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July 2008 |
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July 2008 |
Altrincham FC had their team photo session this evening. Absent from the picture above were Richard Battersby, Warren Peyton and Val Owen. Those pictured are, left to right: BACK: Mark McGregor, Dale Johnson, Stuart Coburn, Andy Ralph, Greg Young, Chris Lane; MIDDLE: Danny Heathcote (kitman), Charles Heathcote (kitman), Joe O'Neill, Alex Meechan, Graham Heathcote (manager), Lee Elam, Robbie Lawton, Ian Senior (goalkeeping coach), Graham Bartrow (Assistant manager); FRONT: Anthony Danylyk, Kevin Street, Chris Denham, George Heslop (company secretary), Geoff Goodwin (chairman), Grahame Rowley (vice-chairman), Colin Little, Chris Senior, Matt Doughty.
Right: Alty v Bradford City - Mark McGregor organizes the defence as Lee Elam (foreground) and goalkeeper Andy Ralph keep their eyes on the opposition.
The Sale & Altrincham Messenger reported before Tuesday's win over a Bradford City XI that "Although results have been good in preseason so far - Alty winning four of their five games - fitness is top of the agenda for boss Graham Heathcote. In particular, new signing Lee Elam needs to get back to match fitness after a disrupted preseason campaign. 'I want to see Lee Elam get a bit fitter and the main aim of tonight is fitness', said Heathcote. 'We’ve got an 18 to 19 man squad and we won’t be carrying many more than that. I just have to find clubs for the youth team players I’ve kept on. They haven’t been forgotten about'. The squad has been trimmed right down now with all the trialists, bar Alex Morris, having already moved on. The onus is on the ex-Crewe midfield man to stake a claim for a squad number, especially following the departure of fellow trialist Damien Allen, who is currently in talks with Chester and Wrexham... Alex Meechan is expected to be back for this weekend’s game against a Blackburn Rovers XI. Young’s absence is anticipated to be around 10 days.
Another name still on Alty fans' lips is Ryan Shotton, the impressive young defender who spent the second part of last season on loan at Alty from Stoke City. Having been released by Bournemouth his future is currently unclear, making a possible Moss Lane return the talk of the Robins' faithful. But a move looks unlikely at the moment, with Shotton making it known that he wants to play in the Football League. But Heathcote hasn't given up hope and hopes to review Shotton's situation in a month’s time".
Meanwhile, a long term aim has been fulfilled after Heathcote secured the signature of Andy Ralph, a competent number two to Alty’s solid Stuart Coburn... Hetahcote said: 'I went for Andy Ralph because he has a little bit more experience than James Coates. I think Coates needs to be playing first team football, but both are decent keepers and either guy could have done the job'".
Manager George Heslop also discovered from the tournament programme that the team which defeated Alty last season in the final of their group was not from Walthamstow as he had been told, but from a little further south.... Nigeria!
Addressed to their fans, Grays Athletic have made an "announcement that we hope you have all been waiting for and one which we believe will springboard our aspirations for the future...
Statement from Thurrock Council: Top Thurrock councillors will be discussing the creation of a massive sporting centre when they meet next week. A 'Thurrock Sports Hub', based around Blackshots, will be on the agenda of Thurrock Council‘s Cabinet on Wednesday (6 August)'. The council and the Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation - which is backing the plan - have already received interest about the scheme from a variety of potential public and private partners, including Grays Athletic Football Club... The plans - if they go through - will provide wide benefits for the community at large, says the report. These include improved health of the population generally, activities for younger people - reducing anti-social behaviour - and regeneration of the borough".
At Histon "Manager Steve Fallon and Coach John Beck believe they may have unearthed a real talent in their most recent find Lanre Oyebanjo - full name Olanrewaju Oyebanjo. Coach John Beck spoke of his admiration for the 18 year old who has been with the Stutes since the start of pre season after being released by Brentford in the summer. Following the player signing a contract with the Stutes, which could see him at the Glass World Stadium for the next two seasons, Beck said 'The lad has looked good in training and even better in the pre season games, so far his performances have been very good and against Boston he provided us with enough to offer him a contract'. This will provide Craig Pope with competition for his right back position whilst also leaving the Stutes with cover in all positions, although Beck was quick to add that a central midfield player was still on the Stutes' list... Speaking after his holiday the manager was clearly pleased to have the problem of selecting a squad of 16 from his 24 players now that the four emerging youngsters have proved they are not far away from making a play for a first team place. 'I think we have eight of our starting eleven sorted so the next two games will give us a chance to get the final places sorted'".
In a piece reporting Alty's signing of their former centre-half Mark MCgregor, Wrexham add that their "former midfielder Danny Williams had been training with Altrincham over the summer, but now looks likely to be settling with Northwich Vics. He played a part in their last two friendlies".
Alty travel to Woking a week on Saturday where "Head Coach, Kim Grant, has told utility player Matt Gray, defender Matt Ruby and midfielder Jerome Maledon that they do not figure in his plans for the coming season and that they are free to look for another club. All three have one year left on their contracts. Kim Grant said: 'This was a tough decision to make. All three are good players but I need to create room in my squad to enable me to bring in other players who, I think, can take us up a level'... Matt Ruby, 22, and Jerome Maledon, 20, both joined the first team squad from Woking’s Academy. Matt Gray, 24,was signed from Sutton United in May 2007".
"Salisbury have signed former Stafford Rangers centre-back Djoumin Sangare, pending international clearance. Frenchman Sangare, 24, has been on trial with the Whites and scored in their pre-season win over Swindon Town. Coach Tommy Widdrington told BBC Radio Wiltshire that the Whites have been trailing the player for a long time. 'We've had him in our sights since very early last season. He was top of the list and I hope he has a good stay with us', he said. Sangare appeared 30 times for Stafford last season".
Oxford United "will look at two trialists tonight (Tuesday) as they welcome Wycombe Wanderers for a pre-season friendly. Both Michael Husbands, a striker, and Levi Reid, a winger have linked up with the club from Macclesfield and are likely to be on the bench... Husbands was very highly rated as a youngster at Aston Villa but has become nomadic since then, having spells at Hereford, Southend, Bristol Rovers, Walsall, Port Vale and Macclesfield scoring five times in 15 starts at those clubs. Reid, 24, started his career at Port Vale before dropping down to Stafford where his pace and skills earned a move back into the Football League with Macclesfield, where he scored twice in 28 starts".
And "Oxford United have announced the signing of 19-year-old goalkeeper Ben Hincliffe on non-contract terms. The Preston-born shot-stopper has put in some solid performances for the U's in pre-season since being released by Derby County boss Paul Jewell", reports Blue Square Footbal
From the NW Evening Mail we learn that "Furiosu Dave Bayliss has warned his pre-season under-performers to 'shape up or ship out'. The Barrow AFC joint-manager has been bitterly disappointed with his team’s performances since their return to action a fortnight ago. He described Saturday’s latest showing at lower-league Kendal Town as 'gutless, effortless and passionless'. Bayliss tore into his squad in the dressing room after the game, warning them that another similar performance will result in some players being shown the Holker Street exit door. 'I’m still fuming', said Bayliss yesterday. 'I’ve never had cause before to say what I said to the lads in the dressing room, and I can assure you when I left it was a very quiet dressing room. I won’t stand for it, and Darren (Sheridan) won’t stand for it. We’re being totally frank. If people think they’re better than what they are then they can go and find another club. We don’t want people like that associated with us. Me and Darren as players are winners, and we’ll put our hearts on the line. Them lads haven’t done that so far. Even if it’s a friendly game you still should be winning those games'. Barrow – whose televised Conference Premier opener against Oxford United is now only 10 days away – were trailing 3-2 to Kendal when the game was abandoned in the closing stages following a serious injury to AFC right-back Lee Woodyatt.
Bayliss said: 'At the end of the day, there’s two games left before the season starts and these lads really need to have a think about what they want to do now over the next week or so... I’ve had a number of clubs ringing me about our players. So, if they don’t want to shape themselves up, they can ship out, basically... It was gutless, effortless, passionless, everything about it that doesn’t associate us with football. It was horrendous to watch, embarrassing... If we see another performance like that in pre-season again then some of them lads will never wear a Barrow soccer shirt again. I don’t think we’ve matched teams physically this pre-season. We’ve been a bit intimidated, and that is worrying'... Meanwhile, with broken leg victim Woodyatt likely to miss most of the season, Bayliss and Sheridan are on the lookout for a replacement right-back... 'We are short of numbers in the defence area, the full-backs especially'".
Blue Square Footbal says that "New boys Kettering Town have secured the services of Redditch United defender Exodus Geohaghon on a month's loan. Poppies' boss Mark Cooper has brought the towering centre half to Rockingham Road on an initial month's loan and has the option to make the move permanent. 'We've agreed to take him on loan for the next month initially and then see how it goes', Cooper told Northants ET. 'He's a big centre-half who also provides us with a bit of pace at the back... We will probably get another couple - a target man and a wide player'". Geohaghon started his career at West Bromwich Albion and went on to play for Sutton Coldfield Town and Bromsgrove Rovers, before joining Redditch in 2005".
The Northwich Guardian reports that "Vics say they do not want to play Torquay on a Sunday. The Gulls have asked to push back their clash with Dino Maamria’s men – scheduled for Saturday, September 6 – by 24 hours. But their wish has not been granted. The Devon club face Kidderminster Harriers at Aggborough in front of the television cameras two days earlier, hence their desire to have an extra day’s rest before hosting Vics at Plainmoor on the Sunday. Now United have referred the case to the Football Conference board for their verdict".
According to the Burton Mail "Albion boss Nigel Clough is not anticipating making any more signings ahead of the season opener on August 9. Clough completed a double swoop at the weekend - signing striker Greg Pearson and agreeing a deal for former Mansfield Town centre-back Jake Buxton - and says he is happy with the size and strength of his squad".
The Bantams' manager is Stuart McCall, the former Scottish international who enjoyed an illustrious career at clubs which included Everton and Glasgow Rangers, as well as Bradford City. The City first-team squad includes Barry Conlon and Paul Heckingbottom, who have both played at Moss Lane previously when they were part of the Darlington side which knocked Alty out of the FA Cup in the Second Round in December 2001.
Manager Graham Heathcote told SAM Sport: 'Everyone is talking about the squad we've put together but they've go to do it on the pitch now. I'm glad we've been able to sign Lee. He was trying to get a full-time deal at York but for some reason or another that hasn't worked out and he decided to come here. I think we're benefitting from the economic situation at the moment. The price of petrol is high so for players to make a long journey four or five times a week to join up with a full-time team is a significant chunk out of their wages. People think we've splashed the cash but the budget is the same as it was at the start of last season. We raised the budget in December but now we've gone back to what we started off with last season... We're putting together the best squad we can while working within our means'".
Pictured, right, is Alty's latest signing, Mark McGregor, 31, an experienced centre-back whose last club was Port Vale.
All games are on pitch 22 at the University playing fields at Northenden.
Cambridge News reports that "Gary Brabin admitted being disappointed with his Cambridge United side for the first time following Saturday's 3-1 home defeat by Coventry City. The United manager felt his players looked fatigued in the sweltering conditions and not as sharp as they had been in previous friendlies. Brabin said: 'I'm reserving my judgement a little bit because they've had a tough pre-season, mentally and physically, and we've had 10 training sessions and a game since our last day off. I know I've been working them hard, but all I've asked of them is that they come in with a smile on their faces and give me 100 per cent, and that's the first time they've looked tired. Going forward we're a handful. We're enthusiastic and we've got a load of ideas, but at the moment I'm still waiting for my first clean sheet, which is another little thing we have to work on'. Midfielder Eddie Hutchinson, who has been transfer-listed by Oxford, was the latest trialist to be given a chance".
