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November, 2007 |
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November, 2007 |
SAM reports that "Graham Heathcote is looking to bring his reinforcements in the January transfer window after watching his team play well yet ultimately lose at Stevenage on Monday. The Robins outplayed their illustrious hosts for long periods of the game at Broadhall Way, fizzing the ball about with skill and confidence. But once again individual errors proved fatal as Craig Dobson capitalised on a couple of defensive slip-ups to give Boro an undeserved victory.
And the Alty boss is fed up of watching his side come away empty-handed from games where they have more than matched the opposition. He told SAM Sport: 'It was the classic game of frustration but you have just got to take the positives from it because the lads proved again they can play good football. We went to Stevenage, outplayed them, yet still didn't win the game. But I get tired of saying we are playing too well to lose these games, so something has to be done. The board have done well to give us a few more bob in the January transfer window so we'll be looking to strengthen. But the problem is that we'll probably have to rely on loan players because all the good players out there require a transfer fee. We need to try and get some more firepower. Colin Little and Chris Senior have done OK and they'll get us 10 to 15 goals a season each but we need more. We need another type of midfielder and we've needed a natural left back for a year and a half. Those are the areas I'd like to strengthen... We have closed the gap (on the teams above us) but results don't prove that', he said. 'The results are the main thing but I also look at the team in terms of its development over the years. We were fourth bottom of the Unibond when I took over so I think we've developed really well. We are a decent part-time side but people don't understand how hard it is for us to compete in this league under those circumstances. I believe we've put together a decent side within the part-time constraints but we're not getting the results. I'm talking about organisation, the ability of players to pass the ball and move - we are good in those areas and showed that against Stevenage'. He also refused to blame Gary Scott for defeat at Stevenage, although the full back made two crucial errors that led to both the home side's goals. 'Gary Scott (right) made two mistakes against Stevenage but he will be the first name on the teamsheet on Saturday because he's played very well recently'".
'The Cheshire Senior Cup games were useful for us, it was a good competition to keep tabs on our fringe players', said Crewe assistant manager Neil Baker. 'But they have changed things this season and now the Football League teams are wanted in a pre-season tournament. We don't think that will suit us'. While neighbours Port Vale have re-entered the Pontins League after a spell out of reserve football, Crewe are still resistant to the idea of organised second-string competition. Instead, they argue the reserve games they play on an ad hoc basis, including those against sides from Manchester United and Liverpool, serve their needs best. They also play regular in-house games, like Tuesday's practice match arranged to assess Nicky Maynard's match fitness".
Meanwhile, "A fans' consortium have contacted the Guardian to say they could be interested in buying Northwich Victoria. The first 500 members of supporters' website ThePeoplesClub.com have placed the Blue Square Premier strugglers at the top of their wishlist. But Jim Rushe need not get worried because another 39,500 unnamed members haven't voted yet. The two Oxford businessmen behind the venture, launched last month, aim to persuading 40,000 people to shell out £39 each to help takeover a football club. 'The choice of club that gets bought is down to the fans and followers of Northwich Victoria can play a large part in deciding which club that is', said commercial manager Simon Lassam in a thinly-disguised bid to drum up more support. He may need to do a bit more homework on Dino Maamria's men though. ThePeoplesClub.com website says they are only interested in teams that have long term potential, little or no debt and enjoy a sizeable catchment area within an hour's drive of the ground.' Some may argue Northwich don't tick too many of those boxes right now... Last week another website, MyFootballClub.com announed they had bought a 51 per cent share of Vics' rivals Ebbsfleet United for a cool £700,000. 'We are on schedule to raise £1million', added Lassam. 'It's a big enough sum to buy a lot of clubs in the lower leagues and have money left over to invest. That could be on new players, better facilities, youth development, advanced commercial activities and so on'. He said member registrations are on target to have funds available to open negotiations at the end of this season with the club chosen by members. By then Messrs Rushe, Bone, Campbell and co should be firmly in charge at the Victoria Stadium".
From the Cambridge Evening News we learn that "Cambridge United have made Michael Morrison 'a fantastic financial offer' to stay at the Abbey. Chairman Lee Power said he hoped the England C international, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, would accept the new deal after turning down a previous offer in the summer. But he said the United board, who rejected an offer from Southend for the defender in the summer, wanted an answer one way or the other as soon as possible from the Haverhill teenager, who has previously had trials with the likes of Chelsea, Everton and Newcastle. Power said: 'We've made Michael a fantastic financial offer for this level and I think he'd benefit from staying with us for another year or two under the guidance of Jimmy (Quinn) and Alan (Lewer). It's a big decision for the lad - everyone has got to be aware of that - the same as it was for Robbie (Simpson). Michael is going to mull it over with his family and his agent, but, although we'll give him enough time to think about it, we've asked for an early decision from him'. Power added it was important for United to make it into the draw for the third round of the FA Cup by beating Weymouth on Saturday. Despite the club not budgeting for a cup run of any sort, he said the possibility of a draw against a top Premier League side would be very welcome. He said: 'It's massive for any club at our level or even a couple of levels above to get to the third round, though we've done well just to get here. We'll be the favourites because we're at home, not just because we're doing well in the league, but Weymouth will think they've got a good chance as well... The financial situation is probably the best it has been for a number of years, but we still budget to lose a lot of money this year. Although we do have everything in place to try to fill that hole, it would be lovely for a cup run to do it'". Yes, he really did say, "The financial situation is probably the best it has been for a number of years, but we still budget to lose a lot of money this year".
The Burton Mail says that "Albion's Daryl Clare will have to wait until next week before he can undergo ankle surgery. Albion had hoped the operation would be carried out this week to coincide with the start of the 12-goal striker's three-match suspension. However, the surgeon used by the club is currently away on holiday. The delay should not dent Albion's hopes of having Clare back in action for their Boxing Day derby at Stafford. Manager Nigel Clough said: 'Ideally, we wanted Daryl to have the operation this week, but if all goes to plan he should still be available for our games over the Christmas period. There is even a possibility he could play for us in the Setanta Shield on the Saturday before Christmas'. Clare needs the operation to cure an ankle problem dating back to August.
Midfielder Andy Gooding could have played his last game for the Brewers. Gooding, who returns to Coventry City next week after two months on loan at the Pirelli Stadium, is doubtful for Saturday's FA Cup second round tie against Barnet because of a knee injury".
Farsley Today tells us that ""Farsley Celtic are set to start the interview process in the search for a permanent successor to Lee Sinnott.Caretaker-boss John Deacey will meet the board next week, while Jon Schofield, Bobby Davison, Chris Kiwomya and Andy Preece are also expected to be offered interviews".
The BBC confirms that "Rushden boss Garry Hill has been charged with causing actual bodily harm by Wiltshire Police over an incident in the match with Salisbury in September. A touchline flare-up at the final whistle saw Hill head-butt Salisbury assistant manager Tommy Widdrington. Hill has been released on bail to appear at South East Wiltshire Magistrates' Court on 12 December 12. The charge against Hill has been brought by Wiltshire Police and not by Salisbury or Widdrington. Following the incident, Rushden fined Hill the 'maximum possible amount allowed by the football authorities'. Hill was also suspended from all football for two weeks by the Football Association. In addition he was hit with a 10-match touchline ban, with five games suspended for a year.
