an unofficial website
www.altrinchamfc.co.uk

NEWS ARCHIVE
November, 2011


30 November 2011

NEW LOAN SIGNING

Altrincham FC have signed left-sided midfielder/defender Adam Dodd from Blackpool on a month's loan (to January 7th). Born in nearby Kirkham, he has been at Bloomfield Road from under-10 level and signed a contract for Blackpool in May, 2011.

YANKEE

This week's winning Yankee code of 9799 was unclaimed, but there were two winning trebles of £100 each. The jackpot still stands at £5000, with the reserve jackpot now at £3100.

CAROL SERVICE

The annual Altrincham FC Carol Service will take place in the Noel White Suite at Moss Lane on Tuesday 20th December at 8pm. The event will be led by Altrincham's club chaplain and regular supporter, Rev. Andy Barclay-Watts. Everyone is welcome to come and celebrate Christmas with the club.

OLD BOY

Cambridge United announce that "In the best interests of Cambridge United Football Club and Steven Connors, an agreement has been reached whereby Steven will leave the Club forthwith enabling him to pursue his career elsewhere. This now fully concludes the matter and no further comment will be made by either party".

7 PLACES LEFT

Brian Flynn writes, "There are currently just seven places left at the Christmas Lunch for Pensioners, which takes place on Wednesday December 7th at 12.30pm in the Manchester Glass Ltd. Sponsors' Lounge at Moss Lane

The menu is as follows:

  • Cream of Fresh Vegetable Soup
  • Roast Cheshire Turkey, Chipolata Sausage and Stuffing
  • Roast Potatoes,Carrots and Sprouts
  • Christmas Pudding with Fresh Cream
  • Mince Pies
  • Tea or Coffee

    The price is just £9.00 including drinks!!!!

    To make your reservation or for further information, please contact Altrincham Football Club (tel. 0161 928 1045 or e-mail the club or contact Brian Flynn on 07860 561011 or by e-mail.

    BSB NEWS

    "Irving Weaver is to take over as the Chairman of Harrogate [Town] FC, this follows Bill Fotherby recently taking the decision to stand down from the positio" reports the Harrogate News. "There are also plans to continue to develop the club with refurbishment of some of the facilities at the Wetherby Road grounds.

    Irving Weaver said, 'As a consequence of Bill Fotherby deciding to step down from his position as Chairman, it is a natural progression that as majority shareholder (through my Holding Company) I take up the responsibility of the role of Chairman. It means more profile than I would naturally seek, but it is essential that Harrogate Town is projected, obviously by results, but also by marketing and continual news of initiatives and progress.

    We need to develop not only a football team but also a football club. The imminent conclusion of having a separate company with charitable status will help to develop our fund raising opportunities, whilst creating far greater links with our community than in the past.

    We have support from the Football Association to afford us to level the pitch this next close season. The building on Wetherby Road, subject to planning, will be refurbished to provide offices for administration, a point of contact, advanced ticket sales and a small shop for our merchandise. The modernised building with good signage, open to a very busy Wetherby Road will send a clear message that we are open for business and a statement of intent about the progress of the club.

    Whilst submitting the planning application for the offices, we have applied for planning permission to renew the terracing on Wetherby Road including a cantilevered roof extending to the pitch line. Again we have FA support to help with the funding.

    Other initiatives are the refurbishment of the Sponsors' lounge which is essential in order to increase corporate support from the businesses of Harrogate and District and continual upgrade of the Social Club. This will be a long haul but, block by block, with your help we will get there."

    The Halifax Courier reported, in advance of Tuesday's match, that "Town face Colwyn Bay...tonight without one of the stars of the goalless draw between the sides at the weekend. Danny Lowe continued his fine recent form in tricky conditions in north Wales but misses out this evening as he starts a three-match ban... And that means a new partner for Liam Hogan...

    'I am frustrated that the partnership has to be broken up because of suspension', said Aspin. 'I thought Danny Lowe was outstanding in the first game. He and Liam Hogan have struck up a good partnership... I have a couple of options to weigh up before making a decision on who comes in'.

    Those options appear to be either to bring in Gregg Anderson as a straight replacement or switch [ex-Alty man] Ryan Toulson to centre back, Aaron Hardy to right back and bring in a midfielder - possibly Liam Needham...

    Town have struggled to impress in several matches at home this season and Aspin knows they have to start making the most of playing in West Yorkshire... While he is without Lowe, Aspin is expecting to have an extra attacking option this evening with Jason St Juste set to return to the squad. The flying winger missed the trip to North Wales because of illness. James Dean is still missing through suspension while the postponement of the scheduled league game with Blyth means frustration for Jamie Rainford who has already played for Chester in the Trophy".

    According to the Football Conference, "Blyth Spartans have announced the signing of Republic of Ireland under-21 international goalkeeper Robert Birdsall. The 20-year-old has been playing with Irish side Tralee Dynamos, but has come across to England in order to further his career, and has been trialling with Bradford City. With David Knight facing a suspension for this Saturday’s clash with Bishop`s Stortford, the ‘keeper could be called into first-team action straight away".

    And BSB North reports that "Histon manager David Livermore has confirmed defender Ollie Cleaver has been put on unpaid leave as the youngster mulls over his decision to quit football. The 19-year-old recently informed Livermore of his intention to quit the game... However, the club have retained his registration in case he has a change of heart.

    Livermore told the Cambridge News, 'It's not something he's decided lightly. When he told me he didn't want to play football anymore, I told him to go away and think about it a bit more. He feels he doesn't really want it enough and that his heart's not really in it. You have to respect that, so he's been put on unpaid leave with a view to him coming back if he does change his mind. I've known players at the end of their contracts decide that football's maybe not for them, but I've never come across it this early'".

    From NL Daily, we learn that "Mark Gray's loan at Frickley Athletic from Gainsborough Trinity has been extended up to and including December 26".

    The NL Paper says that "Solihull Moors have completed the signing of midfielder Dean Bennett. The 33-year-old joins the Moors from League of Ireland Premier Division club Dundalk, where he had made 49 appearances in 15 months.

    Bennett, who includes Kidderminster, Wrexham and Chester among his former clubs... will have to wait until Saturday, when Solihull host Harrogate, to make his debut for the club."

    According to the Wirral Globe "Vauxhall manager Carl Macauley has bolstered his attacking options with the loan signing of teenage striker Cole Stockton from local neighbours Tranmere Rovers. The 18-year-old hitman has been making waves with Rovers’ reserve team and recently scored a hat-trick in a 7-2 victory over Macclesfield Town".

    Corby Town "have regrettably had to part company with striker Nick Rogan and midfielder Andy Burgess. The experienced pair are both based in the north-west of the country and travel down for training and matches every week however recent commitments have restricted their availability to attend training sessions.

    Manager Graham Drury explained, 'It is with great regret we've let Nick and Andy leave the club however they have both found it increasingly harder to attend training recently due to university and work commitments respectively. Given their commitment to the dressing room they felt that this was unfair on their team-mates. oth Andy and Nick joined on non-contract terms because I wanted to give them the freedom to move on to more local clubs if the travelling did cause them problems. It is a shame it has come to this but we're not going to stand in their way.

    They are both smashing lads and I couldn't ask anything more of them when they on the pitch or the training ground... Some players will have a moan or a sulk if they are on the bench or if they are missing games through injury, but I have only ever heard them encourage their team-mates, whatever the circumstances'". Rogan was a pre-season trialist at Moss Lane.


    29 November 2011

    FA TROPHY REPLAYS

    Tuesday, 29/11/2011

  • North Ferriby United 3 Corby Town 2
  • FC Halifax Town 1 Colwyn Bay 2
  • Ossett Town 0 Solihull Moors 1
  • Tonbridge Angels 1 Bishop's Stortford 2
  • Truro City 3 Gloucester City 2

    Revised draw:

  • Northwich Victoria v Fleetwood Town
  • Colwyn Bay v Lincoln City
  • Vauxhall Motors v Kidderminster Harriers
  • Stockport County v Stalybridge Celtic
  • York City v Solihull Moors
  • Barrow AFC v Harrogate Town
  • Nuneaton Town v AFC Telford United
  • Guiseley AFC v FC United Of Manchester
  • Wrexham v Hinckley United
  • Droylsden v Mansfield Town
  • Grimsby Town v Darlington
  • Gateshead v Kettering Town
  • Worksop Town v Tamworth
  • North Ferriby United v Chester
  • Alfreton Town v Southport
  • Boston United v Hyde
  • Truro City v Ebbsfleet United
  • Carshalton Athletic v Bishop's Stortford

    TAXMAN SEEKS CHANGES TO FOOTBALL CREDITOR ARRANGEMENTS

    Bullsnews has interesting news. "The taxman is taking to the High Court this week in a bid to overturn the Football Creditors rule that sees footballing debts paid in full when a club goes bust.

    HMRC have been chasing the rule ever since they lost their own preferred creditor status in 2003, leaving only football debts to be paid in full. They now want that rule deemed illegal so that they can recover more funds when clubs go bust. Both the Premier League and Football League are to defend themselves this week. Removal of the rule would eradicate protection for both other clubs and the players - and other staff - when a side goes bust.

    In the case of Plymouth, office staff who worked for nine months without pay will now receive their full back wages over a period of time. Without the rule, they would have been left with a tiny percentage of their due wages. Unsecured creditors received just 0.77p of every pound they were owed. With the guarantee that they would have been paid - eventually - the staff remained and the club survived. Without the guarantee, and the prospect of working essentially for free for several months, most would have likely walked out.

    The Football League claim the rule protects the integrity of the competition, preventing clubs from shedding debts and gaining an unfair advantage. It also suggests that lower league sides would have no guarantees that they would be paid when they sold a player, meaning that lower value cash upfront deals would be taken over higher value staged deals.

    A judgement on the case is expected before the end of the week."

    NW NEWS

    The Southport Visiter tells us that "Southport FC now have an official club artist after Anton Dolders was appointed to the role. Players Earl Davies and Steve Daly have already been captured on canvas and more are set to follow as the Sandgrounders bid for promotion... Proceeds from their sale will be donated to charity.

    At present Mr Dolders can be found busking daily with his paint brush in Marble Place, which is currently hosting an art exhibition that includes his work. The local artist is a prominent fundraiser, with Macmillan Cancer charity benefiting from the Marble Place show and his work with Southport FC".


    28 November 2011

    AFTER SUNDAY'S GAME

    The Football Conference reports that "FC United of Manchester reached the First Round proper of the FA Carlsberg Trophy for the first time after causing a Sunday 'upset' by beating Altrincham 2-1 at Gigg Lane. The good crowd of 1,945 saw a stalemate for the majority of the opening 45 minutes, with chances few and far between for either side.

    Right: Stuart Coburn makes a good stop but the referee has just blown his whistle for an Alty freekick in the match against FCUM. In the background, all of FCUM's supporters are standing in the all-seater stadium..

    However, right on the stroke of half-time, FC United broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion - Carlos Roca scoring from 25 yards in the second minute of time added on. Altrincham were quickly out of the blocks in the second period and took only seven minutes to equalise when Jack Redshaw headed in a Nicky Clee corner. After a dour first half, the second was giving the Sunday afternoon crowd a proper cup tie as the play switched from end to end.

    What turned out to be the winner for the home side came with twelve minutes remaining when Astley Mulholland, who only recently joined the club from Alty, crossed for Michael Norton to head home".

    After the game, the Manchester Evening News reported that FCUM manager Karl Marginson said, "I think we deserved to go through. Altrincham are a quality side and we knew they were going to put us under pressure, which they did. We soaked up the pressure really well and looked to counter-attack. Luckily, it's been our day and we've managed to sneak one".

    But "Altrincham manager Lee Sinnott admitted the defeat was hard to take. 'I'm not the type of person who thinks, because FC are a league below us, we can just come here and do what we want to do for 90 minutes. If you look at the balance of play, of course we should still be in the hat. But this is cup football and sometimes you don't get what you deserve'".

    NEXT UP

    Altrincham's next game is on Saturday, away at FC Halifax Town. The Shaymen will have Danny Lowe suspended, as he has been banned for three games which started on 27/11/2011.

    GOOD SHOWING IN ADVERSITY

    On Sunday, Alty Youth lost 5-3 away to Chester FC, but with ten of his 21-man squad unavailable, manager George Heslop was pleased with the team's display. A brief report is in the Youth section. The latest league table is here.

    DAMIAN'S UNLUCKY BREAK

    Damian Reeves is interviewed in the Hale, Altrincham and Sale Independent. The article explains how he joined Leeds at the age of 8 and played in the same team as Aaron Lennon and James Milner. But, whilst playing as a 16 year-old with the under-17s, "a bad tackle left him with a leg broken in two places" and that stopped him progressing as far as he might have done. More bad luck came when he joined Barnsley only to be cast aside when the person who signed him was sacked. At Farsley Celtic he scored 11 goals in 44 games before spells at Histon, Northwich, Alfreton, AFC Telford and Bradford PA. At Telford he scored 19 times despite missing the first part of the seASON.

    Outside football, "Damian is a self-employed plasterer, a trade he picked up after leaving Leeds. Yet he has no real regrets about missing out on a glittering career...

    Right: Damian Reeves, with Duncan Watmore and Jack Redshaw are seen here as they, and assistant manager Neil Tolson, watch James Lawrie (foreground) taking a shot in the pre-match warm-up at Gigg Lane on Sunday.

    'There are a lot of players in the lower leagues who would be up there if they had had the breaks. And you change over the years. When you are a youngster you play for yourself. As you get older, you play for the team and that brings its own satisfaction'".

    As for Alty, Damian said, "We have a good set of players and we can still make it to the play-offs, as long as we have a bit of luck".

    UPBEAT AFTER DEFEAT

    Altrincham FC Ladies' team lost heavily this Sunday but ended the game with only ten players so Keith Edleston, their manager, remains upbeat in his report, below...

    Cheshire Women's FA Cup game: Altrincham FC Ladies 0 Stockport County HNR 7

    It was a dark, cold and damp afternoon yesterday at Manor Farm and, with only thirteen fit players available, it was always going to be tough ask against an in-form HNR side that have won their last four games and sit pretty in mid-table of the First Division. They also brought a sizeable following down to Manor Farm so we must be doing something right on the football front to make them come out to watch the game.

    Unfortunately, after two minutes, though, we went a goal down due to a bit of nerves and not closing down quickly enough. And the second soon followed on 14 minutes from a great strike by the HNR centre forward (ironically an ex player of mine who, obviously, I shouldn't have coached so well). We then seemed to settle down.

    HNR then scored a third from another breakaway although, throughout the rest of the half, we were still was trying hard to get back into the game.

    Half time 0-3

    The second half kicked off with Ella Taylor replacing Kate Rawthore up front to try and get fresh legs up there due to Kate and Faye having run their legs off without getting too much joy out of their very experienced back four. As the game went on, Rachel, our right-back, fell and turned her ankle badly which meant her having to come off and with, already having used our two subs, it meant we had to see the rest of the game out with only ten players.

    HNR took full advantage of this and used their extra woman to great effect and scored four more goals to put a pretty unjust scoreline to the game. All credit to HNR who admittedly were the better team on the day. It's not as though we played badly, because we didn't, we put on a very good display and competed well gainst tough, strong, experienced women. It's just sometimes you have to hold your hands up and say, 'yes, we were beaten by the better team on the day' and good luck to them in the next round.

    We can now re-group, get back to training on Thursday and go again. All in all, were not doing that badly considering that was only our ninth actual game from formation of the team so plenty to be excited about.....UP THE ALTY!"

    2012 DRAW PRIZES NEEDED!

    TASC chairman Brian Flynn writes...

    "TASC are appealing for prizes to be donated for the Altrincham Football Club 2012 Draw, which will be launched at the Boxing Day game against Droylsden.

    Robert O'Neill of Paradox-Computers.com has already very kindly offered to donate a 'tablet PC' (pictured, right) and we are looking for four or five more major prizes as well as smaller prizes!

    If you are able to offer a prize, either personally or via a business that you are involved in, please contact Brian Flynn on 07860 561011 or by e-mail.

    This year's draw will be made in March 2012 and full details will be published before Christmas!"

    FAT

    FAT 3QR replays Monday, 28/11/2011
  • Ilkeston 1 Northwich Victoria 5

    Having beaten Altrincham, FC United have been drawn away at Guiseley in the first round of the FA Trophy on the weekend of 10/11 December. The draw for BSBN and northern teams is:

    BSBN NEWS

    "Nuneaton Town are set to bring Alex Dean back to the club as they look to solve their right-back problem. The 21-year-old... should complete a move from Bedworth United imminently. Manager Kevin Wilkin feels the twin brother of Boro centre-half Gaz Dean will bolster the right hand side, particularly at right-back with Graham Ward needing knee surgery.

    He said 'We had him as youngster and he went away, worked hard physically, and developed as a player... We’ve got lots of left sided players but we are light on the right side. Technically he is very good'" he told the Nuneaton News.

    The NL Paper says that "Jordan Burrow has returned to parent club Chesterfield after completing his loan spell with Boston United. The 19-year-old spent two months with the Pilgrims, scoring twice in 11 appearances, seven of which came as a substitute".

    And similar news comes from Hyde, where "Shelton Payne has returned to Chorley after his one-month loan at Ewen Fields. The Welsh winger scored 3 goals in 5 appearances for the Tigers... Shelton is transfer listed at Victory Park".


    27 November 2011

    MESSAGE FROM CHAIRMAN

    Support, not criticism, please.

    I know that we’re all feeling miserable tonight on the back of our defeat at FC United of Manchester but it is not the time to start throwing accusations at individuals or the team as a whole. Lee, Neil and the whole team are extremely disappointed with our cup exit and it’s hard to put your finger on why we have dipped in form so much over the last six games, but we have and we’ve got to stop the rot as soon as possible and get back to winning ways.

    Players don’t go onto the pitch with the intention of losing, players don’t become bad players overnight but when things aren’t going your way it doesn’t take much to bring about a lack of belief and the subsequent dip in form. That’s when the team need your help – not your criticism. I know it’s hard to support a team when they’re not doing well but that’s what support is all about - through thick and thin, through good times and bad times. Collectively we can get out of this rut and that must be our mission.

    I thank you for your time and your fantastic support today – let’s get behind the team and get back to winning ways.

    Grahame Rowley, Chairman

    FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 2 ALTRINCHAM 1

    For the third time in eight weeks, Altrincham went out of a cup competition at the first hurdle...

    Match report here. Right: Redshaw heads home Clee's corner.

    ALTRINCHAM 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Mark LEES, 5. Rob WILLIAMS, 6. Adam FLYNN, 3. Ryan BROWN, 7. Simon RICHMAN, 4. Anthony DANYLYK (capt), 8. Shaun DENSMORE, 11. Nicky CLEE, 9. Jack REDSHAW, 10. Damian REEVES, Subs: 12. Joe COOMBS, 14. Michael TWISS, 15. James LAWRIE, 16. Duncan WATMORE, 18. Adam REID (gk)

    BEFORE THE GAME

    Alty's joint press officer, Brian Flynn, writes:

    "Radio Robins: Football Club United of Manchester v The Inventors of Non-League Football, SPONSORED BY SKKits

    Radio Robins, sponsored by Paradox-Computers.com will be broadcasting a full internet commentary of this game. Sunday's match commentary is sponsored by 'SKKits. SKKits are the Number 1 supplier of PROSTAR sports kits and training wear in the UK.

    The match commentators are Simon Ellis, Tony Chetham and Brian Flynn. Commentary will start at 2.50pm. You can listen to Radio Robins here.

    Live text updates will also appear before and during the match on this site's Matchday Updates page.

    In advance of Sunday's game, FC United write that "Sunday sees Altrincham come to Gigg Lane in the FA Trophy so, quite aptly, we have a piece [in our matchday programme] from an FC fan who also harbours a soft spot for our visitors".

    FC United also point out that they "will go into the first round proper of the FA Carlsberg Trophy for the first ever time if they can overcome Conference North neighbours Altrincham on Sunday afternoon and assistant manager Roy Soule knows the match represents a good test.

    Soule said, 'We couldn’t have asked to face a better team in terms of non-league and cup tradition. It will be a really good test to see if we are on the right track and we have what it takes to progress to the leagues above'.

    Despite being the underdogs, United will not be fazed by facing a team from higher up the football pyramid as, more often than not, it has brought the best out of the Reds. Rochdale, Barrow, Stalybridge Celtic and Gainsborough Trinty are all more highly rated opponents who were put to the sword in cup clashes over the last few seasons.

    Karl Marginson’s side are also in a rich vein of form, having won the last four and going seven matches undefeated. The Robins on the other hand have lost four of their last five matches and would have no doubt preferred an easier tie than a trip to Gigg Lane.

    The two clubs have never met before competitively but they have faced each other in pre-season friendlies in 2006 and 2008 at Moss Lane. Alty won 3-1 and 3-0 respectively...

    Soule says morale in the squad is very good and none of the players will need any extra motivation for a derby cup clash. The tie will be extra special for FC United’s new winger Astley Mulholland (right), who was released by Sunday’s opponents after spending only a few weeks there at the beginning of the season.

    Soule said, 'Astley will obviously want to put in a good account of himself, so he’s just got to keep on doing what he’s been doing in recent weeks. Hopefully, he’ll score seven against them, that’ll do, I won’t be greedy'.

    United are boosted by the news that Matthew Wolfenden is fit and available after missing the last four matches due to picking up a leg injury".

    The FA writes that "FC United of Manchester have a chance to claim the scalp of a club steeped in non-League tradition when they face Altrincham in The FA Trophy on Sunday, according to their manager Karl Marginson. One of the most intriguing Third Round Qualifying ties this weekend sees the meeting of two clubs separated by just ten miles - but poles apart when it comes to their history.

    Altrincham - now playing in the Conference North - were formed in 1891 and boast a proud 120-year tradition that has featured them lifting The FA Trophy on two occasions and going as far as The FA Cup Fourth Round. In contrast, FC United were born as recently as 2005 and have since enjoyed a steady rise through the non-League pyramid to the Northern Premier Division - one tier below their opponents.

    'Altrincham, especially from the northern area, are one of the most famous non-League teams going and have a great heritage', Marginson told TheFA.com. 'We've only been going six years and having these games and these situations is really enjoyable - it's a great opportunity for everyone at the club. They are going to be favourites because they are in a higher league but we will look to compete and make sure the lads go out there and enjoy the occasion...

    Marginson is expecting a big crowd... 'Altrincham will bring a good few fans, our supporters will turn out in their numbers and you will get members of the public who have nothing else to do with their Sunday. The fans will have a bit of banter because it is a local derby and that will only add to the occasion'".

    NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS

    Altrincham's next league game is away to FC Halifax Town. The Halifax Courier reports that "Town and Colwyn Bay will meet again at the Shay on Tuesday after their FA Trophy third qualifying round clash in north Wales finished goalless... The Shaymen had a glorious chance to go through at the first attempt when they were awarded a penalty late in the first half, but Lee Gregory’s spot kick was saved by home keeper Chris Sanna".

    FC Halifax Town add that "Familiarity seems to have breeded respect between Colwyn and Halifax. The Welsh side have been attached to Town like a limpet through their rise up the leagues, joining them on promotions to the Evo-Stik Premier Division and the Blue Square North...

    But for two such successful sides of recent times, the only real surprise was the general lack of quality on offer... Halifax: Simon Eastwood, Ryan Toulson, Scott McManus, Aaron Hardy, Liam Hogan, Danny Lowe, Simon Garner (Needham 72), Tom Baker (c), Danny Holland, Lee Gregory, James Walshaw. Subs: Phil Senior, Gregg Anderson, Harry Winter, Scott Hogan".

    OLD BOYS

    In the FA Trophy clash between two ex-Alty players, Robbie Lawton's Marine lost 3-2 at Vauxhall Motors, despite Paul Jones's own goal for the hosts. Richard Battersby made his home debut for Trafford as they lost 1-2 at home to Ossett Albion, Ex-Alty Youth Sam Madeley netted both goals as Ashton United beat Frickley Athletic 2-0. In Mossley's 6-0 win over Wakefield, Cavell Coo scored as did former Alty Youth striker Osebi Abadaki.

    BSBN FIXTURES

    Saturday 3 December:
  • Bishop's Stortford v Blyth Spartans
  • Colwyn Bay v Droylsden
  • Corby Town v Gainsborough Trinity
  • Eastwood Town v Nuneaton Town
  • FC Halifax Town v Altrincham
  • Gloucester City v Hinckley United
  • Guiseley v Workington
  • Solihull Moors v Harrogate Town
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Boston United
  • Vauxhall Motors v Histon
  • Worcester City v Hyde FC

    BSBN NEWS

    From BSB North we learn that "Boston United have given permission for defender Nathan Stainfield to join Hucknall Town on loan. The 23-year-old links up with the Yellows in order to improve his match fitness after recovering from a thigh injury. Stainfield joined the Pilgrims from local rivals Boston Town in September... Boston have included a clause in the loan agreement which will allow them to recall the defender at any point".

    Meanwhile, "David Livermore, manager of Histon, has welcomed the appointment of Gordon Boateng who was announced as the new Histon chief executive earlier this week. Boateng has had plenty of experience in non-league football having been manager at Brimsdown Rovers, Leyton and Cheshunt, and assistant manager at Harlow Town and Bishop’s Stortford. His record has impressed the Stutes player/boss who believes that Boateng could offer a vitally important perspective in the boardroom.

    'He comes with all the credentials we need', said Livermore. 'He knows non-league football. He’s played there a long time, managed there, knows a lot of players and runs his own consultancy business. He’s here to help the club progress and that’s what we’re trying to do on a daily basis. It’s always important that you have at least one person on the board who has been a player, manager or coach themselves. We want to be in a position where we can have a club that can hopefully one day be self-financing. Then we can look at the possibility of trying to get the club back up the divisions and possibly one day be a League club'", he told the Cambridge News.

    "The Gainsborough Trinity hierarchy hinted last week that players had two games to prove that new signings were not required at the club. But with last Tuesday's clash with Gloucester and last Saturday's derby encounter with Boston United both ending in defeat, Gainsborough boss Steve Housham has confirmed changes will be made before this weekend's FA Trophy clash with Hinckley.

    The tough-talking Blues boss revealed after Saturday's 3-1 defeat against their Lincolnshire rivals that both Craig Nelthorpe and Rory Coleman would be leaving the club. Housham added that... discussions were underway to bring in up to three new faces.

    'Craig Nelthorpe and Rory Coleman are leaving the club', said Housham. 'I have given them enough chances I feel. It's sad to let those sort of players go... We will be in the market for players. It's a full-time job for myself and the chairman and there will be changes'...

    The Blues have taken just one point from the last four matches. The dip in form has raised doubts about players' fitness, with Housham increasing the club's training schedule to three times a week... He added 'We are going through a sticky patch, but the bubble hasn't burst, it's just a hole at the moment and we'll do our best to repair that... I thought we could get 12 points from the fixtures this month and we have got one'" he told This is Lincs.


    26 November 2011

    FIXTURES

    Altrincham had no game today (Saturday); their Trophy tie against FCUM is on Sunday at 3pm at Gigg Lane.

    FAT 3QR

    Saturday 26th

  • Corby Town 1 North Ferriby United 1 (att. 519)
  • Blyth Spartans 1 Stalybridge Celtic 3 (324)
  • Boston United 1 Workington 0 (743)
  • Sheffield 0 Nuneaton Town 4 (426)
  • Gainsborough Trinity 0 Hinckley United 1 (320)
  • Worcester City 0 Harrogate Town 1 (676)
  • Colwyn Bay 0 FC Halifax Town 0 (420)
  • Guiseley AFC 7 Eastwood Town 0 (323)
  • Stourbridge 0 Chester 2 (1,481)
  • Matlock Town 0 Hyde 1 (367)
  • Solihull Moors 2 Ossett Town 2 (152)
  • Droylsden 2 Witton Albion 1 (304)
  • Northwich Victoria 1 Ilkeston FC 1 (437)
  • Vauxhall Motors 3 Marine 2 (329)
  • Worksop Town 3 Curzon Ashton 2 (238)
  • Bishop's Stortford 1 Tonbridge Angels 1
  • Gloucester City 1 Truro City 1
  • Uxbridge 2 Histon 1

    Sunday 27th

  • FC United of Manchester v Altrincham

    BSBN NEWS

    The Football Conference says that "Gainsborough Trinity have brought in defender Lee Ridley and goalkeeper Michael Emery ahead of Saturday`s FA Trophy tie against league rivals Hinckley United. Ridley has had his contract cancelled by Grimsby Town by mutual consent. A former Scunthorpe United trainee, the 29-year-old is renowned for his tough tackling and energy down the left flank. He also possesses a powerful shot from distance...

    Joining Trinity from Skegness Town is 21-year-old keeper Michael Emery. Emery has experience in the Conference before with spells at Rushden & Diamonds and joined St Albans City".

    Elsewhere, "Solihull Moors have announced the departure of goalkeeper Adam Rachel. Rachel has been a long-term servant of both Moor Green and Solihull Moors, having originally joining Moor Green in the summer of 2001...In recent years, however, appearances on the pitch became rarer as he concentrated more on the coaching side. Joining the club as the new goalkeeping coach will be John Reeves, who is a well-renowned figure in Midlands non-League circles having held similar positions at Hednesford Town, Stafford Rangers and Redditch United...

    Also joining Solihull Moors is Darren Acton – the 38-year-old also being well-known on the non-League circuit having completed many years' service to clubs including Tamworth and Nuneaton Borough. Acton will act as back up goalkeeper to Jas Singh".