This is Nottingham says that "Billy McEwan is close to making decisions on a number of players currently trying to earn permanent deals at Field Mill. Ten trialists played for the Stags in their 3-2 defeat to Derby County, including Grays Athletic's Aaron O'Connor who only joined the club at the end of last week...He said: 'It's nice to win but the most important thing is for us to get our touch and understanding as a group of players... Aaron (O'Connor) has been training with us for a couple of days, so it's a little bit unfair to judge players after they have only just joined us. We will make decisions as quickly and early as we can'. McEwan introduced a trio of the club's youngsters in the second half - Chris Wood, Ryan Goward and Lewis Trimmer".
Oxford United "have been given a boost ahead of the new season with defender Luke Foster signing a new deal which keeps him at the club until the end of the 2009/10 season. The 22 year old centre half... [won] the fans and the players 'Player of the Season' awards last year".
"Forest Green Rovers' boss Jim Harvey has offered non-contract terms to a quartet of players. Former Cirencester Town defender Lee Molyneaux, striker Mike Symons - who has also been linked with Gloucester City - and defender Chris Thomas have been snapped up. Thomas requires international clearance having been at Carmarthen Town last season... The club have also offered non-contract terms to 19-year-old Isaac Shaze for whom the club have received international clearance. However, as Isaac holds a Ghanaian passport, and also due to immigration regulations, the club must seek special permission for him to be registered to play at Blue Square Premier level. Documention has been submitted to the FA and the Home Office and a decision is awaited. The club are unable to make a similar application in respect of his fellow countryman, 19-year-old Sam Mensah until the FA and the Home Office rule on student visa credentials for players from outside the UK and EU. Shaze is being used as the ‘test case' to challenge the rules which currently forbid overseas student players attending accredited sports colleges, in their case Hartpury College, obtaining a work permit in the Premiership and Football League but discriminates against leagues outside those listed by the Home Office in their regulations. The challenge is being supported by David Drew MP and Lord Faulkner, a Vice President of the Football Conference. Shaze has been awarded squad number 19, while Molyneaux, Symons and Thomas will wear squad numbers 20, 21 and 22 respectively".
Mark was born at Chester on February 16, 1977.
Full details of Altrincham's 19-man squad are here.
Former Alty reserves' keeper Craig Ellison has joined FC Halifax Town from Witton Albion, following former Albion boss Jim Vince in the process. Kieran Lugsden's move from Buxton to Witton has been confirmed. Ex-Alty striker Marc Whiteman scored for Hastings United as they beat Lewes in a friendly. Colin Potts netted for Fleetwood Town and Paul Ellender was Alfreton Town's man of the match on Saturday. Meanwhile both Ged Murphy and Karl Munroe have been released by Droylsden.
Of the above opposition only Leigh Genesis are a club whom Altrincham have previously met, under their previous name of Leigh RMI.
And "Clapham has a warning for clubs who think the switch from the league's Approved Playing Budget system to the new Financial Reporting Protocol gives them a licence to spend above their means... All 68 clubs will have to provide quarterly reports on their expenditure... 'We have absolutely no sympathy for people who are not paying their way... We have led the way in dealing with that kind of thing... We are trying to get people to live within their means'" said Clapham.
Barrow report that former Chester City and Vauxhall Motors defender Lee Woodyatt suffered a double fracture of the leg "towards the end of the friendly at Kendal on Saturday... Once the seriousness of the injury became apparent, referee Jeremy Simpson abandoned the game. Woodyatt was treated on the pitch by Barrow assistant-physio, Les Potter, and then by an ambulance crew that drove their vehicle onto the pitch. The right back was taken to The Royal Lancaster Infirmary and is expected to undergo surgery to pin the broken bones... It is the second time in his career that he has suffered such an injury and last time made a full recovery. He is likely to miss, however, a large chunk of the new campaign... Barrow were trailing 3-2 at the time of the abandonment with goals from Jason Walker & Lee Hunt, but after a display that left boss Dave Bayliss fuming".
According to NL Today the qualifying rounds of the FA Cup will be broadcast by ITV and Setanta Sports. "The matches will be broadcast on ITVLocal.com, ITV.com and The FA website as well as selected highlights being aired on Setanta for the world to enjoy".
Mark was born at Chester on February 16, 1977. He made his debut for Altrincham last Saturday at Stalybridge where he turned in a fine performance at the heart of the defence alongside Greg Young and, when Greg was injured, with Chris Lane. He will have squad number 4.
Other squad numbers announced today are:
For full details of Alty's squad for 2008-09, see the Players page.
At the MUFC game, "everything we have [MUTV pictures, press photos] has been passed on ... and we hope that something will happen to these trouble-makers off the back of it... This will not stop us playing Manchester United in the future. We have a great relationship with them.. What concerns me is that this may turn into a bigger problem. With more and more people banned from Football League grounds... this could push them down into Non-League football... Cheaper football is an option for these people... We want nothing to do with these people... We are a family football club and they are not football fans".
Manager Graham Heathcote has also indicated that he hopes to be making an outfield signing tomorrow.
Above: Trialist Alex Morris's well-hit freekick was deflected onto the far post in the second half at Stalybridge. Alex is no.16, whilst Matt Doughty (no.3) and Dale Johnson look on.
Match report here.
Meanwhile "Liam Daish has moved swiftly to sign prolific Cambridge City forward Michael Gash to reinforce Ebbsfleet United’s strike force. Daish's move in the transfer market has been assisted by the boost his playing budget has received from donations made to the club in a recent supporters' initiative. MyFC member Tom Baker inspired 1,000 supporters from across the world to each donate £20 or more to the club's playing budget to cover transfers and wages this season. With the target successfully achieved, the money will be handed over to the club at their opening Blue Square Premier game at Stonebridge Road on August 9th. German-born Gash trialed for the Fleet on their recent West Country tour... Daish beat off interest from Blue Square Premier newcomers Kettering Town to secure Gash... New CEO David Davis tells us 'The total deal to bring Michael Gash to Ebbsfleet United is worth £20,000, and the player's wages will fall within the weekly budget already set by MyFootballClub members'"
Chris Denham, who had an impressive game, opened the scoring after 20 minutes when he sprang the offside trap to shoot low past former Droylsden team-mate, Paul Phillips. Colin Little made it 2-0 after 27 minutes when ex-Harrogate Town defender Paul Sykes was unable to control the ball and was dispossessed by Colin Little, who scored with a firm shot. Dale Johnson made it 3-0 when another defensive slip allowed Morris's ball from the right to come to O'Neill. Though his shot was blocked, Johnson slotted home the rebound.
Alty fielded two debutants. New signing Lee Elam looked well short of match fitness on his first outing but centre-half Mark McGregor (ex-Port Vale), a trialist, had a very solid game. Report to follow
ALTRINCHAM (All yellow): 1. James COATES, 2. Richard BATTERSBY, 4. Mark McGREGOR, 5. Greg YOUNG, 3. Matt DOUGHTY; 7. Alex MEECHAN, 6. Robbie LAWTON, 6. Kevin STREET (capt), 11. Lee ELAM; 9. Colin LITTLE, 10. Chris DENHAM. Subs: 12. Dale JOHNSON, 14. Chris LANE, 15. Chris SENIOR, 16. Joe O'NEILL, 17. Alex MORRIS.
Right: Five of Alty's new players this season watch the referee placing the ball for a freekick. They are, left to right, McGregor (trialist), Street, Meechan, Denham and Doughty.
It has been confirmed that the Altrincham v Wrexham match on Bank Holiday Monday has been moved to a noon kick off on police advice.
Fans visiting Moss Lane this season will notice a difference at the away end, where the block of apartments pictured above is rising behind the Carole Nash & Family End. There can't be many flats with a better view of a football pitch than these!
"Lewes boss Kevin Keehan is close to signing ex-Brighton defender Zac Beda. The 18-year-old, who can play at right-back or centre-back, is set to join on a month-to-month basis. Keehan told BBC Southern Counties Radio: 'He knows his first team chances are limited but he is looking forward to playing in the reserves'. Meanwhile, Guyana midfielder Shawn Beveney has been released by Lewes after playing in two pre-season games".
"Oxford United have taken Southend midfielder Peggy Lokando on trial with a view to agreeing a loan deal for the former Arsenal trainee. Lokando, 18, will play for Oxford in Saturday's friendly against Manchester United at the Kassam Stadium...
Oxford have also allowed transfer-listed midfielder Eddie Hutchinson to take a two game trial at Cambridge United."
From Burton Albion we learn that the club has "successfully concluded the signing of 23 year old striker Greg Pearson from Bishops Stortford for an undisclosed fee. Pearson who scored 26 league goals last season to finish as joint top scorer in Conference South, netted 35 goals in all competitions and was named Conference South Player Of The Year alerting Football League side Notts County with whom Pearson has spent the last three weeks training. However, Pearson has now committed himself to a two year deal with the Brewers instead of a move to Meadow Lane. Greg began his career as a trainee with West Ham United before a move to Lincoln City. Loan spells at Canvey Island and Hucknall followed before a spell with Rushden & Diamonds. Greg left Nene Park to join Bishops Stortford and scored 42 goals in 67 games in just over a season with the Blues".
According to Blue Square Football "Mansfield Town pairing, Michael and Rory Boulding, have ended speculation over their futures by signing two-year contracts with Bradford City [who visit Alty for a friendly this Tuesday]. The Stags' strikers were rumoured to be joining League One outfit Cheltenham Town, but opted for the Bantams instead".
"Rushden & Diamonds miidfield player Jake Beecroft has signed a new contract with the club until the end of the 2010/2011 season. Eighteen year-old Beecroft has worked his way through the ranks at Nene Park, starting out in the Club's youth system, and progressing via a number of reserve team games to make an initial appearance for the first team at the end of the 2006/07 season, and then three further substitute appearances in the league at the end of the 2007/08 season".
Confirmation comes from the NW Evening Mail that Barrow have "offered former Oldham Athletic defender Mike Perason a one-year deal. Pearson, who spent last season on loan at Farsley Celtic, has played in Barrow’s last three friendlies. AFC joint-manager Dave Bayliss said: 'Mike Pearson has done well, he can play left back, right-back, centre back, even midfield. 'He has lots of Conference experience with Farsley Celtic so knows the level... We offered him a deal last night and he is thinking it over'. The managers are also considering making an offer to former Workington second string keeper Aaron Taylor, who played last night. However, the other pre-season trialists, former Morecambe left-back Jamie Burns, Matt Burke and James Holden are not being taken on, the latter two joining last season’s squad member [ex-Alty reserve] Rio Nelson at Vauxhall Motors".
But "The Bluebirds are preparing to face life without energetic new signing Ashley Winn for their first three games in the Conference. The 22-year-old midfielder — who has made an instant impact pre-season — received an FA ban for his end-of-season bookings with Stalybridge Celtic... Darren Sheridan and Dave Bayliss were both unaware of the suspension when they fought off strong competition from other clubs to sign the player on a one-year deal. Says Sheridan: 'We’ve only just found out the same as Ashley. To be fair to Ashley he’s like genuinely said he thought it had been cancelled out from last season, he didn’t realise'". So, Winn will miss the game at Moss Lane against Alty on August 12th.
My name is Ian White and I am the programme editor at Weymouth FC. I was wondering whether or not you would be interested in my Football Fantasy competition? Basically it is a good way for your club to make some money and also give your fans a very enjoyable game that lasts all season. It costs £5 to enter and for every Alty fan that enters the competition and nominates Altrincham as their club you will receive £2. So for example if 500 fans enter from your club you will receive £1,000.
A link to the competitions website is here. I also run the very successful Fantasy Non-League in the Non-League Paper.
In pre-season for Droylsden, the following players with Alty connections have been in evidence. Liam Brownhill (who opted for Droylsden ahead of Alty this summer), Matt Berkeley (who started last season at Moss Lane), Karl Munroe and Cavell Coo (right).