Ebbsfleet United "can confirm that forward Luke Coleman has left Stonebridge Road and signed permanently for Ryman League Margate. The youngster was previously on loan at the Thanet club and has opted for the chance of regular first-team football".
Kidderminster Harriers "will be requesting a personal meeting with the Football Association. The FA yesterday rejected the club's appeal against striker James Constable's red card from the game against Oxford United this weekend. With no option to appeal this decision, the club understands that the three-match suspension resulting from the red card will stand. However, due to the disappointment the club feels at the decision, a meeting with an FA official will requested by Chairman Barry Norgrove to discuss the matter further".
"Defender Luke Potter has extended his loan spell with Stafford Rangers for a further month".
Torquay United report that "United's reserve side drew their friendly with Weymouth reserves today with the match finishing 2-2. Lee Phillips scored on his return to action with Scott Laird scoring the second goal for Torquay. Coach Shaun North was pleased with the workout, especially the return of Lee and Steve Woods to competitive action -'They both came through wthe game well with Steve playing for 85 minutes and Lee playing 90. We will see what, if any, reaction they have tomorrow but hopefully all will be well for a return to the first team squad for selection on Saturday'.
Still in Devon, This is Exeter tells us that "Exeter City look to have ruled out the prospect of a ground-share with Exeter Chiefs as the club prepare to release the most important document in their history this week. Commercial property consultants Drivers Jonas have launched a full investigation into whether or not the club should stay at St James's Park and a special steering group is expected to present its findings to the club's supporters' trust board of society this week. The specialist firm have been assessing five options. The first is a redevelopment of St James's Park, the second a ground-share with Exeter Chiefs and the other three are all possible sites for building a new stadium. City representatives have had talks with Exeter Chiefs over sharing their £15m Sandy Park stadium on the outskirts of the city. But commercial director Paul Morrish has indicated that the club are unlikely to press ahead with plans to move in with the rugby club. While the contents of the report remain under wraps, Echo Sport understands that City are set to recommend a redevelopment of their own St James's Park home".
From This is Staffs says that "Crewe have ticked free-scoring striker Stuart Fleetwood off their wish list of transfer window targets. The former Cardiff and Hereford frontman has been in devastating form for Forest Green in the Blue Square Conference this season, hitting 23 goals in 23 outings... Club technical director Dario Gradi said: 'Before we went to watch him I asked what we were going to do with him. The question was whether he would fit in. I don't think he is the kind of striker we are looking for'. With Fleetwood out of contract next summer, Forest Green seem certain to cash in on their star asset during January, with £100,000 a realistic starting bid. But Crewe are more likely to turn their attentions to the pricier [ex-York Cty striker] Andy Bishop, although Bury's 25-year-old frontman has endured a lean time in front of goal in League Two this term. The Shakers turned down a £300,000 bid for Bishop from Ipswich Town last January, and the Stone-born striker, who netted 20 times last season, would arguably fetch more now. 'Bishop is one we'd look at again, but he would be expensive', Gradi said. 'The fee is not too big a problem for Fleetwood. And I have spoken to Jim Harvey (the Forest Green manager) about him, but I don't think he and Nicky Maynard would work together'".
"Weymouth had to settle for a draw in yesterday's friendly match with Torquay United despite leading 2-0 at the Wessex Stadium" says This is Weymouth. "Club captain Simon Weatherstone, Marcus Browning, Kyle Critchell and Sido Jombarti all played for the Terras in a bid to claim a spot in Saturday's FA Cup second round clash at Cambridge United".
According to This is York "York City centre-back Darren Kelly is happy to carry on in the club's new-look, three-man defence. Caretaker boss Colin Walker played Kelly in between the recalled Danny Parslow and regular partner David McGurk as City dispensed with a back four for Saturday's 2-1 victory at Weymouth. Walker also employed Darren Craddock and Mark Robinson as wing-backs and former Derry City international Kelly has given his full endorsement for the tactical switch, emphasising communication as the key despite an Irishman, Welshman and Englishman being fielded together in the same defensive line. Kelly told The Press: 'It would be more difficult if (Scotsman) Manny Panther was in there because I can't understand anything he says. Seriously, I've played the system before and the way we lined up allowed the wing-backs to get further up the pitch and I think Darren Craddock and Mark Robinson, in particular, deserve special mentions this week for working their socks off'... Kelly scored his first goal in 17 City outings to give the visitors a 53rd-minute lead at Weymouth on Saturday and... the 28-year-old hailed it as a success for Walker's preparation work on the training ground. He said: 'Colin has a lot of his own ideas that he wants to put across. We worked on some different things in training last week and, to be honest, the lads enjoyed it and I was very impressed. That's not to say we didn't enjoy training before but Billy McEwan has gone and it's important everybody gets behind Colin and works together. As players, we respect him and are 100% behind him. For my goal, we worked on something at corners that did not quite come off but I was still attacking the front post and it ended up coming off my head'".
And, finally, following last week's brief break in updating this website, here is some news from that period...
Northwich Victoria have taken on four new players. Lucas Atkins (on loan from Huddersfield), Nick Farquharson (loan from Crewe), Natt Kerr (loan from Rotherham U.) and Adam Morning (who has joined from Bradford PA).
Former Stafford and Crawley striker Guy Madjo has joined Cheltenham Town on loan. He was also recently called up to the Cameroon international squad. Both Paul Hinshelwood and Darren Mullings have gone on loan from Torquay to Tiverton. Grays have acquired two loan players, Ian Selley from Lewes and Alan Power from Nottingham Forest, whilst Stuart Thurgood has left The Rec on loan to Gillingham. Meanwhile Grays' chairman Mick Woodward told NL Today, "We need a new stadium. We've got no corporate boxes, no function halls and no training facilitiies. We're in the Conference and we need to be professional. At the moment we've got a second-rate place to play. We can't even park cars!... We don't own the ground... The club maybe needs to stand on its own two feet. It can't be about Mick Woodward any more. The council are looking for us and have come up with two sites that we think may work. Hopefully we will have planning permission by January... I would like a pub restaurant where they can sit down, watch the Premier league on the telly before the game". The new ground is planned to have a capacity of 17,000.
Please visit the club office to obtain your ticket during normal weekday working hours or ring on 928-1045.
And they could also be at HOME when they enter the Setanta Shield on December 22. 'The first thing you want in any cup is to be at home, and it's a brilliant draw as far as I'm concerned', said United manager Paul Buckle, on his way to watch forthcoming opponents Altrincham playing at Stevenage Borough in the BSP last night. 'I'm sure it will please our supporters and players too', he added. The man under most pressure is probably Plainmoor groundsman Mark Burd. Burd quipped: 'I was hoping and praying we would be drawn away! But really, it's no problem for me. I thrive on a bit of pressure, and the main worry for a groundsman at this time of year is not so much the matches, but the weather. Obviously, a run of home games will take its toll, but let's hope that the weather is kind to us, and then we should be OK'. With the FA Cup tie against Brighton coming up this weekend, Gulls boss Buckle was planning to get a game into fit-again Lee Phillips and Steve Woods in a reserve friendly away to Weymouth yesterday. Darren Mullings and Paul Hinshelwood, who both joined Tiverton Town on a month's loan last week, were also due to play, along with all United's other reserve players".