    The Hinckley Times tells us that "Dreams of Wembley will have to be packed away for another season after Tuesday’s devastating loss to Tamworth in the FA Cup... Manager Dean Thomas said:, 'Their quality shone through at the end and if we had had that little bit more polish up front we may have been ahead... Our back four and keeper did well and I couldn’t criticise anyone...

    It has been a good journey for everyone and hopefully can give us a confidence boost and move forward. We have also benefitted from the money situation of the cup... We have the Gainsborough game in the FA Trophy now and it would be nice to have a run in that competition as it has been a bit of an Achilles heel. They are having a bad patch at the moment and are conceding goals, and we have to go there and believe we can win'...

    The manager is casting his eye over the market to see what players he can bring in - with particular attention on the goalkeeper situation due to Danny Haystead’s broken arm".


    25 November 2011

    ROBBIE JOINS MARINE

    The Non-League Daily reports that "Evo-Stik League Premier Division side Marine have signed experienced midfielder Robbie Lawton (right), who has rejoined them from Blue Square Bet North club Altrincham. Lawton, 32, started his career at Marine as a youngster before joining Vauxhall Motors in 1999 were he spent seven successful seasons before transferring to Altrincham in 2006. In just over five seasons he has made 231 appearances for Altrincham, mostly as captain, scoring nine goals."

    Marine report that their manager, Kevin Lynch, said, “Robbie is not only a vastly experienced player but also a good friend. This is a fantastic signing for Marine and I know his experience and leadership will be massive for us as we continue to move onwards and upwards. I have been trying to bring him in for some time but I respected Rob’s decision to want to stay at Altrincham. Robbie has bought into what we are trying to achieve at Marine and he still has the hunger and desire to want to be a winner and I am sure he will become a fans' favourite very soon".

    Marine Chairman Paul Leary said, “This is a great signing for Marine. There is no doubt that Robbie will add vast experience to a relatively young Marine side. His undoubted leadership will make a real difference for Marine in the coming months as we continue, hopefully, with the real challenge of a promotion play-off place".

    TROPHY OPPONENTS

    You can follow Sunday's match (27th) at Gigg Lane between FC United of Manchester and Altrincham, either
  • On Radio Robins
  • Via this site's Matchday Update page.

    In their midweek game, our FA Trophy opponents beat Kendal Town. According to the Manchester Evening News "Ten-man FC United shrugged off the 55th minute dismissal of Jimmy Holden to step up their Evo-Stik Premier promotion challenge with a hard-fought 1-0 win... Mike Norton headed in what proved to be the only goal after just six minutes. But Astley Mulholland's failure to convert a similar chance early in the second-half threatened to be costly when Holden saw red soon after for serious foul play".

    ALTRINCHAM FC LADIES

    Alty Ladies' boss Keith Edleston reminds us that Altrincham FC Ladies have a Cheshire FA Cup match this Sunday (27/11) against Stockport County HNR, kick off 2pm at Manor Farm, Ridgeway Road, Timperley. "ALL supporters are welcome to cheer the ladies on in our first ever Cheshire FA Cup game. We are up against a well established First Division team and the Ladies would love as much support as possible. Up the Alty..!"

    OLD BOYS

    Both the manager and player below are ex-Alty men... The Ormskirk & Skelmersdale Advertiser reports that "Manager Derek Goulding says striker Mark Beesley (right) gives the club belief they can pull themselves off the foot of the table. The 30-year-old has struck 11 times in the Evo-Stik Premier Division this season, making him the league’s leading scorer... The Greens’ boss... says he has used the prowess of Beesley to help motivate his players into believing they can turn their campaign around...

    'I said we just need to work hard, perform well and, if we create the chances for Mark, then he is always going to score a goal for us... Mark’s ability lifts the confidence in others in the side'".

    Next, a man who played for Altrincham in the last pre-season but preferred Stockport, is mvong again as Team Talk reports that "Plymouth Argyle have re-signed striker Nick Chadwick on loan from Stockport until January. The 29-year-old has scored seven times in 17 appearances for the non-league side. Chadwick first arrived at Home Park in 2005, when the Pilgrims paid £250,000 to Everton for his services".

    The Southport Visiter has an article on James Smith. "The 26-year-old right-back joined the Sandgrounders in the summer from Altrincham after both sides were relegated from the Conference. Rushden and Diamonds’ demise however granted Port a reprieve and so with the bargaining tool of non-league’s top flight, manager Liam Watson was able to swoop for the former Liverpool man...

    The tough full-back says after some early teething problems, he and the new signings have forged a solid bond which has underpinned their fine start to the campaign...'I believe we are one of the fittest sides in the league and can carry on for the full 90 minutes. The decision to come to Southport in the summer came down to a few things. I wanted to play as high as I could, Southport is quite close to home and the manager was a big reason. He is an honest person, there is no messing around, and told me how it was.

    Looking from last season, everyone was expecting us to struggle again this year. We actually didn't start the season off great at all... I thought last year, when we played against Southport, that they did need a few players at the back'".

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    The Football Conference reports that "Corby Town have completed the signing of Jean Paul Marna on loan from neighbours Kettering Town until January 2012. Former Paris St Germain striker Marna was Kettering's leading scorer during both the 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons, making him the club's leading career marksman with sixty-seven strikes in 227 appearances. The former French Futsal international striker was transfer-listed by the Poppies along with the entire playing squad earlier this month...

    He has opted to play at Steel Park ahead of offers from other clubs. Corby boss Graham Drury said, 'I am delighted that JP has agreed to sign. It`s a real coup for Corby; it demonstrates how ambitious we are as a football club to progress. I think it really shows how far we have come recently that a player of his calibre has turned down some very good offers to drop down a level and play for us. He knows the way that we like to play the game and he wants to be a part of it. For me, that is a fantastic acknowledgment of the progress we are making and I know that more than a few people in football are going to look at this and sit up and take notice. Once again I'd like to thank the board for backing me and allowing this to happen. Their support is brilliant and these really are exciting times at the club".

    But "Midfielder Sam Ives has left Corby Town by mutual consent after being unable to hold down a regular first-team place. The former Cambridge United trainee joined the Steelmen in the summer... Corby can also confirm that defender Tom Land has joined Mickleover Sports on a short-term loan".

    Meanwhile, BSB North tells us that "Nuneaton defender Graham Ward faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after aggravating a long-standing knee complaint earlier in the week. Ward, who will have to undergo surgery, limped off just past the half-hour mark in Boro's 1-1 draw with Guiseley on Tuesday night. Club boss Kevin Wilkin suspects the ex-Worcester City captain will only make his return some way into the New Year.

    'It's yet another blow. Graham has been carrying the problem but he needs an operation and that's not going to take place for a while', Wilkin told the Coventry Telegraph... Wilkin aims to recruit a replacement right-back before the weekend".

    And Bullsnews adds that "Kettering manager Mark Stimson has warned he may struggle to raise a side for Saturday if an expected player exodus happens today. Up to ten players are reported to be set to leave the club".

    According to the Worcester News, "Midfielder Emeka Nwadike has left Worcester City for Eastwood Town. The 33-year-old joined City from the Badgers in the summer but has opted to return to Worcester'

    NON-LEAGUE IN FA CUP

    Pitchero Non-League reports on the Second Round matches. "The FA have announced three FA Cup Second Round ties have been chosen for TV highlights….
  • Stourbridge v Stevenage
  • Luton Town v Cheltenham Town.
  • Chelmsford v Macclesfield Town.
    24 November 2011

    LAUNCH OF ONLINE SHOP

    Brian Flynn, chairman of TASC, writes:

    "Altrincham Football Club and TASC are delighted to advise that the new Online Shop is now live and orders of the full range of Altrincham F.C. merchandise can be made by visiting www.altyfcshop.com

    The timing of this couldn't be better as now all Altrincham fans will have the choice of ordering online or by visiting the club shop on matchdays in the lead up to Christmas.

    Many thanks to Robert O'Neill for his hard work and expertise shown in setting up this service for Altrincham supporters everywhere!"

    LEE SAYS ROBBIE "A TOP BLOKE"

    Altrincham FC joint press officer, John Edwards writes:

    Lee Sinnott has echoed the many tributes to Robbie Lawton’s immense contribution to Altrincham’s fortunes over the past five-and-a-half years and backed him to continue making an impact on the game, as a player and future manager.

    The Alty boss went along with all the accolades for the former Moss Lane favourite’s combative qualities and inspirational leadership but provided perhaps the most apt appraisal so far when he added,‘Quite simply, Robbie is a top bloke.’

    The parting of the ways came on Saturday night when, concerned that three central midfielders had been picked ahead of him against Gloucester and he still had not been summoned from the bench when injury disrupted the right side of Alty’s defence, Lawton sought clarification about his future.

    Though he was assured he was welcome to remain as a squad player, he reluctantly took the decision to leave, and seek a fresh start, after it was made clear he would not be in the starting line-up, in the normal course of events.

    The hugely-popular midfielder and club captain was at pains to stress there was no fall-out with Sinnott and that, if anything, he respected him all the more for being so honest and upfront with him.

    It was evident that respect was fully reciprocated, as Sinnott said: ‘Though I have only worked with Robbie since arriving in the summer, I was fully aware he had been a great servant to the club over a number of years, and it’s just a shame things change in football.

    ‘Robbie decided he wanted to move on, and I fully appreciate where he is coming from. We had a chat about things, and the bottom line was I couldn’t guarantee him a place in the team. Hence the outcome.

    ‘He didn’t want to be kicking his heels, and fair play to him for that. From my point of view, it would have been easy to string him along, but I would never do that to any player, least of all Robbie. I believe in being straight with people, and Robbie is exactly the same.

    ‘I wish him all the very best for the rest of his playing career, and the way he looks after himself, that could go on for a while yet. As an indication of how fit he is, he was in the top three for the running we did in pre-season. If he can just steer clear of injuries, there could be a good few seasons left in him yet.

    ‘I fully expect him to give his next club great service, because he really is a wonderful captain who knows how to lead people and always shows the right attitude, whether it is in games or training. I’ve nothing but praise for him. He really is a top bloke.

    ‘Who’s to say what the next step might be for him, when he does finally hang up his boots? He could well end up on the management side of the fence, because he has got those certain attributes that are needed to run a team.’

    The Alty boss stressed he had no intention of allowing his side’s recent difficulties to drift on unchecked and revealed he hopes to bring in at least one new signing.

    ‘We are looking,’ he said. ‘Things are going on behind the scenes, and maybe something will happen before the weekend or maybe it will be after. Trying to improve the squad and the team is an ongoing process. Nothing stays still for long, and we are exploring ways to try and bring in more quality.

    ‘This club is run properly, on a sensible budget, and that will continue to be the case. But one going out means we can look at bringing one in, and we certainly have to try and do that, because we have been conceding too many goals.

    ‘There is no getting away from that. You can’t run away from statistics, because supporters will soon start wondering just what stunt you are trying to pull. It is something that needs to be addressed, because while we will continue to cause teams problems, going forward, the defensive part of things is holding us back.

    ‘There’s a lot that is good about us, but certain things need putting right, and we are working hard to do it.’

    Alty’s FA Trophy hopes have been boosted by the news that Telford have given permission for on-loan pair James Lawrie and Robbie Williams to play in Sunday’s tie against FC United at Gigg Lane.

    ‘A knock-out competition like this can bring in much-needed funds, and we are eager to do as well as we can,’ added Sinnott. ‘Sunday’s tie brings together two of our Achilles heels – our away form and recent record in cups. FC United will present a stern challenge and may well fancy their chances on their home turf.

    ‘It’s how we respond to the challenge. If we perform how we are capable of, it should stand us in good stead.’

    ROBBIE SALUTES SUPPORTERS

    The Sale & Altrincham Messenger has more on how "Robbie Lawton has left Altrincham searching for a new skipper after reluctantly sacrificing his Moss Lane career for the sake of playing first-team football.

    The hugely-popular Alty skipper (left) admitted he was ‘gutted’ at ending a five-and-a-half year stay with the club after discussing his prospects with manager Lee Sinnott, in the wake of Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat by Gloucester.

    Within 24 hours of the news being released, altyfans.co.uk had received more than 70 e-mails praising his contribution. The whole-hearted midfielder, who is looking for another club, paid tribute to their unwavering support by saying:, 'I can’t thank them enough. There have maybe been times when I struggled with injury or lost form a bit, but they were always supportive. They are a special bunch of people, with exemplary morals and values.

    I always remember, when Graham Heathcote approached me about joining Alty, he described it as a people’s club that was run on proper lines. He said the fans will take to you, as long as they can see you are totally committed to the club on and off the pitch. That was all I needed to hear, and I hope I have shown that in the intervening years'.

    Explaining his decision to consult Sinnott, he added, ‘Three central midfielders were picked ahead of me against Gloucester, then our right-back picked up an injury. Still didn’t get on, and I thought that wasn’t a good sign. When I saw the manager, he made it clear I was welcome to stay and be part of the squad, but, in the normal course of events, I wouldn’t be featuring in the team. Fair play to him, he didn’t mess me about our give me any flannel. He told it how it was and said he thought the answer to our current difficulties lay outside the club, rather than from within.

    I just couldn’t see myself training all week, knowing I wouldn’t be playing football at the end of it. I’m absolutely gutted to be leaving, but I couldn’t just let my career fizzle out. I’m leaving with a real sense of sadness but also with great memories of playing for a fantastic club'".

    LEE ON FCUM

    In advance of Sunday's match against FC United, Lee Sinnott told The Advertiser, "I wouldn't be surprised if Astley tries that little bit harder than usual on Sunday, facing a club which let him go," said Sinnott. "But sometimes you can try too hard. He might be trying so much to achieve against us that he doesn't play his natural game. He wasn't under contract and he wasn't starting regularly for us, so we let him go. Perhaps I could have put that off a little longer. I wish him all the best at FC United but, obviously, I hope he doesn't play well on Sunday." FC United beat Kendal Town tonight in the EvoStik Premier League 1-0, the goal being scored by Michael Norton.

    OLD BOYS

    Ex-Alty players in action on Tuesday night in the EvoStik leagues included Chris Denham, who scored as his Chorley team won at Northwich Victoria. Ex-Alty loanee Liam King scored for Matlock in a 1-1 draw at Stafford. Salford City drew 3-3 with Skelmersdale United and ex-Alty trialist Gavin Salmon netted twice whilst former reserve Scott Metcalfe scored the other. James McCarthy scored for Leek Town as they lost 1-2 to Market Drayton Town. In the NWCL Premier, Congleton Town beat Runcorn Linnets 2-1 and former Alty Reserves' defender Keith Wedge scored for The Bears.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    According to the Football Conference, "Boston United have completed the signing of midfielder Ian Ross following his departure from Harrogate Town. The 25-year-old, who enjoyed a highly successful loan spell with the Pilgrims in 2005/06, has signed a contract until the end of the season".

    BSB North reports that "Veteran striker Marc McGregor says the prospect of regular game-time is the reason he swapped Worcester City for Weston-super-Mare. McGregor returned to his former club to score in a 4-2 victory over Maidenhead United in the Blue Square Bet South this past weekend. The 33-year-old had slipped down the pecking order at City prompting a loan spell with Bishop's Cleeve".

    FC Halifax Town says that "Neil Aspin revealed an ace up his sleeve when he shuffled his defensive pack last month. Halifax had won three games on the spin before the Town manager rearranged the furniture, with Danny Lowe moving to centre-back and Scott McManus shifting to left-back. The change has certainly done them good and pair haven't looked back since, producing equally impressive form, while Town have gone on to win five of their seven matches since the swap.

    Aspin says his side has improved defensively following the alteration, with the switch proving the magic formula to his problem of how to keep both players in the starting line-up. He said, 'We first swapped them over when we played Droylsden and in the first-half, I thought they did really well, but then obviously Danny Lowe went over on his ankle so we had to make a change... we've looked more solid. When you're conceding goals, and we were making a lot of mistakes at the back, I felt that we had to make a change...

    I wanted to keep them both in the team so I felt it was better to try and use our existing players and see how they do. So far, they've done pretty well in those positions'...

    Aspin says...'You've got to be flexible. It doesn't mean to say that if you're playing in one position that you have to stick to it. I think if you're a good footballer, then you can possibly play in one or two positions... We have played pretty well away from home; it's just at home that we haven't been producing the same form we're showing away from home. If you're going to be successful, you've got to defend properly first. But I would say that with the personnel we've got, we're more geared to play football and to try and go forward. We can't just sit back, we've got to try and be positive whether we're at home or away; we've got to try and win games'".

    According to the BBC, "Vauxhall Motors' manager Carl Macauley says he is thankful to club chairman Alan Bartlam for allowing him to return to the club for a second spell... He told BBC Radio Merseyside, 'I believe this is the strongest Motors team on paper that I've been involved with. We just need to gel together'...

    He now leads his team into a local derby with Marine on Saturday in the FA Trophy...

    'There are three former players who were connected with Vauxhall Motors at Marine now and played in that famous FA Cup game against QPR in 2002', continued Macauley. 'So the players and the backroom staff will be up for the game. It's going to be a typical derby game, and as you know, in derby games anything can happen'".

    OLD FOES

    The BBC reports that "Kettering Town chairman Imraan Ladak has said the the club's finances are in a 'serious situation' and he will consider offers to sell up. The players were not paid their last wages in full, and the entire squad are currently on the transfer list.

    'It has now got to the point where I am not willing to supplement the players' wages for what they give us,', Ladak told the Kettering Evening Telegraph... 'The club is not finished or anything like that. But it is in a serious situation... Four or five should be going in the next 24 hours and another four or five will be in the 24 hours after that', he explained. 'They have decided to fight with each other and lunge in and try to injure other players. They have decided not to train hard enough, not eat the right foods and go out at night. It's their fault and I am not willing to pay their money and the football club can't'... I don't get any pleasure out of it any more and haven't for some time. I stayed because I wanted to find a solution to the stadium problem'".


    23 November 2011

    YANKEE JACKPOT

    Altrincham FC's Saturday Yankee Code jackpot remains at £5,000, with a reserve jackpot now totalling £2,800. Although there were 8 winning trebles last week, each winning £25, the winning code of 1179 was unissued. If you are not yet a member of th scheme, why not join? It helps the club enormously and for just £1 a week gives you the chance to win substantial prizes.

    Right: Simon Richman is pictured in the thick of the action against Gloucester City, last Saturday. Image kindly supplied by Gavin Rathbone, whose GR Photography site has many more excellent Alty images.

    RADIO SPONSORSHIP

    Brian Flynn, Alty's joint Press Officer, writes:

    Radio Robins: Match Broadcast Sponsorship

    Sponsorship of a specific match broadcast is available for each of Altrincham's fixtures for just £15.This is an ideal, low cost way for a business or an individual to support Altrincham F.C. and, at the same time, gain positive exposure to the Radio Robins audience. If you would like to sponsor a game, please contact Brian Flynn at 07860 561011 or by e-mail.

    BSB NORTH

    Tuesday's score:
  • Guiseley 1 Nuneaton Town 1
  • League table

    Before Tuesday's game, the Yorkshire Evening Post said that "Guiseley boss Steve Kittrick has backed his side to chase down Blue Square North’s runaway top two, but expects a tense night against defensive specialists Nuneaton at Nethermoor tonight. The Lions finally play one of their many games in hand this evening, with Kittrick admitting he is perplexed as to why his men have fulfilled just 16 fixtures compared to leaders Hyde’s 20.

    The strange fixture fulfilment has allowed Hyde to build up a 17-point lead with second-placed Stalybridge also 12 points clear of the Lions having played two games more. The duo have considerable daylight and Kittrick readily admits he would rather have the points in the bag but the Nethermoor chief still believes the gap can be closed...

    'They’ve conceded 15 and we’ve conceded 17 so obviously we have both got decent defences', said Kittrick... 'I think Kevin will come and set up to go for a point and if he can get better than a point, even better for him'...

    Kittrick added, 'We’ve got to go to Stalybridge, we’ve got to go to Hyde and they’ve both got to play each other. They’ve still got a lot to do, so if we can just keep pecking away at it we’ll see how teams are doing in January. There will be a lot of twists and turns yet and Hyde have lost Ryan Crowther to Fleetwood this week and he will be a massive loss for them'.

    Guiseley will again be without centre-backs Danny Ellis and Mark Bower tonight with the duo still two weeks away from recovering from a dislocated shoulder and an ankle injury respectively. Gavin Rothery, though, will return from a foot injury...

    He said, 'We just need to get everyone back'.

    The Lions' boss, though, admits he sees no sense in the league’s fixture planning with Guiseley having four games in hand despite not having had a single game cancelled this term. The Leeds side have played just one midweek league game in the last three months and Kittrick is struggling to see why. 'I just ask the question why have Hyde played 20 games and we’ve only played 16?' he said. 'I just think we should be playing Tuesday, Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, until the weather gets bad. We all should have all played 20 games. For example, we have to go to Blyth on December 6 and the weather could be horrendous. I say get as many games as you can in August, September, October and even into November'".

    BSB North tells us that "Histon's new chief executive Gordon Boateng believes that the side can achieve Football League status in the future. The Stutes currently occupy 16th place in the league standings after 18 games, but that hasn't stopped Boateng from announcing his ambitious vision for the club.

    He told Cambridge News, 'From our perspective this year is about stabilisation and we're looking for a mid-table finish. We're going to plan to push again to get back into the (Blue Square Bet) Premier and establish ourselves there and then one day look to get into the Football League because that's where the club has always wanted to be. There's a great opportunity to do it with young players providing we can do it within the infrastructure. We've got a good manager in place in David Livermore, and everybody is working together and singing from the same hymn sheet. But we've got to make it sustainable and make sure things are done the right way. It's a great club and we've got all the foundations you need'.

    Boateng has previously played for Hertford, Cheshunt and Waltham Forest and managed Barking youth as well as Cheshunt, Brimsdown and Leyton. He was also assistant at Harlow and Bishop's Stortford. He added, 'We've got a three-year plan of what we want to do, and this opportunity was too good to turn down... It's all about the good people here already... I'm coming in to fine-tune and enhance a few things to hopefully get some extra investment and sponsorship. We're also asking the fans to come back and look at what we're doing not just on the field, but in the community.

    We aren't selling them a fake story. It's not about us going out and buying X, Y and Z, we're saying to people "get involved". We're trying to work hand in hand to keep the club alive and moving in the right direction, which I think it's doing at the moment".

    Meanwhile, according to the News & Star, "The hunt is on to track down a fan who allegedly spat at a match official during Workington's highly emotive 2-1 win over Vauxhall Motors. The incident occurred 10 minutes before the end of the fiery encounter and referee Kevin Mattocks included it in his match report... Workington could face a hefty fine. It is unclear whether the incident involved assistant referees Dominic McDonald or Matthew Corlett.

    Chairman Humphrey Dobie...added, 'It is outrageous that someone would spit at a match official. To spit at someone is reprehensible, disgusting and will not be tolerated at Borough Park. We need to track down this individual and bring them to justice. If anyone saw what happened then I urge them to get in touch with the club... Whoever is responsible for this will be banned for the rest of the season, and will have to apply to the club to return for the start of the 2012/13 season'".

    From the Boston Standard we learn that "Boston United chairman David Newton says he is ‘satisfied’ with the outcome of yesterday’s tribunal. The Pilgrims wanted compensation for defender Shaun Pearson and midfielder Anthony Church, after the pair moved on to Grimsby Town in the summer... The club received a fee from Grimsby which has been undisclosed... Newton said, 'I think satisfied is the best phrase'".

    FAC1QR

  • Tamworth 1 Hinckley Utd 0

    According to This is Leics, writing before Tuesday's game, "Danny Newton's two-goal heroics for Hinckley United at the weekend could earn him an FA Cup place at Tamworth... The Liverpool-born midfielder had to settle for a 20-minute substitute's appearance when the two teams drew 2-2 in their first meeting ...

    But Knitters boss Dean Thomas is considering the reward of a place in the starting line-up...after Newton struck twice in Saturday's 3-3 Blue Square North draw at Blyth. 'Danny got his two goals and did well,"', said Thomas. 'He got the nod ahead of Jacob Joyce on Saturday so we'll see. I might play both of them. I think we've got the pace in our side to trouble them, but we have to keep our shape'...

    If the match goes to extra-time and then penalties, all the focus will switch to the Knitters' rookie keeper Denham Hinds. The 19-year stepped into the fray in the first meeting when Danny Haystead was controversially dismissed. Now Haystead is out with a broken arm for the rest of the season and Hinds will get another chance to show his potential tonight...

    'We do need a bit more steel in the side because it is affecting our league situation', he said. 'We're in the bottom four, which is not where we want to be, but we don't get to work with finished articles'. Thomas pinpointed club favourite Richard Lavery as possessing the qualities he wants from potential new recruits. Lavery is now in his third spell with the club and has been a revelation at the heart of the Knitters defence.

    'He is an experienced player who is a good competitor', added Thomas. ,We're not talking about necessarily big, strong lads but ones who can compete, particularly in midfield'".


    22 November 2011

    ROBBIE LEAVES

    On the evening of 21 November, Altrincham FC joint Press Officer, John Edwards, writes:

    "An Altrincham era has come to an end, with the announcement that long-serving skipper Robbie Lawton has left Moss Lane and is looking for another club.

    Robbie, signed by former manager Graham Heathcote from Vauxhall Motors in June, 2006, reluctantly brought the curtain down on his illustrious Alty career after a frank discussion with current boss Lee Sinnott in the aftermath of Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat by Gloucester.

    It was a decision that was not taken lightly, and, before leaving, Robbie asked for the chance to put his thoughts into words in one final Captain’s Log, the hugely-popular Robins' Review column that gives supporters an insight into the thinking, and banter, in the home dressing room at Moss Lane.

    Here it is, supplied, on this final occasion, for the club’s official website, rather than the pages of the matchday programme".

    CAPTAIN’S LOG by Robbie Lawton

    It doesn’t seem so long ago I was considering putting my name forward for the vacant manager’s position at the club that I am so passionate about. I never thought that 7 starts later, I would be walking away from it all.

    I began to sense some sort of clarification might be needed about my future when three central midfielders were picked ahead of me against Gloucester, and our right-back picked up an injury and I still didn’t get on.

    That wasn’t a good sign, so I resolved to see the manager afterwards to try and find out where I stood. I wanted to remind him of how desperate I was to get back in the side and try and have an impact on the current position we are in. It was clear he was as disappointed as anyone with the defeat, and, after telling him what was on my mind, I honestly expected the reply to be along the lines of: ‘I’m going to have to make changes, and you might well find yourself back in the starting line-up next week.’

    But that’s not how it went. He told me that, in the normal course of events, I wouldn’t be featuring in the team and that, while he recognised there were problems that needed addressing, he believed the answers lay outside the club, not from within. He informed me that I’m not part of his starting eleven but welcomed me as part his current squad.

    He made it very clear he wasn’t pushing me out, and that I could stay if I wished. But he stated that if I wanted to play, it might be best if I moved on.

    I was brought to the club by a man who had faith in me, but, as I left the manager’s office and mulled over the conversation that had just taken place, it was clear that faith was no longer there, and my time was up.

    Let me make it clear that, gutted though I am to have walked out of Moss Lane as an Altrincham player for the last time, there was no personality clash between us. There is no lack of respect on my part. If anything, I respect him all the more for being honest, open and transparent and telling it how it is. That’s how I am as a person, and I appreciate that. The manager is very experienced and will go on to do a terrific job, I'm sure. He could easily have spun me a line about being patient and waiting for my chance, but that clearly isn’t his style. There was no messing me about, no flannel, and the moment the words left his mouth about maybe I should look elsewhere, I knew what the outcome was going to be.

    I didn’t want it to happen. No player wants to hear that from his manager. I am truly gutted to be leaving, but my hand has been forced slightly. I’ve worked hard to get back from the tendinitis injury that ruled me out earlier this season, and I just can’t envisage training all week in the knowledge there’s going to be nothing for me, come Saturday, that I’m not going to be playing football.

    If I had sensed a chance of playing, I would have stuck at it, but it was made plain those chances were going to be few and far between. I wasn’t looking for any guarantees. Managers can’t give those, and when I’m a manager, I certainly won't be giving any. That would have been unrealistic.

    I’d like to think I’ve got a few years left in me yet, but I’m not getting any younger. My playing career hasn’t got that long to go, and I have no intention of simply letting what has been my most memorable years of football fizzle out. That’s why I had to take this step and look round for a club where I would have a reasonable chance of starting football matches.

    I’m not arrogant enough to think that, because I’m club captain and have an identity here, that my name has to be on the team sheet every week. I’m OK with what the manager told me, and I accept that, just as a subjective point of view has seen many a good friend and team-mate come and go over the years, it’s now my turn to take it on the chin.

    Right: Robbie celebrates in the game against Vauxhall Motors. Photo courtesy of Gavin Rathbone of GR Photography.

    I won’t quibble with that, but I do believe I can still make a contribution and have an impact on a group of players and a team. That’s why I was clear in my own mind on Saturday night that I would drop down the football pyramid as much as need be to be playing again.

    As I prepare for a fresh start, I can’t help wondering whether being a non-contract player all my days at Moss Lane might have worked against me. That was my status when I arrived, and as the club began moving towards putting players on contracts, it just never happened for me. I just never saw myself going anywhere else, but if I had signed one, maybe I’d be going out on loan somewhere now, instead of having to cut my ties

    There’s no point dwelling on that too much, though. If I’m going to look back, I’d rather reflect on all the good times, and the great people I’ve shared them with. Victories away at Oxford and police escorts away from the ground, ecstatic scenes when turning over Grimsby and Darlington, my dance in the goal after smashing Northwich on Boxing Day, just a snippet of the unbelievable memories.

