so we could bring in another player on loan after deadline day'"

Our opponents, Aldershot Town say that the "Shots travel to Altrincham on Saturday afternoon aiming to secure a first ever victory against Graham Heathcote's side... Supporters who travelled to Altrincham will recall the tremendous exploits of goalkeeper Nikki Bull on the day and the popular stopper told 'The Shots', 'It was quite funny last season because the Altrincham supporters were passing the bucket round for a collection towards the end of the match for me to let a goal in. Obviously I didn't go along with that and they were giving me a bit of stick after the game. I am sure that as they are still in the league they will give me a warm reception on Saturday....We'd love to go up and win 1-0 to be honest. I know the fans want to see some fancy football and score some goals but at the moment we are desperate for a clean sheet because without that you achieve nothing'. Manager Gary Waddock is aware of the dangers Altrincham may bring: 'We have had some good results away from home so far. After the disappointment of the Crawley match I want to respond positively... Altrincham will make it difficult for us. Lewis Chalmers is going back to his old club and he will want to impress but I don't want him to try too hard because it normally goes pear shaped if you do that. There are a lot of tough games in this league and I know that Altrincham won't be lying down for anybody and they want to get their season going with a win. I'm not so sure that there is going to be a runaway leader this season...We are close to the top group and I want to be able to carry that on... We need to start keeping clean sheets plus be more ruthless in front of goal so there are areas to focus on and we will do that'. With the continued absence of Ricky Newman and Dean Smith the boss is not expecting to be adding to the squad before the transfer window ended on Friday. He also confirmed that Ryan Williams had his knee operation on Wednesday evening... It is also confirmed that Ricky Newman is back in full training but is not likely to be included in the first team squad... Dean Smith... will remain sidelined for a further three weeks".

OLD BOYS

NEXT AWAY OPPONENTS

Blue Square states that "York City boss Billy McEwan has hinted that he will drop struggling goalkeeper Tom Evans. Evans looked short of confidence in last night's 3-2 home defeat to Rushden and Diamonds and could now lose his place for Tuesday's home game against Altrincham. City have conceded 12 goals in their first six games so far this season, which is the highest number in the Blue Square Premier. McEwan may sign a new goalkeeper before today's (Friday) transfer deadline or pick on-loan Leicester City teenager Carl Pentney. Pentney's one-month loan deal comes to an end a week tomorrow (Saturday September 8). McEwan told The Press: 'Tom might need to have a wee rest and I will be having a chat with him. He was my Player of the Year last season and was outstanding with 21 clean sheets. Like most 'keepers, he could have done better with a few goals but, in general, he had a fantastic campaign. Now though, he's not a patch on the player he was. His confidence has gone a bit and that can affect players. Outfield players can get away with things but he's the last line of defence even though he was a bit unlucky with the second and third goals when we did not defend properly. He's got to be big and strong now and he's 30 with lots of Football League experience under his belt'... City lost 3-2 [to Rushden] and McEwan... said: 'We had so much of the game and some of our attacking play was scintillating but... we gave them goals on a plate by making basic errors.. I know I keep saying we will be all right but I believe we will be'".

York City have confirmed that "defender Joey Hutchinson has been released... Joey Hutchinson joined York City on non-contract terms. The player asked to be released as he stated he would like to sign for a club closer to his family home in the Midlands. Joey Hutchinson featured in the squad for four matches this season and made appearances against Exeter and Northwich".

BSP NEWS

Coventry City report that their "midfielder Andy Gooding has signed a one-month loan deal with Burton Albion. The England youth international, who has risen through the Academy ranks at City, links-up with the Brewers in time to ;play in their trip to Crawley Town. Gooding, 19, a regular in the Sky Blues reserve side which won the Birmingham Senior Cup in 2006/07 and was handed a first-team squad number for the first time upon the arrival of manager Iain Dowie. He ended last season on a high by earning a late call-up to the England under-19 squad for their European Championship match against Holland at the Ricoh Arena in May". Burton Albion themselves confirm that on "deadline day there have been movements both in and out of the Pirelli Stadium ... Coventry City youngster Andy Gooding has joined the Brewers on a month's loan.... One player not making the trip to Sussex is Jon Shaw who has today been sold to rivals Halifax Town for an undisclosed fee. Jon joined the Brewers in 2004 and was leading scorer in his first two seasons with the club. Jon netted four times in the Conference last season but has yet to start in attack this season".