Meanwhile, Cortez Belle’s future at the Marston’s Arena looks in doubt after the club sent him a letter asking him his whereabouts. Belle has yet to turn up for any pre-season sessions and Dino confirmed the centre back had been retained by Vics at the end of last season and was still their player. 'When you get a job and you don’t turn up, you expect to be punished. It is an internal matter and we’ve sent him a letter, which he knows about'"
Nevertheless, "Vics made it three wins out of three... A youthful and inexperienced Wigan Athletic side were the visitors to the Marston's Arena last night, Wednesday. A brace from Darryn Stamp along with a strike from trialist Martin Vcadi saw Vics ease past their opponents... VICS (4-4-2): Tynan (Jones h/t), Sutton (Aspin), Bailey, Roberts, Brown, Williams, Flynn (Byrne 59), Byrom, Mullan, Steele (70), Burns (Vcadi 84)".
"Salisbury boss Nick Holmes says he has some difficult decisions to make over new signings following his team's 2-0 friendly win over Swindon on Wednesday. Djoumin Sangare and Jamal Easter, who were amongst a number of trialists to play for the Whites, were on target and Holmes admitted he was impressed. 'I'd take them all because we'd have a very strong squad and a decent chance of making the play-offs', he said. 'Unfortunately, I don't think the money will allow us to do that'. He added to BBC Radio Wiltshire: 'It might mean that I might only be allowed to take one'".
From the Cambridge News we learn that "Elino Jardim hopes he has done enough to earn a deal with Cambridge United after scoring twice in last night's 4-2 win at Soham. U's manager Gary Brabin said he had started talks with the Dutch trialist... The former Holland under-19 international, who was released by Sparta Rotterdam at the end of last season, said: 'I hope we can agree to something... Everybody has helped me out and treated me as their own rather than like a trialist'... Brabin said "'light negotiations' had started with the speedy winger and admitted... 'I've been analysing him in training and he wouldn't still be here if I didn't think he had something'... Brabin ran the rule over several other trialists including former United man Tom Youngs, who played in central midfield before moving up front after Darren Quinton made his comeback from injury... Forward Domaine Rouse, right-back Pat Bexfield and QPR defender Andy Powell are also likely to be given another chance. Meanwhile, United fan Jamie Nightingale came to his side's rescue by going in goal after youth keeper Sam Beagle became stranded in the Czech Republic. Brabin said: 'Beags has been away with the youth team on tour. He should have been back to play, but they missed their flight and I didn't find out until 3pm yesterday. I didn't want to risk Danny Potter because he has played all the games and he did a double session yesterday, so I didn't think it was fair on him. Young Jamie was kind enough to help us out'".
"Forest Green are poised to make a permanent move for Cirencester Town and Hartpury College defender Lee Molyneaux" claims This is Glos. "The 25-year-old has impressed... having featured for Jim Harvey's reserve side last term. A former trainee at Portsmouth, he has played in the Football League with Oxford United and can operate as a full-back or central defender. Harvey still hopes to recruit a specialist right-back in time for the start of the Blue Square Premier on August 9, but he appears ready to take a punt on a player making the step up from Southern League and universities' football".
Barrow said: 'For the first time in a while we’ve got a player who can hold the ball up. He’ll be very important to us and that’s why we’re wrapping him up in cotton wool at times. It’s always been a must to have a big targetman in your squad but players like that aren’t easy to find and I think Graham’s come up trumps this time'... The need for a centre half is still pressing but former Wrexham man Danny Williams impressed while on trial in Tuesday's game and is one of a few options Alty are considering. Barrow confirmed... 'There was promise tonight [v FCUM] with Danny Williams. He’s obviously very experienced but we’ve spoken to a few experienced centre halves and obviously they’re still training with League clubs. Now it’s coming to crunch time we’ve got two or three irons in the fire and he’s one of them. We have to be encouraged by what he showed because he linked up well with Greg Young and what I know about Danny is that his ability and distribution on the ball is outstanding. In terms of the other trialists, we know what we want. It is simply the defensive end of the field and possibly, just possibly, in midfield but it would have to be the right player'".
Round 1:
Monday 22nd September [19:45]
Tuesday 23rd September [19:45]
Wednesday 24th September [19:45]
Exempt to Round 2: Nantwich Town (holders)
Above: Warren Peyton's strike causes the FCUM keeper some concern - an excellent photo courtesy of Gavin Rathbone, who has more images on his GR Photography website.
SAM reports that "Alty's second United clash in four days ended on a much happier note as they put away FC United of Manchester 3-0. It was just the pick up the Robins needed after Saturday's friendly against Manchester United reserves had ended in acrimony - abandoned after a pitch invasion five minutes from time... A healthy crowd of 831, a friendly - if slightly subdued - atmosphere at Moss Lane and a composed Robins performance to go with two more Chris Senior goals. There was also the reassuring presence of trialist Danny Williams, recently released by Wrexham, at the heart of defence, suggesting Alty may be closing on a solution to their centre half problems.
But the most impressive aspect of the performance was the partnership of Senior and Dale Johnson up front... On this evidence Colin Little may have a fight on his hands for a place up front, something that would have been unthinkable prior to pre-season... It took them just seven minutes to open the scoring and it came as the result of a fluid passing move. Alex Meechan, so disappointing against Manchester United on Saturday, found space on the right and whipped in a dangerous delivery. Warren Peyton's effort was blocked by a defender but Senior, sharp as a dart, pounced to ram the ball home... New keeper Andy Ralph also did his best to replicate James Coates' error against Manchester United, making a complete mess of a backpass only for Nick Robinson's effort to be blocked by the retreating Greg Young. But that was only a blip for the Robins and soon their own Allen, Damien that is, laid the groundwork for them to double their lead... but the icing on the cake came 10 minutes from time when Greg Young's header from a Lawton cross slipped through Ashton's grasp and into the corner of the net".
Above: In another photo courtesy of Gavin Rathbone, who has more images on his GR Photography website, we see Chris Senior netting his overhead kick.
For their part, FC United report that the "Robins prove too much for United... as they were beaten 3-0 by Altrincham at Moss Lane... Despite the scoreline it was United who began the better and pushed forward early looking to pressurise the Robins’ defence... The United side had a different look to the one which took to the field on Saturday and players took time to find their form, for some of them it was their first appearance of the pre-season campaign. Forward Carlos Roca showed glimpses of his ability; against his former club, with a lovely nutmeg and run but United were never troubling the opposition goal in the first half... After the interval... There was a zip to the play and real tempo to how the ball was being knocked about and for the first 15 minutes it was hard to separate the teams in terms of ability as United more than held their own... As the game wore on the Robins seemed to pull away from United. Whether it was in terms of ability or fitness is a matter of debate but the home team certainly took over in the final 20 minutes".
IC Cheshire reports on a friendly between Vauxhall Motors and Chester in which "Chester doubled their advantage, Kevin Ellison nodding the ball back into the danger area and Stephen Vaughan striking it first-time past Rigby. But a young Motors side refused to roll over... Their first real chance fell to Richard Gresty [former Alty Youth captain] but his effort at the far post was well saved".
The Woking News and Mail confirms that "Wilfried Domoraud is expected to sign for Woking today, the French striker having scored both goals in The Cards’ three friendlies so far and impressing boss Kim Grant. The 19-year-old former Yeovil forward is keen to put pen to paper and barring any last minute hitches is expected to do so at a meeting with Grant this afternoon, after his latest goal in the 6-1 home defeat to Colchester United on Tuesday night. He will join fellow Frenchman Patrice Konan on a one-year contract, the full back enjoying a good game against the Essex side. 'I am on trial so I have to make sure I take my chance', said Domoraud... Giuseppe Sole (thigh), Joel Ledgister (calf) and Matt Pattison (ankle) all missed the match."
As reported yesterday, Alty's home game with Oxford has been put back 24 hours and so too has Rushden v Torquay United as the Devon side are Oxford's opposition the previous Thursday on setanta TV.
The BBC says that "Barrow will give trialist defender Jamie Burns another chance to earn a contract in the home friendly against Workington Reds on Thursday. The former Blackpool and Morecambe player has impressed in his two friendly outings so far this summer".
"Oxford United left-back Alex Jeannin has begun a trial at rivals Mansfield Town. The 30-year-old has a year left on his Kassam Stadium contract but has been put on the transfer list. Jeannin, who ended last season on loan at Kidderminster, figured in Mansfield's friendly at Ilkeston and is set to play against Derby this weekend" says the BBC.
According to Blue Square Football "Weymouth have announced the signing of utility player Stephen Reed following his release by Cambridge United. This comes just a few weeks after Reed had signed an extension to his contract for this coming season. Unfortunately, attitude problems and a falling out with new manager Gary Brabin have put paid to Stephen's Cambridge United career. This move allows him to return closer to his Cornwall roots".
Burton Albion "went down to a 3-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest but although his side were on the wrong end of the result, Nigel Clough was still pleased with a tough workout as his side... The Brewers boss took the chance to run the rule over former Hereford United and Forest Green Rovers striker Danny Carey-Bertram who is currently a free agent. Clough confirmed that having seen 75 minutes of the striker he would like another look and said that Carey-Bertram would hopefully feature against Walsall on Saturday afternoon at the Pirelli Stadium. 'We are hopefully going to have a look at a couple of young lads from league clubs, similar to Matt Bailey' added Clough. Bailey has now signed on a month’s loan taking him through to August 20th. Clough explained that there was a bizarre FA rule that states a player can only play two trial games, even though they are only friendlies before a formal arrangement has to be entered into".
Meanwhile, Cambridge United report that "Gary Brabin has taken Bury striker Domaine Rouse on trial, and the 18-year-old will be involved in Wednesday's match at Soham Town. 'He's an exciting, fast forward who's quite physical too, and he's coming in for a week to ten days for us to have a look at', Brabin said. Rouse made his first team debut in February 2007 and has since added seven League Two appearances... The diminutive Manchester-born striker is set to make his first outing in U's colours at Soham".
Crawley Town "can confirm that former Arsenal and Bradford City striker Isaiah Rankin has signed for the club".
Reports in the NW Evening Mail say that "Barrow AFC's ground capacity has been increased just ahead of the Conference season... Holker Street will now be able to accommodate 250 more spectators following a decision by the county council development committee. Councillors, meeting in Kendal yesterday, formally approved a new figure of 4,256 — up from the existing 4,006. AFC director Ian Laird, who is responsible for health and safety at the ground, says planned structural alterations could lead to another increase. He adds: 'The increase is a reasonable one and follows a recent inspection of our record-keeping and match-day stewarding. We have a one or two structural alterations planned, such as a stress test on the crash barriers on the popular side, which will hopefully further boost capacity'".
Kent Online says that "Liam Daish has confirmed Ebbsfleet have made a bid for Cambridge City duo Michael Gash and Josh Simpson. Striker Gash has been on trial with the Fleet and scored twice in their emphatic 9-0 pre-season friendly win at Torpoint Athletic last Thursday. The Fleet boss has also moved to bring in midfielder Simpson, who has attracted interest from Cambridge United. Daish faces major competition in his efforts to bring Gash to Stonebridge Road after City accepted an offer from Kettering on Tuesday. Gash, who scored 23 goals in Blue Square South last season, has also had trials with Weymouth and Oxford. Daish explained: '“We have put in an offer for both players and we’re waiting to hear whether it has been accepted... (Gash) enjoyed his time with the lads. You can see he has come from part-time football as he needs more fitness. We can turn that around. He has got potential'".
Seemingly reluctant "Kettering Town target Alfie Potter will not be allowed to leave Peterborough United until their injury problems clear up. The teenage winger was due to join up with the Poppies this weekend to start a season-long loan at Rockingham Road" states The Northants Evening Telegraph. "But Posh director of football Barry Fry said: 'The deal is in place. But the manager and Alfie don't want the move to go ahead while Sergio Torres and Russell Martin are injured. It would be a good standard of football for Alfie, but he doesn't want to go while he is in our first-team squad'".
Match report here.
Left: Dale Johnson, Kevin Street and Warren Peyton in action against FCUM.