    There have been low points – not least the relegations that never actually materialised and the one that did finally bring us down out of the Conference – but they are outweighed by happy memories of mixing with top people whose dedication to the club does them proud.

    I would like to thank wholeheartedly everyone associated with the club for all their support over the last five-and-a-half years. Graham Heathcote took a chance on me, when he signed me from Vauxhall Motors, and some 200-plus games later, it’s clear I have a lot to thank him for.

    The role of captain is something I always took very seriously, on and off the pitch, and I want to thank the board for the way they have supported me, as a player and skipper. To be leading a team of players who are representing probably the biggest part time club is something I’m very, very proud of.

    A big thank you, too, to our supporters, particularly the hard core of fans who turn up every week, home and away, and really get behind me and the team. There have maybe been times when I have struggled with injury or lost form a bit, but you have always been supportive, and I can’t tell you how grateful I am for that. You’re a special bunch of people with exemplary morals and values.

    I always remember, when Graham approached me about joining Alty, he described it as a people’s club that was run on proper lines. He said the fans will take to you, as long as they can see you are totally committed to the club on and off the pitch. That was all I needed to hear, and I hope I have shown that in the intervening years.

    In a way, it’s a measure of my commitment to Altrincham that I have taken this decision. I just felt it was important I walked before I was pushed and that I went on my terms. It has been such a special time, I didn’t want it to end with someone telling me I had to go and pointing me towards the door.

    Others have had to move on, after playing a significant part in the club’s fortunes, and there are a few names that spring readily to mind. I was really disappointed when Gary Scott left, Gary Talbot was another massive presence and, of course, Colin Little will remain an Alty legend for his phenomenal goalscoring prowess.

    Maybe not everyone will be sad to see me go - you never win everyone over - but I hope I will be remembered for my less-than-glamorous style of play, my determination and desire to succeed on the pitch and pride at being an ambassador for the club off it.

    I have got to know Altrincham FC well enough to realise it runs through the blood of the people who surround it. I have developed such an attachment, I’d like to think that applies to me, as well.

    Certainly, I will always consider everyone at the club a personal friend, and I hope I might be welcomed back again before long, as an opponent, a spectator or opposing manager or coach. I really enjoyed helping Neil Tolson with things like the pre-match warm-up at Worcester, and I can’t see myself ever leaving football.

    The management side is next on the agenda, after I finish playing, and who knows where that might take me? Back here to Alty one day? There’s a thought, but in the meantime, thanks again to every single one of you and all the very best until the next time. Go and get promoted!!!

    Robbie".

    Footnote: Robbie made 217 starts, plus 14 appearances from the bench, and scored 9 times for Altrincham.

    As the website editor, I have always found Robbie a very friendly and approachable man who always gave his all for the club, whilst his "Captain's Log" articles were a model of articulate and entertaining commentary on the Club's ups and downs. I wish him all the best in his future career in football and thank him for his dedicated service to the club.

    "A QUALIFIED SUCCESS"

    TASC chairman, Brian Flynn, writes...

    Dog & Pig Racing Night a Qualified Success

    Saturday's Dog & Pig Racing night produced a profit of over £600 for Altrincham Football Club. Whilst we had a very good response in terms of Dog, Pig & Race Sponsorship, the attendance on the night was very disappointing.

    £600 is a fairly good return on this event and the money raised will support the playing budget going forward. However, another 20/30 people turning up on the night would have made the event wholly successful from both a social and financial perspective and would have enabled greater financial support for the management team".

    OLD BOYS

    An elaboration of yesterday's report comes from NL Daily, which states that "Experienced defender Stephen Rose has joined Radcliffe Borough from Ashton United. The 31-year-old defender is no stranger, having joined the club a number of years back from his former club Altrincham on a month’s loan. The former Manchester United, Altrincham and Chester defender has a wealth of experience and has, since the start of the season, been unavailable due to work, which has now eased. Manager Benny Phillips said, 'Steve has good experience and as with Lee (Woodyatt) we hope their experience will help us provide a solid base at the back'".

    BUCKET COLLECTION

    The half-time bucket collection on Saturday raised £55.48, for which the Club is very grateful.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Blue Square Bet North report that "Grimsby Town have been ordered to pay undisclosed fees to outfit Boston United for Shaun Pearson and Anthony Church. Church and Pearson signed for the Mariners in the summer but the two clubs were unable to reach a compensation agreement."

    "Defiant David Livermore insisted there was 'no crisis' after a third consecutive defeat dropped Histon to within four points of the Blue Square Bet North relegation zone at the weekend. The player/manager, who gave away a penalty in Saturday’s 4-1 home hammering by Halifax, reckoned the run of fixtures has made the Stutes’ situation look worse than it is.

    'Let’s not kid ourselves, we’ve come up against three of the best teams in the division, the top two, and Halifax, who were tipped as pre-season favourites to win the league', he said. 'It was a very disappointing display though. At 3-0 down we came to life and started passing the ball really well, but we need to play like that from the start. It’s no good doing it when the pressure is off and the other team have maybe taken their foot off the pedal a bit. It was a hard game to analyse. I thought there were periods when we defended well, but Halifax are a very good side, and every time we made a mistake they punished us.

    What was probably most disappointing was that in the first half when we had possession in our back third we couldn’t take advantage of their narrow midfield by getting good passes to our wide players. We may well have missed Pelayo (Gómez-Pico) because he gives us something different as an attacking midfielder. Although I thought Jay Dowie came in and did what he does well'", the manager told the Cambridge News.

    FC UNITED'S 12TH MAN

    Our Trophy opponents, FCUM, announce..

    "Ever fancied pulling on the FC shirt for real - sitting in the changing room with the players listening to Margy’s team talk, training with the team on a Tuesday, travelling to the away games, and seeing if Ben Deegan’s reputation as a ’joker’ is deserved?

    For the first time in two years, the 'Be the 12th Man' competition will be running, with tickets priced at only £2 each on sale outside the ground every home game... The winning ticket holder can transfer the prize to someone else, but there is no cash alternative, as this is a money can’t buy prize - including but not limited to:

    Prize details

  • 1. Registration as an FC United player on a one month trial from 1st to 29th February*
  • 2. Membership of the first team squad for this period.
  • 3. Participation at all training sessions throughout the trial.
  • 4. Travel and warm up with the team for all fixtures during the trial period.
  • 5. Be prepared, if ability dictates, to be available for team selection.
  • 6. Named in the official squad in the match day programme.
  • 7. Receive a certificate after the trial period.
  • 8. Receive "The 12th Man" shirt signed by all the squad and staff.
  • 9. Will be eligible for the end of season awards.
  • 10. Receive a squad photograph on which you will be present.

    *If the Great British weather causes a large number of games to be postponed a trial may be lengthened.

    In the words of Andy Griffiths, the 2008 winner, 'Money just can’t buy that sort of experience. It was a privilege to witness the inner workings at FC United, I really was surprised and impressed at the level of effort required, and the commitment demonstrated by everyone behind the scenes'. And better still, for every ticket you buy is contributing to our new ground - so dig deep, and even if you don’t win the prize - you are helping us take one more step to Moston, and our own ground - good luck".


    21 November 2011

    TRAVEL TO THE SHAY

    Details of TASC's supporters' transport to AFC Halifax Town on Saturday, 3 December, are on the Away Travel page. Please book by ringing the club on (0161) 928-1045.

    GLOUCESTER'S VIEWS

    Tiger Roar has a post-match interview with the Gloucester City manager and captain.

    YOUTH TEAM'S NARROW LOSS

    Above: Adam Reid claims the ball, assisted (l.to r.) by Liam Rutledge, Ryan Barry and Joe Coombs.

    Altrincham FC Youth lost 2-3 at home to Mossley on Sunday afternoon in a NWYA Premier Division league match. A report is in the Youth section.

    FIXTURES

    BSBN

    Tuesday 22nd

  • Guiseley v Nuneaton Town

    FA Cup 1R replay

    Tuesday 22nd

  • Tamworth v Hinckley United

    FA TROPHY OPPONENTS

    Our FAT opponents, FC United won again last Saturday, 3-2 at Worksop Town. And some ex-Alty names were involved...

    "The Reds started brightly and saw much of the ball, Carlos Roca being played through only to see his cross cut out by impressive home keeper Jon Worsnop...

    On 25 minutes FC took the lead as Dean Stott played a superb ball through to Astley Mullholland who crossed to Jake Cottrell. Cottrell shot and saw Worsnop push the ball onto the post where it came out to Nicky Platt who slid the ball into the net...

    Five minutes later, the [second] goal did arrive when Mullholland latched onto a poor backpass. He worked the ball to Cottrell who saw his shot pushed wide by Worsnop. From the resultant corner, Lee Neville rose and headed in.

    Mike Norton was next to try his luck when he headed a Roca free-kick against the bar and over...

    The Reds were struggling to get any moves going and it came as no surprise when Worksop equalised... Straight from the restart, the ball was played out to Mullholland who charged down the right wing and crossed into the box where Worsnop parried the ball out only to see the onrushing Shiels bundle it into his own net.

    The goal energised the away side, Deegan going through and checking back before shooting straight at the keeper".

    FLYNNZINE

    Brian Flynn's latest Flynnzine is entitled ‘The Inventors of Non-League Football’...

    "There is a reasonable chance that today could be our last home Saturday fixture of 2011. We could be playing at Moss Lane on December 10th in the FA Trophy or a rearranged league game, but otherwise it’s Colwyn Bay on January 7th!

    Despite our awful cup record in record in recent years - it’s a DECADE since we played Darlington in front of the Match of The Day cameras in the FA Cup 2nd Round - I’m looking forward to next Sunday’s FA Trophy tie against Football Club United of Manchester. Ever since FCUM were formed six years ago, fans of each club have speculated about a first ever competitive meeting of the two sides and I suppose that there was a certain inevitability that we would be drawn against each other out of an FA Cup/FA Trophy hat at some point.

    It looked like we might be league opponents this season, but Colwyn Bay won the Evo-Stik Premier Division Play-Off Final in North Wales, with a single Jon Newby goal in May.

    From the moment of their inception, FCUM have become a bit of an obsession for some Alty fans. During their first couple of seasons, they played at least a couple of games at Moss Lane, I remember a North West Counties League game against Holker Old Boys in their inaugural season and an FA Cup tie against Trafford in September 2007. The conspiracy theorists were out in force during those times, believing that our Trophy opponents were hell bent on making Moss Lane their medium term home, thus spelling the end of Altrincham FC!

    I’m not quite sure why some Robins’ supporters have a problem with FCUM. Their reasons for forming, whilst unusual, were totally legitimate, they started life in an appropriate league (North West Counties Division 2) and from my perspective, they have gone about their business as a club, very professionally, for the six years of their existence. They have got a few nutters, it seems, exampled by an unfortunate incident in a pre-season friendly here at Moss Lane in 2008, but on balance, they seem a decent and knowledgeable bunch, certainly the individuals that I have met.

    It will be good to see Alty play at Gigg Lane, which has been completely rebuilt since my last visit. I was hoping to get down there for their replay in the last round against Durham City, but couldn’t make it in the end. I ended up listening to the game on FCUM Radio, which, quite remarkably broadcasts seven days a week from 10.00am to midnight, a really good example of the specialised niche market world that we live in today!

    The core product, the match commentary, whilst being a little 'off the wall', is of a broadly similar standard to our own Radio Robins service, but the broadcast package as a whole is much more sophisticated, with jingles, music and recorded interviews, and shows what can be achieved over time. Their first broadcast was five years ago this weekend.

    Alty are referred to on FCUM Radio as 'The Inventors of Non-League Football', which I guess relates to the Alty fans who constantly refer to the long history of Altrincham F.C., compared with their perception of FC United as a 'Johnny come lately, plastic club, with no tradition'!

    So quite an occasion is in store on the sabbath next week but, first, we must deal with the pressing matter of an in-form Gloucester City, who will be trying to do to us this afternoon, what they did to Gainsborough Trinity’s outstanding home record on Tuesday". Brian Flynn.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Hyde report that "The club have agreed to release defender Brett Renshaw by mutual consent. Brett made 7 appearances for the Tigers since signing from Bradford Park Avenue in the summer, before joining FC Halifax Town on loan in October. Since returning from the Shay, Brett has been unable to force his way back in to a defence which kept 5 clean sheets in a row".

    This is Lincs reports that "Lee Canoville has rejected claims by Harrogate Town boss Simon Weaver that Boston United have signed midfielder Ian Ross. In his blog on the Harrogate website on Friday, Weaver said that Ross had left the CNG Stadium and rejoined the Pilgrims.

    Canoville admits he is an admirer of the former Rotherham man after playing alongside him for both Notts County and Boston in the Football League. The joint-manager refused to rule out a swoop for Ross, but he insists no deal has been done to sign the 25-year-old and declared his disappointment at Weaver's comments.

    'It does disappoint me', said Canoville following Boston's 3-1 victory at Gainsborough Trinity on Saturday. 'But there's not much you can do about it if they're putting stuff out there on their website. I found out about it today and it disappoints me because it's false, it's lies. If Ian Ross was a Boston United player he would have been involved today. Rossy was someone we were interested in during the summer, but he chose Harrogate. From the statement (Weaver's) I've seen, he's not been very happy there... I'm sure in the next week people will see what is going to happen'.

    Canoville was particularly disgruntled at Weaver's claim that United had offered an 'experienced midfield player' in exchange for Ross. The player-boss believes such comments could potentially unsettle members of the Boston squad.

    'The main disappointing thing is about us offering a midfielder to them. I don't know where that's come from', added Canoville. 'We want our players to know that when they're involved, they're with us all the way... We haven't said anything to our players yet, but we might have a word on Tuesday (at training) just to make sure they know they are here because we want them'...

    Canoville confirmed he and fellow joint-boss Jason Lee would be interested in signing Ross, if the player is available... 'But as for him being a Boston United player today (Saturday), that is false. As for us offering any central midfielders to Harrogate, that is false as well. In the next few days we'll see what happens'", he concluded.

    Corby Town visit Altrincham early in December and "Corby Town manager Graham Drury has admitted to being disappointed following his side’s late defeat against Nuneaton Town at Steel Park. Drury said 'I am extremely disappointed. The boys actually listened to me at half time and we started feeding the balls out wide a lot more and putting them under pressure. But we didn’t take our chances and we got caught with a sucker punch in the last five minutes.

    'We have now conceded seven goals in the last three matches in all competitions, and I can think of four of those which were on the counter attack, so myself and Paul Holden will be working hard on that in training this week. It wasn’t just the first goal today, we were also slack and allowed them to counter for the second. We were still in it at 1-0, with the chance of getting something out of the match, but the team were naïve to leave Gulliver with their big striker one on one...

    First half they were defensively strong and we were playing down the middle far too much. Their defence was better than ours. We started to put them under pressure in the second half but things weren’t going for us today... Nuneaton are a very solid outfit with pace on the counter. They are no mugs, they are a very good all round team... I am so disappointed because it feels like they have come and stolen the points from us... That is two defeats now in our last three games and we need to get back to winning ways on Saturday'".


    20 November 2011

    GLOUCESTER VERDICTS

  • Match report here.

    For their part, Gloucester City report that they "secured a third win on the bounce after goals from Tom Webb and Darren Edwards capped off a brilliant victory. The goals, both scored within the first half hour were too much for their Mancunian counterparts who, despite a late Damian Reeves goal, couldn’t muster an equaliser.

    Right: Adam Flynn (no.6) directs the ball towards goalkeeper Stuart Coburn, who had little option but to handle the ball as it was heading towards the net; a freekick was awarded for handling a back pass.

    It was a chilly November afternoon at Moss Lane but the Tigers started with on fire after a Darren Edwards layoff found captain Tom Webb who broke through the Altrincham backline to slot the ball into the far bottom corner.

    Altrincham attempted to hit back immediately, but a bumbling shot by Damian Reeves was well saved by Mike Green... Despite the pressure, City managed to capitalise on the exposed Robins defence and scored their second after a quick breakaway saw Tom Webb play in a brilliant ball to Will Morford in the final third who caressed the ball into the path of Edwards to round Robins ‘keeper Stuart Coburn and tuck the ball away for his tenth goal of the season...

    After a moment of lunacy from Coburn, who picked up a Mark Lees [Adam Flynn] backpass, Darren Mullings saw his close range free kick blocked after a plethora of Altrincham bodies threw themselves in front of the ball.

    Altrincham scored their first after a searching ball found Damian Reeves who skilfully placed the ball past Mike Green to set up a frantic finish... Altrincham almost nicked an undeserved equaliser late on when Lawrie latched onto a teasing cross from Jack Redshaw who couldn’t keep his header down and sailed over the bar".

    OLD BOYS

    Stephen Rose (left) has joined Radcliffe Borough from Ashton United. Also leaving Hurst Cross is former Alty striker Peter Wright, who has re-joined Kendal Town. In the F.A. Carlsberg Vase Second Round, former reserve and youth teamer Mark Drew netted for Ramsbottom as they lost at Consett. In the Vase, too, Barry Shuttleworth's goal was not enough to halt Padiham's exit at home to Askern Villa. In the Lancashire FA Trophy in midweek, Chris Denham scored the first in Chorley's 7-1 win over Ashton Athletic.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Attendances on Saturday were:
  • Altrincham v Gloucester City, att.773
  • Bishop's Stortford v Worcester City, 333
  • Blyth Spartans v Hinckley United, 364
  • Corby Town v Nuneaton Town, 820
  • Droylsden v Solihull Moors, 191
  • Gainsborough Trinity v Boston United, 475
  • Guiseley v Stalybridge Celtic, 738
  • Harrogate Town v Eastwood Town, 314
  • Histon v FC Halifax Town, 513
  • Hyde v Colwyn Bay, 462
  • Workington v Vauxhall Motors, 406

    According to the Football Conference, "Corby Town have extended the loan of defender Callum Reynolds from Tamworth until 1st January 2011. The former Portsmouth academy player has made a huge impact with the Steelmen since joining in late October, scoring three times in the FA Cup against Kidderminster Harriers and Bristol Rovers".

    Also "Ian Ross has left Harrogate Town to rejoin rivals Boston United. A no-nonsense midfielder, Ross was one of Simon Weaver’s first signings this season when he joined from Alfreton Town. A former Sheffield United player, Ross has also played for Boston United, Bury, Notts County and Rotherham United. On leaving Rotherham, Ross dropped into non-League football when he joined Gainsborough Trinity. It was from Trinity that he joined Alfreton in 2009. Ross made fourteen appearances during his time at the CNG Stadium."

    Meanwhile, A href="http://www.bluesqnorth.com/story/0,20970,13041_7316841,00.html">BSB North says that "Grimsby Town have revealed striker Sam Mulready has joined Gainsborough Trinity on a short-term loan spell. The Mariners forward hasn't spent much time at Blundell Park having only signed a six-month deaal... during the summer. But Mulready impressed Trinity boss Steve Housham enough in a recent practice match to earn himself a temporary deal at The Northolme until December".

    Departures from the Lincolnshire club are also reported by Gainsborough Trinity, who inform us that "Trinity can announce that Rory Coleman and Craig Nelthorpe have been been released. Rory Coleman, played a couple of games for the Blues but hasnt impressed for Steve Housham's men. Craig Nelthorpe, created a lot of hype before the season began, but has not lived up to expectations. Chairman Peter Swann said, 'We have identified targets and will be looking at them during the next couple of days'".


    19 November 2011

    NO COACH TO GIGG LANE

    Altrincham travel to Gigg Lane next Sunday (27 Nov.) to play FC United of Manchester in the FA Trophy. TASC will NOT be running supporters' transport to this match.

    A FULL DAY ON SATURDAY

    Steve Foster has provided the Race Card for Saturday (19 Nov.) evening's Race Night with a Difference, which starts at 8pm and features greyhound and pig races. Everyone is welcome! The event takes place in the bar (Noel White Suite).

    At half-time during the match with Gloucester City, there will be a bottle-bar in the Noel White Suite. And, after the game, but before the Race Night, the Club will be showing Swansea City v Manchester United in the bar on satellite TV, k.o. 5.30pm.

    So, make a day of it at Moss Lane!

    ALTY 1 GLOUCESTER CITY 2

    Altrincham made changes after their poor showing last time out at Worcester, but a lacklustre first half left them with too much to do to save their unbeaten home league record

    Right: Alty wait to take a first-half freekick.

  • Match report here.

  • League table
  • Alty player stats
  • Alty line-ups

    Sat. 19 Nov.

  • Through the Years
  • Altrincham 1 Gloucester City 2
  • Bishop's Stortford 1 Worcester City 1
  • Blyth Spartans 3 Hinckley United 3
  • Corby Town 0 Nuneaton Town 2
  • Droylsden 1 Solihull Moors 0
  • Gainsborough Trinity 1 Boston United 3
  • Guiseley 1 Stalybridge Celtic 1
  • Harrogate Town 2 Eastwood Town 1
  • Histon 1 FC Halifax Town 4
  • Hyde FC 3 Colwyn Bay 2
  • Workington 2 Vauxhall Motors 1

    GLOUCESTER COMING TO ATTACK

    This is Glos reports that "With one unbeaten home record already accounted for this week, Gloucester City will attempt to overcome another at fallen non-League giants Altrincham tomorrow. The Tigers produced one of their best performances of the season on Tuesday night when ending Gainsborough Trinity's perfect home record with a 4-1 win.

    Their second long trip of the week sees them make a maiden Blue Square Bet North trip to Moss Lane (3pm), home of another unbeaten home record. The Robins have won six and drawn two at home this term, but City and boss Dave Mehew head north in confident mood after their midweek heroics.

    He said, 'The Gainsborough game was the perfect performance, in terms of how I want us to be playing. We conceded after just a minute but, from then on, I don't think they really troubled us. Mike Green didn't really have a save to make'...

    Mehew realises a performance of a similar standard will be required at Moss Lane, against a side who have proven pedigree at Conference regional and national level.

    'It's going to be a tough one, we're playing a team that were in the Premier last year and nobody will expect us to get anything', Mehew said. 'But we've got a bit of confidence and we can go there and attack them. If we can get a decent result up there, we then have four home games on the spin, so there's an opportunity to go on a good run until Christmas. They've got some good players who have played at a higher level, like Michael Twiss and Damian Reeves, who can get goals if we give them a chance.

    'But perhaps they're a bit shaky at the back, so we will go there attack it and see what happens'.

    Mehew's will to keep the same side that performed so well at Gainsborough will be tested by a knock taken to midfielder Matt Lock's knee. The former Chelmsford City man played in an advanced midfield role to great effect in Lincolnshire but faces a late fitness test tomorrow. If he misses out it could offer Will Morford a route back into the side after he missed the Gainsborough trip due to his commitments with Cirencester College...

    Mehew added... 'Morf may come back in. However if he does, I will tell him that he certainly owes me a performance'.

    BSBN NEWS

    News of two ex-Altrincham trialists comes from the Football Conference, which says that captain "Damian Allan has left Colwyn Bay for Bangor City for an undisclosed fee. Due to the transfer window, Allan will not be available to play for Bangor until the 1st January 2012, but will start training with them from immediately.

    Meanwhile, new Bay boss Jon Newby has brought Fraser McLachlan back from Nantwich Town. Bay has submitted the forms for his international clearance".

    Elsewhere, "Nuneaton Town have agreed contract terms with recent signing Wesley York following his debut against Harrogate Town to create the winning goal. He came off the bench at home to Workington last week to score arguably the best goal seen in five years at The Triton Showers Community Arena. York then made his starting debut at Sutton Coldfield Town and netted the first goal in Boro’s the Birmingham Senior Cup victory".

    Bishop's Stortford have issued a press release entitled "FA Feedback on BSFC League Status". It includes the following...

    Since the Football Club was moved in to the Blue Square Bet North at the beginning of the season the directors have been in regular dialogue at a senior level within the FA in order to try and establish what will happen with the league placement of the club for the 2012/13 season. Quoted below are some pertinent bullet points that have been received by the FA on this matter. Whilst this doesn’t give any guarantees of what will happen for the coming season we believe that it shows intent that every effort will be made to return us to the Blue Square Bet South.

  • There is little doubt that the way in which this situation arose was most unfortunate with Bishop's Stortford FC being caught up in a situation that was not of their doing, especially coming at such a late stage. ‘
  • The placement of BSFC in to the Blue Square Bet North, whether you agree with the outcome or not, was dealt with in accordance with the Football Conference Rules and the National League System Regulations...
  • In an ideal world what we need at the end of next season is for 4 northern based teams to be relegated from Conference National. This would then enable ourselves and the leagues to address the anomalies that currently exist at Step 2...
  • I can assure you that every effort will be made at the end of the current season to return the Club to Conference South. However, the club must understand that there will be a pool of 44 clubs to be split North/South to provide for 2 Divisions each of 22 Clubs. The Football Conference would not entertain the option to operate with a 21/23 split".

    On the field, the Bishops announce that "David Adedipe has signed from Concord Rangers. David, 18, is a winger formerly playing for Millwall FC".

    News of another player heading the other way from another BSBN club comes from Hyde FC where "It is with regret that we announce Ryan Crowther has left Hyde to join Fleetwood Town. Ryan had decided that now was the time to move on and has joined Fleetwood". A fee is believed to be involved.

    And "Hinckley United look set to be without goalkeeper Dan Haystead for the rest season as he goes under the surgeon’s knife today. The goalkeeper, who broke his arm in Monday’s 0-0 with Hyde, will have an operation — prompting the Knitters to search for a loan signing ahead of tomorrow’s long trip to Blyth Spartans. Manager Dean Thomas admits Haystead has not had the best of the weeks after he was also sent off in the thrilling FA Cup draw against Tamworth last weekend.

    He said, 'Danny is gutted. He can still work because he works in an office but he’s got to have an op (today). They’ll put a rod in his arm. He needs to focus on next season now. I can’t see him playing again this season. I think you can safely say he had a bad weekend'.

    One player Thomas did consider bringing in on loan was Nuneaton Town keeper Danny Alcock, who has lost his place to Neil Collett this season. However, he says that will not take place as Alcock’s wages proved too rich and the England C international is now injured... If Thomas fails to bring in a loan signing Denham Hinds will play. Haystead’s young deputy will definitely start Tuesday’s first round replay against Tamworth as only players eligible for the original tie can feature" reports the Nuneaton News.

    According to the Chronicle Live, "Blyth Spartans' chairman Tony Platten insists he remains squarely behind manager Steve Cuggy, despite the club’s disappointing start to the season. The Croft Park club are bottom of Blue Square Bet North... They followed up last Saturday’s FA Cup first-round exit at the hands of Gateshead with a further setback at home, to fellow strugglers Vauxhall Motors.

    Spartans – who have signed defender Darren Timmons from Whitley Bay and midfielder Rob Briggs on loan from Gateshead – host fifth-bottom Hinckley United tomorrow. But asked if he still has faith in Cuggy, Platten said, 'Yeah, and I’m absolutely confident that we’ll not be at the bottom of the table by the time we get to March. If you only look at results you’ll come to one conclusion. But if you look at the fact that we haven’t played the same 11 players in two consecutive matches and we’ve used a total of 27 players, then it’s a different story. You have to accept that, due to the injury problems we’ve had, which have been pretty severe and remain ongoing.

    'Just as we got our forwards sorted out we lost two central defenders, one through a very unfortunate suspension and the other with an equally unfortunate injury. The positive signs are there. You just have to look at the enthusiasm at training, Gav (Fell’s) methods and the exercises they do. These guys didn’t come here to fail and as a chairman you’ve got to look behind the results. Unfortunately, most fans don’t do that. They just see us sitting at the bottom of the league and complain about individual performances. Until we get a consistent team on the pitch we’re never going to get the best out of them'”.

    In the Nuneaton News we learn that "Graham Ward is facing further injury misery after it was revealed the Nuneaton Town right-back could need more knee surgery. The former Worcester skipper missed the start of the season with a knee problem and now he has a fresh injury to the other leg. He will play in tomorrow’s game at Corby Town, but surgery looks a distinct possibility.

    Manager Kevin Wilkin said, 'There is damage to the other knee now. It’s likely to need surgery so that will come as a massive blow to Wardy. He’s an honest boy who has been playing through the pain barrier. He can keep playing for the time being but he’s got an appointment with a specialist next week... He could well need surgery'... Ward is the only specialist right-back in the squad but Wilkin would not say whether he would bring in a new signing at this stage".


    18 November 2011

    YOUTH NEWS

    Altrincham Youth narrowly failed to progress in the Cheshire County FA District Youth Cup last Sunday. Despite Altrincham's 3-0 win over Macclesfield, The Wirral's 5-2 triumph at Runcorn ensured that they qualified for the final on goal difference, where they will meet Chester. Ironically, Alty defeated The Wirral on their own ground in the league stages of the competition. The final table is here.

    Alty Youth play Mossley on Sunday in a NWYA Premier Division match at Clay Lane (2pm). Mossley report that "Teenage Mossley players Tom Ingham and Andy McKernon played in England Schoolboy Trials at Blackburn on Saturday, with both hoping to be selected for the final England squad". Later it was reported that "Mossley wing back Tom Ingham has been selected for the initial 32-player squad for the England under 18s schoolboy side. Tom will be hoping to emulate Fabio Abreu who went on to play several International matches whilst a Mossley player last season. Tom will be attending England training at Lilleshall in early December".

    OLD BOYS

    On Tuesday, The Manchester Evening News reported that the "Movember" initiative, in which men grow moustaches to bring attention to testicular cancer, has a serious side at Radcliffe Borough where former Alty reserve Griff Jones has recovered from that disease. Griff was given the all-clear after three months of chemotherapy.