Bury "are lining up Workington striker Matthew Berkeley (right) following his goalscoring performance for the Blue Square North club at Gigg Lane. The Shakers have expressed an interest in the 20-year-old forward, who has scored six goals in nine games since returning to Workington. One of those was a well-taken effort at Gigg Lane which briefly pulled Reds level in an FA Cup-tie a couple of weeks ago. Workington would be reluctant to lose Berkeley – seen by management as a talisman – but have always made it clear they would not stand in any player’s way of moving to a higher level. Boss Darren Edmondson, who took the call from a member of the Bury management team, will be speaking with Berkeley. Edmondson said: 'If it had been a Blue Square Premier club I would have been reluctant about it because we have ambitions in that direction ourselves. Bury are a Football League club and actually only about 10 minutes away from where Matthew lives in Manchester. It is every boy’s dream to play League football and I know I would have been upset if anybody had stood in my way of taking the chance to play at that level. We don’t want to lose Matthew but we won’t stand in his way if he wants to go. He is under contract to us so Bury would have to pay a fee and we have asked them to come back with an offer. If it does all go through then there might be other spin-offs in a sell-on clause, pre-season friendly or maybe a player on loan'... If Berkeley did sign for Bury it would be another up-turn on his roller coaster career which saw him figure in Gretna’s promotion charge and earn international recognition with St. Kitts & Nevis before being released and then also allowed to leave Altrincham" says the Workington News & Star.
He said: 'The club will need to take this competition seriously - very much so. It's not just about the prestige of the final but also because of the financial situation. For the players, this competition is like their FA Cup because they have a good chance of reaching a Wembley final and that would be fantastic'. The nearest Walker came to playing at the home of English football was when he featured in a League Cup quarter-final for Barnsley against Liverpool in the early 1980s... Two of City's three defeats in the competition have come on the road but, with 13 points from a possible 15 from their last five away fixtures, Walker added: 'The way the club has been going, people will probably feel an away draw is ideal for us but we will need to go there, be positive and get the right result'. The Minstermen have beaten Altrincham 4-0 and 3-0 in their last two visits to the Cheshire club. Their next away league meeting with the Robins, who drew 2-2 at KitKat Crescent in September, is scheduled for January 19. Walker added that his position in charge had not been discussed any further with the board. He said: 'I'm just concentrating on preparing for Saturday's home match with Crawley'".
FAT Round 1, 15th December 2007, £4,000 for each winning team:
"Stevenage striker Tes Bramble will be out of action until January after undergoing a knee operation. The former Southend striker, 27, joined Stevenage from Stockport in July but has been restricted to just nine league appearances, scoring once. Bramble had played just once since the middle of October and has now undergone surgery to clear up the problem. Meanwhile, winger Alistair John was due to return to light training on Monday after two months on the sidelines. The 19-year-old was stabbed outside his Croydon home in September, and has been recovering from injuries sustained in the attack" states the BBC .
"Milton Keynes Dons' winger Mustapha Carayol has extended his loan deal at Crawley Town for a second month...until 23 December 2007" says the BBC.
The Cambridge Evening News tells us that "Jimmy Quinn hopes he can bring Paul Carden to Cambridge United on a permanent deal when the transfer window re-opens in January. Carden, 28, made his debut in Friday's 2-1 win at fellow high-flyers Burton Albion after joining United from Accrington on a loan deal until January 1. Quinn said: 'It depends on Paul and on Accrington because if he keeps playing like he did against Burton, they might want him back. If they get the right results, they might let us keep him. If not, they might want him back. Paul is an experienced player and, for whatever reason, he hasn't been in their first team, which I find hard to believe because there's not a great difference between this level and League Two. We're just delighted we've got him for now because we had a whisper on him through our contacts. I'm sure if other clubs had known he was available, he'd have been snapped up. All credit to the chairman because we haven't got a lot of money left in the budget, but I told him we needed this guy. He isn't cup-tied either, which is a massive thing for us for this week's game (against Weymouth)... He'll free up some of the other players who can run with the ball and take it forward, such as Rob Wolleaston, Reedy (Stephen Reed) and Mark Convery'".
The Argus reports that "Crawley boss Steve Evans is talking to former Albion defender Georges Santos about a possible move to Broadfield Stadium. Santos is a free agent after being released by Chesterfield and can join Reds outside the transfer window. Evans wants cover in defence and begun negotiations with the 37-year-old ex-Sheffield United and QPR stopper last week. He said: 'He is someone who is not on contract so we can sign him at any time. We are still chatting to him'. Evans is not worried about his lack of cover for goalkeeper Ashley Bayes after releasing Josh Clapham last week. Clapham, who has been Bayes' understudy for most of the season, left for financial reasons without playing a league game. Evans said: 'Josh simply couldn't live off what we were giving him so we have recommended him to a lot of clubs nearer his home in the south west. It is all about affordability and I have no problems with having just one keeper. I did it at Boston and Neil Warnock did it at Sheffield United for years. You can make an emergency loan with a goalkeeper at any time, which is what I did at Boston with (Albion keeper) Michel Kuipers. I have spoken to a number of manager and I have three keepers on stand-by at any time if we need them. They would be with us within an hour'. Young defender Jamie Lovegrove has joined Ryman premier Margate on a month's work experience but can be recalled at any time. Evans said: 'People talk a lot about Jamie and why he is not playing but you have to remember he is only a 17-year-old kid. We want him to keep progressing as far as he has been since we came here and this will give him more experience'".
Yesterday Farsley Today reported that "Farsley Celtic have had the deadline to appeal over Mark Jackson's straight red card at Crawley extended to 1pm today - but they are unlikely to be in a position to submit a request to the Football Association. Celtic were left seething when Jackson was sent off for a challenge - after home manager Steve Evans raced onto the pitch to remonstrate with the referee. But they haven't got video evidence to back up their claims Jackson should have got a yellow card at the most in the 4-1 Blue Square Premier defeat. Chairman Andy Firbank said: 'Unfortunately there is nothing we can do because the DVD of the game we got from Crawley we are unable to open and they can't get one that works to us in time. The lad now has to withstand a three-match ban, which is unfair because we believe the original decision had a lot to do with the antics of the opposition manager on the day'".
IC Cheshire recently stated that "Northwich Vics have made three loan signings... Striker Nick Farquarharson, 19, who impressed on loan with Witton Albion last season, has joined from Crewe Alex until January 3 along with another young frontrunner Lucas Akins from Huddersfield and 20-year-old Rotherham defender Natt Kerr. Akins has made six Division One appearances from the substitutes' bench this season. Kerr has made the Rotherham first team once, the bench twice". Vics are due to appear in the High Court today (Wednesday) regarding their debts.
From the Northants Evening Telegraph we hear that "Paul Bastock will leave Rushden & Diamonds as soon as they replace him with a new signing. The 37-year-old goalkeeper will return to Boston United where he has racked up the all-time appearances record with 625 competitive first-team games over 12 seasons since leaving Kettering Town in 1992. Bastock was poised to quit Nene Park before the weekend's shock defeat at bottom-of-the-table Northwich Victoria where he sat on the bench as Paul Nicholls' mistake led to the only goal of the game. However, Diamonds boss Garry Hill has so far refused to let Bastock go after failing to recruit a loan replacement. Boston manager Tommy Taylor, though, remains confident of the move happening shortly – especially after allowing 21-year-old Chris Wright to leave the Blue Square Conference North club on Friday. Taylor revealed: 'We thought Paul would be signed in time for Saturday's FA Trophy game at Gateshead. But Rushden couldn't let him go as their attempts to sign a replacement on loan fell through. Paul is 100 per cent behind returning to the club and, as far as I'm concerned, it is just a matter of time before that happens... He was ready to play on Saturday as Rushden were set to sign a goalkeeper from Charlton. But that fell through'"... Nicholls arrived just before the big kick-off and has featured in the last 10 matches – keeping only two clean sheets and making costly errors in 1-0 defeats at Cambridge United and Northwich".