The Manchester Evening News reported last night that "Droylsden boss Dave Pace is poised to make a dranatic transfer deadline swoop for up to three Chester players... Pace... has been ofered his pick of five fringe Chester first-teamers, believed to be Ashley Westwood, Phil Bolland, Simon Marples, Sean Hessey and Dean Bennett. He's also homing in on 24 year-old former United striker Colin Heath, noiw a free agent after a spwll with Royal Antwerp. Pace has released centre-half Craig Robinson and transfer-listed summer-signing Mark Hotte". It is believed that Robinson asked to be released. But fromIC Cheshire "Chester centre-back Ashley Westwood has joined Port Vale on loan until January, while midfielder Dean Bennett has moved to Kidderminster for three months. City chairman Stephen Vaughan said, 'We have a large squad at the club currently and obviously this means that certain players won’t be getting the regular football they naturally desire'... Defender Simon Marples is expected to agree to a loan move to Farsley Celtic... Defender Sean Hessey has been the subject of enquiries from Northwich and Droylsden, and the player will give a decision today [Friday]." Meanwhile, Blue Square reveals that "Barrow manager Phil Wilson has strengthened his squad with the signing of utility player Joe Fowler from Droylsden. The former Tranmere starlet signed for the Bloods in February but has since been deemed surplus to requirements".

"Crawley could lose two key players before the transfer window closes", said Friday's The Argus. "Manager Steve Evans is... trying to replace the duo with loan signings... Evans said: 'We have had an enquiry about one player and I am thinking it over whether I should let them speak to the club. Another player has personal problems which might lead to them going as well. I'm disappointed but it is for personal reasons and I have to respect that. I expect to bring players in and am waiting for their clubs to come back to me. I want to fine tune the squad and have had conversations with players I am interested in. We are looking at loan players which involves financial help from their clubs so we are asking them to assist us'". Against Burton they face Daryl Clare. "Evans sold the prolific hitman [from Boston] to Crawley in 2005... Evans said: 'I know everything there is to know about Daryl Clare. I know his wife, his kids, the colour of his eyes... We would not have won the Conference had it not been for him. He is a brilliant player... If we win we could be in the top six. If you told anyone who knew Crawley at the start of the season that they would be near the top after six games they would probably have put you in a straight jacket. It shows how well we have done'".

"Oxford United are hoping to sign former Arsenal, Millwall, Gillingham and Sheffield United striker Paul Shaw on a non-contract basis. The 33-year-old is looking for a club after being released by Chesterfield earlier this month. He has had talks with U's boss Jim Smith and joined in United's training session at Milton Heights yesterday. Smith hopes to sign him in the next few days... As a player without a club, he can be taken on even after the deadline... United manager Jim Smith said: 'We're in negotiations not so much about wages - because we don't have any - but he's scared of signing with the window closing, and not being able to move anywhere else. But we've had it on good authority - seriously good authority - that the only clubs he wouldn't be able to sign for would be in the Conference. But we've got to get that in writing'. Asked if he would need to offload a player to sign Shaw and keep within the Conference's strict wage-cap, Smith replied that it was different if he remained on non-contract terms. 'We won't need to get one out if he signs non-contract because they're not on proper contracts and are not on proper wages', he explained. 'But if we wanted him, and he wanted to stay, yes, players would have to go'" according to the Oxford Mail .

The Salisbury Journal says that "Salisbury City have made the loan signing of Andy Sandell a permanent one, have taken Stevenage Borough's Luke Oliver on loan and have allowed Craig Richards to go out on loan for one month. Manager Nick Holmes said he is delighted to have captured Sandell from Bristol Rovers for a substantial undisclosed fee... Sandell has signed a three-year deal with the club. Oliver is a versatile player who joined Stevenage Borough from Yeovil Town for £15,000. He has also played for Woking and began last season as Stevenage's skipper... Holmes last week allowed City striker Paul Sales to move to Eastleigh". The manager confirmed that "Luke will be with us for three months". But "Heading out of Old Sarum for the time being is Craig Richards, who Holmes signed during the summer, but has allowed to join Bognor Regis Town for a month".

Woking FC "are delighted to announce the signing of two new strikers... Carl Gibbs joins from Basingstoke and Albanian forward Izedin Harusha also comes to Kingfield. Both have signed on non-contract terms".