    Pitchero Non-League tells us that "Danny Johnson, manager of Ashton United, has confirmed that Peter Wright has left Hurst Cross".

    FA TROPHY

    News of Alty's FA Trophy opponents comes from FC United who confirm that "A number of FC United players have been on the move recently... Midfielder [and ex-Alty defender] Richard Battersby has joined Trafford to get some regular first team football after being out of action for a number of weeks due to suspension.

    Midfielders Adam Edwards and Ryan McGreevy have joined Evo-Stik Division One North side Clitheroe to get some regular first team football. Some supporters have been wondering where [ex-Alty defender] Karl Munroe has been. As reported at the beginning of the season, Karl is a registered player with FC United and is available if and when needed by the club".

    BSBN NEWS

    The Wharfedale Observer says that "Guiseley are preparing to build a new stand and expand the seating capacity at Nethermoor to 500 in the new year. Last season the Lions installed a temporary 200-seat stand so that they could take their place in the Blue Square Bet North promotion play-offs.

    But now the regulations require that clubs must have permanent seating in place by March 31 if they are to challenge for elevation to the Blue Square Bet Conference this time. Guiseley have already secured planning permission from Leeds City and are hoping to submit a funding application to the Football Found ation.

    The scheme will cost around £100,000 and Guiseley are determined to go ahead... Chairman Phil Rogerson revealed, 'The Blue Square Bet rules were changed in August and what we did last year is no longer acceptable. We want to get the appropriate ground grading so we have pushed ahead with plans for a new 200-seater stand. It would go alongside our existing stand and meet with the new requirements'.

    Guiseley are also waiting to for a ruling from the Football Foundation to see if they are eligible for a grant to build the stand they need to be eligible for the play offs.

    'It is a bit of a confusing situation as to whether you can get funding to build facilities to gain promotion or whether you have to be in the higher league first', said Rogerson. 'Whether we get the funding or not, we have to have the stand and it will be built in time', he adde... One thing that has delighted the chairman this year has been the rise in the average home gate".

    News of the man who played no.11 against Altrincham for Eastwood recently, who has now move up a level... The BBC confirms that "Lincoln City manager David Holdsworth has added midfielders Tyrone Thompson and Jake Sheridan and striker Luke Medley to his squad. Free agent Thompson joins on a deal until 8 January while Sheridan and Medley are on loan from Eastwood and Kidderminster until 1 January".

    According to the Tameside Advertiser "Tameside rivals Hyde and Stalybridge Celtic could soon be locked in a straight fight for the Blue Square Bet North championship. So says Hyde boss Gary Lowe, who believes it’s looking increasingly likely the local pair – first and second since August – can avoid being caught by the chasing pack throughout the season.

    Lowe’s table-topping Tigers moved three points clear of the second-placed Celts with a goalless draw at Hinckley on Monday – their fifth successive clean-sheet. However, Stalybridge do now have two games in hand on their Ewen Fields foes. And, with Bridge a massive 11 points ahead of third-placed Gainsborough as the Advertiser went to press, the battle for the championship and automatic promotion is still showing little sign of being anything other than a two-horse race.

    Should that be the case, the Tameside duo’s festive season showdowns on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day could play a crucial part in deciding which of them goes straight up as champions... Lowe, a self-confessed admirer of his Bower Fold counterpart Jim Harvey, said, 'With Gainsborough and Guiseley both dropping points at the weekend, Bridge and ourselves now have a nice little cushion. Who knows, it could be between the two of us all the way'".

    Were Lowe’s suspicions to be confirmed, it would also represent a shift in the balance of power in Tameside, where Droylsden have been the borough’s top team for seven of the past eight seasons".

    The Halifax Courier says that "After the highs of Charlton in the FA Cup it was a night of frustration for Town and manager Neil Aspin as the Shaymen were held to a goalless draw by Solihull last night. The Shay was a much different place with 1,140 inside and the players were unable to lift their game sufficiently to break down the stubborn visitors who packed their defence.

    '“I am disappointed - and very frustrated', said Aspin. 'When we got a head of steam up the game kept stopping which made it difficult to play to the tempo we wanted... You are not going to get games like Charlton every week. The players have a responsibility to play and do a job. We didn’t start well enough and if you don’t do that it gives the opposition a chance to get a foothold in the game...

    I don’t expect Solihull to come here and throw men forward but I would expect someone to do enough to create a chance and get a goal... It is not an easy division, as we have been saying all year'...

    James Walshaw made a promising debut a day after arriving from Darlington on loan and Aspin is certain he will be a hit at the Shay. 'If he plays the next 25 games I know he will score goals', said the Shay boss".


    17 November 2011

    HINCKLEY DATE

    Late this afternoon it was confirmed that Altrincham's rearranged league match at Hinckley United will take place on Monday, 9 January 2012 at 7.45pm. Permission had to be gained from the authorities before the date could be finalised, as the new date is more than 42 days from the previously arranged fixture. 42 days is the normal limit within which games must be rearranged.

    BSBN RESULTS

    Wed. 16 Nov.
  • Corby Town 5 Droylsden 2 att. 458
  • FC Halifax Town 0 Solihull Moors 0 att.1140

    LEE SEEKS TO SOLVE PUZZLE

    Altrincham & Sale Advertiser reports that "Altrincham will be relying on home comforts again as they return to Moss Lane to face Gloucester City this Saturday. Manager Lee Sinnott told his players last week that it was time to fix their woeful away form – yet their struggles continued with a 3-0 defeat at Worcester City last Saturday. That means the Robins have taken just five points from 24 away from home.

    Sinnott is aware that puts extra pressure on his side to win at home but it is a challenge they have risen to so far as they are unbeaten at Moss Lane in the league. Alty have been ruthless there of late, winning their last five league games at home, scoring 17 goals and conceding just four in the process.

    'Last Saturday’s result means we have to get going again in terms of points', Sinnott said. 'Our home form would put us in the top three, whereas our away form would put us extremely low down. It means we have to set the record straight at home and we’ll be looking to do that against Gloucester because it’s not long since we played there, when two points escaped in the third minute of injury time'.

    A late equaliser by the Tigers meant Alty had to settle for a 1-1 draw in early September and it was to be another disappointing away day on Saturday.

    Damian Reeves missed an early opportunity before Worcester’s Simon Brown got in behind Chris Lynch (left), who bundled over the striker, and Brown converted from the spot in the 10th minute. Altrincham spurned two good chances to equalise when Michael Twiss and Reeves failed to get shots away, while Mark Lees fired over.

    Worcester then doubled their lead in the 40th minute as Tom Thorley exchanged passes with Lee Smith before beating Stuart Coburn.

    Sinnott was absent after his mother passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, so assistant Neil Tolson was in charge and he made a triple change at half-time. That had an impact with substitute Jack Redshaw impressing. But they could not pull one back and Thorley sealed victory with nine minutes left.

    Sinnott was back in charge at training on Tuesday and there was only one place to start.

    'We have to put some thought to this puzzling away scenario because that is what’s dragging us back at the moment', Sinnott added. 'It will turn, of course it will, it’s just finding the solution to it because there’s so much we’re doing right'".

    The Sale & Altrincham Messenger has Neil Tolson's angle.

    "Lee Sinnott and Neil Tolson (left) have vowed to find an answer to an away-day malaise that is threatening to scupper Altrincham’s hopes of an instant return to the Blue Square Bet Conference.

    Alty boss Sinnott returned to training on Tuesday night, after missing Saturday’s defeat at Worcester due to a family bereavement, and immediately turned his attention to the stark contrast between his side’s fortunes at home and on their travels.

    They have amassed 20 points from eight unbeaten games at Moss Lane but managed only five from the same number on the road.

    ‘It’s chalk and cheese and something we need to address,’ said assistant-manager Tolson. ‘If we can maintain our home form and sort out what’s gone wrong away, we can be a major force in this league, so it is vital we put things right. The first half at Worcester was unacceptable, and I told the players that if 11 substitutions had been allowed, I would have made 11. We had one great chance in that first half, and if it had gone in, we’d have been 2-1 down at the break. I’d have been over the moon with that, because we could easily have been four or five adrift.

    ‘I’ve never made three changes at half-time before, but something had to be done, because I sensed we could end up losing by six or seven. It’s just unfortunate that you sometimes have to raise your voice, and the players saw a different side to me. I told them that 150 of our supporters had worked all week and paid good money to travel down and get behind us, and they deserved better. We owed them, and though the result still wasn’t right, there was at least a response in the second half.

    ‘I don’t know whether the answer is to change the formation or bring someone in who can improve us in certain areas. Something is not quite right, but we are going to work on it and sort it out.’ Nicky Clee is fit for Saturday’s home game with Gloucester".

    SPONSORS

    Barry Pond's updated list of Matchday Sponsors is now available. IF you would like to sponsor a game, matchball or a player, please contact the club by e-mail or by 'phone on 0161 928-1045.

    OLD BOY

    NL Daily tells us tht "Buxton parted company with manager John Reed following Tuesday evening’s Doodson Sport Cup tie at Brigg Town. Reed's exit, by mutual consent, followed the club's worrying start to the season... Assistant manager Clive Freeman, who had been at the club for the whole of Reed’s four and a half-year tenure, has also departed".

    YANKEE

    The Altrincham FC Saturday Yankee jackpot of £5,000 was again unclaimed this week; the winning code of 6242 was unissued. However, seven "treble" winners each received £28.57 each. The reserve jackpot now stands at £2,500.

    GOAL ATTRIBUTION

    Damian Reeves has netted sixteen league goals this season. He has already suffered from having two of his goals wrongly attributed in various of the printed media, one of these even being assigned to Alty's Adam Reid, their substitute goalkeeper who has yet to make a BSBN appearance. Alty Press Officer Brian Flynn got that corrected but still there is confusion in the NL Paper of last Sunday. They printed two goalscorers' charts; one of which was updated after Saturday's games, (in which Damian did not add to his 16 goals) whilst the other list was dated the preceding day. The up to date list gives Reeves 16 goals correctly, but the older list gives him 15, not the 16 which he had by then. The up to date list also attributes five league goals to Nicky Clee, but he has only scored four. The fifth goal appeared mysteriously some weeks ago when Stalybridge Celtic scored two goals in a match which had nothing to do with Alty but Celtic were shown as having three scorers, including a certain "Clee"!

    NEXT OPPONENTS' "RENEWED CONFIDENCE"

    Alty's next opponents had a fine win in midweek at Gainsborough. And This is Glos tells us that "A dominant Tigers side spoiled Gainsborough Trinity's unbeaten home record with a comprehensive 4-1 win last night. Goals from substitute Steve Davies, Bristol Rovers loanee Charlie Reece, hardworking Darren Edwards and defender Tom Hamblin came thick and fast as City exploited defensive mistakes by the home side, who are currently third in the league.

    With Edwards's strike partner Will Morford missing, due to work commitments, the mercurial forward started up front on his own, with Matt Lock tucking in behind. An early goal from Gainsborough saw Leary's shot was deflected over keeper Mike Green by Hamblin's outstretched leg...

    An injury to Lock forced an early substitution, with impact sub Davies once again using his pace to great effect. After the break Gloucester stepped up a gear, with Reece, along with skipper Tom Webb working as the engine of the team in midfield... In the second half, the goals came thick and fast, Davies pounced after the Trinity keeper spilled a 35 yard strike from centre half Matt Coupe to draw level.

    Next to exploit the nervy keeper [Dimitar Evtimov] was Reece, firing home from close range after a Hamblin shot from a corner was blocked. Hamblin, who had received treatment for a cut to his head earlier in the game rose up for a bullet header from a Mann corner for City's third. Edwards sealed the deal with his second goal in two games. His super sharp reactions saw him latch onto poor back pass, draw the keeper out and dance around him to net.

    City now travel to Altrincham on Saturday with renewed confidence."

    From the other side, Gainsborough Trinity say that "Steve Housham’s team lost their intact home record at the hands of Gloucester City, despite going a goal ahead through Michael Leary...

    Into the second half and it was Gloucester who came out the better of the two teams.

    Gloucester City; Mike Green;Mike Green(appears their is two Mike Green's; Tyler Weir; Matt Coupe; Tom Hamblin; Tom Webb; Charlie Reece(Rawlings 76); Darren Mullings; Darren Edwards; Matt Lock(Davies 25); Adam Mann"


    16 November 2011

    JACK HITS THREE

    Alty striker Jack Redshaw played for Salford City tonight in the Manchester Premier Cup at Oldham Town. He scored a hat-trick in a 3-1 win. Ian Senior advises that "He played, with Lee Sinnott's blessing, to get another 90 minutes game-time. He will be back with us on Saturday at home to Gloucester City".

    TUESDAY RESULTS

  • Blyth Spartans 1 Vauxhall Motors 2
  • Gainsborough Trinity 1 Gloucester City 4
  • Harrogate Town 1 Bishop's Stortford 1
  • League table

    NEXT OPPONENTS

    Before their win at Gainsborough, This is Glos reported that "Buoyed a blip-busting victory against Harrogate Town, Gloucester City travel to Gainsborough Trinity tonight with consistency the buzzword on the mind of boss Dave Mehew...

    'We need a bit of consistency, we've been getting close in previous weeks but finally put it all together against Harrogate' Mehew said... We've been doing okay without getting the results we had deserved, but hopefully Saturday's put that to bed... We did a lot of talking this week about conceding goals in the last ten and 15 minutes as that's really the only thing that's been going wrong.

    It's a concentration thing and something that we have worked on and talked a lot about and hopefully there were signs that we have now sorted that'.

    Mehew opted to go without the dogged talents of skipper Tom Webb on Saturday, preferring to partner Darren Mulling and Matt Lock in the centre of midfield. He also utilised a twin threat on the wings with on-loan Bristol Rovers man Charlie Reece and Adam Mann both excelling.

    The City boss may opt to shuffle his pack this evening though, not because players didn't perform on Saturday, but because his side face two tough trips in five days. Tonight's 330 mile round trip is followed by a 250-mile slog to Altrincham and back on Saturday and experience has told Mehew to shuffle his pack to offset the tired travel-worn legs.

    'I am looking at it being a three-game week, with two long journeys in it and experience tells me that changes may be needed', he said... 'Webby will want to come back in and Matt Rose will be again in the mix especially at this time of year on the heavy pitches. Steve Davies is also in the reckoning, although we won't rush that as he's only just come back'".

    FAT: v. FCUM

    Alty travel to Bury's Gigg Lane stadium to play FC United of Manchester in the FA Trophy on Sunday, 27 November. FCUM have advised Altrincham that "Having been on the receiving end of the worst excesses of modern football when following Manchester United, FC United supporters made a conscious decision in the earliest days of the club to ensure that all visiting supporters are given the best treatment possible...

    The match will take place at the home of Bury FC, Gigg Lane, BL9 9HR. Gigg Lane is an 11,000 capacity all seater stadium - although standing is permitted in all seating areas... For this match, the Main Stand and the Manchester Road End will be used by FC United supporters and the Cemetery End will be used by Altrincham supporters.

    Admission is by pay on the gate and prices are as follows:

  • £8 Adults
  • £5 Over 60s and students
  • £2 Under 18s

    The tram station is in the centre of Bury; about 15 minutes walk from the ground. Alternatively the 135 bus from Manchester takes about 40 minutes and stops close to Gigg Lane...

    Limited parking is available at the ground for a charge of £3. Additional parking is available at St Luke?s Primary School (Morley Street, Bury BL9 9JQ) for £3. All monies raised at both car parks go to FC United club funds. There is also plenty of free on street parking within easy walking distance...

    The club produces a full colour match day programme for £2...

    Away supporters are kindly invited to use the Bury FC social club situated on the road outside the ground. There will usually be some form of entertainment before the game as part of the new “Saturday Social”, e.g. Q & A with players/board members, quiz and Sky Sports football on the big screen. FC United operate a £1 admission charge pre-match which goes to club funds. You are welcome to take your own food into the social club...

    New for this season, after the match, the players and officials from both teams will be in the social club, where the man of the match will be announced. Again, away fans are very welcome!

    FCUM Radio broadcasts free live commentary via the internet at every FC United match, for those supporters unable to make the game - www.fcumradio.co.uk ... FCUM radio is also more than happy to read texts and emails from supporters of opposing teams. ... TV highlights are also available after home games - www.fcum.tv."

    PIG AND DOG NIGHT!

    After Saturday's game at Moss Lane, starting at 8pm, Richie Bentley, Altrincham FC's caterer, writes:

    "The food for Saturday night will be PIG AND DOG to coincide with the theme of the race night. We have some humanely killed hot dogs and roast pork big baps with fried onions and apple sauce. For the vegetarians there are some locally sourced vegetables which will be killed and cut up into burgers on the evening.

    All sandwiches will be £2 each with donation of 25% going to the club so we will be doing an honesty bucket system similar to the Mark Maddox fundraiser we did after the Tranmere game. Bring your cash, support the club, win some money......and eat dog or pig....(or both)!

    YOUTHS GO CLOSE

    Though Altrincham won their Cheshire County FA District Cup match last Sunday, they did not qualify for the final as they were pipped on goal difference by The Wirral, who beat Runcorn.

    CHRISTMAS IS COMING

    Jenny Heslop, manager of the Robins' Shop, asks that anyone wishing to obtain Alty merchandise before Christmas should please order their goods by December 13th.

    HOLIDAY SAVINGS FOR ALL

    Altrincham FC's Barry Pond reminds all Alty fans that "This Saturday, 19th, staff from Thomas Cook, Altrincham will be at the Club in or around the bar area to promote holidays for next year, or even a late break this year. Whilst the Alty Holiday Club gives Altrincham Football Club a small cash benefit for each holiday booked, there is also an incentive for each supporter or their friends and family by way of a discount on the cost of each holiday booked, so everyone benefits. All you have do is go into your local Thomas Cook store and mention The Alty Holiday Club to save money on your next holiday. You can also discuss holidays with Thomas Cook on Saturday at the match".

    LADIES' LATEST GAME

    Keith Edleston, manager of the Altrincham FC Ladies' team, writes...

    "As we had no game on Sunday, I checked on the FA website and started to ring round some teams who was also without a game and who were willing to play us. Unfortunately, all the calls were to no avail until late Friday night, when I tried Tony at Rivacre Ladies FC in Ellesmere Port, and he agreed!

    As the night went on (and while he was on nights) he finally managed to get all his girls to say 'yes', they would play. After a few drop outs on Sunday morning we finally set off from BTH with twelve players and I made sure, after all the barracking I've had, Rick was in my car so we wouldn't get lost again.

    Well, even armed with two sat navs, we still managed it but finally arrived at their ground around 1.15pm. After a warm up by Jamie and a chat, I told them that Rivacre was a mid-table fiirst division team who, at home, were quite a strong outfit but it didnt seem to faze the girls at all.

    After we had had the minute's silence for Remembrance Day, we set about Rivacre with our brand of open football and, allied to some strong tackling, took the game to them. In the team we had a debut-making goalkeeper in Rosie Emerson, who during the game commanded her area well and acted as sweeper a few times as well as collecting crosses put in from their wingers. And, up front, we had Jackie, who had only been at training on Thursday!!

    We opened the scoring on 15 minutes with a scrambled effort by Sue Elias then quickly made it two through a lovely shot by Nat Thornley. As the game was going on, with some good, enterprising wing play, we increased our lead to three on 27 mins with a rasping 25 yard shot from Kate Rawthorn leaving the Rivacre goalkeeper rooted to her spot.

    Half time 3-0.

    Into the second half Rivacre came more into the game and our defence was made to work hard but still we kept playing and, on 58 mins, after a run down the left wing by Maya, she played the ball across the goal and Sue was on hand to rifle in her second and our fourth.

    A couple of injuries were dealt with and, to be honest, broke the play up and it got a bit disjointed but, in the 85th minute, we won a corner and Maya took an inswinginger which the keeper collected from under her bar but then dropped it into her net..!

    On 87 minutes, from an attack by their number 9, Louise gave away a penalty, which Rosie our keeper could do nothing about when it was hammered into the top right hand corner.

    Full time 5-1.

    Can I just thank Tony and all his ladies for agreeing to play us at short notice and the friendliness and hospitality shown to us were fantastic, I hope you all have a great season. Up the Alty..!"

    OLD BOY

    Aaron Chalmers, who declined to join ALtrincham a couple of summers ago, scored for Woodley Sports in the Doodson Sport Cup against Curzon Ashton on Monday evening.

    FA CUP NON-LEAGUE ACTION

    The Football Conference says that "Three ties from the FA Cup with Budweiser Second Round will be shown on live TV next month. An exciting weekend of FA Cup action kicks-off on ESPN, Friday, 2nd December. The FA Cup prize fund for the Second Round stage is £27,000 while the FA live broadcast fee is £72,000 per club.
  • Fri 2 Dec 7.30pm – Fleetwood Town v Yeovil Town - ESPN
  • Sun 4 Dec 12.30pm – AFC Totton v Bristol Rovers – ITV1
  • Sun 4 Dec 5.00pm – Sutton United v Notts County - ESPN"

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    From Blue Square North we learn that "Gateshead reserves captain Rob Briggs has joined neighbours Blyth Spartans on a one-month loan. The 19-year-old midfielder has yet to make his senior bow for Gateshead and has been on the bench once this season against Hebburn Town in the FA Cup."

    Meanwhile, "Colwyn Bay have confirmed the appointment of Stuart Barlow as assistant to newly appointed manager Jon Newby. The 43-year-old former striker last played for Southport before deciding to hang up his boots for good in 2006."

    Elsewhere, "Nuneaton Town have agreed to take Coventry City's former Arsenal trainee Jamal Frederick on loan. Frederick, who is very highly rated by many at Championship and Premier League levels, joins the club on work experience".

    The BBC says that "Kettering Town have placed every one of their first-team players on the transfer list. A club spokesperson told BBC Radio Northampton the decision was 'in response to recent results and the financial issues related to that'.

    The club also say manager Mark Stimson has fully backed the unorthodox move. Kettering had already made 11 players available for transfer in September, once again for a combination of footballing and financial reasons. The Poppies are 19th in the Blue Square Bet Premier and Saturday's FA Cup exit to Sutton United means they have won one in their last five games...

    Stimson confirmed on Monday that the players had yet to receive their full wages this month. But it remains to be seen whether that is linked to the decision to place the whole of the first team on the transfer list."

    He played against Alty last Saturday and now the Halesowen News reports that "A Worcester City Football Club player who likened killing illegal immigrants to a video game said it was just friendly banter.

    Lee Smith, who plays on the right wing for Worcester City, is now facing an internal club probe over comments he posted on the Twitter social media network on Armistice Day.

    The comments sparked an online row, with some branding Mr Smith a racist – a claim he denies. Mr Smith, aged 28, said he stood by comments on his personal Twitter account that illegal immigrants should leave the country saying, 'It is my right to write what I think – but I didn’t mean any offence'.

    On November 11, he posted, 'Respect to all the heroes 11/11/11 now to all the illegal *****, **** off out of are [our] country all [or] call of duty could become a reality – kill um'...

    'To be honest Twitter is quite new to me, and I thought only people like my friends could see it', he said. 'I am not going to apologise because what I said is what I think, because a lot of the illegal immigrants have taken jobs from people here'".

    "FC Halifax Town manager Neil Aspin has signed long-time target James Walshaw on loan from Darlington.

    Walshaw signed for the Quakers in the summer having had talks with Neil Aspin but he opted for full time football in the North East. Since his move he has scored 3 goals in 15 starts for Darlington... The 27 year old has previously played for Ossett Town, Wakefield and Farsley Celtic but it was with Guiseley last season that he impressed".

    "Corby Town midfielder Jean Sylvain Dossou has been called up to represent his native Niger in an upcoming friendly, against Botswana. The two sides will meet this evening at the Stade Général Seyni Kountché in Niamey.

    Dossou joined the Steelmen from Kettering Town in October 2011, having previously played for Farnborough Town, Potters Bar Town, Kingstonian and Lewes.

    Manager Graham Drury was delighted with the news and told www.corbytownfc.co.uk, 'We are so proud of him, it is an absolute honour for the football club to have one of our players called up to represent his country on the world stage'... He told me that he had been called up in the hotel in Bristol, and he was almost in tears'... He could be heading to play for Niger in their first ever African Cup of Nations against the likes of Mikel Essien, Samuel Etoo, Didier Drogba and Asamoah Gyan next year'".


    15 November 2011

    TROPHY OPPONENTS

    News of Alty's FA Trophy opponents comes from FC United; "Karl Marginson, manager of FC United of Manchester, has re-shuffled his back-room team after deciding to take more advantage of the individual strengths within the management and coaching set-up. Chuks Akuneto, previously youth team manager, has been brought in as first team coach and the youth team is now being managed by Dave Brown. Marginson believes this will free up assistant manager Roy Soule and head of player development Darren Lyons [ex-Alty] to contribute more in other areas... Goalkeepers’ coaching continues to be managed by Paul Chapman.

    Still on FCUM, news of an Alty old boy comes from This is Derbyshire which says that "Two goals from danger man Astley Mulholland midway through the first half proved to be too much for Mickleover Sports. They were enough to secure all three points for FC United of Manchester... It was 2-0 when Mulholland got up well at the near post to head home from six yards out. FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER: Spencer, Jacobs, Neville, Cottrell, Jones, Stones, Roca (Walcott, 74), Platt (Grimshaw, 83), Norton, Stott, Mulholland (Holden, 83). Other subs Armstrong, Deegan."

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Tuesday's match:
  • Hinckley U. 0 Hyde 0
  • League table

    The Worcester News tells us that "Manager Carl Heeley insists expectation levels need to remain realistic at Worcester City after seeing his team edge closer to the play-off positions. Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Altrincham at St George’s Lane lifted City to seventh in Blue Square Bet North with only goal difference keeping them out of the top five. However, Heeley is aware his side were tipped for relegation at the start of the campaign and it is barely 18 months since they avoided the drop from Conference South on a technicality...

    'We’ve come a hell of a long way and for teams to even be talking about what we’re capable of doing in the top half of the table is a refreshing change from where we’ve been', he said. 'We are in the table and our points tally. But we’re not going to get carried away... Time for reflection is at the end of the campaign'...

    He added, 'We do look a good side at the Lane. The better sides, like Altrincham and Guiseley, are having it tough when they come to us and that’s great. What we need to do now is take on board the game-plan of trying to be a little more resilient and difficult to break down in the away games because we’ve certainly got the fluidity and power to score goals. It’s just keeping that door shut and not giving ourselves a mountain to climb too early in games'".

    Pitchero Non-League reports that "Ian Walker, manager of Bishop`s Stortford, has added another goalkeeper to his ranks in 28-year-old Louis Green-Godwin. Godwin-Green [which is the correct version of his name] was recently released by new Great Wakering Rovers' manager Danny Greaves as his overhaul of the Ryman League Division One North side continues.

    Sadly for Godwin-Green, his release came one appearance short of 200 for the club. He started with Rovers youth side before deciding to gain first-team experience, leaving for Southend Manor, where he made over 100 appearances. He subsequently moved to Basildon United and Concord Rangers before making the step up to Ryman League level with Chatham Town, where he enjoyed two successful seasons. He was signed by Rovers in 2006".

    At Eastwood Town, "John Ramshaw has captured the signature of David Haggerty from AFC Halifax [i.e. FC Halifax Town]. David joined Halifax following his release from The Badgers at the end of last season, however his spell there didn't materialise as much as he would have liked it too, and he struggled to gain a start in the team. He did however start in the recent match against Eastwood at The Shay".

    According to the BBC "Gainsborough Trinity chairman Peter Swann says he has agreed a deal in principle to buy land in the town for the club's proposed new stadium. The site of the former Castle Hills School has been earmarked for the club's new ground. Swann told BBC Lincolnshire, 'As a former sports field this was ideal and we have an agreement in principle'...

    Gainsborough have been at their current Northolme ground for more than a century, but Swann stressed that the ground move was necessary for the club to grow. 'The club as a whole can't raise much money from matchdays', he said. 'It's disappointing that we'll have to move away from a ground where we've been for years but if we're going to progress and secure our future this is what we need to do'".

    NON-LEAGUE IN FA CUP

    The NL Paper reports that "Stourbridge and Bath City will have their FA Cup First Round replays televised on ESPN next week. Southern Premier League outfit Stourbridge will be disappointed to be playing in a replay at all, having led twice on Saturday before conceding a late equaliser to draw 3-3 [at Plymouth]... City, who currently sit bottom of the Conference Premier, earned their replay with a 1-1 draw at League Two strugglers Dagenham & Redbridge... All four clubs involve[d] will receive a £33,750 FA live TV broadcast fee".
    14 November 2011

    DISTRICT CUP WIN

    Altrincham FC Youth won their final group stage match in the Cheshire County FA District Cup by defeating Macclesfield & District FA 3-0 at Shawe View on Sunday. There is a match report here.

    Meanwhile, the latest Altrincham FC Youth league table in the NWYA is here.

    RACE NIGHT - WITH A DIFFERENCE!

    Saturday, 19 November 2011: RACE NIGHT - WITH A DIFFERENCE!

    Alty chairman Grahame Rowley announces a "Race Night with a difference", to take place on Saturday, November 19th, after the home game with Gloucester City. Grahame says that "It will be a mixture of greyhound races and pig races. Dogs and pigs will be on sale from this Saturday at £5 per animal. To sponsor a race will be just £20.

    Also, on that day, we will be showing Swansea City v Manchester United in the bar on satellite TV, k.o. 5.30pm".

    So, make a day of it at Moss Lane!