From Woking we learn that a "Naked coach is Cards’ new leader. David Taylor wants to put his business leadership skills into practice when he realises an ambition and takes over as chairman of Woking Football Club on December 1. The 49-year-old acclaimed author of the best selling Naked Leader trilogy, has a clear 'vision' for the future, with the emphasis on placing the club at the heart of the community and helping them climb into the Football League. 'I’m so excited about the challenges that lay ahead and I can’t wait to get started', said Taylor, who recently became an owner of Ebbsfleet United, as a member of my MyFootballClub. He admits his heart sank when he realised he had become part owner of another club on the day Chris Ingram — who will remain chairman of Woking FC Holdings Ltd — asked him to become Cards’ chairman and he plans to give his £35 share in the Kent outfit to his son Anthony to remove any conflict of interests. There is no doubting where his allegiance lies though, after 12 years as a Woking supporter. 'I love Woking Football Club, the fans and the town', he said. 'We want to put this club at the heart of the community with the new stadium and use that as a foundation. There will be a time in the future when the planning application is submitted and we can then share our plans with the community. The people of Woking will then have to make a choice. Do they want an ambitious football club or not? I hope they do, because we will never be this close to such an opportunity again. I want to pay tribute to Chris Ingram and thank him for giving me this opportunity. I’m now a custodian of Chris’s money and this club is going to run properly, in a business fashion'".
"Blue Square Premier club Rushden & Diamonds have denied speculation linking goalkeeper Paul Bastock with a return to Boston United" according to Blue Square Football. "Boston boss Tommy Taylor expressed his desire to bring the veteran stopper back to York Street but will now have to cast his sights elsewhere after Rushden rejected their approach. Club Secretary, Matt Wild told the club's official website: 'Talks were held last week between Boston United Football Club, the Player and ourselves over a possible move for Paul, who was expressing a desire to relocate to be nearer to his family. However, due to a replacement goalkeeper not being secured by the loan deadline, on terms to our satisfaction, we informed Paul that we would not be in a position to release him. Paul is on contract at Nene Park and will not be joining Boston United or any other football club for that matter. We have an extremely busy month ahead in terms of fixtures, to which all our attentions must be focused upon, to ensure we not only climb the league table but also progress in our forthcoming cup competitions, starting with our trip to either Bristol Rovers or Leyton Orient this coming Saturday in The FA Cup".
According to Blue Square News, "Halifax Town have revealed that the Shay Stadium was subject to another act of theft and vandalism on Sunday evening. According to the club, catering vans, the main entrance gate, and two cabins at the Halifax stadium were damaged in what has become the seventh incident in less than six months. Thieves got away with a computer and 19 radios which are all utilised on match days. 'This is just sickening', Geoff Butler, chief executive of the Shay Stadium Trust told the Evening Courier. 'It makes me wonder if people just think that the Shay is easy pickings. It is all just getting beyond a joke. This attack is the worst that we have had in terms of what we have lost. There is someone that knows who has done this'".
Above: The players shake hands at the end of the game.
The Stevenage website also has a comprehensive preview of the game which tells us that, "Stevenage look to put their recent lacklustre form behind them and get their league campaign back on track. Suspensions, injuries and transfers have once again disrupted Borough’s squad over the last week but Peter Taylor will be hoping his team perform as they did in the first half of last weekend’s defeat to Halifax, rather than repeating their second half performance. Three players may have departed Broadhall Way this week but four have arrived to boost the squad, and they will all be keen to make an immediate impression on Borough’s management and fans alike... Altrincham have recently proved somewhat of a bogey team for Borough, having won two and drawn one of the last three meetings between the two sides, including both fixtures last season. A 2-1 defeat at Moss Road [Lane] on the opening weekend got Borough’s campaign off to a bad start, and then even more surprisingly they snatched a 1-0 win at Broadhall Way in March. Borough welcome back Barry Fuller from suspension for this game, but miss John Martin after his dismissal last weekend. John White should make his debut at left back, whilst there could also be debuts for central defender Zoltan Liptak and midfielders Tony Stokes and Junior Lewis. However Mitchell Cole, Tes Bramble, Alistair John and Ollie Allen all remain out injured... Psychologically it could be vital for Borough to open the scoring in this match, as the visitors have won just once from the twelve games where they have conceded first... Often used as a substitute in the early part of his career [Alty's Chris] Senior has proved a thorn in Borough’s side on several occasions, scoring three goals against us when playing for Scarborough and also scoring the winner for Altrincham in last year’s fixture at Broadhall Way".
The BBC says that "Stevenage boss Peter Taylor may give debuts to deadline-day signings West Ham's Tony Stokes, Colchester's John White and Southend's Zoltan Liptak. White and Liptak are both bidding for starts in defence, while Stokes is in midfield. Meanwhile winger Mitchell Cole is a doubt with a groin injury. Altrincham defender Chris Lane remains a doubt for the trip. Winger Colin Potts is also doubtful while long-term absentee Gareth Whalley will definitely be out".
After the 1-1 draw at Farsley least Tuesday, SAM says that "Colin Little (right) insisted Alty should not be downhearted after failing to beat 10-man Farsley on Tuesday night but said a drastic improvement is still needed. The Robins drew 1-1 at Throstle Nest after Little's second half goal cancelled out Damien Reeves' early opener. But they played 55 minutes of the game against 10 men due to Reeves' sending off for an elbow on Chris Lane, which left the full back with a broken nose. Alty had an avalanche of chances throughout the second half but couldn't breach the Farsley defence a second time. And it is that lack of precision which Little believes is stopping the Robins from realising their full potential.
He told SAM Sport: 'We can't be downhearted. We didn't win the game but we stopped them from going five points clear of us on their own ground. "We've not played well yet this season but we're still only two points from safety so that's a good place to be. We have to improve though. There are maybe only one or two players who can look at themselves and think they've played to their full potential. If we don't raise our game we don't deserve to stay up'... Little was denied by Farsley keeper Tom Morgan either side of the break before his header was cleared off the line by Pearson. The Alty hitman finally got his reward on 68 minutes when he banged the ball home from close range from Senior's cross-cum-shot".
And Stafford Rangers have issued a press release:
"Football can be cruel and, despite the excitement and achievements of the past few seasons, this year's campaign in the Blue Square Premier League has so far proved difficult for everyone involved with Stafford Rangers. Sitting third from bottom with only nine points to our credit is not where anyone wants to be and has delivered a severe reality check to the club. Disappointment and frustration breeds whispers, rumours and speculation and this release seeks to clarify and address honestly the current position of the football club for the benefit of our fans and supporters.