ALTRINCHAM (Yellow shirts and socks, black shorts): 1. Andy RALPH, 2. Chris LANE, 4. Danny WILLIAMS, 5. Greg YOUNG, 3. Matt DOUGHTY; 7. Alex MEECHAN, 8. Robbie LAWTON, 6. Kevin STREET, 11. Warren PEYTON; 9. Dale JOHNSON, 10. Chris SENIOR. Subs: 12. Richard BATTERSBY, 13. James COATES, 14. Alex MORRIS, 15. Damien ALLEN, 16. Tom BAILEY, 17. Charlie WEIR.
FC UNITED (All blue): 1. Sam ASHTON, 2. Dale WHITEHEAD, 4. Dave NEVILLE, 5. Dave CHADWICK, 3. Bradley HOWARD; 7. Adam CARDEN, 6. Michael BURNS, 8. Simon CARDEN, 11. Carlos ROCA; 9. Nick ROBINSON,10. Dave ROBERTS. Subs: 18. Chris BAGULEY, 14. Jamie BAGULEY, Shaun ROSCOE, Kyle HARROP, Danny ALLEN, James BRACKENRIDGE, Rob HOWARTH.
Geoff tells the MEN that at Altrincham FC "I run it like I'd run a business. If
you fail in business, you go bankrupt and I think every club should be run
like that. I don't want to sign Ronaldinho. I've had millionaires offering to
buy players for this club but I won't let them because I think it's wrong. If
we buy a player and give him a wage that is only sustainable because someone
has given us the money, what happens when he stops [giving money]? Fans say
they want a millionaire taking over. We are in Hale, where there are more
millionaires than anywhere in the country. I'm from Wythenshawe and I care more
about this club than they do. I understand the fans and sometimes they have a
go at me. But when you've come from the UniBond and achieved what we have, and
you can't give the manager money, reality has to step in."
Meanwhile Warren is interviewed about his work on building the new turnstile
block on Golf Road (pictured right). "'With many things here at Altrincham
they try to keep people involved', he said. 'They knew I was a bricklayer and
there was opportunity for a bit of work to be done and I was more than happy
to do that... Altrincham do things in their own way, which is the right way.
They try not to throw money here, there and everywhere. They try to do it the
right way and that was in keeping with it. The club has a community spirit and
I think the lads appreciate that... I know it [the building work] won't be
enough to guarantee my place in the team. At least I've kept hold of my number
eleven shirt for next season though! When we've gone into previous seasons
we've strengthened the squad and hoped to be successful. And we always come in
with the best of intentions and don't think we are going to struggle. We will
give it our best shot and I would like to think that we will be nowhere near
the bottom this season'".
From the Northants Evening Telegraph we learn that "Alfie Potter is set to finally link up with Kettering Town's squad at the end of this week. The 19-year-old winger has already agreed a season-long loan spell from Peterborough United... Poppies' boss Mark Cooper said: 'Hopefully he will come in before the weekend and play for us against Leicester City. He has got a bit of pace and he works his socks off. He is exactly what we need. That will also give us options on the right wing along with Jon Brady and Jean-Paul Marna. Hopefully we've got one or two more players still to come in because it is a relatively small squad here. We also need a target man and a back-up goalkeeper. But we might have to lose a couple along the way to bring in more quality'... Kettering will take another look at striker Chris Hanna who has scored against St Neots Town and FC United of Manchester since arriving on trial from Walsall. The Poppies are also likely to field another goalkeeper after handing a chance to Ben Webster last weekend. Worcester – managed by Cooper's former Tamworth assistant Richard Dryden – have made a series of signings... They include defenders Jon Richardson from Exeter City and Ollie Barnes, previously at Salisbury City.
Cooper added: 'We are trying to get these pre-season games tougher as we go along. Worcester will be a really tough test for us'. This summer's first signing Dwane Lee remains sidelined with an ankle problem".
The Woking News & Mail says that The Cards "will be without Giuseppe Sole (thigh), Joel Ledgister (hamstring) and Matt Pattison (ankle) as they take on what promises to be a full-strength Colchester United at Kingfield tonight (Tuesday)... Trialists Kunle and Wilfried Domoraud will play, as will Patrice Konan, the Frenchman having signed a one-year deal on Monday".
Above: Courtesy of Gavin Rathbone, is Alex Meechan, who was one of two debutants against United on Saturday.
The Sale and Altrincham Messenger confirms that "Despite the incident [at Saturday's match against Man. Utd], Tuesday's friendly against FC United of Manchester will go ahead as scheduled. In the aftermath of Saturday's game, the board had originally considered calling off the friendly to avoid the potential for any further crowd trouble. The Unibond Premier side are expected to bring a large following with them to Moss Lane and there was crowd trouble in the previous meeting between the two teams when fighting broke out on the terraces. A statement released by the club's board said: 'Altrincham and FC United of Manchester will be working together to ensure that the security measures in place for this game provide a safe environment for supporters of each club'. If anyone has photographs or video footage from the events at Saturday's game email us or contact the newsdesk on 0161 908 3380".
Many thanks to everyone who took part in the auction and congratulations to the winners".
The Burton Mail says that "Burton Albion manager Nigel Clough is looking to add at least two more names to his squad, with a replacement for departed top scorer Daryl Clare and a defender at the top of his priority list. The players the Brewers' boss would like to recruit are currently training with Football League clubs... Clough told Mail Sport: 'We are fast approaching the stage of the summer when clubs will be making decisions about people they have taken on trial. We are particularly interested in two players who fall in that category and there is a strong possibility they will know their fate in the next few days'. With his squad still not up to strength, Clough temporarily filled one of the gaps by agreeing a deal with Wolves to borrow 19-year-old utility player Matt Bailey. But he will not be offering terms to former Billericay striker Dean Perry, who had a trial outing in Friday's 1-0 win at Solihull Moors. Bailey has impressed in both midfield and at full back in two appearances with the Brewers. Wolves have agreed he can stay with Albion for the remainder of their pre-season games... Clough said: 'His versatility makes him a very useful player to have around and, as things stand, it is more than likely we will take up Wolves' offer of us taking him on loan for the first month of the season'".
As supporters come to terms with increased fuel prices, The Chad reports that "The Stags Supporters Association (SSA) will be organising travel to every Mansfield Town away match this season. The supporters' coaches will be backed by new sponsors CCM Print Management... For the first match of the season at Ebbsfleet on Saturday 9th August and [the] "amber2 fare to Ebbsfleet will be just £15. The service is for SSA 08-09 members only... SSA membership is open to all Stags fans and the SSA would like to encourage as many fans as possible to join as Amber members. SSA membership prices have been frozen at just £4 per month for amber members and £10 for the season to enrol as a blue member, with junior and family membership also available.
The SAA said in a statement: 'Amber members of the SSA will not pay any more than £18 travel fare anywhere in the country, despite the long hauls this season, and blue members will pay no more than £20 maximum fare. The SSA are delighted that the new owners of the club are openly engaging with all fans".
According to This is Weymouth "Weymouth manager John Hollins was disappointed with how poor his side were in possession on Saturday. The Terras' boss expected a lot more from his men even though they were without Anton Robinson, Stuart Beavon and Pierre Joseph-Dubious [I think they mean Dubois!] who were all rested. Hollins said: 'Games like this are always good for fitness but our passing was atrocious today, both short and long... We played a couple of trialists and we had to figure out the best system to put them in. We let it go for a while and then slightly changed it. We could not change it too much because that can sometimes become confusing. So we waited until half- time and swapped a few more things around then, and at the start of the second half we began to look more like our old selves but for some reason we still could not pass it... When you look at the way we played against Bristol Rovers and today, it was hard to believe it was the same side. The nucleus of the team was certainly the same even if we did have three missing... Chris McPhee made his debut for the Terras coming on as a first half substitute. Hollins added: 'Chris has been on honeymoon and had a bit of a break'... As for trialists Anthony Mason and Andy Taylor, Hollins said: "Andy tried hard. He tried to come short and go long but he got very little service and because of that I would like to see him again... We also had Nicholas Nicholai on the bench but he did not get on and I would like to take a look at him. As for Shaun Lillington, one of our other substitutes, he is a young boy from our college academy team'".
Likewise, the Burton Mail tells us that "Police have slammed 'a minority of Derby County supporters' who blighted Tuesday's friendly match at Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium. Riot police and a police helicopter had to be used as a group of 80 to 100 youths fought among themselves outside the ground. Police stressed that no Brewers fans were involved in the trouble. It was confirmed that three youths, one 16-year-old and two 15-year-olds, were arrested as a result of the fracas. Chief Inspector Phil Fortune told the Mail: 'The game is usually an excellent curtain-raiser for the new season and we are hugely disappointed that a few mindless idiots have gone to cause trouble'.
The unofficial Cambridge United site says that "The Cambridge United board have excelled themselves yet again. Despite repeated claims they were going to communicate with fans and tell us the truth, they walk into yet another PR disaster - this time over the Dave Kitson transfer sell-on fee... For two weeks, the name of 'Dave Kitson' and 'transfer target' has been bandied around the newspapers, internet news sites and football television shows as the race for his signature heated up. It was common knowledge to every U's fan that we were entitled to a sell-on fee of 20%, and the figures of £4,000,000 plus had every member of the Amber Nation rubbing their hands with glee. But what our delightful Board of Directors decided to do, is 'sell' the sell-on fee back to Reading for £350,000.... £450,000 less than what we'd have earned had they sat back and waited for the transfer to happen.
Earlier this week, Reading approached the Cambridge United board, who must now be known in football circles as the most amateurish board of directors in football, with an offer to 'buy' the 20% sell-on fee. They offered a sum of £350,000, which the U's directors eventually accepted, only for days later to find Kitson had been sold for £5,500,000. Had they not accepted that offer, we would now be sitting on a total of £800,000*, a sum of money that could have set the club up for years to come. It could have been used to launch a bid to buy back the Abbey Stadium, it could have been used to strengthen the footballing side, pay for works on the stadium, spend money on off-field issues and much, much more.
The inexperience and naivety of the Cambridge United board have been shown up for what they are - clueless. One wonders how long it took for Reading FC to have stopped hilariously laughing after the offer was accepted. I would like to take out Norman Gautrey's name from my feelings on the directors, as I understand he was the only one against 'selling' the sell-on fee, and was reported to have almost considered his position at Cambridge United FC. One of the most disturbing factors of this deal is Chairman Phil Law asking his Histon counterpart Gareth Baldwin for advice on the matter. That is like Alex Ferguson ringing Arsene Wenger and Phil Scolari to ask whether he should sell Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid....!
This is yet another PR disaster on the toes of the Cambridge board of directors, as they kept this deal from supporters before Reading's official website heartily announced 'Cambridge will not receive a sell-on fee from Dave Kitson's transfer to Stoke' - quite a sneaky move from Reading, not disclosing the full facts, causing U's fans into a panic on Friday afternoon... This follows on from the PR shambles of selling the naming rights of the Abbey Stadium, refusing to disclose the fee, until the fans' fury and pressure made them tell all... Whilst the sum we have received (£350,000) is a life-saving amount of money, the fact it could have been over double leaves a very bitter taste in the mouth of Cambridge United fans, who are becoming sick to the back teeth of the incompetence of our board of directors. On another note, the home shirt sponsors 'Haart' have seemingly being pushed aside, with all signs of their supposed two year sponsorship disappearing after just one season, yet not a murmur of explanation from the board on this".
The BBC says that "Former Mansfield and Leyton Orient winger Wayne Corden has been given a trial by Oxford United. The 32-year-old is out of contract and United have decided to look at him after losing Phil Trainer to injury. Manager Darren Patterson told BBC Oxford: 'He's an experienced pro who can play wide left or right'".
Mansfield Town report that they made use of the following trialists las Saturday:
On a happier note, Farsley Today reports that "Farsley Celtic fans can have no doubt about the pedigree of new signing Andy Campbell... The powerful striker arrives in Farsley with a wealth of experience behind him".
20 July 2008
The behaviour of these individuals was an embarrassment to both clubs and the vast majority in attendance and whilst no arrests were made, we have done everything that we can to support the Police in providing film and photographic evidence of the scenes that ultimately led to the abandonment of the game.