    TASC's Steve Foster adds that the event starts at 8pm. He asks that the few remaining people who have not yet given him a name for their dogs/pigs, should please e-mail him with the names of their animals as soon as possible. Thanks very much.

    ENGLAND WIN

    In the deaf players' international match at Moss Lane on Sunday morning, England defeated France 1-0.

    CUP FORCES FIXTURE CHANGE

    The only BSB North survivors in the FA Cup with Budweiser Second Round Draw are Hinckley United who must replay with Tamworth; that replay forces the postponement of Alty's league game at Hinckley set for 21 November. For Round 2, the draw produced the following tie to be played on 3rd and 4th December 2011...
  • Gateshead v Hinckley United or Tamworth.

    In the Sunday tie involving another BSBN club, FC Halifax Town lost 0-4 to Charlton Athletic. Former Alty men Ryan Toulson and Tom Baker were in the Shaymen's side but former Alty loanee, James Dean, was suspended.

    WORCESTER VIEWS

    From the Worcester News we read that "Worcester City had several points to prove against Altrincham — and they made them in emphatic style at St George’s Lane. Smarting from a 4-1 defeat at Droylsden last Tuesday, Carl Heeley’s team were out to restore an element of pride. Again missing hamstring casualty Mike Symons, they were equally determined to show they can manage without their 10-goal powerhouse. There was also the small matter of setting the record straight against the Robins having been trounced 4-1 at Moss Lane in September...

    City have settled those scores... The fact they kept their first clean sheet since September 19 was the icing on the cake following a convincing performance... It was an excellent display and in stark contrast to the horror-show that saw them humbled in the reverse fixture two months ago. Altrincham may have only won once on the road in the league this season but City are becoming a tough nut to crack on home soil...

    City made a confident start and did not let Altrincham settle from the first whistle. Some of their play cut the Mancunians to shreds, none more so than when Kevin O’Connor carved the defence apart with an incisive ball and sent Brown scampering clear to be fouled by Chris Lynch for the penalty... In Damian Reeves, Altrincham had the league’s leading marksman but he was thwarted by the defence time and again and, when he did break through, found keeper James Dormand in his way.

    Such were City’s first-half efforts that the visitors used all three of their substitutes at the break, but that did little to stem the flow. Another encouraging sign was the crowd, which was the biggest at the Lane since the start of September. Although containing a fair Cheshire contingent, one of whom took his life in his hands by sitting among the diehard City support, it shows Worcester’s results are not going unnoticed". The article goes on to mark the City players out of ten.

    Right: Some of the sizeable contingent of Alty fans in front of the spray-can artwork at Worcester.

    The News also reports that "City boss Carl Heeley hailed his players as “tremendous” after watching them put Altrincham to the sword...

    Heeley said, 'I thought everyone of the players, even the ones who came on, were tremendous. We were a pleasure to watch at times'...

    Heeley praised the way his defenders stifled Altrincham’s attacking threat and was also delighted to see Thorley among the goals. The Worcester manager said, 'I felt their two wide players, James Lawrie and Nicky Clee, and two forwards, Damian Reeves and Michael Twiss, would be very potent so it was going to be a tough afternoon for the centre-halves and full-backs. But, led by Lee Ayres, they dealt with them incredibly well and snuffed them out...

    Danny Carey-Bertram, who started his first game since August 29, echoed his manager’s sentiments. The striker said, 'Altrincham have got some good players and it showed how well we did with them making three changes at half-time'".

    Worcester City report on the Conference North Forum that against Altrincham last Saturday, "City showed they can do two things - get a win against the better sides in the league (having not done so in 8 previous attempts) and adapt their play to cope without big front-man Mike Symons. Carl Heeley lessened any risk of a long-ball game to a non-existant big front-man by opting to start with DCB [Danny Carey-Bertram] and Simon Brown upfront. This paid dividends as City retained position in midfield, and played incisive balls through the Alty defence (the reverse of the Moss Lane fixture).

    This approach paid dividends early on as first Simon Brown was played through (and Coburn could have walked early on for a block well outside of this area) and then Brown was pushed in the box following another incisive through ball, and slotted home the pen with confidence. Playing without Symons brought City's midfield into a more attacking role, and a Lee Smith pull back (the winger having his best game in a City shirt) to the far post saw Tom Thorley slot home.

    Alty's powerful forward line huffed and puffed, rarely given space by an excellent Lee Ayres and solid defence all round - Reeves failing to score for the first time after a six game scoring streak. Alty's stand-in manager gambled at half-time with three changes, and Alty had more possession second-half but lacked any real creativity, other than a close range header, and some strong right-wing runs to the bye-line. Tom Thorley allayed any SGL fears of a second late Guiseley-type comeback, netting the third confidently from distance ten minutes from time after being played through as Alty failed to clear their lines".

    NEXT OPPONENTS

    Alty's next game is at home to Gloucester City whose last game was a win over Harrogate Town. They are away at Gainsborough on Tuesday night. "Darren Edwards was the man on target to fire Gloucester City to their first league win in three games... The win, over a team with a budget rumoured to be four times that of the Tigers, moves City up to 13th... With Gloucester’s captain fantastic Tom Webb dropped to the bench, Matt Coupe took the armband and led from the back. Returning keeper Mike Green faced early action...

    Former Cheltenham striker Paul Brayson, who bagged a brace in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, once again looked dangerous in phases... and he looked equally jaded at times, losing his footing and lacking quality in front of goal. Young Sunderland scholar Ben Wilson looked nervy at times in the Harrogate goal, having been signed by the Yorkshire men as cover earlier in the week...

    Charlie Reece, playing on the right wing for City, looked comfortable on the ball and easily beat the Harrogate midfield for pace but twice in the first half he opted to turn inside in the box and not cross, wasting chances for the home side to take advantage of their comfortable possession... Mindful of the number of late goals shipped in in recent games Gloucester tightened up, with Mullings in particular closing the game down in midfield...

    Gloucester City: M J Green, M F Green, T Weir, M Coupe, T Hamblin, M Lock (S Rawlings 83) C Reece (T Webb 78) D Mullings, D Edwards, W Morford (S Davies 71) A Mann. Subs: M Rose, N Mustoe".

    BSBN FIXTURES

    Mon. 14 Nov.
  • Hinckley United v Hyde FC

    Tue. 15 Nov.

  • Blyth Spartans v Vauxhall Motors
  • Gainsborough Trinity v Gloucester City
  • Harrogate Town v Bishops Stortford

    Wed. 16 Nov.

  • Corby Town v Droylsden
  • FC Halifax Town v Solihull Moors

    Sat. 19 Nov.

  • Altrincham v Gloucester City
  • Bishop's Stortford v Worcester City
  • Blyth Spartans v Hinckley United
  • Corby Town v Nuneaton Town
  • Droylsden v Solihull Moors
  • Gainsborough Trinity v Boston United
  • Guiseley v Stalybridge Celtic
  • Harrogate Town v Eastwood Town
  • Histon v FC Halifax Town
  • Hyde FC v Colwyn Bay
  • Workington v Vauxhall Motors

    BSBN NEWS

    BSB North says that "Richard Offiong has left Blyth Spartans a little over a month after joining... Spartans' manager Steve Cuggy had revealed in October that he was delighted to have added the pace and presence of the 27-year-old to his side. The former Gateshead striker had recently returned to England after a short spell with Australian side Oakleigh Cannons, where he made three first-team appearances and scored one goal.

    But in his latest interview, Cuggy admitted that he doesn't have space for Offiong. He told the club's official website, 'I have four forwards at the club now and I can't guarantee Richard a game. Jamie Mole is a class act and Graeme Armstrong is a proven striker, then we have Glen Taylor coming on well. Richard needs matches under his belt. His attitude has been good and he showed a lot of restraint following the recent alleged racial abuse issue. Losing a striker means I can look to strengthen other areas of the squad. Richard leaves us on amicable terms and he will continue to train with the team so we haven't burned all our bridges'".

    Blyth Spartans add that "Spartans went down 2-0 to north east rivals Gateshead in the 1st Round proper of the FA Cup on Saturday. The Spartans put in a spirited showing, especially in the second half, but were beaten by the better side.

    'Obviously I’m disappointed', said Blyth manager Steve Cuggy. 'It didn’t turn out to be the rip-roaring cup tie it might have been. Our game plan was to hold on as long as possible and then push on but that idea went out of the window when we conceded after 14 minutes... and from there on we weren’t able to knock them out of their stride'...

    Richard Offiong replaced Lee Mason for the Spartans mid way through the half. 'We needed fresh legs', explained Cuggy...

    Gateshead boss Ian Bogie, speaking to Cuggy after the game highlighted one of the differences between the clubs. 'Ian emphasised to me that I shouldn’t be too down', said Cuggy. 'He talked about them being full time and the contrast to our game at Hyde earlier in the week when he travelled to watch us. He realised that we had to travel to Manchester, play the game and not get home till the early hours – and then for the players to work that day. A very different scenario to how Gateshead are able to train and do things. Having said that I think our general fitness levels are really good'.

    Looking to the future Cuggy suggested the cup run was 'a nice distraction which has brought in some valuable finance'... He also confirmed that 31 year old centre-back or right back, Darren Timmons has joined the club from Whitley Bay. Cuggy will have good options at the back when Wayne Buchannan and Carl Jones return to the squad and has three strikers vying for places (forward Richard Offiong was released at the weekend) so it is in the midfield area where he is looking to strengthen".

    Vauxhall Motors announce that they "have once again appointed Carl Macauley as their club manager. Carl had been in charge of the Motormen for over five years when he felt compelled to resign from the post earlier this year due to his anticipated increased employment responsibilities, at which time his assistant Anthony Wright took over the reins, assisted by Gary Martindale.

    The new partnership have, in many people's eyes, assembled the strongest squad the club has ever seen but, sadly, results have not reflected the hard work put in by them behind the scenes, which saw the club exit the F. A. Cup at the first hurdle and have won just twice in their last 11 Blue Square Bet North fixtures, taking just seven points from a possible 33. At the same time, Carl's anticipated employment has not materialised as he expected and it became clear he was interested in resuming his non-league managerial career. As a result, he was appointed the club's manager once again earlier this week, ably assisted by both Anthony Wright and Gary Martindale.

    Club chairman Alan Bartlam commented, 'We had nothing but admiration for the way Anthony took on the role and the way he conducted himself, whilst assembling a really strong looking squad but the results did not mirror his efforts and those of Gary off the field. Hopefully Carl will be able to exact something extra from the squad available to help us pull away from the lower regions of the table'”.

    Harrogate Town tell us that "Luke Dean has been recalled back by his parent club Bradford City".


    13 November 2011

    CCFA DISTRICT CUP

    Altrincham FC Youth team is in action today as players constitute the Altrincham and District FA side to face Macclesfield & District at Trafford FC this afternoon (2pm). The sides clash in the Cheshire County FA District Cup. Spectators welcome; entrance free.

    SATURDAY'S GATES

    The attendances yesterday in the BSN were:
  • Boston United v Hyde, att. 1,160
  • Colwyn Bay v Gainsborough Trinity, 436
  • Eastwood Town v Guiseley, 292
  • Gloucester City v Harrogate Town, 275
  • Nuneaton Town v Workington, 712
  • Solihull Moors v Bishop's Stortford, 260
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Histon, 601
  • Vauxhall Motors v Droylsden, 189
  • Worcester City v Altrincham, 824

    OLD BOYS

    Substitute Chris Senior hit a penalty against the crossbar as his Alfreton side crashed out of the FA Cup 0-4 against Carlisle United. On the mark from the penalty spot was Mark Beesley who converted two spot-kicks for Burscough but they lost to Stafford Rangers. Astley Mulholland got both FCUM goals at Mickleover Sports, whilst former reserve Griff Jones netted for Radcliffe Borough who drew 2-2 with Mossley, for whom ex-Alty Youth, Osebi Abadaki, scored a brace. Former trialist Gavin Salmon also hit two for Salford City, as did James McCarthy for Leek Town.

    Ex-Youth defender Mark Drew scored for Ramsbottom United as they beat Runcorn Linnets and ex-Reserve Kwame Barnett netted for Northwich Villa who lost at home to Abbey Hey.


    12 November 2011

    INTERNATIONAL AT MOSS LANE

    On Sunday, (13 Nov. k.o. 10am) there is an international match for deaf players between England and France at Moss Lane. Spectators are welcome.

    Jessica Hyde, Logistics Officer for Great Britain Deaf Football, writes:

    "Let me give you a brief background into GB Deaf Football so that you have more of an insight into what we are and what we take part in. We were previously the Deaflympics Champions, having won the gold medal at the 2005 Melbourne Deaflympics beating Iran in the final. We then went on to lose 2-1 in the final of the 2007 European Deaf Football Championships in Portugal to France. We also came 9th in the 2009 Deaflympics in Taiwan after failing to beat the USA in the group stages to progress to the next round. We have just participated in the 2011 European Deaf Football Championships in Denmark in the summer and came a respectable 4th place. As a result of this we have now qualified for the 2012 World Cup for being in the top eight teams from the 2011 Euros. We have instilled fresh talent in our current squad and feel that our team is capable of winning the gold medal in the 2012 World Cup being held in Turkey next July. However we are self-funded and rely on public donations.

    We are working together on organising a weekend in Manchester hosting the French Deaf Football Team. GB has arranged to host France and play two football matches on the 12/13 November as part of Great Britain Deaf Football's preparations for the 2012 World Cup".

    WORCESTER CITY 3 ALTRINCHAM 0

    A minute's silence was held at Worcester to mark Remembrance Day and also to honour the mother of Alty boss, Lee Sinnott, who died last week.

    Altrincham were well beaten yet probably had as many chances as their opponents. But they were undone by sub-standard performances all over the pitch...

  • Match report here

    Right: Worcester defend their goal in the second half.

  • League table
  • Alty player stats
  • Alty line-ups

    Saturday 12 November

  • Through the Years by Howard Watts
  • Boston United 0 Hyde FC 2
  • Colwyn Bay 2 Gainsborough Trinity 1
  • Eastwood Town 2 Guiseley 2
  • Gloucester City 1 Harrogate Town 0
  • Nuneaton Town 2 Workington 1
  • Solihull Moors 3 Bishop's Stortford 1
  • Stalybridge Celtic 2 Histon 0
  • Vauxhall Motors 1 Droylsden 1
  • Worcester City 3 Altrincham 0

    WORCESTER GAME

    If you cannot get to Worcester on Saturday you can follow the match by using one of the following options:
  • Brian Flynn writes, "Radio Robins, sponsored by Paradox Computers.com will be providing a live internet commentary of the whole of Saturday's game at St. George's Lane. You can access Radio Robins on the internet here. The commentator is Brian Flynn and the match summariser is George Heslop. The broadcast begins at 2.50pm".
  • Follow the Matchday updates page on this site.

    In advance of Saturday's game, the Worcester News tells us that "Assistant manager Matt Gardiner insists revenge will not be on the minds of Worcester City when they take on Altrincham at St George’s Lane. City were thrashed 4-1 at Moss Lane in September and will be keen to set the record straight against the Robins.

    They also look for their first win in four Blue Square Bet North matches after losing by the same scoreline at Droylsden on Tuesday night. But Gardiner is not dwelling on the reverse defeat two months ago and instead called on Carl Heeley’s team to build on the positives gleaned from the second-half at Droylsden when sub Danny Edwards scored.

    He also challenged the players to fill the void left by 10-goal striker Mike Symons who is out with a hamstring injury. Gardiner said, 'Our game is geared around Mike, because he’s been brilliant for us, and it took that first 45 minutes on Tuesday to adjust to the new way of playing. But we will work on that for tomorrow. The players don’t like losing but, on the positive side, we drew the second-half 1-1 so their spirits are up. If we do the right things we will be OK because we have got a good group of players.

    We can’t go into the game looking for revenge. We must concentrate on our home form and Altrincham will have to deal with it. We know we are strong at home and that will give us confidence. Everyone is looking forward to it and it’s an opportunity for the players who came on to make their mark'.

    City have won three of their last four home games and were only denied the clean sweep by a stoppage-time penalty in last Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Guiseley. They will be further buoyed by Altrincham’s away record which has seen them win only one of their seven games on the road — a 6-1 mauling of Welsh side Colwyn Bay in September.

    Versatile midfielder Rob Elvins and defender Jacob Rowe could be brought into the starting line-up after coming on as second-half subs at Droylsden but Matt Birley is still struggling with a heel problem and looks set to miss out. Striker Michael Taylor could come back into the squad after scoring eight goals in five games on loan at Stourport Swifts".

    YOUTH NEWS

    Altrincham FC Youth went out of the FA Youth Cup to Darlington who are now set to meet Shrewsbury Town Youth up in Durham. The tie, set for this Saturday, has had to be postponed as the Shrews have been hit by illness; the winners will be away to Newcastle United in the Third Round.

    BSBN NEWS

    Pitchero Non-League reports that "Ian Walker, manager of Bishop`s Stortford, has signed a new goalkeeper – himself! Walker's playing career spanned seventeen seasons, mostly spent with Tottenham Hotspur, where he made 260 appearances, and also included a four-year spell with Leicester City where he added 140 to his tally... Walker was capped four times by England... The 40-year-old has signed Conference forms as cover ahead of the busy period leading up to and including Christmas and New Year">

    Like their new manager, Dave Challinor, the NL Paper reports that "Zac Jones has left Harrogate Town and drop[ped] down two divisions to join AFC Fylde. The 22-year-old goalkeeper had been at Harrogate on non-contract terms since September and made eight starts for the Conference North outfit".

    According to theEastwood Advertiser "Safety Officers from Nottinghamshire County Council have ordered a 50 per cent reduction in capacity of two stands at Eastwood Town’s Coronation Park ground because of crowd safety issues. A new Safety Certificate affecting both stands at Coronation Park was issued today and will come into immediate effect, including at tomorrow’s home match versus Guiseley... The total capacity of both stands will be reduced from 819 to 409.

    Attendances for Eastwood Town’s last two home matches have been 321 (versus Gainsborough) and 214 (versus Histon). The reductions have been introduced after a review of crowd safety issues at the ground following a change in ownership of the club. Rob Fisher, Group Manager for Emergency Management and Registration at Nottinghamshire County Council said 'The reduction in capacity reflects the inexperience of the new ownership team in managing crowd safety and therefore reduced confidence in their ability to deal with larger crowds at Coronation Park. Recent attendances at Coronation Park have been below the new capacity limit, so it is unlikely the restrictions will have a major bearing on the club or fans in the short term. In the meantime we are keen to work with the club to enhance safety management and procedures at the ground. The restrictions will remain under regular review'".

    The Times & Star says that "Baron Bloom’s bid to take over Workington Reds is officially over. The property tycoon has not made contact with the club or major shareholder Dale Brotherton in more than a week. Bloom, 37, saw both his official bids rejected by chairman Humphrey Dobie earlier this month.

    The London playboy also failed to convince Workington’s largest shareholder – Dale Brotherton – to help oust the current board of directors. Bloom offered just £1.05 per share, and promised to pay directors’ loans worth £95,000. Brotherton said, 'He was a very charming man and had some impressive plans for the club but I didn’t want to sell to him. His way of doing business was not the way I work. I have not heard from or spoken to Mr Bloom since rejecting his offer. He tried to play me for a fool and it has not worked. I would not sell to him if he came back into the picture... Workington have bigger things to worry about than Mr Bloom’s bid.

    The focus should be on the playing side and making sure Workington do not go down'

    Dobie also confirmed that he has had no contact with the Citigroup Estates director. He said, 'As far as I’m concerned this matter is dead and buried. My fellow directors and I have not had any dealings with Mr Bloom since we last turned down his offer and I envisage it staying that way'... Bloom, once named one of the most eligible bachelors by women’s magazine Marie Claire, had promised major plans to raise the profile of Workington... Privately educated Mr Bloom is the son of property developer Desmond Bloom and brother of former It girl Beverley Bloom".

    The Cambridge News tells us that "David Livermore hopes the winter months will see the effects of Histon's improved training programme come to the fore of their Blue Square Bet North campaign. The Stutes player/boss believes the benefits of the club's science-based training regime are most likely to emerge later in the season when other players are starting to feel the effects of a gruelling campaign.

    Fresh from their 4-0 loss at high-flying Hyde last week, Histon travel to second-placed Stalybridge and another stern test awaits his young side. 'I'm hoping that in the next few months we will start to see that we're a full time side and that we train properly', he said. 'These next few months, especially towards the final third of the season, I'd like to think we'll start to see the players' fitness levels and hopefully pick up a lot more points... The 4-0 scoreline last week suggests we're miles behind but we're not. It would be interesting to see how we'd get on if I could put our strongest 11 out'.

    Livermore could return to action tomorrow after spending weeks on the sidelines with a calf injury. He has trained all week and could step in for Danny Fitzsimons who picked up a knock at Hyde last Saturday. Zak Mills and Daniel Sparkes have also missed training at various times this week but are expected to feature tomorrow. Meanwhile, Histon scholars Joe Asensi and Tommy Wright have joined Yaxley on a dual registration basis to get more experience of men's football".


    11 November 2011

    LEE'S BEREAVEMENT

    Altrincham FC is sad to announce that manager Lee Sinnott will be unable to oversee the team at Worcester on Saturday owing to a family bereavement. Assistant manager Neil Tolson will be in charge of the team at St George's Lane. The club sends its sincere condolences to Lee and his family at this time.

    BEFORE THE GAME

    If you cannot get to Worcester on Saturday you can follow the match either by
  • Brian Flynn writes, "Radio Robins, sponsored by Paradox Computers.com will be providing a live internet commentary of the whole of Saturday's game at St. George's Lane. You can access Radio Robins on the internet here. The commentator is Brian Flynn and the match summariser is George Heslop. The broadcast begins at 2.50pm.
  • Reading the text here on the Matchday update page

    News of Saturday's opponents comes from the Worcester News, saying that their "4-1 defeat at Droylsden was a reality check for Worcester City". Unattributed quotes say "We are going in the right direction — I am still convinced of that — but we have to be a little more resilient and players have got to start taking on board what the management team are saying. I knew what Droylsden were capable of — they clicked in the first 20 minutes and were probably as good a side as we have played this season. But we contributed massively to our own downfall. We had possession in reasonably good areas for their first two goals and gave the ball away...

    I know Droylsden are inconsistent but they are also a fluent side with a lot of firepower and score goals. However, that’s the third time we have conceded four goals in an away game this season — following losses at Altrincham and Guiseley — and we can’t keep doing that because it’s only November...

    In the last two or three years, our home form has been pretty patchy but we’ve done well away from St George’s Lane. At the moment, that’s the reverse — we are doing relatively well at home but some of the away performances, certainly at Guiseley, Altrincham and now Droylsden, are letting us down.

    You can accept people making mistakes, that’s part and parcel of the game. But you must ask questions when you drive all over the country to scout teams, tell players what sides will do and, within three minutes, they have not heeded the warning. The sides winning matches are the ones with the most players who are taking on board instructions...

    In the first-half at home to Guiseley on Saturday, we absolutely destroyed them. But, after 26 minutes on Tuesday, we were 3-0 down and had done everything wrong. There is no obvious reason why the performances should be vastly different because the preparation was the same".

    Meanwhile, "Worcester City manager Carl Heeley could be set to ring the changes for Saturday’s match against Altrincham at St George’s Lane... They are without a victory in three matches. However, left winger Danny Edwards impressed as a second-half substitute... and is in line to win a starting place at the weekend as Worcester bid to halt that sequence. Versatile midfielder Rob Elvins and defender Jacob Rowe could also get their chances after being introduced for the second period at the Butchers Arms ground.

    Heeley said, 'I thought the three players who came on all did really well and they may get their opportunity at the weekend... Altrincham are another good side but I want the Worcester City to turn up that, with the exception of a couple of games this season, has managed to do very well'".

    BSBN NEWS

    Eastwood Town report that they "have added four [six?] players to the squad recently taken over by John Ramshaw, the new signings are
  • Sam Wood - Midfielder ex Burton, Hednesford and Quorn
  • Thomas Manship - Midfielder ex Corby and Hyde
  • David Boafo - Defender ex Hucknall Town
  • Richard Cooper - Defender, needs no introduction!!!
  • Luke Edwards a striker from Rushall Olympic
  • Markell Bailey from Shepshed- ex-Eastwood"

    The Coventry Telegraph tells us that "Influential Kevin Thornton has parted company with Nuneaton Town for a second time. The talented midfielder left the club earlier this week for pastures new although he currently has a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out of action until after Christmas.

    The 25-year-old Irishman, who was in his second spell at Nuneaton following a handful of appearances in 2009 prior to his move to Northampton Town in League Two, rejoined Boro at the end of September and the ex-Coventry City play-maker made a significant impression... Boro chairman Ian Neale said: “Our physio, Paul Egan, reckoned the hamstring problem would keep him out for around six weeks and as he has made it quite clear he wanted to go and play at a higher level we decided to release him. 'He was not on a contract and his departure will help balance our budget'”.

    From the N Wales Weekly News we learn that "Colwyn Bay boss Jon Newby is facing up to a huge first month in charge, starting with the two games against teams in the top three... Gainsborough Trinity on Saturday, followed by a trip to top-of-the-table Hyde next weekend.

    After that, FC Halifax Town will bring a big following...in the FA Trophy... followed by a home league game against mid-table rivals Droylsden.

    'The next month is going to be huge, but we are going into it with confidence', said the new player-boss. 'We showed what a great spirit we have in the camp by twice coming from behind to get a point at Blyth last weekend'...

    Newby is delighted that... Fleetwood have agreed to extend Matty Hughes's loan spell for a further 28 days. 'He has done really well for us', said Newby. 'He is great talker and helps organise us at the back '... In attack, Lee McEvilly is due to have talks with Fylde today or tomorrow after Dave Challinor, who quit Llanelian Road to join Fylde last week, put in seven days' notice for the striker, less than fortnight after signing him for the Bay.

    But Newby said, 'We have spoken to Lee and I am fairly hopeful that he will be with us for Saturday.'. McEvilly, of course, has been the subject of speculation this week after Blyth's Richard Offiong tweeted that he was subjected to a racial slur from the Bay player in last Saturday's 2-2 draw at Croft Park.

    Blyth released the following statement yesterday (Wednesday)... 'It is understood that Colwyn Bay are conducting an inquiry in to the alleged incident and Blyth Spartans will await the outcome of the inquiry (and any others) which they trust will be handled thoroughly and diligently'... Colwyn Bay are refusing to make any comment at this stage at what they see as 'rumour and gossip'...

    [Against Blyth] Newby praised Karl Noon, who scored the first equaliser five minutes before half-time. 'That was the best game I have seen him play and the goal gave him a lot of confidence', he said. 'I was thinking of bring myself back into the starting line-up this Saturday, but Noony has given me a real selection headache'”.

    According to the Telegraph and Argus Guiseley "spokesman Stuart Allen said, 'Mark [Bower] and Danny Ellis both missed last week’s game (at Worcester) so Steve was short of central defensive options. But Michael Brough was signed last Friday, so he came into the side in the centre of defence. We signed him from Darlington and, although it states on our website that it is a month’s loan deal, I can reveal that the signing is permanent. Michael is our player now'.

    Brough is 30 years old and has had Football League experience but also has extensive knowledge of the Conference proper (Blue Square Bet Premier Division) as his previous clubs include Notts County, Mansfield and Torquay, as well as Darlington".

    FA TROPHY

    FCUM beat Durham City on Wednesday to earn a tie against Alty in the FA Trophy. The Chronicle Live says that "Two extra-time goals ended brave Durham City’s FA Trophy hopes in front of a 672 crowd at Gigg Lane last night. The Citizens took FC United of Manchester all the way in their second qualifying round replay after the two sides had drawn 1-1 at New Ferens Park...

    The gutsy visitors were always in the tie and levelled through Amar Purewal early in the second half. Either side could then have won it but it was not until the last minute of extra-time that Astley Mulholland clinched the tie with United’s third"


    10 November 2011

    TROPHY ARRANGEMENTS

    The FA Trophy tie between FC United of Manchester and Altrincham will be played on Sunday, 27 November at 3pm at Gigg Lane (Bury FC). Any replay will be played at Moss Lane on Wednesday, 30 November at 7.45pm.

    Admission prices at Gigg Lane will be:

  • Adults £8, concessionaries £5 and under-18s £2.

    Admission prices at Moss Lane, if a replay is needed, will be:

  • Adults £10, concessionaries £5 and under-12s £2.

    ALTY TO MEET FCUM

    In Wednesday night's FA Trophy replay, FCUM beat Durham City 3-1 after extra time to secure a tie with Altrincham in the third qualifying round; Astley Mulholland was one of the scorers. The date and venue of that match remain unclear as FCUM's landlords, Bury, are themselves playing at Gigg Lane on 26 November when the tie is scheduled to take place.

    Other northern FA Trophy 2Q Round replays were:

  • Matlock Town 2 Hednesford Town 1
  • Witton Albion 4 Leek Town 1
  • Worksop Town 2 Radcliffe Borough 0

    LEE READS RIOT ACT

    Altrincham FC joint press officer, John Edwards, has provided a fuller version of the article which appeared in this week's Sale & Altrincham Messenger...

    "Lee Sinnott got tough with his Altrincham players and warned them places were on the line after a defensive horror show sent them crashing out of the Cheshire Senior Cup at Moss Lane on Tuesday night.

    Dismayed at the way basic errors undermined another enterprising attacking display, and cost Alty a 4-3 first round exit at the hands of Stockport County, Sinnott bluntly admitted any repeat would effectively end their promotion hopes.