Our major dream and ambition has been to achieve League status for the football club. Phil Robinson has done a remarkable job since he joined us over five years ago and we were all proud and delighted when Conference League football was achieved. Stafford Rangers is a small football club, which relies heavily on the unpaid efforts of many volunteers within the club, including the directors. For a small club, though, the cost of complying with Conference League ground and statutory requirements was high and the overall increased running costs of maintaining our position were greater than we anticipated and attendances far lower. One of the results of this was that instead of being able to increase the playing budget at the beginning of this season we had to reduce it by 12%. We had to accept the harsh fact that as custodians of the football club we could not continue to spend more than we earned.
The season to date has been a constant fight with a succession of bad injuries compounding the situation and making team selection extremely difficult for the manager. We have made more money available to the team whenever possible in an effort to bring in good-quality loan players to turn the results around. The reality of the situation is that we are in a difficult position with efforts going unrewarded on the pitch and no income from an FA Cup run. Gates have been low and we in a period of only one home game in seven weeks. This has resulted in the unpleasant step of the club having to reduce some of our playing staff costs and being realistic enough to know that we have to deal with the resources we have available. The task that Phil has is even more difficult now than at the start of the season but we have confidence in him and want him to remain as manager of the football club and work with us to try and battle our way through and avoid relegation.
No one at Stafford Rangers can waive a magic wand and we know that our supporters are frustrated by the current position as much as we are. Everyone involved with the football club is taking action to try and change the results and protect the club's future. To the small hardcore of fans that continue to support the club through thick and thin we want to say 'thank you, you’re the best'". There are also a good number of supporters who have started to drift away as results have gone against us and it is the supporters who can make a huge difference both in terms of income to the club and lifting the team.
We hope that everyone now gets behind the manager, the team and the club at the next home game against Northwich on Saturday 1st December. No one is giving up and everyone will give everything to try and maintain our position in the Blue Square Premier and you can play your part, as Stafford Rangers battle on.
Issued by the Board of Directors, Stafford Rangers Football Club Ltd, Marston Road."
"Burton boss Nigel Clough plans to advance striker Daryl Clare's planned ankle surgery after he was sent off in their defeat by Cambridge on Friday. Clare saw red in the 65th minute of the 2-1 defeat for fouling Cambridge defender Mark Peters. 'We will obviously bring forward Daryl's surgery and get him in as soon as possible', Clough said. 'We will try to get him in on Monday. If it's a three-game ban he should be back for the Christmas period'" he told the BBC.
From Bullsnews we learn that "Forest Green Rovers have put a £250,000 price tag on former Hereford United striker Stuart Fleetwood. However it looks as though that valuation may stall any transfer in the approaching window. 'We want to keep him - there's no doubt about it. I have told people I want £250,000 and I stick to that. If they don't want to match that, they shouldn't talk to me', said Rovers chairman Colin Gardner as reported by the Western Daily Press. 'I am aware that a written offer is coming from Cheltenham and it is a six-figure sum but it does not meet the asking price. We are a very friendly club and we work as a team and we want to make sure we are doing everything right for the player and the club. We are mindful that Stuart is enjoying his football here. Stuart has been at a Football League club before and never made it, so it is credit to the work (manager) Jim Harvey has done with him. There is no way he is going on loan. With regards to everything else, when an offer comes in I will put it to the board but I'm sure their view will reflect that of mine'
Gareth Whalley (right) is available for selection against Stevenage in the Alty midfield, following his recent lay-off with injury. But Val Owen, who lasted 45 minutes last week is not fit and Colin Potts also remains sidelined. Ryan Shotton faces a fitness test to see whether he can return to the side after missing last week's match.
Thursday 22nd
Friday 23rd
Saturday 24th
Right: Chris Lane was injured at Farsley whilst Ryan Shotton missed the game through injury but should be fit for next Monday's match.
Altrincham's next match is on Monday 26th November, away at Stevenage Borough in the Blue Square Premier (7.45pm). STAR is running a supporters' coach to this match and the club and STAR would encourage all the fans who can travel to do so in support of the team. Details of the coach trip and how to book are here.
Before that on Sunday, 25th, Altrincham & District FA Youth side play Macclesfield & Distrct FA at Congleton Town, in an 11am kick-off in the Cheshire FA District Youth Cup.
Deacey revealed that Torpey trained with his club Lincoln City yesterday and will do so again today before training at Farsley tomorrow and could well make his debut at Crawley Town on Saturday. It was an eventful start for Reeves who had a shot deflected just wide after seven minutes and received his first booking three minutes later for an altercation* with Altrincham captain Darren Tinson. [* i.e. this must be a local use of the word "altercation" as in "he pushed Tinson with considerable force in the back when the ball was out of play so that the Alty captain was knocked to the ground and into the advertising hoardings where he was fortunate not to be hurt"].
Then, when Reeves and Chris Lane challenged for possession in the centre circle, Lane appeared to catch Reeves on the back of the head and had to leave the field with a suspected broken nose. Reeves received his second yellow card and his marching orders despite protests from his team-mates.
As Deacey observed, it would have been interesting to see the outcome if the game had remained 11-a-side, but Celtic were pushed back time and again as Altrincham made their numerical advantage count. Had it not been for some magnificent goalkeeping by Tom Morgan and exceptional defending from the men in front of him, Celtic would certainly have lost, but they showed a spirit that will stand them in good stead for the rest of the season.
Deacey said: 'Damien Reeves' sending-off was the turning point. He was causing them problems. I couldn't really see what happened but I have spoken to Damien, who is an honest lad, and he said the defender just headed the back of his head and went down. It was a harsh decision which changed the whole tactics of the game. We had to play with one up front, which put us under pressure. Just before they scored their goal we had our best chance of the second half when Gareth Grant went round their keeper but went too wide. There were some tremendous performances, not just from the back four and goalkeeper but from the midfield as well. We have a great team spirit, which Lee Sinnott and I brought into the side, and it has continued'".
The Bradford Telegraph & Argus adds that "Damien Reeves scored and was then sent off as Farsley gained a point to keep their opponents in the relegation zone and themselves out of it... The scorer can consider himself unfortunate to have been sent off in the 36th minute for a second yellow card. He jumped for a cross with a defender but could not connect. The ball smacked into the face of his opponent, who went to ground with the referee assuming Reeves had made contact with him. The official, who was a little pedantic, showed Reeves a second yellow and also booked Amjad Iqbal and Simeon Bambrook in the first period. Altincham made the most of their numerical advantage after the break and penned the hosts in their own half for much of the time. It was no surprise when they equalised midway through the second period... Caretaker boss John Deacey said: 'It was never a sending-off offence. We will look at the video and then appeal so that Damien doesn't get a ban. Only getting a point at home was disappointing but the lads battled well and dug deep and I can't fault them'".
Unconfirmed reports say that "Carl Serrant has left Farsley to be fitness coach at Crystal Palace".
Blue Square Football says that "Cambridge United have revealed that Yeovil striker Darryl Knights will stay at Abbey Stadium for a further month. Manager Jimmy Quinn has secured the services of Knights until 15th December, and he will be available to play in FA trophy and FA Cup games. However, the Glovers have included a 24-hour recall clause in the agreement and the Ipswich-born forward could make an early return to Huish Park if their injury crisis worsens. Knights has performed admirably for the U's since his short term move, scoring twice against Stafford Rangers in the FA Cup, ensuring their progress to the next round ".