We have been in discussion today with representatives of our next opponents F.C. United of Manchester and can confirm that, subject to gaining Police consent, we will be going ahead with the game, which will kick off at 7.45pm. Altrincham and F.C. United of Manchester will be working together to ensure that the security measures in place for this game provide a safe environment for supporters of each club.
There was unwanted drama at Moss Lane on Saturday as this pre-season friendly fixture was abandoned after 86 minutes following a pitch invasion by visiting supporters. Trouble had been brewing all afternoon following the looting of the Thresher off-Licence opposite the ground and at least one supporter gaining entrance to the stadium illegally. Although matters seemed to calm down as the match got underway, there was an increasing air of tension during the second half as Manchester United supporters congregated at the Golf Road End and created an intimidating atmosphere by constantly banging against the metal structure that constitutes the back of the stand.A couple of smoke bombs were thrown onto the pitch and six minutes after the impressive Rodrigo Possebon had scored Manchester United's third goal, the fans invaded the pitch, leaving referee Mr.Taylor with no real alternative than to call the match off with the safety of both players & supporters in potential jeopardy. The Police were originally called to the ground around 3.30pm and deemed "spirits to be OK" on attending during the half time interval. A second visit by the Police shortly before the pitch invasion, led to reinforcements being called, however the game had been abandoned by the time they arrived.No arrests were made.
In terms of the game itself, Manchester United's young charges, under the tutelage of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, ran out very comfortable winners against a below par Robins side. Federico Macheda pounced on an embarassing error by Alty keeper James Coates to give United the lead after 21 minutes. Coates stood on the ball after receiving a suspect backpass from Chris Lane & the 16 year old striker,signed from Lazio,gratefully accepted the gift. Macheda neatly converted Tom Cleverley's left wing cross in the 35th minute to score his and the visitors second. The second half was a bit of a non event with most people's attention sadly focused on events on the terraces and many may well have missed Possebon's wonderful 80th minute long range strike which sailed over Coates before dipping visciously.......it was a goal that was at odds with the unedifying events of this particular afternoon.
Now Altrincham vice chairman Grahame Rowley believes the club have to seriously consider whether to call off Tuesday's friendly with FC United, a club set up by breakaway Manchester United supporters. The Unibond Premier side are expected to bring a large following with them to Moss Lane and there was crowd trouble in the previous meeting between the two teams when fighting broke out on the terraces. 'I have never been so embarrassed in my life', said Rowley. 'This was a sponsors' open day for us but who would want to sponsor the club after seeing scenes like this? I know I wouldn't. I think we need to sit down now and decide whether to go ahead with Tuesday night's game. We're not sure at the moment'.
Although trouble began before the game, incidents escalated during the second half when visiting supporters in the Golf Road End began to climb on safety barriers and let off smoke bombs. Then, five minutes before the end, a large group of fans made their way onto the pitch, one of them confronting Young before shoving the defender in his chest. Some of Young's Altrincham teammates quickly came to his aid before the troublemakers dispersed after the arrival of police.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesman added: 'We were informed at 3.45pm of a small number of drunken fans who had attended a friendly football game. Officers did attend and at that point spirits were deemed OK. But a pitch invasion occured, stewards couldn't deal with it and police support was called for. By the time police arrived at the scene, the fans had dispersed into the streets of Altrincham. No arrests were made'".
The unofficial Manchester United reserves' website has a very fair report of saturday's game. "Events off the field may have somewhat overshadowed those on it, but for 84 minutes at Moss Lane there was a very good United performance and a very watchable encounter to enjoy for those in the crowd who actually came to take in a football match. A first-half brace from Federico Macheda and another stunning long-range strike from Rodrigo Possebon had established a 3-0 lead for the Reds before the game was brought to a premature close with five minutes remaining after a group of spectators purporting to be United fans stormed the pitch and got involved in confrontations with Altrincham players, forcing the referee to abandon the contest... Ole Solskjaer had made three changes to the side that won at Burscough last week, with Gary Woods and Sam Hewson returning from first-team duty in place of Conor Devlin and Febian Brandy, and Jimmy Derbyshire replacing the injured Richard Eckersley... It was Altrincham who looked the more dangerous as the halfway point of the first half approached... Against the run of play and with a huge slice of luck, United proceeded to take the lead a minute later.... An Alty defender turned the ball back to ‘keeper James Coates. With plenty of time to deal with the backpass, the hapless stopper only managed to tread on the ball, leaving United’s #9 with the simple task of rolling the ball into the empty net. Credit to Altrincham - heads didn’t drop".
United's third goal "appeared to be the cue for the moronic element in the stands to go looking for trouble... 20/25 lads clambered over the safety barriers and onto the field... With several idiots soon embroiled in confrontations with players from the home team, the referee had little option but to call a halt to proceedings... A sad end to what should have been an enjoyable afternoon".
18 July 2008
Pictured right is midfielder Kevin Street who had an impressive debut in midfield for Alty last night.
"Would you like to help Altrincham F.C. earn more cash and earn some great rewards in the process? The new Saturday Yankee Rewards scheme is aimed at bringing much-needed extra income into the club whilst rewarding our loyal fans at the same time!
How is this possible?
THE BIG IDEA
The Altrincham F.C. Saturday Yankee Lottery is a long-established and crucial form of income for the club. Details are here for those of you who are unfamiliar with the format, but it is very simple to join and can win people a lot of money. Despite a healthy membership there is always room for improvement and this is where we, the supporters, can make a huge difference. A lot of Alty fans still don’t play the Yankee but even more of our friends and relatives are either not aware that it exists or simply haven’t got round to joining yet. A great incentive has now been introduced to try and change this trend:
Supporters who sign up a certain number of new members will earn “rewards” as follows:
Word of mouth is a simple yet powerful tool and for a minimal amount of effort you could really make a huge difference to the club. How many other clubs reward their fans like this? Finding 10 people is really not as hard as it might seem, and as a lot of us aren’t members ourselves, that’s already one less person you need to find! Start today and you could soon be sharing in the success of a brilliant new scheme which really embodies the community spirit which Altrincham F.C. is all about.
Please note there are one or two small conditions which will apply:
Just to give this idea some perspective, even if only 5 people get involved in the scheme and between them they bring in 50 new Yankee members that could bring as much as £2,600 extra a year into the club. This is a fantastic opportunity for quite literally everyone involved with the club to make a huge difference with minimal effort.
Interested?
If you are ready to start earning rewards simply fill in the form, including the names and details of all your new members and hand it in at the club. Alternatively you can post them to:
Saturday Yankee Rewards, Altrincham Football Club, Moss Lane, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA15 8AP
If you have any questions regarding the scheme please feel free to contact me at ideas4alty@hotmail.co.uk
Thank you for your support and good luck!"
Also, the Northwich Guardian reports that "Nigel Deeley hopes to sign trialist Kieran Lugsden. The former Altrincham forward limped off part way through Albion’s friendly win at Alsager but he was already in the Witton boss’ thoughts. 'We’ve put a deal to him', said Deeley. 'We’re just waiting for him to say what he wants to do as I know one or two other clubs are interested in him. It was everybody’s worst nightmare to see someone injured in our first game but thankfully he should be fine after a getting some treatment this week'. Lugsden, 22, finished last season on loan to Glossop from Buxton. He started the campaign at Leigh RMI before switching to Silverlands in March".
The Halifax Courier tells us that "FC Halifax Town's team for the new season will have a formidable spine following the signing of Craig Mawson. That was the view of boss Jim Vince after announcing that the 29-year-old keeper would be staying at the Shay. Mawson, who vied for the number one spot in Chris Wilder's Blue Square Premier side with Adam Legzdins last season, has signed a one-year deal... 'It is fantastic news for us',said Vince. 'He has stayed out of loyalty to the club and I think there is a bit of a feeling of unfinished business... We will have Craig Mawson, Tony Barass, Steve Payne, Ross Clegg and Neil Ross right down the spine of the team. That is very strong, and there will be more acquisitions in the next couple of weeks'. With the spine of the side complemented by the likes of Tony Lennon, Dorryl Proffitt and Adam Morning, Vince is building a strong squad... 'David Bosomworth and the rest of the board have supported me fantastically', said Vince. 'They have given me everything I have asked for, but there is no bottomless pit of money. The budget is competitive, and gives us a good chance of progression, but it has to be managed properly'".
From the Burton Mail we learn that "Albion manager Nigel Clough saw his side go down 2-0 to a strong Derby County side at the Pirelli Stadium... Clough, who used the match to give trialists Dave McDermott and Matt Bailey starts, was pleased with the way his side responded... He said: 'Matt Bailey did well and I thought he was better at left-back in the second half. I'll have a chat with him and a chat with Wolves and hopefully we'll have the option of taking him on loan which we may well do. Lee Morris is coming on very well".
According to the Crawley Observer, "Steve Evans is in talks with Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock about signing a couple of loan players at Crawley Town. Both players are understood to have played in Crawley's 1-1 draw with Palace on Monday night at the Broadfield Stadium. And the Reds' boss is also in discussions with the Watford assistant manager about making another addition to the squad".
IC Cheshire says that "A former Northwich Vics employee who stole more than £8,500 after a fundraising dinner is facing prison after pleading guilty to three offences of theft. Ex-club chef Paul Burgess, 30, fled after taking £8,627 from the Marston’s Arena on Saturday, November 26. He went on the run but was eventually caught by police and charged with two further offences".
The Oxford Mail reports that "Oxford United boss Darren Patterson will not be offering deals to trialists Michael Gash and Reuben Reid. Ex-Cambridge United striker Gash and former Wycombe frontman Reid, played for part of United's pre-season win at Oxford City. However, Patterson said: 'Michael did ever so well for Cambridge City, scoring 27 goals last season, but he did one training session for us and struggled physically. Reuben wasn't really what we were looking for'. Fellow trialists Gary Silk, Dean Oliver and Aaron Plummer have also left the club".
"Brian Little has made Shrewsbury defender Darran Kempson his seventh signing of the summer" states the Daily Post. "The 23-year-old centre-back... has penned a two year-deal at the Racecourse".
The Cambridge News says that "Gary Brabin has not given up hope of signing Chris Holroyd to strengthen Cambridge United's strike force. United have agreed a nominal fee with Chester for the 21-year-old marksman, but may face a stumbling block over personal terms with Holroyd. Holroyd...is also being targeted by Stockport County".
Above: Colin Little nets Alty's second goal as Dale Johnson also closes in. Trafford keeper Tom Read suffered a head injury when he collided with a defender.
In Thursday night's pre-season friendly at Shawe View, Altrincham overcame the newly promoted UniBond One side 4-0, thanks to a hat-trick from Colin Little and another goal from Chris Senior. Especially in the first half Alty looked a potent force going forward with Johnson and Denham both looking a threat whilst fellow new signings Kevin Street and Matt Doughty, both making their debuts, were forging a good understanding prompting attacks, especially up the left. Colin Little put Alty ahead after 15 minutes from close range following good work by Johnson after Doughty's throw-in on the left. An excellent run up the right by Denham turned defence into a goal in a matter of seconds, with Little again the scorer - 2-0 after 41 minutes. After various substitutions, Alty added two more goals in the second half. First, Senior scored the goal of the game, a curling left foot shot which went in off the post in the 59th minute. Ten minutes later, Little completed his hat-trick with a well-taken header after Horrocks had got in a good cross from the left. Report to follow.
ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Natt KERR, 3. Matt DOUGHTY, 4. Chris LANE, 5. Greg YOUNG (capt), 6. Kevin STREET, 7. Robbie LAWTON, 8. Chris DENHAM, 9. Colin LITTLE, 10. Dale JOHNSON, 1. Warren PEYTON. Subs: 12. Richard BATTERSBY, 14. Luke HORROCKS, 15. Charlie WEIR, 7* Ben McHUGH, 16. Damien ALLEN, 17. Chris SENIOR, 17*. Anthony DANYLYK, GK. James COATES.