    ‘I have to be concerned about our defensive play, because we were very generous for their goals,’ fumed the Alty boss. ‘In fact, it was like Christmas at times. I wasn’t pleased with what I saw, and if we defend like that at Worcester on Saturday, we will have a major problem and end up with no points.

    ‘That is the stark reality. I’m not going to say something is OK when it isn’t, and this was unacceptable. It was like a knife through butter, like the parting of the Red Sea. All those sort of sayings applied.

    ‘There’s no doubt we could have defended better from the front as well. One thing I noticed about Stockport was that, when we had the ball, they closed down our defenders very fast and in numbers. I expect my team to do the same.

    ‘Making changes to the team is no excuse, either. If you look at our line-up, they are all players who have participated this season, so there are no excuses. None whatsoever.

    ‘We shouldn’t be defending like that, as a team or individually. That is not going to get me promoted out of this league, and there had better be a response on Saturday. It needs to be eradicated, and I trust the players will think about what happened and realise it’s not good enough. If they go home, look in the mirror and think they defended all right, then ok, that’s their call. I have my opinions about what I saw, and I expect honesty and I expect a reaction. You are not going to win anything defending like that.

    ‘It is a collective responsibility, but it’s at the back where the end product happens and mistakes get punished. I am concerned about how my defenders are defending. It’s OK having three good games then one stinker, but that isn’t going to get us to where we want to be. Consistency is the key.

    ‘If you are a defender, you are in the team to defend, and you are judged on your defending. You might be Franz Beckenbauer and be able to spray the ball all over the shop at centre-half, but if you can’t defend, you won’t be in the team. In midfield, you are there to win the ball and be creative and feed others. That is your job. If you are up front, you are there to hold the ball up and bring others into it, to create chances and convert them. That is your job.

    ‘Wherever you are in the team, you have a job to do, and if you can’t do it, you don’t get picked.

    ‘The 11 who start at Worcester had better make sure I don’t get what I’ve been served tonight. That was my final word to them. But who’s to say what the starting line-up will be? There’s an old saying that you’re only as good as your last game. And when you think of the last game, that gives me some food for thought.’

    Sinnott was at least heartened by a return to winning ways in the Conference North, as, after a 5-1 defeat at leaders Stalybridge last time out, Alty beat Eastwood 2-0 at Moss Lane with goals from Damian Reeves and Robbie Williams.

    ‘You want to get back and start picking up points again, after a two-week break, and it was pleasing,’ he said. ‘It was a difficult one, because Eastwood worked extremely hard and didn’t exactly make it easy for us. We had quite a bit of the ball, but it was mainly in our own half, which Eastwood seemed happy enough to go along with.

    ‘We hit the woodwork a couple of times and caused them problems, and it was comfortable enough in the end. But at 1-0 in the second half, they were probably still thinking of trying to nick an equaliser.

    ‘You could be hyper-critical and say we should have moved the ball a bit quicker and got at them, and there would be some truth in that. But the bottom line is, it was three points, two goals and a clean sheet, and you would settle for that. You have to get the job done in those circumstances, and we did.

    ‘We played some decent football, but it was a bit patchy and not what you would call our normal rhythm. You strive to be at your best, but you have to be realistic and accept it’s not going to happen every week. If you can still win 2-0 when you’re not at your absolute peak, you’ve got to be happy enough.

    ‘They had five across midfield and were hard to break down, and in those circumstances, you have to move the ball forward a bit more quickly and a bit more accurately. Though we like passing the ball around at the back, it isn’t really hurting the opposition. I’m not talking about lumping it forward, just being a bit more direct, at times, with passing to feet or into space.’

    Reeves continued the scoring form that earned him the October Conference North player-of-the-month award, and Sinnott added: ‘He is a predator inside the area, and he knew exactly what he was going to do. As the ball came over and began to drop, he had already decided how it was going to pan out. He knew where it was going to land and where he was going to put it. He’s that type of player.’"

    Footnote: The line -up against Stockport County on Tuesday was: 1. Adam REID , 2. Robbie LAWTON (c), 5. Rob WILLIAMS, 6. Mark LEES, 3. Ryan BROWN, 7. Simon RICHMAN, 4. Chris LYNCH, 8. Shaun DENSMORE, 11. Nicky CLEE; 10. Jack REDSHAW, 9. James LAWRIE. Subs: 15. Damian REEVES, 14. Michael TWISS 12. Anthony DANYLYK, 18. Stuart COBURN (gk), 16, Joe COOMBS.

    This showed five changes from the side which started against Eastwood when Alty won 2-0 last Saturday, which was: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Chris LYNCH, 5. Rob WILLIAMS, 6. Adam FLYNN, 3. Mark LEES, 7. James LAWRIE, 4. Anthony DANYLYK (capt), 8. Shaun DENSMORE, 11. Nicky CLEE, 9. Michael TWISS 10. Damian REEVES Subs: 12. Robbie LAWTON, 14. Ryan BROWN, 15. Simon RICHMAN, 16. Jack REDSHAW, 18. Adam REID (gk).

    LEE ADDRESSES THE AWAY FORM

    In the Sale & Altrincham Advertiser "Manager Lee Sinnott has told his Altrincham players the time has come to fix their away form. The Robins have been in sparkling form at Moss Lane and remain unbeaten at home in the Blue Square North. Saturday’s 2-0 win against Eastwood means they have won their last five league games at home, scoring 17 goals and conceding just four in the process.

    That run began with a 4-1 win over Worcester, who Alty face in the reverse fixture this Saturday. But the Robins have won just one of their seven away games in the league, losing 5-1 at Stalybridge last time they hit the road.

    'It’s a statistic staring us in the face', said Sinnott. 'We’ve been aware of this for a while. We know we should be winning more games away from home because it puts continued pressure on your home form. That’s been very good but we can’t rely on it. Our away form needs to be addressed and we’re looking for the players to do that because there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be picking up more points on the road. We can see why we haven’t, such as letting late goals in, so it’s something we need to iron out.

    'We’ve played a lot of home games recently but now we have to build on that because it’s coming to that stage just before Christmas where the start of the season is a long way away. The next few months are crucial and the main priority is improving our points tally away from home because I think my players are capable of going anywhere and picking up points'.

    [Speaking of Worcester], 'It’s not an easy place to go and they’re just two places below us,', said Sinnott... 'We’re more or less back to full strength now and you have to enjoy it while you can because you don’t know how long that’ll last. That’s what you want, people pushing each other for a starting shirt'".

    SHIRTS ARE WAITING

    Three supporters (Colin Harris, Ruby Kirkwood and Jennifer Smith) who have ordered Altrincham FC centenary shirts are asked to contact Jenny Heslop (0161 928-1045) to arrange to collect them.

    DAMIAN SHOCKED TO THE CORE

    In Tuesday night's "Robins' Review", Alty physio, Danny Fishwick reveals that "On Saturday, Reevsy told me that after a successful training session on Thursday, he dropped, what he called, a large apple onto his ankle. It him right on the portion of bone that we have been treating for bruising. Luckily, it had no lasting effect on the injury and he played a full 90 minutes on Saturday". The fruits of Damian's labour were a first-half goal against Eastwood, when he pipped Robbie Williams to being first on the scoresheet. Sadly, none of Damian's appeals during the game yielded a penalty, but he cider a sigh of relief to have lasted the full game despite his knock.

    DUNCAN EXCELS

    The Independent Schools' Football Association reports on the Boodles' ISFA Cup in which Altrincham Youth's Duncan Watmore played for Cheadle Hulme School on Wednesday, away at the competition favourites, Millfield.

    In their Third Round tie, "Millfield squeezed past Cheadle Hulme 3-2. Goals from Dom Webb (2) and Alan Robertson did the damage but Duncan Watmore, in Cheadle Hulme’s midfield, was the outstanding player on the pitch".

    COUNTY VIEW

    Stockport County report that "In an open and exciting encounter at Moss Lane, County came out on top of a seven goal thriller... Despite the hosts enjoying the majority of the early possession, it was County who struck first... Overall a good performance by County, with plenty of attacking free flowing football on show for the crowd of 243 who turned out on a wet night in Altrincham".

    More on County comes fromthe Stockport Express which states that "Stockport County’s search for a new manager will begin on Saturday night after the Blue Square Premier game with Ebbsfleet. County have already had more than 20 applications for the job since Dietmar Hamann’s departure on Monday afternoon. But chairman Lord Peter Snape will not start drawing up a shortlist of candidates until after Saturday’s game.

    Ex-manager Jim Gannon, who is fronting a fans consortium hoping to save the ailing club, is the favourite and Snape has expressed an interest in speaking to the former Motherwell, Port Vale and Peterborough boss. Privately, however, the club are insisting that Gannon won’t be considered unless he applies through the official channels.

    Mike Newell and Martin Foyle, who were both interviewed twice when the job was vacant in the summer are also in contention. So too is Hyde United manager Gary Lowe. Lowe was appointed manager at Ewen Fields in May and has led the Tigers to the top of Blue Square Bet North. Lowe, however, is under contract at Hyde, which could prove a sticking point for cash-strapped County.

    Ray Mathias, meanwhile, who was replaced by Hamann as permanent manager in the summer, has refused to rule out a return to Edgeley Park".

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    According to the Football Conference, "Boston United have completed the signing of winger Tyrone Kirk. The 25-year-old, who made one competitive appearance for the Pilgrims in 2009... Since his solitary appearance for the Pilgrims, Kirk has played for Macclesfield Town, Rhyl and Corby Town."

    Our opponents on Saturday played at Droylsden on Tuesday as the Worcester News tells us that "Worcester City showed just how much they missed Mike Symons in being dismantled by Droylsden... Carl Heeley’s team seriously struggled without their 10-goal leading marksman, who faces around six weeks out with a hamstring injury, and were fortunate not to lose by more... City paid for the lack of a physical presence in attack as they were pinned back by the Bloods.

    But they also made life easy for the hosts with an error-strewn defensive display, particularly in the first-half. Carlos Logan, Dale Johnson and Danny Rowe had all scored before the break with the latter adding a fourth in the second period to lift Droylsden above Worcester, who are now ninth in the Blue Square Bet North table.

    Sub Danny Edwards, one of the few highlights for the visitors, bagged a consolation 12 minutes from time but Dave Pace’s side had long since eased up. City, who paired Lee Smith up front with Luke Corbett and moved Simon Brown to the right flank, trailed after just three minutes when Logan was allowed to cut inside from the right and curl a left-footed effort beyond the grasp of keeper James Dormand...

    With City at sixes and sevens, the hosts hunted for more goals and came close to heaping more embarrassment on the visitors... Captain Kevin O’Connor did his best to rally City, who were again without Matt Birley due to a heel injury, and fired into the side-netting after a driving run... Things did not improve in the second-half, despite the introduction of Rob Elvins for Emeka Nwadike...

    Worcester, who then brought on Edwards and Jacob Rowe for Naylor and Corbett respectively, began to show endeavour late on. They salvaged some pride when Edwards broke free and despatched the ball firmly under Phillips.

    City: Dormand 6, Naylor 5 (Edwards 63, 7), Cartwright 5, Nwadike 5 (Elvins 46, 6), Ayres 5, Clarke 5, Smith 5, O’Connor 7*, Corbett 5 (Rowe 63, 6), Brown 5, Thorley 6. Subs not used: Carey-Bertram, Sargeant".


    9 November 2011

    ALTRINCHAM 3 STOCKPORT COUNTY 4

    County named a decidedly second-string squad for tonight's game, including just four players who were in their last first-team match squad and six names not even allocated a squad number, as listed on the County website. So Carl Piergianni (who attended the match) and Nick Chadwick did not renew their acquaintance with Moss Lane but Sam Sheridan did.

    Alty, for their part, rested Coburn, Flynn, Danylyk, Reeves and Twiss from the starting line-up.

    Right: Nicky Clee and Chris Lynch in action against Stockport.

  • Match report here.

    The other Cheshire Senior Cup results on Tuesday were:

  • Stalybridge Celtic 2 Chester 1
  • Warrington Town 5 Cheadle Town 4 aet
  • Winsford United 2 Congleton Town 0 aet

    SPORTING LEGENDS

    Altrincham FC has a number of "Sporting Legends Commemorative Covers" for sale for just £2. They feature Manchester United's 4-2 FA Cup Final victory over Blackpool in 1948 and are signed by Jack Crompton, United's keeper that day and a regular visitor to Moss Lane. To obtain your Cover, which features an image of United with the Cup, please visit or contact the Club offices, which can be reached by phone (928-1045) or e=mail.

    YANKEE

    The winning code was 5950, which was unissued. So the jackpot of £5,000 remains intact in Altrincham FC's Saturday Yankee, with the reserve jackpot now at £2,200 (not £1900 as on the form). However, three winners received £66.66 each for winning trebles.

    CAPTAIN’S LOG

    Robbie Lawton's "Captain's Log", printed in last Saturday's "Robins' Review", reveals the player who is the club's "worst trainer" and that the Altrincham FC captain's duties include debt collecting!

    "If Manchester United were looking for a decent work-out for their young Reserve players, they certainly found one here at Moss Lane last Saturday.

    I don’t know if some of the United lads were guilty of letting thoughts stray towards Goodison Park, where the first team were playing Everton, but if they were, Jack Redshaw soon brought their focus back to matters in hand.

    Jack has taken a few defenders by surprise since joining us recently and can add United’s back four to the list after the way he stunned them with two expertly-taken goals inside the opening half-hour.

    The great thing is, he’s taking the sharpness evident in training out on to the pitch, and it was there for all to see, in the way those two early chances were despatched into either corner of the net.

    No one should be fooled by his size, because he’s got a presence about him and he’s not afraid to mix it, as was demonstrated by the little and large confrontation with Paul Pogba near the end.

    Someone said Pogba had a foot height advantage as he towered over Jack. And the rest. It looked more like two feet from where I was standing!

    I thought it was a bit silly on Pogba’s behalf. There was no need for it, but it was noticeable that Jack stood his ground and never flinched for a second. That just underlined the competitive streak in him and how he can be as fiery as anyone.

    He is actually a very quiet lad off the pitch, but he’s got lots of pace and ability on it, and, of course, he can finish. He is also very honest, and you can see that in his willingness to close down the nearest player whenever the opposition are bringing the ball out.

    It’s not exactly a striker’s favourite job, but that sort of work ethic is hugely appreciated by everyone in midfield, I can assure you.

    With big Adam Reid (left) doing really well in goal, and Joe Coombs and Matt Fearon also gaining valuable experience in the second half, it was a very worthwhile exercise.

    From a personal point of view, it was just great to be out on the pitch again and getting minutes under my belt after an injury that, to be honest, has been driving me mad. It’s bad enough missing games, but when you can’t even jog and keep yourself mobile on the training pitch, it’s even worse. I couldn’t do a thing, because of the tendinitis, and it was really frustrating.

    Of course, you have to be careful with an injury like this, because it can become chronic. I’m still icing it twice a day, and I’m still on anti-inflammatories, to make sure that if there is any reaction, it has a chance of settling down.

    Touch wood, there hasn’t been so far. I got up on Sunday morning and felt fine, and I’ve been able to train this week, so hopefully I’ll be all right for a place in the squad against Eastwood today.

    Fingers were pointed at our defence after our last Conference North game at Stalybridge, but I think some care needs to be applied when analysing why goals have been conceded. It’s easy to say you need to tighten up at the back, but that’s not always where the fault lies.

    You need to look at the overall picture and factor in all the elements. When balls were played up top, did they always stick? Were we tight enough on their midfield? Did the full-backs get enough protection from wide players when Stalybridge went down the flanks?

    I know it sounds like a cliché to say it’s a collective responsibility, but it really is. It’s about performing effectively as a unit, and Damian Reeves is a prime example of that. He thoroughly deserves his Blue Square award, but his first words, on receiving it, would be to thank his team-mates for their part in the goals he has banged in.

    Congratulations to Reevesie, though it’s still a mystery how he can do b*****-all in training, roughly the same amount in games, and still be player of the month!

    He’s the worst trainer you’ll ever see, and also the least punctual. He drives over the Pennines with Nicky Clee and blames the traffic for being late. Well, it won’t wash with me. I collect the fines, and I haven’t forgotten there is one outstanding on the Reeves account. A gentle reminder, mate – you owe me money!

    Robbie".

    BSB NORTH

    Tuesday game:
  • Droylsden 4 Worcester City 1

    The Football Conference says that "Hyde FC have signed midfielder David Poole from neighbours Droylsden. Poole came through the famed Manchester United youth academy and spent two seasons in the Reds' reserves before signing for Yeovil Town in 2005. He played twenty-one times for the Glovers before returning to Greater Manchester to join Stockport County where he appeared fifty-three times after initially impressing on loan, before having a spell with Darlington in 2008/09, playing twenty-six times. The right-sided midfielder returned to Stockport once more and added sixty-five games to his tally before being released at the end of last season. He signed for Hyde`s Tameside League rivals Droylsden in August 2011."

    Blyth Spartans "can confirm that, following the completion of their loan deals, Michael Tait and Adam Robinson have returned to Harrogate Town and Bradford City respectively... The club can also confirm that Spartans midfielder Seb Anzevui has been loaned to South Shields in order for him to gain some first team games and match fitness".

    At the other geographical end of the division, Bishop's Stortford announce that "Winger Charlie Henry, 25, joins the Blues on an initial 2 month loan from Luton Town FC. Henry signed for Luton Town from rivals Newport County in November 2010, He was pivotal in Newport’s Blue Square Bet South success in 2009/10, Henry netted nine times as Dean Holdsworth's side... Henry will be permitted to play in both the FA Trophy and Herts Senior Cup".


    8 November 2011

    FOLLOW ALTY TO WORCESTER

    TASC is running a supporters' coach to the Worcester City v Altrincham game this Saturday (12th) so don't forget to book your seat, either at the match tonight or by ringing the club (0161 928-1045). Details of times and fares are on the Away travel page.

    CSC - ALTY v COUNTY

    Altrincham take on Stockport County on Tuesday night at Moss Lane (7.45pm). You can follow developments on the Matchday Updates page.

    ALternatively, Radio Robins, sponsored by Paradox Computers.com will be providing a live internet commentary of the tie. You can access Radio Robins here. The commentary team is Brian Flynn, Jonny Keen & Gareth Thomas. The broadcast begins at 7.30pm. Altrincham F.C. Ladies are attending the match and manager Keith Edleston will be interviewed at the beginning of the broadcast.

    Admission prices are:

  • Adults - £10
  • Concessionaries - £5
  • Under-12s - £2

    The above prices apply to all parts of the ground i.e. terraces and stands.

  • Through the Years from Howard Watts, for 8 November.

    EVERYONE'S A WINNER

    Barry Pond, Alty's commercial manager, advises that two representatives of the Altrincham branch of Thomas Cook will be at Moss Lane and in the bar before the game against Gloucester City on 19 November. They will be available to answer any enquiries that you may have about the Alty Holiday Club. The Holiday Club is to everyone's advantage as it gives Alty supporters discount from their holidays or other trips abroad, whilst also generating commission for the Football Club, which adds up to a four-figure sum each year. Barry himself can vouch for the scheme, having had a "wonderful deal" from Thomas Cook on a recent visit to France.

    LADIES' TEAM UPDATE

    Altrincham FC Ladies' manager Keith Edleston writes of his side's latest game...

    "We set off from Alty on a cold but sunny afternoon for a game with our near Cheshire neighbours Sandbach United FC and after managing to get lost (which is getting to be a habit, eh Ladies, Google's fault?), we arrived with not much time to get a proper warm up or have our usual team talk. But we got on with it and it showed in a first half performance that wasn't up to our usual standard, we seemed lethargic and very leggy. Having said that, on 6 minutes, Lauren hit a shot from all of 25/30 yards that just dipped over the bar. That was really the only highlight of the first half for us because Sandbach were first to the ball and their players were much more energetic.

    On 15 minutes, a Sandbach attack down our left resulted in the number 12 taking a shot from which Nadine made a fantastic parry, (of which there was many more to follow), only for the forward to follow up and score the rebound. In the 35 minute, from another Sandbach corner, they managed to score their second with an unchallenged header.

    Half time 0-2.

    We sat them down for our half-time team talk and a drink and tried to motivate them and point out a few things and also give them some ideas on how to improve our game and try to play the kind of football that we have become used to instead of the hit and hope football we had played in the first half. Well, it seemed to work on the Ladies because we came out a much better team, tighter in defence and playing much more passing football through the midfield with lots of movement on the wings.

    Having said that, with us attacking more it did leave us open sometimes to a Sandbach breakaway and, on a few occasions, we had to rely on the outstanding performance of Nadine in goal, who thwarted their number 12 on at least four occasions with superb saves from one v ones. Sandbach managed to close the game out and really got the win they deserved on the day. On a sour note, Lynda had to take our heroic Nadine to the A and E in Altrincham to have an x-ray on her right wrist as she told me at the end of the game that in the first half she had injured it but played on as she didn't want to let her team mates down!!

    All in all we take it on the chin, learn from it, and go again onto our next game, Up the Alty!"

    The Ladies are at home to Stockport County HNR in the Cheshire Women's FA Cup on Sunday, 27 November, 2pm, at Ridgeway Road, Timperley. This game replaces the scheduled league match against Stockport County Yellows. All supporters are welcome.

    BUCKET COLLECTION

    Last Saturday's bucket collection raised £30.63. The Club thanks the collectors and donors alike.

    EASTWOOD VERDICT

    Right: Rob Williams scores Alty's second goal against Eastwood, last Saturday. The image is courtesy of Gavin Rathbone, who has many more excellent Alty images on his GR Photography website.

    This is Nottingham says that "It didn't take long for John Ramshaw to come crashing back down to earth in the Eastwood hot-seat... Ramshaw flew the Badgers' nest over the summer, having served as Paul Cox's faithful assistant in Eastwood's glory years that saw them win the NPL Challenge Cup in 2008 as well as reach the FA Cup third round and the Blue Square North a year later.

    He had been lured away to Shepshed Dynamo to take the reins as manager but turmoil has besieged the Badgers since – co-managers Craig Armstrong and Jamie Brough as well as midfielder Steve Istead have all occupied the dug out at Coronation Park. Ramshaw has been tempted back to Eastwood to fight fires and keep them clear of the Blue Square North trapdoor – but goals from Damian Reeves and Robbie Williams saw Altrincham ease to a 2-0 victory over the Badgers in his first match in charge...

    'It's great to be back in the Blue Square North, I'm from Nottingham so the lure to come back was too difficult to turn down', said Ramshaw... 'The first target will be survival, that's the brief I was given. That's the first target but I'm a winner so I'll be striving to do better than that... We need to take it one step at a time. I'm optimistic we can get out of this situation. We've got a good squad, not a big squad, we've only got about 15 bodies and a few are on loan, but I'll be looking to add to that over the coming weeks... They were just lacking a bit of guidance and fitness'".

    TROPHY OPPONENTS

    200% says that "The FA Trophy continued this weekend with Durham City entertaining FC United of Manchester at New Ferens Park, after a brush with serious financial difficulties which threatened the very future of the club. FC United of Manchester, meanwhile, are still celebrating the planning permission granted for their new ground". Andy Hudson was there to see it.

    Reporting on Durham City 1 FC United of Manchester 1 in the FA Trophy Second Qualifying Round, Andy Hudson writes, "Fireworks greeted the final whistle of this FA Trophy clash and, as a spirited Durham City side came from behind to level the match against a pedestrian FC United, they weren’t the only things to be explosive during this bonfire afternoon in the north-east.

    Durham City are only now getting back on an almost secure footing after their rapid rise to the upper echelons of the Evostik Premier League ended hastily with the news that their third generation artificial turf pitch was unsuitable for the Blue Square North, despite the same surface being suitable for a Champions' League Final in Moscow. Financial backing was withdrawn and, after a tortuous relegation season, where almost every game saw the team line up with local youngsters almost exclusively on the receiving end of a thrashing (they won two games all season, including an away win against FCUM), and a consolidation year last season in the Evostik North, the club are at last looking upwards, albeit only by one league this time.

    FC United went into this game buoyed by news that Manchester City Council had approved of their plans to build their eagerly awaited, and desperately required, new home at Moston. The visitors can thank their goalkeeper, James Spencer, for still being in the competition. After a difficult start to life at the club, Spencer has shown recently that he is a fantastic shot-stopper... FC had chances of their own but rarely tested James Winter in the City goal".

    FCUM's squad includes several ex-Alty men including Carlos Roca, Astley Mulholland and Ben Deegan.

    DUNCAN'S BIG MATCH

    Alty Youth striker Duncan Watmore (right), who signed BSBN forms this weekend, will not be involved for Alty on Tuesday night as he is playing for Cheadle Hulme School, on Wednesday afternoon, in the Boodle's ISFA (Independent Schools' FA) Cup 3rd Round away in Somerset to the competition's perennial winners Millfield School. In the first round, we read that "Malvern controlled much of the first half against Cheadle Hulme and deservedly led at half-time... Duncan Watmore scored a deserved equaliser 15 minutes from time and then, in the last minute of the match, it was Watmore again, popping up to poke the ball home and give Cheadle Hulme a 2-1 win."

    And, in the second round, "The match between Cheadle Hulme and Grammar School at Leeds was high on energy and enthusiasm but low on clearcut chances created... The winner was a goal fit to win any match, Duncan Watmore waltzing his way through the Leeds defence to score a fine individual effort".

    OLD BOYS

    From This is Staffs we learn that "Congleton Town have sacked manager Joe Paladino [an ex-Alty goalkeeper and boxer] after only four months in charge at Booth Street. The decision was made following The Bears' 3-0 home defeat by AFC Blackpool on Saturday, although they remain in mid-table in the Premier Division. Assistant boss Adriano Rigoglioso has also left the club after the duo won seven and lost nine of their 18 league matches.

    Paladino said, 'I had a phone call from the chairman (Peter Evans) yesterday saying the club would like me to step down, a decision based on results. But we are 12th in the league and last Wednesday won at Flixton, who were second in the table'. Palaldino, aged 46, was brought in at short notice in the summer following the departures of Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg.

    'We had four weeks to put together a completely new team', said the former Wigan goalkeeper. 'The team made a bad start, but we were trying to build and have continued to do so. But the club never gave us a real chance. We felt under pressure, and the club had more meetings than the Godfather, but when we lost one in eight we were getting there. Football is a results business. but they have been decent, so I don't understand the mentality. We have tried to be professional, but I think perhaps the club are not professional enough for us. I am disappointed to be leaving but not surprised. The decision is unfair, unwarranted and weak, but I feel relieved because I was banging my head against a brick wall'...

    Chairman Peter Evans said, 'Things were not working, maybe on both sides – I am not saying the club are entirely blameless... Every manager I have known has never given less than 100 per cent and Joe Palaldino was no different'".

    FLYNNZINE

    Brian Flynn's latest "Flynnzine" is entitled "Championes????????"

    "It’s two weeks since our last competitive action and the 5-1 reverse at Stalybridge. For a dozen or so of us, the day started with an eight-mile walk, the second leg of a sponsored walk, in aid of Mark Maddox’s testimonial. As most people will know, Mark himself was one of the walkers who arrived at Bower Fold around one o’ clock and there was plenty of time to relax and enjoy a drink in the Stalybridge bar, ahead of the game.

    Bower Fold is one of the nicest grounds in the country in my opinion. It’s modern, yet with a traditional football ground feel about it and, a fortnight ago, it was looking its best in the surprisingly warm, bright late October sunshine. The look and feel of a ground is not just about the stadium itself, the setting is important and the hilly outskirts of Stalybridge provided a wonderful backdrop to the spectacle that was to unfold. The pitch was in pristine condition and over a thousand fans had shuffled in by kick off time.

    Yet again, we had fantastic travelling support, probably numbering around 350, which, in terms of percentage of home attendance, is the statistical equivalent of Manchester United having an away following of about 38,000!

    I have to admit that I was unfamiliar with the players in Celtic’s line up but intrigued to see what they were like as a team and, within a few minutes of the start of the game, I was already reflecting on what a superb job Jim Harvey has done there. Harvey almost started his managerial career at Altrincham, applying for the position in 1992. He was pipped to the job by Gerry Quinn and the shortlisted candidates also included Sammy McIlroy and Neil Baker. I have often wondered how things might have worked out, as the Lurgan-born Irishman went on to become the prime driving force behind Morecambe’s rise from the Unibond League to the Football League. Sammy Mcllroy may have been in charge when the Shrimps gained promotion, but I think most people recognise that it was on the back of Harvey’s eleven-year reign at Christie Park.

    In the game a fortnight ago, we certainly contributed to our own downfall but, let’s give some credit to Stalybridge, who looked a really accomplished team and the talent and performance on display that afternoon, lends credence to the model that is being used to try to get ‘Bridge back into Blue Square Bet Premier. Essentially, Stalybridge are using a reasonably competitive budget, for the league, to pay 15-20 young players a full-time wage that is competitive with what most 17-24 year-old people earn. The combination of Harvey’s managerial and coaching expertise with young players, raw talent and full time training, appears to be paying dividends and, on the evidence of what we saw on that day, most Alty fans would not be surprised if Stalybridge emerged as Champions at the end of April.

    On the other hand, they are now very much in the public eye. Hyde’s stupendous start deflected attention from how well their Tameside neighbours were doing but their recent ascent to the summit will mean that scouts will be crawling all over Bower Fold in the coming weeks and months... and their future success may be heavily dependent upon how easily they can hang on to the talent that has been nurtured and developed so impressively over the last season and a half.

    Time will deliver the answer!

    Brian Flynn."

    NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS

    News of Alty's next league opponents comes from the Worcester News, which tells us that "Leading scorer Mike Symons could be facing up to six weeks on the sidelines for Worcester City after suffering a hamstring injury against Guiseley... having earlier scored his 10th goal of the campaign. He is definitely out of tomorrow night’s trip to Droylsden...

    Manager Carl Heeley said, 'It looks like a hamstring pull and they’re normally four to six weeks, as a guide, but it depends how bad it is. We’ll assess it in a few days and get a better picture of how long he’s likely to be out. We’ve got other forwards — Rob Elvins can play up there, we’ve got Danny Carey-Bertam, Luke Corbett, Simon Brown and Michael Taylor. It will be an opportunity for someone else, but they are big boots to fill because Mike’s been magnificent. If I had been Guiseley’s manager and saw him coming off injured I would have been jumping through hoops. I thought he tore them apart in the first-half'...

    'Obviously we are disappointed from being 2-0 up and being in the driving seat, but once they got a goal we knew what was coming for the last 15 minutes... Human nature tells you to drop deeper and protect your goal but I think you have to be braver than that, make the pitch big and keep the ball... Everyone was silent afterwards because they were absolutely gutted that they haven’t beaten the side that in my opinion will be very close to winning the championship.

    We need to start taking points. We have taken a point off a very good side. It should have been three, it wasn’t but it’s not the end of the world'”.

    Meanwhile Worcester City themselves say of the Guiseley game that "Taking a point before the match would have been acceptable to most City fans, but they went away from The Lane disappointed not to have taken all three. City were sensational in the first 45 minutes & Guiseley couldn't handle the onslaught that came upon them.... With City hanging on in the last 15 minutes Guiseley continued to press & deep into injury time City keeper Dormand brought down O'Neill in the box and it was Rothery who scored the resulting penalty".

    From the other side, Guiseley said "City were looking threatening, especially burly forward Mike Symons... Symons, the thorn in Guiseley’s side all afternoon, was withdrawn shortly after the break and with it much of Worcester’s attacking momentum".

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Monday 7 November

  • Hyde FC 1 Blyth Spartans 0 - kick-off delayed by ref's traffic problems.

    The Football Conference tells us that "New signing Wesley York made his first-team debut for Nuneaton Town on Saturday following his late Friday signing from East Midlands Counties League outfit Anstey Nomads. York, who has a great scoring record with Nomads, including ten this season from sixteen games, impressed Nuneaton boss Kevin Wilkin in several training sessions".

    The Nuneaton News says that "Kevin Wilkin still feels he is under pressure to keep his job despite Nuneaton Town moving up to seventh in Blue Square Bet North after Saturday’s 2-0 win at Harrogate Town... He said, 'I’m under pressure. People aren’t happy with it. I can’t affect them. I can affect the desire and the attitude of the players. Sometimes that passion and effort can get misconstrued with a lack of quality in some quarters... I’m under pressure to achieve results but the lads have delivered'...

    With the pressure on, Wilkin turned to Lee Moore and Justin Marsden to start as wingers. He was pleased with the pair... Wilkin went onto reveal he had spoken to Glover this week in order to get more out of the striker who had scored just twice in the league before Saturday... Glover’s goal was set up by new signing Wesley York, an 18-year-old striker who was signed from East Midlands Counties League side Anstey Nomads late last week... It was not all good news for the Boro boss though as striker Danny Mitchley is out for at least three weeks with a quad strain, however, James Armson should be back for Saturday’s game... Midfielder Kevin Thornton is still facing at least a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury."


    7 November 2011

    WHERE WILL IT BE?

    The venue for Alty's game in the FA Trophy 3Q game (see below), whether the opponents are FCUM or Durham City is of more interest than usual. Durham City play at The Arnott Stadium (a.k.a. New Ferens Park) which has an artificial 3G surface. The FA rules state that "For the FA Cup and FA Youth Cup (Competition Proper), all matches shall be played on a natural grass pitch. For the FA Trophy, FA Vase, and FA Youth Cup (Qualifying Rounds), artificial grass pitches may be used in the Competition provided the pitch is listed on The Association's register of artificial grass pitches and with the prior consent of The Association". Durham played the last round at the Arnott Stadium so Alty will have to come to terms with a different surface from normal if they end up travelling to the North East.

    If FCUM are the opposition, Bury's Gigg Lane is their normal "home" venue, but The Shakers have a game scheduled there for 26 November. So, it seems, the FA Trophy match will either have to be played elsewhere (if permitted by the FA), with Stalybridge having been used previously by FCUM; or, it will have to be played on another date - or both.

    COUNTY BOSS GOES

    Altrincham entertain Stockport County on Tuesday night in the Cheshire Senior Cup. Today, Stockport County released a statement from Didi Hamann, which said...

    "Following a meeting this morning between Lord Snape and myself I have tendered my resignation as manager of Stockport County. Having been introduced to the Club by Tony Evans, I presumed that the takeover by him and his consortium would have taken place. Various promises were made to me at the time of my appointment which subsequently did not take place. I feel therefore unable to continue in post. I wish to thank the Club and its supporters for their encouragement and commitment over the past few months and wish Stockport County well for the future".

    TUESDAY HOSPITALITY

    There are still places in the Manchester Glass Sponsors' Lounge at Moss Lane on Tuesday night for the CSC match against Stockport County. In addition to the usual hospitality, the Altrincham FC Ladies team are the Club's guests and their squad will be enjoying coffee and cakes at half-time in the Sponsors' Lounge, prepared by Altrincham FC offcial caterer, Richie Bentley. Ring the club (0161 928-1045) to book your place.

    Richie, when not at Moss Lane, is the chef at The Vale Inn, Bollington. So, if you are looking for a venue for a Christmas dinner or just a meal out, you can find the menus on the website (link above) or on Facebook. Richie also advises that the Inn runs "brewery tours followed by Boozy Sausage and Mash and Sticky Toffee Pudding, with real-ale ice!" Orders can be placed by e-mail.

    FA TROPHY

    Altrincham have been drawn away to either Durham City or FC United of Manchester in the FA Trophy - to be played on 26 November. The two clubs re-play on Wednesday night at Gigg Lane. In the original match, last Saturday, the sides drew 1-1 and there is a match report on the City website.

    The northern part of the draw is:

  • Corby Town v North Ferriby United
  • Blyth Spartans AFC v Stalybridge Celtic
  • Boston United v Workington AFC
  • Sheffield v Nuneaton Town
  • Gainsborough Trinity v Hinckley United
  • Worcester City v Harrogate Town
  • Colwyn Bay v FC Halifax Town
  • Radcliffe Borough or Worksop Town v Curzon Ashton
  • Guiseley AFC v Eastwood Town
  • Stourbridge or Kendal Town v Chester
  • Hednesford Town or Matlock Town v Hyde
  • Solihull Moors v Ossett Town
  • Droylsden v Witton Albion
  • FC United of Manchester v Altrincham
  • Northwich Victoria v Ilkeston T.

    DUNCAN SIGNS

    Alty Youth striker Duncan Watmore has signed forms to allow him to play for Altrincham in the BSB North.

    ALTRINCHAM 2 EASTWOOD TOWN 0

    Match report here.

    Alty TV has its usual excellent video coverage available, the latest action showing Altrincham's win over Eastwood Town

    YOUTHS' BIG WIN

    Altrincham Youth won 8-0 at Prescot Cables on Sunday and the latest league table is here. For more on this game, see the Youth section.

    FOOD FOR THOUGHT

    As well as the players and team management, many people work hard behind the scenes on matchdays at Moss Lane. Here, we see club caterer Richie Bentley (right), preceded by Mike Healing who works voluntarily in the Manchester Glass Sponsors' Lounge, laden with food as they head to the boardroom and players' lounge last Saturday. If you would like to sample the hospitality at Moss Lane on matchdays, please contact the club on 0161 928-1045 or by e-mail.

    NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS

    Alty's next league match is away at Worcester City where everyone will be hoping for a less eventful day than on our last visit on 30 October 2004, when two people died and Altrincham's Stephen Rose suffered a broken leg. The fatalities were a Worcester steward who collapsed and died in the dressing rooms just after helping to carry the stretcher bearing Stephen. And then a 71 year-old City fan collapsed and died on his way home after the match. In addition, Worcester had their assistant player-manager sent off.

    Now the Worcester News reports that "Manager Carl Heeley believes Worcester City would have beaten Guiseley had striker Mike Symons played the whole game. City were leading 2-0 at half-time, with goals from Symons and Lee Ayres, but were pegged back to 2-2, with Gavin Rothery netting a 93rd minute penalty, after the striker had departed with a hamstring injury.

    Heeley said, 'We were in control of the game and certainly in the first-half we were far superior to them. Symons had a great chance to make it three just into the second-half but unfortunately he couldn’t take it. The game-changing moment for me was a few minutes later when he pulled his hamstring, which was a major setback for us. From that moment they took control of the game. We tried to put Luke Corbett up front but holding the ball up is not his game and we got forced deeper and deeper. I firmly believe had Symons stayed on the pitch we would have won the game. When situations like that occur, players who go on have to make an impact and that didn’t really happen for us'".

    CSC FIXTURES

    Right, we see Chris Lynch, who returned to Altrincham's starting line-up last Saturday against Eastwood Town. Chris, who played at right-back, has made 10(+3) appearances for Alty since arriving in the summer.

    Cheshire Senior Cup

    Tuesday 8 November

  • Altrincham v Stockport County
  • Stalybridge Celtic v Chester
  • Warrington Town v Cheadle Town
  • Winsford United v Congleton Town

    Tuesday 15 November

  • Crewe Alexandra v Northwich Victoria
  • Macclesfield Town v Witton Albion

    Wednesday 16 November

  • Northwich Villa v Nantwich Town

    Tuesday 29 November

  • Tranmere Rovers v Woodley Sports

    FA Cup Round 1 matches involving BSB North clubs

    Saturday 12 November

  • FC Halifax Town v Charlton Athletic (k.o. 12.30pm)
  • Blyth Spartans AFC v Gateshead
  • Hinckley United v Tamworth

    BSBN NEWS

    Pitchero Non-League gives us news of an ex-Alty man as "Boston United have parted company with midfielder Ben Wilkinson and striker Sam Mulready. Wilkinson, 24, made six of his dozen appearances for the Pilgrims at right-back and last figured against Workington on October 22. Jason Lee and Lee Canoville have opted to release the former Hull City trainee with Wilkinson’s first team opportunities being restricted.

    Mulready, 18, has completed his month-long loan spell from Grimsby Town and returns to Blundell Park".

    The BBC says that a "Blyth Spartans footballer has claimed he was the subject of a racial slur from a rival player during a game. Richard Offiong tweeted [that] a Colwyn Bay player said to him, 'Where's your bunch of bananas, show me your passport'.

    Offiong has confirmed to BBC Wales that he has made an official complaint to the footballing authorities. Colwyn chairman Bob Paton said in a statement, 'We are aware of what is being said and will be making our own internal enquiries'".

    200% adds that "Accusations of racist abuse on the field, alleged violence and a goalkeeper sent off for throwing a firework into a stand (no really) have left a grubby stain on the northern half of Step 2... The first incident is perhaps surprising in light of the ongoing Terry/Ferdinand situation. Yesterday evening striker Richard Offiong took to Twitter...

    'Do I report the racist abuse or brush it off? It will never effect me but do I take a stand... Reported abuse in the past but nothing happened'...

    Meanwhile, around 150 miles south and to the west a little, Droylsden’s local derby with league leaders Stalybridge took an equally ugly and shocking turn during the second half with lit bangers and flares being thrown onto the pitch and, in an act of dumbfounded stupidity, Bloods keeper Paul Phillips throwing one of the flares back into the stand from his own six yard box... Phillips was sent off for the incident, the length of his ban and any action from the club has yet to be announced".

    At Blyth Spartans "With Wayne Buchanan suspended, Carl Jones injured and Richie Slaughter unavailable through work for the trip to Hyde tomorrow night, Blyth Spartans manager Steve Cuggy has called upon the services of centre half Darren Timmons. Timmons registered with Blyth at the start of the season and has featured for Whitley Bay this season. He is cup-tied which means he will not be in the Spartans squad to face Gateshead in the FA Cup on Saturday. "


    6 November 2011

    ALTRINCHAM 2 EASTWOOD TOWN 0

    Match report here.

    SK KITS' PRIZE-GIVING

    The winners from Altrincham FC Juniors of Ian Senior's SK Kits' recent competition were presented with their prize of a set of gloves before the game last Saturday at Moss Lane. Here we see, (left to right) Luke, Mike, Edana and Matthew. They all received their prize from Alty keeper Stuart Coburn.

    TUESDAY'S OPPONENTS

    Former Alty loanee Carl Piergianni got two goals for Stockport County, and was booked too, as the Hatters drew 3-3 with Hayes & Yeading United. County meet Alty on Tuesday in the Cheshire Senior Cup. Their starting XI against HYU was Glennon, Lynch, O'Donnell, Piergianni, Edwards, Routledge, Nolan, Miles, Paton, Chadwick, Elliott. Subs: Ormson, McCann, German, Darkwah, Rowe

    OLD BOYS

    Carlos Logan scored for Droylsden in their 3-3 draw with Stalybridge. Ex-Alty loanee James Dean scored twice for FC Halifax Town. As Hyde won against Histon, Matty Berkeley scored. James McCarthy scored twice for Leek in the Trophy draw against Witton. In the EvoStik League, Aaron Burns scored from the spot against Nantwich, for whom Mat Bailey scored in a 1-1 draw. For Burscough, Mark Beesley scored in a 1-3 defeat by Frickley Athletic. Ashley Stott netted for New Mills and ex-youth team player Andy Keogh scored for Flixton.

    GATES

    Alty had the highest attendance in the BSB North on Saturday; the full figures were:
  • Altrincham v Eastwood Town 761
  • Bishop's Stortford v Gainsborough Trinity 351
  • Blyth Spartans v Colwyn Bay 451
  • Corby Town v Vauxhall Motors 620
  • Droylsden v Stalybridge Celtic 656
  • Gloucester City v FC Halifax Town 505
  • Harrogate Town v Nuneaton Town 394
  • Hyde v Histon 394
  • Solihull Moors v Boston United 301
  • Worcester City v Guiseley 745
  • Workington v Hinckley United 360

    F.A.T.

    Alty will be in the FA Trophy draw this Monday. In the northern half of the FA Trophy Second Qualifying Round the results were:
  • Chester FC 2-0 Stafford Rangers
  • Curzon Ashton 2-1 Belper Town
  • Durham City 1-1 FC United of Manchester
  • Hednesford Town 0-0 Matlock Town
  • Ilkeston FC 2-1 Woodley Sports
  • Leek Town 3-3 Witton Albion
  • Marine 5-2 Chasetown
  • North Ferriby United 3-0 Salford City
  • Northwich Victoria 3-0 Buxton
  • Ossett Town 4-2 Barwell
  • Radcliffe Borough 1-1 Worksop Town
  • Sheffield FC 2-0 Romulus
  • Stourbridge 3-3 Kendal Town

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    Altrincham's next opponents, Worcester City, suffered a blow on Saturday when their leading scorer Mike Symons suffered a hamstring injury which it was initially reported would sideline him for at least a month. City drew 2-2 with Guiseley- the Yorkshiremen levelling with an injury-time penalty.

    The Football Conference reports that "Neil Aspin, manager of FC Halifax Town, has completed the signing of striker Jamie Rainford on a month's loan from Chester FC. Rainford came to prominence with twenty-eight goals for Marine last season when his exploits attracted the attentions of other clubs and earned him trials with Notts County. A hard working versatile striker, he had joined the Mariners from Prescot Cables in March 2009 and finished as top scorer at the club for each of the past two seasons".


    5 November 2011

    ALTRINCHAM 2 EASTWOOD TOWN 0

    Altrincham secured a deserved win against an Eastwood team that kept going to the end but which rarely troubled keeper Stuart Coburn.

    Match report here.

    Right: Damian Reeves, seen here against Eastwood, extended his scoring run by scoring Alty's opening goal for the sixth successive league match, a sequence of matches in which he has netted nine times in all. In 15 matches in the BSBN this season, Damian has recorded 16 goals.

  • League table
  • Alty player stats
  • Alty line-ups

    Saturday 5 Nov.

  • Through the Years for November 5th.
  • Altrincham 2 Eastwood Town 0
  • Bishops Stortford 1 Gainsborough Trinity 1
  • Blyth Spartans 2 Colwyn Bay 2
  • Corby Town 1 Vauxhall Motors 0
  • Droylsden 3 Stalybridge Celtic 3
  • Gloucester City 1 FC Halifax Town 3
  • Harrogate Town 0 Nuneaton Town 2
  • Hyde FC 4 Histon 0
  • Solihull Moors 1 Boston United 0
  • Worcester City 2 Guiseley 2
  • Workington 3 Hinckley United 1

    BEFORE THE GAME - ALTY v EASTWOOD TOWN

    If you cannot get to Moss Lane on Saturday afternoon to see Altrincham take on Eastwood Town, you can either:

  • Listen to the match on Radio Robins, sponsored by Paradox Computers.com. You can access Radio Robins on the internet here. The commentary team is Paul Salt, Jack Jolly & Simon Ellis. Commentary begins at 2.50pm.
  • Follow the game on this website's Matchday Updates page

    TASC announce that there will be a bottlebar available in the Noel White Suite during the half-time interval at the match.

    TWO "NEW" OPPONENTS IN SUCCESSION

    After they have played a club they have never met before in Eastwood Town, this Saturday, Alty will then encounter another team which they have never met in a competitive first-team game. But, as Mike Garnett indicates, Alty's first team has met Stockport County Reserves many times and his statistics confirm the record as follows:
  • Alty First XI v County Reserves in competitive matches: p.66 w.27 d.14 l.25 f.108 a.113
  • Alty First XI v County 'A' in competitive matches: p.2 w.1.d.0 l.1 f.6 a.6

    Alty's record against County in the Cheshire Senior Cup (v. Stockport County Reserves) is as follows:

  • Home p.11 w.7 d.2 l.2 f.19 a.13
  • Away p.5 w.1 d.2.l.2 f.8 a.10
  • Neutral p.1 w.0 d.0 l.1 f.0 a.1
  • Overall p.17 w.8 d.4 l.5 f.27 a.24

    DAMIAN INTERVIEWED

    Altrincham's Damian Reeves (right) was interviewed on Friday night on BBC Radio Manchester, to mark his award of the Player of the Month accolade for October. He explained how last season was difficult as "With a struggling side, it's always hard. Chances are few and far between". He also explained how he had known Lee Sinnott since the age of 14 when Damian worked with Lee at Leeds United's academy. Lee had then signed him for Farsley Celtic.

    As for Altrincham, Damian said "It's a good club and it's run well. It's different in that respect from a lot of places I've played. The club is financially stable and it's easier to play on the pitch when you know that, off the pitch, it's sound".

    JIMMY'S VIEWS ON HIS ALTY LOANEE

    Nantwich Town manager Jimmy Quinn says of Brian Summerskill, who has gone on loan to The Dabbers, "He is a quality player who we tried to sign in the close season, so I am delighted that he is now going to be joining us. He is a very skilful player who will give us options and can make a difference as we have some tough and important games coming up and, while the initial loan is for one month, we could look to extend this more permanently if everyone is happy and it works out. He will go straight into the squad for Saturday's game at Ashton".

    OLD BOY

    At one point it looked as if he would return to Altrincham but the Cambridge News tells us that "Steven Connors has made a sensational return to Cambridge United after the club lost an FA appeal. The midfielder trained for the first time yesterday since his ‘sacking’ by United in July. It came after an FA panel ruled it could not overturn the Football Conference’s decision two months ago to uphold Connors’ appeal against his dismissal by United.

    Connors had been axed by the club just five weeks into a two-year deal amid claims he had failed to inform them of a pre-existing groin problem. A club statement released last night said: 'Following the club’s previous statement, we can confirm the FA upheld the Conference decision at an appeal hearing last week. Therefore, Steven Connors remains a Cambridge United player. Having taken legal advice, the club will make no further comment at this time. A further statement will be released in due course'.

    Connors confirmed he had moved back to Cambridge and trained yesterday, but would not comment further when contacted by the News".

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    The Times & Star tells us that "Workington Reds manager Darren Edmondson is facing a race against time to sign a striker for tomorrow’s clash with Hinckley at Borough Park... He said, 'We refuse to believe we will end up in a relegation battle. I believe in this squad but sometimes you need fresh legs brought in. We have lost Kevin Gall and it’s important that the likes of Jonny Wright and Gareth Arnison have serious regular competition for places... I’m hopeful of bringing a striker in.

    We have lacked goals at times this year and, if we are to pull ourselves clear of the bottom, we must start scoring... I will freshen things up and give some of the lads who have sat out in recent weeks a chance to claim a shirt. It’s important for team morale that players are given a chance and I believe we must look to try new things to see what works for us'.

    Edmondson has ruled out playing 5-3-2, using wingbacks, but could include Stuart Green from the start".

    More news of the Cumbrian side is to be found on the BSB North site, which informs us that "Workington Reds have snapped up two talented Hartlepool Rovers youngsters on one-month loan deals. Striker Steve Snaith and defender Paul Johnson will be available immediately for the clash with Hinckley United at Borough Park on Saturday. The 19-year-old Johnson has featured regularly for the Rovers reserves while the 17-year-old Snaith is a top scorer for the club's youth team, netting eight goals in 10 games. Johnson spent time on loan at Whitby Town last term and hopes to gain more experience at the Reds this season."

    Elsewhere, "Guiseley have added another option to their midfield by signing hardened pro' Michael Brough on a one-month loan deal from Darlington. Brough has vast experience at Football League and Non-League level and will add some steel to the Lions' engine room. The former Mansfield Town man started his career as a youth player at Notts County in 1996 and played for the club's senior team between 1998 and 2004, making 89 appearances. The 30-year-old also enjoyed a significant spell at Forest Green Rovers, where he made 87 appearances between 2006 and 2008. He has also played for Stevenage Borough and Torquay United".

    Also welcoming a new face are Blyth Spartans who "have signed defender Greg Pearson from Huddersfield Town on a one-month loan deal. Pearson, 18, is yet to make his full debut at the Galpharm Stadium, but signed a first professional contract for Lee Clark's side earlier this year... Spartans' assistant boss Gavin Fell said of the Terriers under-18 captain, 'He's quick, tenacious and not frightened to put his feet or head in where it hurts'".

    Another BSBN club still acquiring players is the subject of a report from Macclesfield Town who confirm that their "forward Tom Fisher has joined Hyde on an initial month's loan. The player joined the Silkmen from Stockport County in the summer but has seen his early months at the club hit with an injury, but has still managed to get on the scoresheet for the reserves".

    Altrincham's next away game is against Worcester City from where the Worcester News tells us that "There will be a true international flavour to Worcester City’s match against Guiseley tomorrow (3pm) as a Japanese referee takes charge at St George’s Lane. Yoshiro Imamura, who normally works in the Japan National League, has been appointed to the Blue Square Bet North fixture as part of an exchange programme to improve referee development.

    The 34-year-old is one of two officials from the Japanese Football Association spending time in this country, with a colleague looking after Solihull Moors’ home match against Boston United in the same division. In conjunction with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the English FA have linked up with their Japanese counterparts in a bid to raise standards.

    Imamura, who will have two English assistants, is of the required standard and will be accompanied at the Lane by PGMOL management team member Ray Olivier. Alan Kaye, referee appointments officer for Blue Square Bet North, said, 'The FA are keen to forge links around the world and over the years we have developed these links. We are seen as delivering best practice in referee development. I am confident that the referees that are coming over are of the required standard but it’s to give them more experience in different countries and cultures'".

    UNITED RESERVES

    He played and scored against Altrincham in last Saturday's friendly, and now the Manchester Evening News reports that "Manchester United bad boy Ravel Morrison appeared to launch a scathing attack on the club on Twitter – and was then slammed by Wayne Rooney. In a stunning outburst the wayward 18-year-old starlet vented his frustrations on the social networking site after being left on the bench for a Reds' reserves match.

    He wrote: '**** take' before following that up with 'I can not waite till the end of the season'. Word of Morrison's rants spread rapidly across the internet before Rooney, himself no stranger to a Sir Alex Ferguson rollocking, responded: 'might come sooner than you think!!!!'

    Morrison later hit back: 'what do you mean :/' before claiming he had been misunderstood. The rant is the latest controversy to hit Wythenshawe-raised Morrison, who is widely tipped to become an Old Trafford star. He was spared jail in May after his second conviction in four months. In January, Morrison pleaded guilty to witness intimidation and was warned he would be locked up for a year if he was convicted of another offence before the end of 2011. But just four months later, he escaped with a fine at Salford magistrates’ court after admitting criminal damage following a bust-up with his girlfriend.

    And in July Morrison was quizzed by police after being accused of visiting Pendleton College, which is attended by the teenage witness who Morrison admitted to intimidating in a separate case. In later tweets the midfielder claimed he 'never said anythink bad about the club' and added he was looking forward to going on holiday at the end of the season with his family.

    United's Reserves won the match, played at Altrincham's Moss Lane ground, beating Everton's second string 2-0".


    4 November 2011

    BRIAN GOES ON LOAN

    Altrincham FC's 20 year-old midfielder, Brian Summerskill (right), is going on a 28-day loan to our Cheshire neighbours Nantwich Town. Brian has started one league game and been a used substitute in seven more matches this season for The Robins, whom he joined in the summer from Northwich Victoria. He is apparently eligible for The Dabbers in the FA Cup, having only been an unused substitute for Altrincham in that competition this season. Nantwich have an attractive tie in the First Round, against MK Dons.

    NEXT GAME

    Altrincham play Eastwood Town this Saturday (5th, 3pm), a team they have never met previously. In addition to watching Altrincham on the pitch at Moss Lane, you can watch two live HD Premiership matches in the bar at the ground.
  • 12.45 Newcastle Utd v Everton
  • 17.30 QPR v Manchester City

    News of our next opponents comes from the Eastwood Advertiser which tells us that "John Ramshaw returned to Coronation Park as manager of Eastwood Town this week and declared, 'I couldn’t turn the opportunity down'.

    The appointment sees Ramshaw return to the club he left in March 2010 when assistant manager to Paul Cox, making it his third spell altogether with the Badgers having also had a brief period as assistant to Bryan Chambers nearly ten years ago. And after giving up his role as boss of Evo-Stik Division One South side Shepshed Dynamo to return to Nottinghamshire, Ramshaw expressed his delight at being back...

    'It all happened quite quickly', he said. 'I was asked by a third party if I was interested in coming back, which of course I was, and I then had a call from the new owner Steve Lynch asking if I’d like to come over for a chat. I did that and was impressed by Steve’s honest approach, in that he told me straight that the budget wouldn’t be very big and that if I couldn’t work with that then the job wasn’t for me. But I simply couldn’t turn down the opportunity to come back here and am delighted that I have been given that chance'...

    'The fact is the club is third from bottom in the league and it is my job to rectify that situation as soon as possible', he said. 'It won’t be easy and I’d ask the fans to be patient as it will take time for things to take effect, but I can assure them that I will work around the clock to put things right and until safety is assured... I’ve had a good chat with the players and was pleased with their attitude, but there are clearly some issues with things like their fitness, which they acknowledge and is understandable given they haven’t really had any leadership for a little while.

    In terms of styles of football, given the kinds of players here we’ll devise a way that suits them rather than them having to suit me, as there is little point in attempting to put square pegs in round holes. Obviously there may be players who might feel their future lies elsewhere and that’s something I have to respect, but unless my hand is forced I don’t anticipate many changes for a few weeks as I want to assess what we have and what might then be required'.

    Ramshaw has appointed Richard Cooper as his assistant, the former Badgers defender also returning to the club having been Paul Cox’s right-hand man last season. 'I like to be surrounded by people I know and trust and Coops falls into that bracket having worked with him here before', he said. 'With that in mind I’ve also brought coach Jim Wynn and physio Nick Taylor with me and there may be other appointments still to come'.

    Ramshaw’s first game in charge will be this Saturday when Eastwood travel to face an Altrincham side that currently sit eighth in the Blue Square Bet North... He added, 'I’ll be getting some reports on Altrincham, so we know what to expect, but we’ve got a difficult couple of months ahead starting this weekend, and the job of trying to keep ourselves in this division starts right now'".

    DAMIAN ON THE RADIO

    Altrincham FC joint Press Officer advises us that "Damian Reeves’s goalscoring exploits will be one of the main talking points on BBC Radio Manchester’s non-League show this Friday evening (November 4). The Altrincham sharpshooter’s penalty area prowess earned him the Blue Square Conference North player-of-the-month award for October and made him an immediate interview target for Radio Manchester’s Jack Dearden. Our prolific leading scorer readily agreed to be one of the programme’s guests and will do a telephone link-up with Jack to discuss his own rich vein of form and Alty’s fortunes in general. Stalybridge Celtic pair Connor Jennings and Greg Wilkinson are also on the show, as is new Wrexham manager Andy Morrell. The ever-popular non-League section of Manchester Sports, presented by Jack, is on 95.1FM and starts at 7pm".

    COMMUNITY OFFICER

    Altrincham Football Club has issued the following Press Release:

    Altrincham Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Bullock (left) as the club's Community Officer. The club was impressed by the high calibre of applicants for the role, but felt that Chris’s knowledge of the Club, and his excellent reputation within the local area made him the ideal appointment.

    Chris will be known to many Altrincham Supporters through his outstanding work with the Junior Section’s Saturday Morning Club and the various Junior teams. Chris also undertakes Schools Coaching and runs the School Holiday Soccer Fun weeks on behalf of the club. He has also played a big part in the setting up of the new open age Ladies team.