"Ryan Harley has joined Exeter City on trial from Blue Square South side Weston-super-Mare" states NL Daily. "The 22-year-old former Bristol City midfielder was released by the Robins at the end of last season and initially joined the Devon club in pre-season. But he suffered a knee ligament injury on his first day with the club and eventually joined the Seagulls. However, City boss Paul Tisdale has been keeping close tabs on his progress and he will spend the next two weeks trying to earn himself a deal at St James's Park. Harleycan play on the right-hand side of midfield or alternatively in the centre".
The Daily Echo claims that "Tommy Widdrington's future at Salisbury City is believed to be in the balance. Whites' player-coach did not travel with the team for their 3-1 Blue Square Premier victory at York City on Saturday. It's understood he's been suspended for disciplinary reasons relating to the club's recent mid-season break to Valencia, Spain. The matter was discussed at a board meeting on Monday afternoon, but yesterday the Wiltshire outfit had no comment to make, saying only: 'It is purely an internal matter and will be handled internally'. Widdrington, a tough, no-nonsense midfielder who made almost 100 appearances for Saints, has had a troubled season. In September, he was left with a broken nose after falling victim of a headbutt following the 1-1 draw at home to Rushden. Rushden boss Garry Hill pleaded guilty to the headbutting charge and was fined £500, handed a two-week ban by the FA and a further touchline ban of ten games, five of them suspended for one year. Wiltshire Police are still investigating the incident which was captured on video.
As a result of last night's clash with Farsley Celtic's Damien Reeves, Chris Lane, the Alty right-back, has sustained a broken nose. Reeves was dismissed when he picked up a second yellow card for the aerial challenge in question.
It has been a bad November for Chris. He was harshly penalised and sent off for handball against Millwall in the FA Cup a fortnight ago. Then, he was omitted from the CSC match against Runcorn Linnets in the belief that he was suspended, only for it to emerge that he could have played in that game. He then had to sit out last Saturday's game against Weymouth to serve his suspension and, now, he has suffered a bad injury. All at Moss Lane wish him a speedy recovery.
Right: Farsley's Ryan Serrant prepares to take a first-half throw-in on Tuesday night as Robbie Lawton and Gary Scott keep an eye on Celtic's Stamer and Darren Tinson marshalls his defence.
This is York says that "Ousted York City boss Billy McEwan today spoke of his disappointment after learning by phone that he was being sacked as Minstermen manager. McEwan said he was unaware he was going to get the boot from the KitKat Crescent hot-seat until receiving a telephone call from City managing director Jason McGill telling him his services were no longer required. The 56-year-old Scot... told The Press he was frustrated the club could not tell him face-to-face he he was being fired... McEwan said his chief regret was that he would not be able to finish his rebuilding job at the club. Sophie McGill, York City's director of community and communications, confirmed McEwan was told by telephone of his removal and stressed it had not been an 'ideal way' to inform him. But she added that the club's board were volunteers, had full-time jobs outside of their KitKat Crescent affairs...
McEwan said: 'I got a call from the chairman at 10.15am letting me know the board unanimously wanted me to move on immediately. It was disappointing. I know Jason McGill is a very busy man and when the call came through I knew when I heard his voice. He is a bit of an emotional guy and maybe it was a bit too much for him. The McGill family are York through and through but it was a little bit disappointing (to learn by phone). There has been a unanimous decision by the board. I've not seen them - I have spoken to them on the phone but nothing surprises you in football. But they are nice people and I am sure they will progress the club'.
Miss McGill said: 'We have a business to run in Malton and we had business meetings on Monday. We are volunteer directors with jobs to do and Jason had a business meeting, in association with JM Packaging, at 11.30am and it didn't give him the opportunity to go into the club. Over the past few weeks, the board has met Billy McEwan face-to-face several times and, in the last week, Jason and Rob McGill have had face-to-face meetings with him about the situation and the way forward'".
There is surprising news from the Oxford Mail which tells us that "Darren Patterson has suffered a blow after Didcot Town keeper Michael Watkins rejected a move to Oxford United. U's boss Patterson wanted the 23-year-old former Hayes stopper as No 2 to Billy Turley after some impressive displays for the Southern League side. However, Watkins, who is based in Reading where he works in insurance, turned him down. Didcot boss Stuart Peace said Watkins told him that the money that was offered by United was less than he was earning in his current job. 'He has turned down the offer and the deal is dead as far as I am concerned', said Peace. 'This has been going on for weeks and it had an unsettling effect on the team'".
The Halifax Courier informs us that "Detailed plans for completing the Shay stadium will go on show to the public in a fortnight. Councillors working in partnership with the Shay Stadium Trust intend to submit a planning application before Christmas with the intention of starting building work on the East Stand early next summer. The aim is to complete the bars, restaurant, functions rooms, community space and hospitality suite by Christmas 2008. The Weaver's Bar will be pulled down to create more parking and the stand, which has been left half-finished for the past five years, will have seating for 3,500 spectators. That will give the stadium an overall capacity of nearly 10,000. Calderdale Council will pay for most of the work with money it expects to receive in the future from commercial developments in other areas of the Shay complex. Halifax Town, Halifax RLFC and the Shay Stadium Trust will fit out the various rooms, which will be used for fund-raising events. Councillors agreed in April "a minimum scheme" to provide facilities for players and spectators that met the requirements of the governing bodies for football and rugby league. The cabinet last night decided that it should incorporate community facilities, conference and banqueting rooms to improve the stadium's economic sustainability. David Kirton, the council's regeneration and development spo-kesman said: 'We will have a sports stadium that benefits far more people and can be used seven days a week rather than half a day, as it is now'. Roger Simpson, chairman of the Shay Stadium Trust, said: 'This gives the possibility of a financially viable future for the Shay as well as ensuring regular use'".
From the Burton Mail we learn that "Burton Albion striker Daryl Clare is to undergo ankle surgery in the run-up to Christmas. But the promotion-chasing Brewers are hoping their 12-goal top gun will not miss any Blue Square Premier action. Clare needs an operation to cure an injury that has troubled him since he suffered a heavy fall at Weymouth in August. Albion boss Nigel Clough told Mail Sport last night: 'It is a situation we have faced for some time. Daryl has fragments of bone floating around his ankle, which needs cleaning out sooner rather than later. We could ask him to battle on because some weeks are not as bad as others, but by doing that we also run the risk of the injury developing into something more serious and ruling him out for weeks on end'. Careful scheduling of the operation could mean Clare will miss only FA Trophy and Setanta Shield ties in the run-up to Christmas. He is due on the operating table after the December 8 game at home to play-off rivals Forest Green Rovers, and the next league game after that is not until the Boxing Day visit to Stafford Rangers. Clough said: 'Daryl should be able to play again about 14 days after the operation which means, if all goes well, he could be in contention for the Stafford game. Obviously if we draw with Barnet (in the FA Cup) we would want him available for the replay, which would be after Forest Green. That might mean we'll have to revise our plans, but the ideal scenario is for Daryl to have the operation done two weeks before Christmas'".
Farsley Today says that "Caretaker-boss John Deacey admits the pressure is on his Farsley Celtic side to start wracking up the points – starting with tonight's showdown against Altrincham at Throstle Nest. Celtic could go five points clear of the bottom four with a win this evening, while defeat against the Cheshire men would dump them in the relegation zone. Despite the precarious league situation, Deacey is refusing to add to the hype surrounding the match, but he does acknowledge it is time for Farsley – who have picked up just five points from their last 10 games –to hit the winning trail. Deacey admitted: 'Of course the pressure is building. We have to string some results together now and we have got to start on Tuesday. Altrincham is a big game – but they all are. There are another 27 league games left after tonight so we won't be treating the match any differently. Everyone is hyping it up but it is just another game as far as I'm concerned and we have to treat it as such, and if we show the same application we showed on Saturday then we are quite capable of winning'.