One centre half who will not be arriving at Moss Lane is Peter Band. The 34-year-old had been keen on a return to Alty after spending last season with Hyde United but has now signed for New Mills after being told he could not be guaranteed first team football. Trialists António dos Santos and Jake Moult have also been told they will not be offered deals... But the remaining trialists will get a chance to prove themselves in the upcoming games against Trafford, Manchester United reserves and FC United. 'I’m just looking to cut numbers down now so we’ll have another look at the remaining trialists in the coming games and make a decision', added Heathcote. 'I was pleased with the performances of most of the trialists against Abbey Hey but we have to be certain that anyone we do sign on can do a job at this level. With the centre half gap in mind we'll be taking a good look at Natt Kerr (left) and he'll have a chance to show us what he can do over the next week'".
From Blue Square Football we learn that "Crawley Town have signed goalkeeper Nick Morgan on a permanent contract from Blue Square South side Braintree Town. The 19-year-old completed his medical on Monday after a three-week trial spell... He will be an understudy for the Reds Devils' new stopper Simon Rayner" [from Torquay].
The same source adds that "Oxford United manager Darren Patterson has been dealt a double blow ahead of the new campaign as Phil Trainer and Declan Benjamin will face lengthy sideline spells. Midfielder Trainer suffered a broken metatarsal in his right foot in a training session and is expected to be out of action for two months. Benjamin, meanwhile, suffered a spiral fracture of the tibia and is expected to be sidelined for longer than two months. Yellows' boss Darren Patterson told the club's official website: 'They were complete freak incident
1. STUART COBURN
2. CHRIS LANE
3. MATT DOUGHTY
4. MARK McGREGOR
5. GREG YOUNG
6. KEVIN STREET
7. ROBBIE LAWTON
8. VAL OWEN
9. COLIN LITTLE
10. CHRIS DENHAM
11. WARREN PEYTON
12. JOE O'NEILL
13. ANDY RALPH
14. DALE JOHNSON
15. ALEX MEECHAN
16. ANTHONY DANYLYK
17. RICHARD BATTERSBY
18. LEE ELAM
19. CHRIS SENIOR
CoachesTRIALIST RELEASED
Altrincham's last remaining trialist of the summer, Alex Morris, has been released. Alex is a former Crewe Alexandra and Kidsgrove Athletic midfielder.
THROUGH THE YEARS
The new league season starts on 9th August. Howard Watts's "Through the Years" data shows that only once before have Altrincham played a competitive game on this date. Details here.
FINALIZING THE SQUAD
MARK & ANDY
"Graham Heathcote has added muscle to Alty’s defence with the signing of centre-back Mark McGregor" says Sale & Altrincham Messenger. The ex-Wrexham, Burnley, Blackpool and Port Vale man possesses strong League pedigree... Heathcote said: 'You just have to look at where he’s been. I signed him on the experience he’s got... Mark will fill that void in defence left by Tinson’s departure'... McGregor’s hardworking personality was equally reflected through his endeavour to find a new club. Through the social networking website, Facebook, modest Mark created his own group with a sole purpose: 'Help find macca a new football club'.It seems to have worked though, and following an unsuccessful trial at Mansfield Town, McGregor signed for Alty after impressing Heathcote in his first ever game for the club.
YOUTHS' SOLID START
On the first day of the Umbro International Tournament, Alty's Youth team (under-18s) are competing against under-19s and have done very well to emerge with a goalless draw against Stalybridge Celtic's Academy side and to defeat Norwegian side Ullem IL 1-0, thanks to a goal from Kane Berkeley. Alty lie third on goal difference in the six-team group. Leigh Genesis lead with 6 points, followed by Stalybridge with 4, followed by Alty (4) with Poynton, Muswell Hill, Ullem (1) and Cannon occupying the remaining places. Today (Thursday) Alty take on Muswell Hill (11.30am) and Poynton (2.30pm).
FACE IN THE CROWD
Lisa Jones, Alty's commercial executive writes "Just to let you know the 'face in the team' photos will be being taken before training on Thursday 31st July as that is when the official team photo is being shot. The lads will be there from 6pm and MUST be gone by 6.45 to get to BTH for training so there is a good 45 minutes to fill up. If anyone hasn't got in touch yet email me, or alternatively ring the club anytime between 9 and 5 and if I'm not there leave a message". Face in the Team is an initiative through which you can have your photo taken with the first team for a £35 donation.
BSP NEWS
Blue Square Football reports that "Crawley Town have handed Italian Giuliano Grazioli the chance to impress during a trial period. And the 33-year-old former Barnet star did just that when he scored during the Red Devils' 1-1 pre-season draw with Croydon Athletic on Tuesday evening. Crawley manager Steve Evans told the Crawley Observer: 'He's a great player and played against us when we were at Boston many times. We have him here for a trial and it all depends on how fit and hungry he is as to whether we make him an offer. He's a goalscorer and could be the ideal player to link up with the forwards we already have: Jamie Cook, Isaiah Rankin, Steve Fletcher, Danny Forrest and Simon Weatherstone who can all play up front. Of course he would have to prove he is better than we already have to earn a place in the squad'".
30 July 2008
ALTRINCHAM 2 BRADFORD CITY XI 1
This was not just a win but also a very encouraging performance by Altrincham against a young Bantams' side.
COLLECTORS NEEDED URGENTLY
Altrincham FC urgently require a person to collect fortnightly payments to the Saturday Yankee fundraising scheme. Areas available are Oldfield Brow and Bowdon which can be combined or be collected by two different people. Commission is paid to collectors. Please contact Jenny Heslop as soon as possible on 0161-928-1045. Only over 18s are permitted to act as collectors due to the gambling laws.
OLD BOY
According to Bournemouth "Four trialists have been invited to spend a further week training with AFC Bournemouth. The squad are based in Woodbury Park Devon for four days and also taking on Dorchester Town at The Avenue Stadium tomorrow night. Peterborough stopper Shwan Jalal, Chester midfielder Paul Rutherford and Pompey duo Joel Ward and Matt Ritchie all impressed in friendlies against Pompey and Bristol City last week and are being kept on for further assessment. Ryan Shotton, Ritchie De Laet, Sammy Igoe, Carl Pettefer, Clydie Roberts, Stephen Maher, John Fletcher and Corrin Brooks-Meade have all left the club".
BSP NEWS
The BBC says that "Grays Athletic will not be signing striker Jeff Goulding despite agreeing a contract with the forward. The 24-year-old spent the final two months of last season on loan at the New Rec from Blue Square South outfit Fisher Athletic. He scored two goals during his loan spell and had agreed a one-year contract at the end of the season. But Athletic have announced they will not be going ahead with the deal which was due to be signed this Friday".
29 July 2008
CITY TEAM
Bradford City's squad tonight will be - Convey, Ainge, Korey Nix, Densmore, Taylforth, O'Brien, Turner, R Boulding, Bellamy, Osborne, Horne, O'Hara, Dean, Newton, Banks, Elliott, Harrison, Carson, Hutton, Villerman.
TONIGHT
Altrincham take on League Two club Bradford City tonight (Tuesday, 7.45pm) at Moss Lane. City have made a couple of recent pre-season visits to Moss Lane.
DOING IT ON THE PITCH
SAM tells us that "Alty have added further to the impressive list of attacking weapons at their disposal after signing experienced winger Lee Elam (left). The 31-year-old arrives at Moss Lane after failing to win a full-time deal at York City following his release by play-off winners Exeter at the end of last season... [Previously] Elam has been a constant thorn in Alty's side, completely terrorising the Robins' defence for both Exeter and Weymouth in the past two seasons. And with Colin Little, Chris Denham, Dale Johnson and Chris Senior he completes Alty's most impressive attacking line-up in recent memory...
MARK JOINS
ALL CHANGE
Alty Youth manager George Heslop announces that the Umbro International Youth tournament has completely revised its format in the last 24 hours. Now, instead of there being three groups there will be two and therefore Alty now have two matches a day for three successive days, the games being 30-35 minutes in duration. Alty's group-stage games are now:
OLD BOYS
Former Alty captain Darren Tinson scored twice for Nantwich Townin their 3-0 win at Kidsgrove Athletic last weekend. And Ryan Shotton played all game for Bournemouth against Bristol City, whilst elsewhere, Witton's team last Saturday included Rod Thornley.
BSP NEWS
According to the Burton Mail "Having signed striker Greg Pearson on Friday, Clough then sprung a surprise when former Mansfield captain Jake Buxton lined up in central defence. 23 year-old Buxton had been on trial at Crewe, but when they failed to offer terms, Clough made his move, and after the game the Brewers' boss confirmed that a deal had been agreed for Buxton to join on August 1. A delighted Clough said: 'If you'd said at the start of pre-season, who were the two signings at the top of our list, it was Greg Pearson and Jake Buxton, and now we've got both of them... You have to wait sometimes, and if it's two weeks before the start of the season, then we'll wait if we have to, because they're good players'. The arrival of Pearson has ended his interest in former Forest Green Rovers striker Danny Carey-Bertram... Clough said: 'Once Lee Morris proves his fitness then hopefully we'll have our four strikers for the season'.
LEAGUE TWO
It may be early to consider who will drop into the BSP next season but with Luton 30 points adrift before the season starts, the BBC says that another League Two side "Rotherham could be barred from the football league and unable to start the new season if they are unable to provide assurances over their future. The Football League has written to the Millers requesting an urgent meeting to clear up issues that will affect their league membership. They want assurances from the club's new owners about the timeframe needed for playing at the Don Valley stadium... The Millers have been forced to look for an alternative stadium after they quit Millmoor in May when new owner Tony Stewart was unable to reach an agreement with current landlord Ken Booth. But the move to Don Valley is yet to be rubber-stamped by the League who want a loan from the Football Foundation Stadia Improvement Fund settled by the Millers. There is also a concern from the governing body that no provision has been made regarding a £750,000 security bond which is necessary for them to ratify the move to Don Valley. The League also want an assurance from the Millers that they will move back to the town within a four-year timeframe. Rotherham were deducted 10 points last season for going into administration and face a potential 15-point penalty deduction this season after their creditors rejected a move for a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) last week."
28 July 2008
ALTY SIGN McGREGOR
Altrincham FC have signed centre-back Mark McGregor, who made his debut on Saturday at Stalybridge. Mark played for Port Vale last season and has more than 400 League appearances to his credit. It was for his first club, Wrexham, that he made the majority of those appearances (244), between 1995 and 2001. He then went on a free transfer in 2001 to Turf Moor but after 54 games for Burnley (2001-04), he moved to Blackpool (59 games between 2004 and 2006). Next, he played 66 times for Port Vale (2006-08). He joins Altrincham after a trial at Mansfield Town earlier this month.
WOKING TRIP
The STAR supporters' coach will be running to Woking for Altrincham's first game of the new season on August 9th. Times and fares are here. Come along and help Altrincham try to get the campaign off to a good start.
OLD BOYS
Steve Aspinall played for Colwyn Bay yesterday. He scored with a freekick in their 3-1 defeat by Tranmere. Pat McFadden (right) also netted on Saturday, playing for Vauxhall Motors.
YOUTH NEWS
Altrincham Youth drew yesterday against Congleton Town. Alty's goal came from Iké Ekwueme. In their previous pre-season friendly they lost 6-0 to Macclesfield Town Youth. They have entered the Umbro International Tournament which starts on 30th July at the University of Manchester playing fields at Northenden. Their group matches are as folows:
N.W. NEWS
Leigh Genesis's move from Hilton Park to the new stadium at Leigh Sports Village has been deferred by several months.