    Chris will be starting in his new role immediately, and will be focusing on developing the existing relationships that the Club has with schools and the Junior section as well as creating links with additional schools and all Junior Football clubs within the Trafford area. In time, the Club hopes to see the Community Scheme activities expand to include the setting up of initiatives involving disabled, elderly and disadvantaged Groups. It is also expected that the Community Scheme will at some time be registered as a Charitable Trust.

    If anyone wishes to contact Chris about any aspect of the Club's community activities, he can be contacted on 07963 163966 , or by e-mail.

    CSC OPPONENTS

    Altrincham play Stockport County next Tuesday in the Cheshire Senior Cup. The Football Conference tells us that "Stockport County have agreed a deal to bring defender Joe Edwards back on loan to Edgeley Park from Bristol City. Edwards, who has made six appearances for the Hatters this season, will stay with County until January 2nd. New City manager, and former County favourite Derek McInnes is happy to give his young players an opportunity to play some match football and said: 'Joe's already done well at Stockport and this further opportunity will be good for him'".

    OLD BOYS

    When Salford City beat Wakefield on Wednesday two ex-Alty men scored for City; Danny Heffernan and former reserve Cayne Hanley.

    A new signing at Skelmersdale United is Steve Torpey, who was known to the Skem manager from his time at Prescot Cables.In the EvoStik's Doodson Sport Cup, Ashton United lost 4-1 at home to Lancaster City but former Alty Youth striker Sam Madeley netted Ashton's goal.

    BSB NEWS

    According to Pitchero Non-League "Gloucester City are in talks with neighbours Cheltenham Town about renewing their groundshare deal for next season. The Tigers have been without a permanent home since losing their Meadow Park ground to flooding in 2007. They have played at Whaddon Road since 2010 having previously shared with Cirencester Town`s Corinium Stadium and Forest Green Rovers' New Lawn.

    'I've had discussions with Robins' chairman Paul Baker - he's set out what he wants us to do', said Gloucester chairman Nigel Hughes. 'We need to consider our options for next season and hopefully we can do that with Cheltenham Town'.

    Plans to build a new stadium for the Tigers on the old Meadow Park site are in motion but Hughes believes it is unlikely it will be ready for the 2012/13 season. 'We have to be realistic if we were to get the go-ahead tomorrow. There's no way we'd have a stadium fit for purpose in time for next season. Part-way through the season we will have to see where we are because these things unfortunately do take time. We've completed the transport assessment which we've been asked to do and then suddenly we were asked to provide an additional report, which again was extra cost to the owner, which we are in the process of doing. Hopefully once that's been finished we'll get the rubber stamp and we can proceed'".

    The NL Paper reports that "Grimsby Town goalkeeper Kenny Arthur is to join Gainsborough Trinity on loan for a month. The 32-year-old is second choice to James McKeown at Grimsby and is yet to make a first team appearance for them this season. Mariners' joint-bosses Rob Scott and Paul Hurst want him to get games under his belt and Trinity's current keeper crisis means he will now have the opportunity to do so".

    Harrogate Town say that "It has been revealed that Liam Hardy has suffered damage to his cruciate ligament and could well be out of contention for the rest of the season... "Harrogate Town AFC would like to announce with sadness that Bill Fotherby has stepped down as chairman. Mr Fotherby, 80, has decided that after more than a decade in charge at Wetherby Road it was time to stand aside. Speaking to the Harrogate Advertiser, he said 'It was my decision. I’ve 12 great years in charge and achieved a lot in that time. It was the right decision to make, I felt it was time to move on'".


    3 November 2011

    SCHOLES IMPRESSED

    Altrincham FC joint Press Officer, John Edwards writes:

    "Former England and Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has joined recent signing Jack Redshaw’s growing list of admirers after declaring: ‘I can see him scoring a hatful for Alty this season.’

    Altrincham’s diminutive striker (right) grabbed the chance of a start alongside Michael Twiss with two goals in the opening 28 minutes of last Saturday’s 2-2 draw with a Manchester United Xl at Moss Lane.

    Scholes looked on from the away dug-out, in his new role as assistant to United Reserves boss Warren Joyce, and was hugely impressed with the quality of each goal.

    Speaking in the players’ tunnel shortly after the final whistle, Scholes, who brought the curtain down on an illustrious playing career at the end of last season, said: ‘They were two great goals, even if we were a little bit disappointed with the way we defended them. From what I’ve seen, he can be a prolific scorer for this club, especially against Conference North defenders, who are going to find him a real handful.

    ‘He’s a tough little lad and definitely a clever footballer. You can be disappointed all you want defensively, but you have to say both goals were really well taken. It was a great pass in to him for the first, and a great touch to bring it under control and set up a shooting chance. And to crack it into the bottom corner past a top-class keeper like Tomasz Kuszczak was the mark of a clinical finisher.

    ‘It was clever football for the second, the way he deceived Tomasz, and it’s a real feather in his cap to score twice against a Premier League keeper. He can go away feeling really pleased with himself.’

    Scholes tipped his local club Stalybridge Celtic to hold on to their current top place but backed Alty to maintain a promotion push, particularly with so many attacking options. Top scorer Damian Reeves seems certain to reclaim his place from Redshaw against Eastwood Town at Moss Lane this Saturday, with Scholes saying, ‘I like the look of this Alty side. They clearly like to pass the ball round and play the right way, and if they carry on like that, they won’t go far wrong.

    ‘I wouldn’t call myself an expert on the Conference North, but I do know a couple of people at Stalybridge, and they have clearly made a great start. It helps being full time. That has to be a big advantage for them, and they are well placed to go up this season. I hope they do, but I will keep an eye on Alty’s fortunes as well, because I think it’s very encouraging to see teams at this level playing football like that.

    ‘I know Twissy from his United days. We played a few Reserve games together, even though he’s a couple of years younger than me, and I always remember him as a good lad. It seems to me like he’s still got plenty to offer.

    ‘He’s a big strong lad with bags of experience, and it seems like he hasn’t lost the knack of holding the ball up and using his left peg to good effect. I think he’ll do well for Alty this season.’

    Lee Sinnott also enthused over Redshaw’s eye for goal, as he saluted an impressive team performance that hopefully will act as ideal preparation for the visit of Eastwood.

    ‘It was a good workout and a positive scoreline, because you know that any team Manchester United put out are going to give you major things to contend with,’ said the Alty boss. ‘They were two cracking goals by Jack. It was a wonderful ball for the first, but really it was the touch that made it. It reminded me of Damian Reeves’s first goal against Vauxhall Motors, where the ball was played over the top and his touch killed it dead.

    ‘It didn’t just set him up instantly for a shot, it gave the keeper no chance to set himself up for dealing with it. That’s how quick the whole movement was, and it was a very well executed goal.

    ‘The second put me in mind of Ronaldinho for Barcelona against Chelsea a few years back, when he looked in one corner and sidefooted the ball into the other from the edge of the area. The keeper can’t react, and that’s how it was with Jack’s finish. It was very clever.

    ‘It was a very pleasing exercise all round, because players who needed game time got it and others were used in different positions. Robbie Lawton came back in midfield, after playing right-back earlier this season, but with a squad the size of ours, you need versatility.

    ‘I knew he would get a good workout in the middle of the park, something to test his lung capacity after a few weeks out. I knew he would be feeling it towards the end, as would Brian Summerskill, and I’m glad they were both breathing a bit heavy when they came off.

    ‘Against a United side moving the ball around and asking questions, you are going to get through as much work in 65 minutes as a normal 90, so it was good for both of them.

    ‘It was also good to see some of the young lads do well. Adam Reid made a great reflex save and showed great anticipation, dealing with a through ball in the first half. There were moments when he seemed to think he had to throw the ball out every time, but he is young and learning.

    ‘He was another positive from the day, without a shadow of a doubt, as was Joe Coombs, at centre-half in the second half, and Matt Fearon in midfield for the last 25 minutes or so'".

    LEE PRAISES JAMES

    The Sale & Altrincham Advertiser confirms that "Altrincham will continue to benefit from the services of James Lawrie (below, left) as they look to close in on the Blue Square North pace-setters. AFC Telford agreed on Monday to let the in-form forward spend a third and final month on loan with the Robins.

    The Northern Ireland international will stay at Moss Lane until December 1, up to the maximum loan period of 93 days, having linked up with the Robins at the end of August. Despite playing in a wide-right role, the 20-year-old has plundered four goals from eight starts while helping centre-forward Damien Reeves hit top form.

    'He’s fitted in very well and he’s enjoying his football', said manager Lee Sinnott. 'He said he’d like to stay with us and it’s a big positive that he has. Playing out on the right is not something he hasn’t done before, he’s also played on the left. He’s not an out-and-out right winger so I think he gives something different. He can come inside and out, and he’s been a centre-forward, which has shown with his goals return. He’s got a one-in-two ratio, which is a big plus from a wide player.

    James is adaptable. Some centre-forwards don’t like being put out there, they just want to go down the middle, whereas James can play anywhere across the front line. He’s a good lad, I had him at Port Vale when he was a kid. He has a good attitude, always has a smile on his face and applies himself correctly'.

    Reeves has been in even better form and was named the league’s Player of the Month after bagging five goals from three league games in October. The 15-goal striker was rested for Saturday’s friendly against a Manchester United XI after picking up a knock in the previous week’s 5-1 defeat at league leaders Stalybridge, and Jack Redshaw took his chance to impress. The recent signing from Salford scored both Alty goals before a United side that featured Tomasz Kuszczak, Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison recovered to draw 2-2.

    'He took both goals very well', said Sinnott. 'His first touch for the first goal was very good as it set him up for the shot across Kuszczak. His second was quick-thinking, he more or less toe-bunged it in, which gave the goalkeeper no chance to move before the ball hit the net. I’m pleased he’s off the mark because strikers judge themselves by goals'.

    Keeper Stuart Coburn and left winger Nicky Clee were also rested, and with the likes of Chris Lynch, Simon Richman, Brian Summerskill and captain Robbie Lawton all getting game-time after injury, Sinnott could have the rare luxury of a fully-fit squad for Saturday’s home game against third-bottom Eastwood. Eighth-placed Alty have won their last four at Moss Lane in the league while the Badgers claimed their first win in 13 on Saturday.

    'After the Stalybridge game we had a couple of people carrying knocks so it’s only wise to utilise the league programme break and let them get over it', Sinnott added. 'Saturday gave us an opportunity to freshen things up, it was really beneficial'".

    ADAM DID WELL

    Alty's youth team keeper Adam Reid played for Buxton on Tuesday night as they won 2-1 at Frickley. Pitchero Non-League says that "Back came the home side, Adam Reid plucking a curling cross from Mallon off the head of Knox before pawing away a angled shot from Knox in the 61st minute. The visiting keeper excelled again in the 71st minute when he smothered a far post header from Gray, following a corner kick by Callery on the left". And Adam was joined in the Buxton side by their leading scorer and former Alty player Kieran Lugsden".

    PENSIONERS' CHRISTMAS LUNCH

    Brian Flynn announces that "The Altrincham Supporters' Club (TASC) are organising a Christmas Lunch for Pensioners on Wednesday December 7th at 12.30pm in the Manchester Glass Ltd. Sponsors' Lounge at Moss Lane. The menu is as follows:
  • Cream of Fresh Vegetable Soup
  • Roast Cheshire Turkey, Chipolata Sausage & Stuffing
  • Roast Potatoes, Carrots & Sprouts
  • Christmas Pudding with Fresh Cream
  • Mince Pies
  • Tea or Coffee

    This festive gastronomic delight will be prepared by Dave Johnson and the price is just £9.00 including drinks!!!!

    TASC Chairman, Brian Flynn said 'This event sold out quickly last year, so be sure to reserve your place quickly'. To make your reservation or for further information, please contact Altrincham Football Club by phone, 0161 928 1045, or e-mail. Alternatively, please contact Brian Flynn on 07860 561011 or e-mail.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    FA Cup replay:
  • Corby T. 4 Kidderminster H. 1

    The revised draw for the FA Cup with Budweiser First Round, to be played over the weekend of 12th/13th November 2011, includes...

  • Bristol Rovers v Corby Town
  • Blyth Spartans v Gateshead
  • Chelmsford City v AFC Telford United
  • Hinckley United v Tamworth
  • FC Halifax Town v Charlton Athletic

    Colwyn Bay report that "Departing Colwyn Bay manager Dave Challinor said he had endured an ‘emotional rollercoaster’ after opting to vacate his post at Llanelian Road. The promotion-winning boss quit as Bay boss on Tuesday night to join Evo-Stik North side AFC Fylde, with play-off hero Jon Newby replacing him as first team manager. Challinor said that it had been a difficult decision to leave Colwyn Bay, and hoped to stay in touch with the friends he’d made in North Wales. 'The last 24 hours have been an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s been a very difficult decision', he said...

    'I know emotions are a little raw at the moment, but I hope the fans look back and realise why we’ve done it. I’ve had a very very loyal career in football and, maybe, I’ll look back and say I should have applied for this or gone for that, but this was an opportunity that was too good to pass by. I hope to become a regular visitor, and hopefully we’ll be back on a more regular basis'...

    Challinor also said that he had an idea of new personnel he would be looking to bring to his new club, and though he refused to rule out returning to Llanelian Road for his former players, he indicated that the ambitious squad left behind at Llanelian Road were looking to compete at a higher level...

    'I see the squad as being my players and I sold the idea of playing at Colwyn Bay to the lads, and I know they want to play at a higher level... I’ve an idea of the players I want to bring to the club'"

    Jon Newby, who netted the match winning goal in last season's play-off final with FC United, was immediately named as Dave Challinor’s successor. Newby said he was delighted to take the role...

    He admitted 'It’s probably come a little earlier than I would have liked, but I’m pleased to have been given the chance, and we’ll continue the great work done by Challi and Colin. It’s business as usual, I don’t think there’s a budget for much change, and we’ll keep the squad the same. I don’t know if it was a surprise, I’ve been in football for a long time. Chally got an opportunity and he's taken it'...

    Jon also indicated that he would be looking to bring in an experienced assistant with previous links to Colwyn Bay, but didn't expect a new number two to arrive before this weekend's game against Blyth Spartans. Jon said 'I don't really want to bring in an outsider; we need someone who knows the club and just what it means to the people who run it and support it. We’ve had a chat about it and it’ll probably be someone who knows the club rather than someone from outside... I will be looking to keep things ticking over with as little upheaval as possible'.

    Seagulls chairman Bob Paton said he was shocked at the former Tranmere defender's departure... 'We are all devastated to lose Dave because he has done a fantastic job, but despite our best efforts to change his mind it was purely his decision and we have to accept that and wish him well... I approached Jon immediately, and by 20:45 the job was his. I took Jon to one side and told him that I see him as the new manager of Colwyn Bay. He put his hand out and said he’d take it. We’ll see how it goes now until Christmas and see if it suits both parties.

    AFC Fylde "are delighted to announce the appointment of David Challinor as their new Manager. Challinor, aged 36, joins the club after informing Blue Square North new boys Colwyn Bay that he wished to drop down two divisions to take the job, a sign of Challinor’s desire to come to Kellamergh Park, citing AFC Fylde’s ambition to climb the non league pyramid as a major factor in his decision. He guided Colwyn Bay to promotion to the Blue Square North last season winning promotion from the Evostik Premier at his first attempt after, just a year earlier, captaining them to Evo Stik One North play off success.

    The former Tranmere Rovers, Stockport County and Bury defender impressed Fylde’s Directors with his drive and ambition. The club had a number of ‘high profile applicants’ which came down to a shortlist of four, but Challinor is the man the club believes can lead the Coasters to promotion and beyond. He will be joined by Colin Woodthorpe the former Norwich City, Stockport County and Bury defender, a former team mate and trusted assistant, who worked with him at Bay as his number two.

    Challinor is relishing the challenge. 'We can’t wait to get started and I’m delighted to get this opportunity. The ambition the club has shown matches ours and it’s the right time and right opportunity for me to come to a club like this... Our brief is to get the club out of this division and beyond and we feel we can be part of something really special here'.

    AFC Fylde Chairman, David Haythornthwaite said 'We are absolutely delighted to secure Dave Challinor as our manager. Dave’s application was the first we received when the job became vacant last week. He has done a tremendous job for Colwyn Bay working on a very tight budget, firstly getting them up last season and now being only three points of the play offs in the Blue Square North'.

    'Dave is young and like ourselves, extremely ambitious, he impressed us all with his desire for success and his obvious organizational skills. He is also articulate and will represent the club well both on and off the field. He knows the game at this level and has a proven track record of success'".

    The Football Conference announces the England C side for their next international. It includes only two BSB North players, Connor Jennings (Stalybridge Celtic) and Scott Spencer (Hyde).

    The Conference also says that "Corby Town have signed attacking midfielder Lee Beeson from Stamford. The former Grimsby Town youngster has signed for an undisclosed fee, ahead of interest from other clubs. The 21-year-old winger scored eighteen goals last term and has been Stamford's leading scorer for the past two seasons from the right flank".

    Hyde FC tell us that "Chorley forward Shelton Payne has joined the Tigers on a one-month loan. The 22-year-old Welsh winger lists Cardiff City, Crystal Palace, Blackburn Rovers, Dinas Powys, Port Talbot Town, Trafford as his former clubs, and is on the transfer list at Chorley. Speaking to the official Chorley website, Magpies manager Garry Flitcroft said, 'Shelton came to me and asked for a move several weeks ago so I agreed to transfer list him. On the back of that, Hyde boss Gary Lowe has asked if he can take a look at him for a month and I’ve agreed'.

    Shelton is also described on Chorley’s website as 'one of the fastest players in non-league football', and is Gary Lowe’s second addition to the Hyde squad in 7 days, with former Stockport County midfielder Sean Williams joining the Tigers from Vauxhall Motors last week".


    2 November 2011

    LADIES' UNBEATEN RUN

    Keith Edleston, manager of Altrincham FC Ladies reports that the Ladies have created a bit of a milestone by going through the month of October unbeaten, with two wins and two draws. Keith has also kindly provided a photo (above) of the Ladies team. The Ladies' next game is away to Sandbach United FC on the 6 November, k.o. 2pm. The next home fixture (at Ridgeway Road) is on 27 November (2pm). Spectators are very welcome at all games.

    YANKEE JACKPOT

    There is still a £5,000 jackpot, with a reserve jackpot of £1990, to be won on the Altrincham FC Saturday Yankee, after last week's winning code, 5570, proved to be unissued. Five winning trebles each netted their holders £40.

    RECYCLE YOUR OLD CLOTHES, SHOES & TEXTILES

    As reported yesterday, a new Clothes Bank has been installed in the car park off Golf Road, behind Altrincham FC. Courtesy of Grahame Rowley, it is pictured, right. The bank accepts shoes and textiles as well as clothes so please use it; proceeds from it will benefit the Football Club.

    FA CUP REPLAYS

    Tuesday 1 Nov.
  • Blyth S. 2 Droylsden 1
  • Gloucester C. 0 Chelmsford C. 1
  • Hinckley United 3 Darlington 0

    The Football Conference says that "The Football Association has announced the three FA Cup with Budweiser First Round live ties that will feature on ITV and ESPN this month. The televised ties will kick off at 12.30pm on Saturday, 12th November when Justin Edinburgh’s Newport County host Shrewsbury Town at Newport Stadium live on ESPN. League One high-flyers, Charlton Athletic, will see their visit to FC Halifax Town’s The Shay on ITV1 the following day at 12.30pm. ESPN will complete the live TV double-header on Sunday, November 13th with Sheffield Wednesday heading to Morecambe at 3.15pm. All six clubs will receive the FA live broadcast fee of £67,500 while the winners net £18,500 from the FA Cup prize fund."

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    The Journal reports that "Blyth Spartans' boss, Steve Cuggy, has backed new signing Jamie Mole to be a match-winner ahead of tonight’s crunch FA Cup fourth round qualifying replay against Droylsden. The Croft Park side entertain Droylsden knowing that not only will a place in the first round proper of the FA Cup is at stake, but also a chance to set up a local North East derby against Conference side Gateshead.

    Their latest acquisition, Mole, made his debut at last Saturday’s goalless draw at Droylsden and showed signs of why the 23-year-old was highly-rated as a teenager when at Scottish Premier League side Heart of Midlothian... Said Cuggy, 'He’s a proper centre-forward who doesn’t give defenders any time at all and he looks to get in the box and score goals and I couldn’t ask for anymore from him... On Saturday I looked at my bench and at long last I could say I had the luxury of some attacking quality... The quick turn-around of playing a competitive cup-tie on the Saturday to playing another one on Tuesday doesn’t help in terms of getting the players fully rested as they would be if we were playing this game on the Wednesday. However, it is the same for Droylsden as well only in their case, they will be at a slight disadvantage. After all, they will be the ones making the long bus journey for Tuesday night’s game while our players will just have a short journey from their homes'".

    The Cambridge News informs us that "Histon are having to come to terms with teams attempting to spoil their passing game. Gone are the days when the Stutes were known, up and down the league, for their direct approach, with manager David Livermore instilling an on-the-deck mentality at the Glass World Stadium.

    And the boss knows his men must continue to work at their game as opponents come into matches having done their homework. Workington were defeated 2-0 on Saturday, but the Cumbrian visitors got on top in the latter stages of the first half before Histon stormed back to win after the interval. Livermore said.. 'There was then a period, because of the slight breeze and the way the opposition played, when we found it tough to get out of our own half. I thought the opposition did a good job. They worked really hard and pressed us very well, and I take that as a compliment to our team and our passing style.

    Managers in this division do speak to each other regularly and, obviously, someone’s told them if you press them high and stop them passing the ball, you’ll have a chance. I don’t think they were as crude as some teams have been with it, I thought they were a little bit more measured. But it was up, set and in behind us, then up, set and in behind us'.

    Histon’s four-pronged attack of Dan Holman, Daniel Sparkes, Lewis Taaffe and captain Omer Riza terrorised the Workington defence in the second half. Livermore has respect for other teams in the league looking to adopt a more route-one approach, but believes his tactics can produce the same results. 'In the second half we did play a little bit more direct, but we played with quality and passed the ball in behind their back four', he said. 'I thought we played some lovely diagonal passes to the wide boys Lewis Taaffe and Daniel Sparkes. That was a really good thing about our play'".


    1 November 2011

    GET YOUR ALTY CHRISTMAS PRESENTS...

    With Christmas in mind, Alty boss Lee Sinnott here models two of this season's pieces of Altrincham FC sportswear from Ian Senior's SK Kits. The tracksuit (left) retails as follows:
  • Adult £45, Child £38. Top-only £33.

    The polo shirt (right) is priced as below,

  • Adults£22, Child £18.

    These and other merchandise are available from the Robins' Shop on matchdays or by contacting the club offices by telephone, (0161) 928-1045, or e-mail.

  • ... AND GET RID OF YOUR OLD CLOTHES, TOO

    Make space in your wardrobe for your Altrincham FC merchandise by getting rid of your old clothes in the new "Clothes Bank", which has now been sited in the car park at the rear of Altrincham FC's ground. All donations made at the Clothes Bank mean income for the club so please do try and make use of the facility.

    YOUTH TEAM NEWS

    Three of Altrincham Youth's team will be making their Evo-Stik debuts tonight (Tuesday, 7.45pm) as they gain first-team experience whilst remaining registered for Altrincham for BSB North games. Goalkeeper Adam Reid is playing for Buxton at Frickley, whilst defenders Joe Coombs and Matt Fearon are appearing for Radcliffe Borough against Woodley Sports.

    The latest league table for the Premier Division in which Altrincham FC Youth play is now on the NW Youth Alliance website.

    BSB NORTH NEWS

    He made just two substitute appearances for Altrincham in 2009-10 but BSB North reports that "Southport's Andy Owens has been named the Blue Square Bet Premier 'Player of the Month' for October. The left-back has been in great form for Liam Watson's side who have gone unbeaten during the period. Owens has contributed with two important goals, both decisive in 1-0 victories at home to Stockport County in the FA Cup and at home to Cambridge United in the league. The Sandgrounders are up to seventh in the table, with Owens only missing the 1-1 draw at Tamworth during the period. Manager Watson narrowly missing out on the managerial equivalent which would have given Southport an October double.

    The Blue Square Bet North 'Player of the Month' for October is Damian Reeves from Altrincham. Striker Reeves found the net five times in three league matches during the month including a hat-trick in his side's 6-1 home win over Boston United. He was also on the scoresheet in their 3-2 win over Vauxhall Motors and their defeat at Stalybridge Celtic."

    The Blue Square Bet North 'Manager of the Month' for October is Neil Aspin from FC Halifax Town. Aspin's side won five of their six games during the month including three FA Cup matches to set up a home tie with League One leaders Charlton Athletic in the First Round Proper. Halifax also beat high-flying Hyde in a 3-2 thriller at The Shay as they aim to climb back into the top half of the table and challenge for a play-off place".

    He played three times for Altrincham as a loanee from Bury in 2007-08 season but the Halifax Courier says that "James Dean is facing a frustrating spell on the sidelines after Town boss Neil Aspin confirmed a six-match suspension in the wake of his red card at Guiseley. The big Town striker has already served a three-match ban following the dismissal which came after the final whistle at Nethermoor on September 20.

    But the referee reported that Dean had manhandled him after showing the card and an extra six games have been slapped on top of the original punishment which is expected to start after next weekend’s trip to Gloucester City. 'I could spend a lot of time talking about the incident', he said. 'He was ill disciplined in getting sent off, there is no doubt about that. But the punishment and subsequent report of his actions, I can’t agree with at all. I cannot believe the action of the referee and what he said in his report which has resulted in a six-game ban for James Dean. It is really frustrating for the player and bad for the club. Players must show discipline and I would love a situation like they have in rugby where players don’t argue and get on with the game. But that is going to take years and years to happen'. Dean looks set to miss the Halifax club's glamour tie in the FA Cup against Charlton Athletic; Alty are due at The Shay on 3 December.

    News of our next opponents comes from This is Nottingham, which says that "A new dawn at Eastwood Town began with a bang as the Badgers made it a lucky 13 by claiming a vital 2-1 victory at Vauxhall Motors. With a new boss unveiled on Friday, former Shepshed Dynamo chief John Ramshaw, a buoyed Badgers promptly bagged their first win in 13.

    Jake Sheridan and Jarrod Westcarr were the heroes for the Blue Square North strugglers as they came from behind to take all three points against the Motormen. If the new boss Ramshaw – who will be assisted by Badgers favourite Richard Cooper – had been wary about what he was letting himself in for, an impressive three points on the road will have gone a long way to setting his mind at ease.

    The man he is replacing, caretaker-manager Steve Istead, admits he is pleased to be out of the frying pan. 'It's a relief but I've enjoyed it', said Istead. 'But I'm a footballer, I want to be playing. I'm more than happy to help out, I don't mind, but I'm only 25. I'd like to think I've got at least another five years left'".

    From the other side, Vauxhall Motors report that "Motors missed a host of chances as Eastwood produced a smash and grab performance to claim all three points at Rivacre Park. The first half was one-way traffic as Motors bombarded the Eastwood goal but somehow they failed to convert any of the numerous chances into goals...

    The opening goal was scored six minutes after the interval when Holsgrove beat his marker on the left wing and delivered a pinpoint cross to Mattie Burke who was bundled over whilst trying to connect and the referee had no option but to award a penalty. McGivern stepped up and dispatched the resulting spot kick with ease. Eastwood were level just two minutes later however when Paul Jones failed to clear his lines and Jake Sheridan nipped in and took the ball past him before hitting a fine strike into the top corner beyond Tynan from 18 yards out. As Motors pressed for an equaliser they were caught exposed at the back and with eleven minutes remaining, Eastwood got an unexpected winner".

    Meanwhile, the North Wales Weekly News says that "Colwyn Bay FC have had to act quickly after receiving notification that they must build a new stand at Llanelian Road or face relegation from the Conference North. A meeting of club supporters and shareholders on Sunday was told by club chairman Bob Paton that new league regulations require a minimum of four rows of seating in stands, and currently Llanelian Road has only three.

    The club has been informed they must have work on a new stand underway by March 31st next year or be relegated. The league can't guarantee where relegation would be to. That would be up to the FA - although Mr Paton warned it could even be back to the Evostik Division One North or South, or even the North West Counties.

    The chairman is calling on supporters and the town to help make sure that doesn't happen. He has already had plans drawn up for a cantilever stand on the Triac terracing, incorporating up to 500 seats with covered standing areas on either side. The cost of the project, however, is a daunting £71,500. The club are hopeful of sourcing £30,000 to £40,000 of funding but need to raise a further £30,000 themselves.

    Efforts are already being made by fans following Sunday's meeting to try and form a Colwyn Bay Supporters' Association to help organise fundraising events. A meeting has been arranged at the club for this Thursday (November 3rd, 7.30pm) when the bar will be open and any fans interested in becoming a member of a CBFC supporters club will be very welcome.

    In another move, Commercial manager Carol Beard has been appointed social club manager to try and attract more private functions and other events to the social club to bring in extra revenue. The football club also have 13,000 £1 shares on sale to the general public... The directors have been working very hard to source the funding needed to upgrade the floodlights to the required 180 lux minimum, and Mr Paton said that plans for other ground upgrade requirements, including extending and upgrading the dressing rooms, are in hand...

    Mr Paton added, 'Funding the football side of the club has been sorted, and the manager and players are doing a great job in consolidating the team's place in the Conference North - but all their efforts will be in vain if we can't get the ground right'".


    FOR EARLIER NEWS, CLICK HERE