While fourth-bottom Altrincham moved within two points of the Celts following a 3-2 victory over Weymouth at the weekend, Deacey saw his side go down 1-0 at Grays. The result against the side with the meanest defence in the Blue Square Premier was no disgrace, but the stand-in boss has no doubts about where the problems lie. And he is hoping the arrival of Steve Torpey and the return from injury of Tris Whitman and Simeon Bambrook can get the Celts firing on all cylinders again. Torpey was forced to sit out Saturday's game as the paperwork for his loan move wasn't completed in time but the former Bradford City, Swansea, Scunthorpe and Lincoln hit man is in line to make his debut tonight.
Whitman [who reportedly turned down a move to Altrincham last season] played for 40 minutes on Saturday on his return from a dislocated shoulder, while Bambrook trained yesterday following a hamstring strain and had no reaction. Deacey said: "The end product needs to improve, but we have got Torpey in there now and Bambrook and Whitman back so it gives us much more interesting selection problems'. Deacey's hopes of further adding to his squad before tonight's game ended in frustration, but he is hopeful of landing a couple more signings before the emergency loan market closes on Thursday. And he is confident Farsley will be good enough to start to climb the table.
He said: 'This is a difficult league, but the spirit is good in the camp and we do have a good squad and with a couple of loan signings I am trying to bring in, we will be even stronger. I think we can put a run together, we just need to start finishing off the chances we are creating as every team does. But Torpey has scored goals at every level so hopefully he will continue to do so. He will be a valuable addition to the squad'".
Lincoln City confirm that "Steve Torpey has today joined Farsley Celtic on loan until January 7th 2008. Veteran front man Torpey, who has made 14 appearances for the Imps since moving to Sincil Bank in the summer from Scunthorpe United, links up with The Villagers in time for their home game against Altrincham, having recovered from the hamstring strain that forced him to miss the last two Imps' games".
Tuesday 20th BSP
FA Cup 1 Replay
Monday 26th
Alty matchday secretary, Youth-team manager, licensee and bingo-caller, Mr George Heslop was the master of ceremonies at Monday night's Prize Bingo Evening at Moss Lane which, once again, was a great success. George presented himself in a new light, as he donned a flashing red nose and reindeer antlers for the evening (picture, right). The Football Club would like to thank all those who attended the event and, above all, those who worked so hard to arrange it - notably the Gallimore family and Anne Wilshaw, but many others were also involved.
Indeed, "Jason Tindall was bitterly disappointed with Saturday's 3-2 loss at Altrincham, describing his side's performance as their worst of the season' so far. Goalkeeper Jon Stewart was to blame for Alty's first two goals and after the Terras had fought back to level twice they then conceded another that proved decisive. Tindall said: 'We were poor today. Jon was at fault for the first two goals and when you give two away in any game you are always going to face an uphill struggle. To be fair to Jon he has been excellent for us in previous games but today he just had one of those days and had a bit of a nightmare. The third goal they scored was also a soft one to concede but what really upset me was the way we just laid down in the last half hour... Today was just one of those where I am not sure what it was. I am not sure whether it was a bit of immaturity or whether we just did not have strong enough characters but there is no doubt that we have got to get our act together. Today was probably our worst performance of the season so far against a side who we should have beaten comfortably'".
This is Weymouth adds that "Two errors from goalkeeper Jon Stewart proved costly as Weymouth went down at Moss Lane. A poor display from the Terras' number one combined with an inept show from the rest of the side led to boss Jason Tindall labelling it the worst performance so far in the Blue Square Premier season". Mr Tindall's record against Altrincham is now played two, lost two.
The BBC says that "Shrewsbury goalkeeper Chris Mackenzie has returned to the New Meadow after two months on loan at Kidderminster. The 35-year-old stopper played eleven games whilst with the Harriers covering for the injured Scott Bevan. Harriers manager Mark Yates said: 'Chris obviously didn't have the best of starts, by his own admission, but he's been fantastic for us'. Bevan is expected to be fit for Kidderminster's next match which made extending Mackenzie's loan unnecessary".
Meanwhile NL Today claims that "In the frame for the job [of Farsley manager] is ex-Blackburn star Paul Warhurst, Harrogate Railway boss Vince Brockie and caretaker manager John Deacey". But there are rumours that "chairman Andy Firbank will stick with the stand-in. And the chairman said, 'We will not be rushed or rail-roaded into anything. The final date for applications was last Friday and letters will be sent out over the weekend. But we're not in a hurry. The calibre of applicants is impressive and our postbag has been, frankly, bulging. But at the moment I must be honest and say the targets in preparation for the transfer window are more on my mind. We need to make sure we have a squad that holds up till January when we go out and have a closer look at what's about'".
Howard Watts's Through the Years data for Tuesday's match on 20 November is here.
Colin Little has a guest column this week in NL Today. Colin writes, "Despite our dreadful start to the season, the one saving grace is that safety is still in our hands, But it's fair to say that with the exception of Ryan Shotton (pictured right) [who is on loan from Stoke City], no one has produced what they are capable of on a consistent basis at Altrincham so far this season. There've been games when three or four have played well but as an eleven, we've not done it. I, for one, cannot say why we have not got going but the important thing at this stage is that if we can string three or four games together we catapult ourselves up the table. Confidence has obviously taken a knock but we're an experienced group of players who have pretty much seen it all. A lot of the boys have experience battling relegation so there'll be no panic from us.
Funnily enough we're doing better away than at home at the moment. At home it's not a case of the fans getting on your back or anything like that but I suppose you tend to treat games with a bit more trepidation... We travel to Farsley Celtic on Tuesday, who are currently one place above us and just outside the relegation zone. Without doubt it is a winnable game so now's the time to turn things around.
For me, this season has been interrupted by injury and suspension. It was the same at this stage last season when I only had two goals. My stats since I arrived at Alty say that I get one every other game so I need to get to that form sooner rather than later. I'm a big player for the team and the onus is on me to score the goals to save us. I've got 6 in 14 so far, which is OK, but I need to be better than OK. I need to play week in, week out".
The Blue Square Premier really is the only place to be. Anything below is for the dead men of football. The change has been unbelievable from when I was at Crewe and we played against Conference sides...There's so much that the club does in the community that may be lost if we went down. We have kids who want to both watch and play for the club. We don't want a return to the days when only Man City and United meant anything to kids in the area. In fairness, Graham Heathcote has put the ball in our court to turn the season around or there could be big changes come January".
Echoing Colin Little's words, the Alty boss wrote in last Saturday's programme, he write "We are in a dogfight now. We have to have players who want to keep this club in the Blue Square national league... There is no excuse for our home results... we have to be more clinical and ruthless... If we can't change it from within, we will have to recruit. Geoff Goodwin and the Board are looking at it very seriously to see if they can help us to improve. We are in that mini-league [at the bottom] and the next four fixtures are vital to our survival. We can't afford to carry anyone. We all have to be totally committed to the cause, or move on".