BSP NEWS
The NL Paper reports that "Conference managers who are sent from the technical area will no longer be able to sit in the stand. 'We want them to have no view of the match' said Conference vice-chairman Charlie Clapham. 'Elvis must leave the building'". Asked where the manager would go, Clapham said, 'We're really not bothered. They can get in their car and go home, they can get on the coach or go shopping in town... so long as they can't see the game... We put it to the clubs at the AGM in June and did not get any objections'
27 July 2008
ALTY SIGN McGREGOR
Altrincham FC manager Graham Heathcote has today signed centre-back Mark McGregor. Mark, who has more than 400 League appearances to his credit, played for Port Vale last season but it was for his first club, Wrexham, that he made the majority of those appearances (244), between 1995 and 2001. He then went on a free transfer in 2001 to Turf Moor but after 54 games for Burnley (2001-04), he moved to Blackpool (59 games between 2004 and 2006). Next, he played 66 times for Port Vale (2006-08). He joins Altrincham after a trial at Mansfield Town earlier this month.
FANS
In Sunday's NL Paper, Altrincham FC vice-chairman Grahame Rowley writes that "Non-League football simply cannot and, most importantly must not, cave in and hand the initiative to the mindless hooligans trying to ruin our game. Last weekend I saw Altrincham defender Greg Young get attacked on the pitch during our pre-season friendly with Manchester United... I still can't believe it... When FC united came to play us just three days later, there was no segregation, a minimal police presence and the match went off without any fuss. The day you put in segregation for pre-season friendlies and bring in the police in large numbers is the day you have to consider ending these types of matches altogether"
SECOND KEEPER
Altrincham FC's second keeper, to compete with Stuart Coburn, will be Andy Ralph (right, in foreground), the former Vauxhall Motors and Northwich Vics number one.
INJURIES
Altrincham lost two players through injury in yesterday's game at Stalybridge. Centre-back Greg Young has had multiple stitching to his lip and been advised not to play for ten days. However, he will be able to train and should be fully fit for the start of the season. And Alex Meechan's foot injury is not as bad as first feared, though it still awaits full assessment. His opponent's studs came down on his instep but hopefully he too will be fit before the season starts.
STALYBRIDGE CELTIC 0 ALTRINCHAM 3
BSP NEWS
It was reported recently that Cortez Belle had gone AWOL from Northwich. From NL Daily we learn that he has surfaced in the West Country. "Adie Mings, manager of Chippenham Town, says he will not break the bank to sign in-demand Cortez Belle.... With five Blue Square South sides after Belle, Mings say any deal will be on the club's terms. 'Hopefull',," he said. 'We try and keep everyone on the same money so there are no big earners. Everyone is relatively on the same based on their experience'... They have yet to talk terms with the former Halifax Town and Merthyr Tydfil man and Mings is wary of the wages Belle could expect".
26 July 2008
INJURIES MAR WIN
Altrincham emerged with a 3-0 win from their bogey ground, Stalybridge Celtic's Bower Fold, but lost two players in the first half to injury. Just before the interval, Alex Meechan had to hobble off, after making a good start to the game, when he was accidentally caught on the instep by Rob Jones as he was in the act of shooting. And ten minutes earlier Greg Young had had to go off with blood streaming from a split lip after being caught by the elbow of Chris Hall. On a very warm afternoon, all three goals owed something to Celtic's defensive errors.
HIGH NOON
BSP NEWS
The BBC says that "Midfielder Rob Sinclair will miss the start of Salisbury's second Blue Square Premier campaign. Sinclair, 18, will be out for six to eight weeks after suffering a knee injury in the Whites' pre-season," manager Nick Holmes told the Salisbury Journal. Sinclair moved from Luton to the Raymond McEnhill Stadium in July".
25 July 2008
SATURDAY'S GAME
Altrincham's friendly on Saturday is away to Stalybridge Celtic whose chairman reports that "Keith Briggs was signed by Norwich, aged 21, for £65,000. He moved on from there back to Stockport and although he was offered another contract this season with Mansfield, I am delighted to say that he has decided to join Celtic. One Bower Fold official said to me 'Keith is the type of midfield general that we've been looking for for a long time. Rarely gives the ball away and is always aware of the players around him'. I'm also really excited to also announce the signing of Chris Williams. Most Northwich fans will tell you that Chris transformed their season when he joined them, on loan, from Stockport County and was the main reason they romped the Conference North that season. Chris, who is a winger, was courted by Man City as a teenager and one of our officials described him as 'a type of Chris Denham, only faster and more direct'. Chris broke his leg playing for Northwich in the Conference National, but has now fully returned to match fitness".
FANTASY FOOTBALL
Altrincham FC have received the following which they are happy to publicize. Don't forget to mention Alty if you sign up!
OLD BOYS
Bournemouth report that Ryan Shotton played 90 minutes for them as they " went down 4-1 against FA Cup winners Portsmouth this evening. Peter Crouch bagged a brace between strikes".
BSP NEWS
Money is tight at Northwich as the Northwich Guardian reports that "Vics will have to wait for the economy to pick up before manager Dino Maamria can add to his squad... Vics' owner Jim Rushe told the Guardian the club have had to tighten their belt due to the credit crunch currently hitting the country’s economy. 'As a board we are having to be careful because of the current economic environment we are in at the moment. We haven’t got as big a fan base as the likes of the relegated teams — Mansfield, Wrexham, Oxford[?] and Cambridge[?] — and we are actively encouraging them to come back'.
As a result manager Dino Maamria has had to hold fire as he attempts to sign former Halifax front man Darryn Stamp on a permanent deal... Dino said: 'I’m hoping something will be sorted regarding Darryn Stamp. He was a key player for us last year and he will give us a different dimension to the team'. He added that Michael Byrne’s form in training and the matches so far has been enough to secure him a deal but money is the sticking point. 'I do know the board is going around trying to get some funds on board so we can get some more players signed', Dino added.
24 July 2008
ALTY SIGN ELAM
Altrincham FC have signed 31 year-old winger/striker Lee Elam who last season played at Exeter City. Lee was recently offered a full-time deal at York City but has opted, instead, to join Altrincham on a part-time basis as he develops a career in coaching youngsters. Bradford-born Lee started his career with Guiseley before moving to Southport in November 1998, then Morecambe (August 2002) and Halifax (May 2003). After a move to Yeovil he had a loan spell at Chester before heading south to join Hornchurch in Essex. Next, a brief spell at Morecambe led to his joining Morecambe in November 2004. He then went to Crawley and Weymouth before joining Exeter. In all, he made 240 starts and 43 sub appearances for the above-mentioned clubs, scoring 40 goals in the process.
ATTACK!
The Sale & Altrincham Messenger reports that "Graham Barrow (right) is confident Alty's attacking options will keep them afloat in the coming campaign. Alty scored just 56 goals throughout the whole of last season but Tuesday's 3-0 win over FC United made it 12 goals in just four preseason games so far. 'Our attacking options are good, we just need to get the other end of the pitch right'. The Robins' assistant boss isn't about to fool himself that preseason results will transfer to league form but he believes the signs are good nonetheless... He said: 'We’re a lot brighter and more positive going forward. The most important thing to me is that we do look better than last year, on the ball going forward. We are obviously trying to sort out the back bit and you never know till August 9 but the response from the players in the training that we’ve done and the games we’ve played so far has been very good... It’s a bit scary looking at what some of the Conference clubs have done in the transfer market. But we’ve just got to adopt the mentality that it’s a great challenge and that we’ll take it on and try and achieve something... The attacking options are outstanding as long as we can get the best out of them. When you look at Colin Little’s record last year, we’ve got Joe O’Neill still to come back and Chris Senior banging the goals in, it can only be good'... One of the reasons for Senior's success, however, has been the arrival of Dale Johnson. The former Hyde hitman appears to be the targetman Alty have coveted for so long. Good in the air, adept at holding the ball up, yet with a delicate touch and a surprising turn of pace...
CSC CLASH
The Cheshire FA has announced the UniBond Cheshire Senior Cup draw and yet again it produces a clash with a league match - in this case the home game with Mansfield Town on 23rd September which will now, presumably, be postponed.
FCUM GAME
OLD BOYS
In the Stockport Express we read that "New Mills boss Tony Hancock is not ruling out another promotion-winning campaign for his team next season... after his side - last season’s North West Counties second division champions - thumped UniBond League outfit Salford City 4-1 in a pre-season friendly game last weekend thanks to goals from new boys Rhodri Giggs [2], Peter Band and Matty Zajac... Hancock has also snapped up talented left-midfielder Stuart Cook from Welsh side Connah’s Quay after successfully securing international clearance". Stuart was a graduate of the Altrincham Youth team.
BSP NEWS
Alty's opponents on the first day of the season, "Woking, have signed French defender Patrice Mondon-Konan after he impressed during pre-season. The 25-year-old can play either at right-back or in central defence and has agreed a one-year deal. The Ivory Coast-born player began his career with Le Mans before playing in French amateur football" states the BBC which also says that "Burton Albion have completed the signing of Wolves teenager Matt Bailey on a one-month loan deal. Bailey, a regular in the Wolves reserve side, normally plays in midfield but has featured as a left-back during a pre-season trial with the Brewers". This is not the ex-Alty loan player of the same name.
23 July 2008
FIXTURE CHANGE
The home BSP match against Oxford United has been moved back 24 hours to 3pm on Sunday, 12th October. This is because Oxford have a live Setanta TV game the preceding Thursday night.
THREE TRIALISTS GO
Altrincham FC have released three of their pre-season trialists, defenders Natt Kerr and Ben McHugh, along with winger Luke Horrocks.
ALTRINCHAM 3 FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 0
Altrincham FC did enough against newly promoted UniBond Premier side FC United of Manchester to run out 3-0 winners. Fielding two debutants in goalkeeper Andy Ralph (ex-Vauxhall Motors and Northwich) and centre-back Danny Williams (ex-Wrexham), Altrincham's win came courtesy of two more goals from Chris Senior, who has now netted eight times already this pre-season, and a header from Greg Young. Senior opened the scoring after six minutes at the end of a good build-up, the striker netting after Warren Peyton's initial effort had been blocked. FC United enjoyed plenty of possession in the middle of the game but after Senior scored with a smart overhead kick from Lane's cross after 65 minutes, Alty upped their game and netted a third with 10 minutes remaining, as Young smartly headed home Lawton's cross from the right. Williams (29) looked a particularly useful prospect to fill the vacant central defensive berth, the former Welsh under-21 having plenty of League Two experience with Wrexham and Kidderminster. After Saturday's debacle, there was not a hint of any crowd trouble at the game tonight with the visiting fans giving their side good vocal support throughout.
OLD BOY
"Tony Hesketh, manager of Chorley, has... made midfielder Mark Drew available for transfer in a shock move following a telephone call from the 24-year-old saying he had joined UniBond Premier side Witton. Hesketh said: 'As he is a contracted player with Chorley, we hold his registration and if he moves we would expect a fee for him. I am disappointed in Mark, but if he doesn’t want to play for us, then he’s not part of my plans'" he told the Chorley Citizen. Drew is a former Alty Youth and Reserves player.
BUILDING ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS
Tuesday's Manchester Evening News does Alty proud with almost a full
page of coverage, comprising interviews with chairman Geoff Goodwin and
midfielder Warren Peyton.
BSP NEWS
NL Daily says that "Lewes have continued to strengthen their squad for the coming season with another new signing. The Rooks have signed experienced 27-year-old midfielder Michael Standing. Standing started out at Brighton before joining Aston Villa. He later joined Bradford City and then Walsall before having short spells at both Chesterfield and AFC Bournemouth before joining Oxford United in the summer of 2007, switching to Grays last November. Lewes boss Kevin Keehan said: 'We are shaping up well for the start of the season. This season will be very hard but an exciting one for me and Lewes FC. I have maybe one or two more signings before the start of the season, but we are beginning to make good progress'.
22 July 2008
PRE-MATCH NEWS
NL Daily reports that our opponents tonight, "FC United of Manchester have announced the signing of Tunji Moses, the son of former Manchester United midfielder Remi Moses, after he parted with old club Salford City. Moses is an all-action midfielder in the same mould as his famous father and FC United manager Karl Marginson is expecting big things from him next season. Unfortunately, fans may have to wait until December to see their new man in action after he serves a suspension and recovers from an ankle injury... He added: 'Remi was a great player and I loved watching him. I went to the same primary school in Ancoats and he was a local hero. I knew his cousins when we were growing up so I’ve known the family a long time. I really hope Remi comes along to a game because it’s great to keep the links with United’s past alive at FC'" reports the FCUM Files
OLD BOYS
From This is Staffs we read that "Four Stoke City players have been allowed to go out on loan... [Amongst them,] defenders Ritchie De Laet and Ryan Shotton will both link up with League Two Bournemouth. Their first game for Kevin Bond's side could be against FA Cup winners Portsmouth on Monday".