In his column in NL Today referee Ian Lamont writes of the sending off last week of Chris Lane for alleged deliberate handball against Millwall. "Altrincham's Chris Lane was sent off against Millwall for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, adjudged to have handled on the line. I could understand his disbelief because TV replays suggested he had jumped, turned away from the ball and had his back to it. The referee must have seen it differently and felt that, in spreading himself, he had deliberately put his hand in the way".
"Grays' skipper Stuart Thurgood is set to rejoin his former Blues' team-mate Dennis Oli and Leroy Griffiths by signing for old boss Mark Stimson at Gillingham... despite competition from Dagenham & Redbridge, Millwall and Peterborough" says the NL Paper
From the Halifax Courier we learn that "Boss Chris Wilder did not want to single out individuals after his side produced a stunning comeback to beat Stevenage Borough 3-2 at Broadhall Way. The Shaymen looked to be heading for certain defeat at the break when they trailed 2-0. But goals from Darryn Stamp, Simon Heslop and Jon Shaw in a seven minute spell at the start of the second period gave Halifax what had appeared an unlikely victory 'I don't think the character of this side has ever been in doubt', said Wilder. 'But individual errors have killed us in the past. Errors could have hurt us again yesterday because Stevenage did not have to work hard for their goals. But I thought our play was excellent overall. We passed the ball, controlled the game and there were a lot of outstanding performances'".
For this site's match report, click here.
Droylsden have signed former Alfreton Town striker Ashley Burbeary from Stalybridge Celtic.
NL Daily says that "Crawley Town have signed MK Dons` defender Kieran Murphy in time to make his Blue Square Premier debut at home to Torquay United on Saturday. Crawley manager Steve Evans moved for the Republic of Ireland under-21 international after Glenn Wilson hurt his groin in training on Friday".
Above: The 4-4 element of Alty's 4-4- 2 formation this afternoon is seen above.
After a first half in which Alty were decidedly second best, the Robins upped their game superbly in the second half to dominate the final 45 minutes.
"Weymouth manager Jason Tindall has called on his side continue their recent good form with an away win over fellow strugglers Altrincham on Saturday" says Blue Square Football. "The Terras find themselves in the bottom-half of the table after some woeful home form, which has seen them collect just four points from a possible 27. 'I think Altrincham are in a false position in the league but I believe we are as well', Tindall told the Dorset Echo. 'They were unlucky against Millwall last week in the cup, they had a man sent off and came close to getting the result they were after so we know tomorrow will be a tough game. We have had them watched and we know what to expect but I tend not to worry too much about what our opponents might do, I just concentrate on what we are going to do and at the moment we are confident in the way we are playing. Our away form is good and as long as the lads keep working as hard as they have been then I am sure we can go there and get a good result'. However, Tindall has a number of first-team regulars still receiving treatment... He added: 'Neil Young and Callum Hart have come in and strengthened us but having the likes of Marcus Browning, Kyle Critchell, Simon Weatherstone, Justin Roberts, Trevor Challis, Ashley Vickers and Sido Jombarti all out recently, just shows how well the team has done in the last nine games. Those quality players are slowly coming back and once they return I am sure they will make a big difference and give us that little kick we need to be even more competitive and more consistent'. Tindall added: 'Marcus, Trevor, Kyle and Stuart are all close and Simon is just lacking a bit of match practice. Sido is still two weeks away while Ashley could be anything from a couple of days away to four weeks away depending how he reacts to certain treatment'".
Meanwhile Alty are without the suspended Chris Lane. The BBC confirms that "Altrincham are short in midfield with both Val Owen and Gareth Whalley missing through injury. Colin Potts is still struggling with a knee problem". But it wrongly states that "Defender Chris Lane is available after completing his one-match suspension" but is closer to the truth when it adds that "Striker Colin Little is now available. Weymouth travel to Altrincham without suspended centre back Justin Roberts. Ashley Vickers and Kyle Critchell are doubts while Trevor Challis may miss out with a hamstring injury. Striker Stuart Beavon is back after a virus".
Right: Peter Band in action in the goalless draw against Weymouth at Moss Lane on 7 October 2006. Weymouth arrived at Moss Lane in 3rd place in the table, whilst Altrincham were in 14th position. This game was played at 1pm to avoid a clash with another match in Trafford, which involved England and Macedonia. Alty's side that day was 13. Richard ACTON; 2. Steve ASPINALL, 17. Karl MUNROE, 20. Stephen ROSE, 11. Warren PEYTON; 22. Colin POTTS, 8. Val OWEN, 4. Peter BAND, 7. Robbie LAWTON (capt), 14. Lewis CHALMERS; 12. Joe O'NEILL. Subs: 3. Gary SCOTT, 15. Justin BOWLER, 18. Pat McFADDEN, 21. Kieran LUGSDEN, 23. Eddie HUSSIN. Only three (Lawton, O'Neill and Peyton) of that starting-line up also started for Alty against Milwall last Saturday.
Howard Watts's Through the Years records for Saturday's date, 17 November, are now on the website.
Next Tuesday, the referee at Farsley Celtic v Altrincham will be Mr Mo Matadar who was the fourth official at Moss Lane for our match against Millwall last Saturday. Mr Matadar has previously officiated at Southport v Altrincham (1-1) in March 2006 and at Alty's 2-0 home win over Tamworth on 26 November 2005.
The previously postponed Meet the New Recruits event will now be held at Moss Lane after the Histon game on Saturday, 1st December, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 (which includes a fish and chip supper or similar meal). Altrincham's new signings for 2007-08 will be the guests of honour and will answer any questions directed at them! Already signed up to appear are Darren Tinson, Jake Sedgemore, Chris Lane and Chris Senior. So come along and find out what goes on behind the scenes at the Club and learn what the new recruits did with themselves before joining Altrincham. Please ring the club on 928-1045 or e-mail Grahame or Karen Rowley for tickets.
Blue Square Football tells us that "Histon have allowed midfielder Dean Bradshaw to join Billericay on a one-month loan deal. The 22-year-old has not featured for Steve Fallon's side since making his switch from Braintree Town in the summer. Fallon told the club's official website: 'The deal is for an initial period of 28 days but let's see how things pan out during that time'. Meanwhile, Chris Dillon may cut his loan spell at Hemel Hempstead short and return to the Glass World stadium two-weeks early. Fallon added: 'Chris did not want to be Trophy tied and the lad that has come in for the Trophy for them has done well and kept him out which is very frustrating for Chris and us because he was there to play.. I think it's likely he could be back with us in the next week'".
Grays Athletic reports that "Goalkeeper, Danny Knowles, has been released on loan to AFC Wimbledon until 1st January 2008".
At nearby Ebbsfleet United "central defender Warren Goodhind has left the club and is expected to join Blue Square South side Eastleigh, where former Fleet goalkeeper James Pullen now plies his trade. South African Goodhind (30) joined the Fleet on a non-contract basis in August 2007 and the former Barnet, Cambridge and Rochdale defender has made nine appearances for the club".
"Frank Gray believes Giuseppe Sole has a big future at Woking Football Club and insisted this week the club will not cash in on the youngster’s talents in the January transfer window. The Cards’ boss has had another heart to heart meeting with Sole following the young star’s omission from the starting line-up against Grays Athletic on Saturday — the 19-year-old dropped despite scoring Woking’s only goal against Droylsden seven days earlier... 'We want to keep Gez', said Gray. 'He came to see me again this week and he’s not happy about not being in the t