"Danny Johnson, manager of Ashton United, has confirmed the signings of defenders Stephen Rose, Craig Robinson and Alex Frost. Rose (right) and Robinson have both plied their trade in the Blue Square North and National over the past couple of years and Frost [a former Alty Youth and reserve] has been playing for Team Bath whilst studying at University. All three will bring some strength and experience to the Robins squad.... Danny said, 'I initially spoke with Stephen Rose back in May ... he was one of my main summer targets. He has done the majority of pre-season training with us and he is really looking forward to pulling on an Ashton United shirt. Rosey left Altrincham midway through last season due to various reasons but has played around 150 games for them over the past four years. Having spent a few months out of the game he has one or two minor niggles following a few tough pre-season training sessions but he is working closely with our physio and should be fit and ready to compete for a starting spot come the 16th August. Rosey won’t thank me for saying this but I can’t believe he is only 27 years of age and with that still has many years left in him at this level. He has expressed his desire to play in the centre of our defence. However, I have outlined to him that I plan to do things slightly different this season, especially away from home and I have a specific role that I would like him to play. He can operate at either full back and in the centre of midfield so has loads to offer but more than anything else he is looking forward to a fresh start and a new challenge.
Alex Frost has come very highly recommended and, after speaking to a few people about him and seeing him perform in a few training games, I have decided to offer him a deal that he has accepted. The first time we saw him train, Danny Jones and I said to each other that he could well be the find of pre-season and after four or five sessions I still have that same opinion. Frosty is comfortable at either right back or centre half, has a great engine and excellent ability on the ball. He is a fantastic lad as well and has fitted into our changing room very nicely. I am really looking forward to working with all three of the new lads'".
UNITED GAME
There is now a brief report and team sheet from the Altrincham versus Manchester United XI match last Saturday, to be found here. I am grateful to Brian Flynn, George Heslop and Gavin Rathbone for their help in putting this together.
AUCTION ENDS
Altrincham FC vice-chairman Grahame Rowley reports that "The winning bids in the online auction were:-
BSP NEWS
Rushden & Diamonds FC "have signed defensive players Sagi Burton and Gareth Jelleyman until the end of the 2008-09 season, subject to medicals... Both players have impressed during the Rushden & Diamonds' pre-season training camp in Portugal, including games against local side Portimonense SC and Coca-Cola Championship side Bristol City... Additionally the club has released two players, Lawrence Lambley and Ben Nunn".
21 July 2008
VIOLENCE ELSEWHERE
The Altrincham v Man Utd game on Saturday was not the only one blighted this week by violence as the Salisbury Journal reports that "Eleven men have been arrested after violence broke out before Tuesday evening's first "friendly" match of the season between Southampton and Salisbury City football clubs. Up to 30 Saints and City fans clashed at South Western Road near Salisbury Railway Station just after 6pm. Police were called in and arrested 10 men at the scene, while another was later arrested at the Raymond McEnhill Stadium, where the match kicked off at 7.45pm. David McMullin, Salisbury sector commander for Wiltshire Police, said: 'This was an unusual incident, especially as it was a friendly match. We responded promptly and effectively and the match went off without any problems'.
There was no violence at the match itself, which Southampton won 3-0".
OLD BOYS
Another ex-Altrincham FC name to add to the list of players in the Trafford FC team playing against Altrincham last week was former Youth-team striker Andy Thorpe. Andy played for Trafford at right-back, a change of role which, combined with the absence of a pre-match announcement of the teams, and the gap of a few years since he played for Alty, helped to account for our failing to note his involvement at the time. The Trafford FC website also confirms three other ex-Alty players on the bench that night were Leon Grandison, Sean Smith and Dion Depeiaza.
BSP NEWS
"Colin Walker, manager of York City, is considering offering trialist Lee Elam a contract" reports NL Daily. "31 year-old Elam (pictured), who was released by Exeter City last season, has spent two weeks training with the Minstermen... Walker said: 'We can't offer him anything this early but he knows the situation and I've been very honest with him. He's been training with us and likes what we do and the way we try to play. His preferred club would be York City and hopefully we can get together and make that happen'".
CLUB STATEMENT
Altrincham FC have issued the following statement:
The Board of Altrincham Football Club wish to condemn the behaviour of the section of visiting supporters at Saturday's pre-season fixture against a Manchester United XI. We have hosted friendly matches against Manchester United on numerous occasions over many decades and there has not been a single unsavoury incident. The events at Moss Lane on Saturday afternoon took everyone by surprise and we would like to thank our stewards for the calm way in which they handled a very difficult situation.
MATCH ABANDONED
Courtesy of Brian Flynn, here is a report on Saturday's friendly match at Moss Lane between Altrincham and a Manchester United XI.
MORE ON UNITED GAME
The NL Paper has a report on the abandoned friendly at Moss Lane last Saturday. It says, "Altrincham defender Greg Young was pushed to the ground by some of more than 50 out of control supporters who invaded the pitch at Moss Lane. Young was not badly hurt but was said to be 'rattled' by the incident. Young and other Alty players were attacked by supporters as the 'friendly' had to be abandoned, four minutes from time - and police were called to the pitch. Robins' vice-chairman Grahame Rowley slammed the troublemakers for ruining the day for local supporters. 'We, as a club, feel embarrassment for both parties involved and disappointment that a minority of unruly fans, who were clearly intoxicated, have ruined this perennial pre-season friendly' he said. 'Altrincham have been playing United for 30 or 40 years and we have have never had any kind of trouble before. All game they had been getting continually worse until they finally stormed onto the pitch'... The Altrincahm Board will meet today to consider what to do about Tuesday's scheduled friendly against FC United of Manchester amid speculation that some of the troublemakers might return" for that game.
The The Sale & Altrincham Messenger says that "Altrincham FC's high profile friendly against Manchester United was abandoned after a Robins' player was attacked by drunken fans. Greg Young (right) was physically confronted by a United supporter during a mass pitch invasion five minutes before the end of the game... Before kick off a female employee of the club had been attacked by a visiting supporter who had attempted to gain entry to the ground without paying. Then, at half time, rowdy fans caused damage to the Moss Lane bar, climbing on tables and throwing bottles and glasses through the air. An unconfirmed amount of alcohol was also stolen from an off-licence on Moss Lane opposite the ground. As yet, no arrests have been made.
TRAFFORD 0 ALTRINCHAM 4
A match report of last night's win at Shawe View is here.
UPDATES
The next website update will be on Sunday, 20th July.
NEW FACE
Alty gave a debut last night to trialist Damien Allen, a Cheadle-born midfielder (dob 1 August 1986) who despite his young age has plenty of first-team experience. After starting out with Manchester United he went to Stockport County where, between 2003/04 and 2006/07 he clocked up 28(+22) league appearances. After a spell of 15 games with Royal Antwerp in Belgium he was at Morecambe last season where he played 20 games. He came on for Alty at Trafford initially at right-back before moving into midfield.
YANKEE REWARDS SCHEME
Ian Rosendaal of Ideas4alty writes:
ALTY OMITTED AGAIN
Once again Altrincham are not included in Setanta's latest list of televised games as reported by
Blue Square Football. "Setanta have announced further live fixtures for the 2008/2009 campaign...in Sept and Oct.
OLD BOYS
IC Cheshire confirms that
"Vauxhall Motors boss Carl Macauley is slowly rebuilding his squad... Manager Carl Macauley has secured the signatures of Rivacre Park favourite Thomas Rooney, who left for Cammell Laird last season, and former Altrincham striker Pat McFadden...
Motors’ 2008-09 squad will feature former Tranmere Rovers midfielder Ged Brannan... and he will be joined by Jordan Holmes, Matt [i.e. Mark] Maddox and Lee Owens".
BSP NEWS
NL Daily says that "Eastwood Town have pulled off a major signing... Mansfield Town striker Ian Holmes put pen-to-paper... The Badgers beat off stiff competition from both League and Conference clubs to sign the striker on a one-year contract... Holmes spent the latter part of last season at AFC Telford United after declining offers from Altrincham, Gainsborough Trinity and Alfreton Town. He was released by the Stags at the end of the season".
TRAFFORD 0 ALTRINCHAM 4
17 July 2008
TRAFFORD TONIGHT
Altrincham travel to Shawe View tonight (Thursday) with the side again expected to be a mix of signed players and trialists. Pictured right is the corresponding encounter between the two sides in 2004, with Ged Kielty, now manager of Trafford, firing in a shot for the Robins against his future team. Kick off tonight is at 7.30pm.
TWO TRIALISTS RELEASED
"Alty's search for a centre half is proving harder than expected" according to SAM. "Robins' boss Graham Heathcote has been on the lookout for defensive reinforcements since skipper Darren Tinson departed for Nantwich Town last month but has so far drawn a blank. A deal for a player who plied his trade in League Two last season fell through when he decided to pursue a full-time deal and Heathcote has since faced similar barriers... But although the season is now less than a month away he is not about to panic. He told SAM Sport: 'I’ve been speaking to a few centre halves but have not tied anyone down yet because there are a lot of players still hoping to win full-time contracts with League clubs. There are plenty of candidates out there and I'm sure there will be more who come available as the season approaches. We just have to be patient and we can always look to bring in younger players on loan from premiership or Championship clubs if we need to'.
SEASON TICKETS
If season ticket-purchasers cannot pick up their season ticket from the club office before Saturday, when Altrincham take on a MAnchester United XI at Moss Lane, the tickets will be available for collection in the bar before kick-off. The bar can be accessed off Moss Lane, next to the Main Stand. Season tickets confer free entry to Altrincham FC's home friendlies.
MEDIA AT MOSS LANE
Altrincham FC announces that "The Manchester Evening News & Channel M were at Moss Lane on Tuesday evening to cover the story of the Golf Road turnstile block built by Altrincham FC player Warren Peyton. Filming also took place at Blessed Thomas Halford School where Altrincham train. The Manchester Evening News also interviewed Chairman Geoff Goodwin as he looks forward to the new season. Look out for both of these features in the coming days with the Channel M piece likely to be featured on their weekday evening news programme between 5-7pm".
GRAHAM GOES BACK TO SCHOOL
As part of Altrincham F.C.'s objective to increase links with the local community, manager Graham Heathcote has been to Altrincham Boys' Grammar School twice this week to carry out coaching sessions.
LOCAL NEWS
The NL Zone has a review of a book entitled Manchester- a football history by Gary James which says, "I apppreciate that by far the largest part of this new book is about league football, but there are mentions to varying degrees for Maine Road F.C. Hyde Utd, Altrincham, Stalybridge, FC United, Droylsden, Mossley, Ashton United and some now extinct non-league teams from the region. If you are just a local football fan, I defy you not to enjoy Gary James's latest effort..all 500+ pages of it... The book clearly has a 'wow' factor. I think one of its main qualities is the author's refusal to merely compartmentalise each Manchester club's history. Instead it is largely chronological and dwells many times on the relationships between clubs rather than just significant events in their individual past... This is a 'once seen - must have' book".
BSP NEWS
Bullsnews reports that "Football League clubs will follow the Premier League, European competition, and Internationals by having a more formal opening to matches. Each team will line up on each side of the half-way line, with the home side shaking the hands of the away side and officials before the away side greets the officials and both sides disperse for the coin-toss. A Football League statement on the initiative states: 'This initiative will seek to improve behaviour both on and around the pitch, and, in particular, demonstrate a commitment towards greater respect for match officials. It is being supported by all agencies in the game, including ourselves, the Premier League, the Football Conference, the PFA and the LMA".