'My time at Woking FC has been an eye-opening managerial experience and one that will undoubtedly make me stronger'".

Robin Grey, BBC Surrey and Sussex sports editor adds that "This is a hugely surprising end to a partnership that seemed to be heading in the right direction...

But the reference in Defoe's statement to owner Todd Johnson, thanking him 'for giving me the opportunity to manage the club', but a lack of one for [Director of Football, Jody] Brown could reveal a lot about the departure...

So all eyes point towards off the pitch for the reasons he said made it 'impossible' to continue after 116 days in charge."

The Mirror observed that "director of football, Jody Brown, has defended himself after being criticised on X... alleging that Defoe 'led all recruitment and all triallists'. He claimed, 'Of the vast number of triallists, I did not choose one. Not one.

'Jermain led all recruitment and all triallists. All Jermain’s contacts, all linked to him. Every single one. Empty promises? We gave everything that was asked. Everything. I’m sure it’ll all come out in due course.'"

Boreham Wood confirm that forward Junior Dixon has joined Walton & Hersham FC on a permanent transfer.

Junior initially arrived at Meadow Park on a season-long loan from Birmingham City during the 2024/25 season, playing his part as the Wood secured promotion back to the National League.

Following that successful campaign, he made the move permanent in July 2025. During his time at the club, he also gained valuable experience out on loan, spending spells with Hampton & Richmond Borough and Chatham Town during the 2025/26 season.

Everyone at Boreham Wood FC would like to thank Junior for his efforts during his time at the club and wish him every success for the future as he begins the next chapter of his career with newly promoted National League South side Walton & Hersham FC".

At Hartlepool United "Cameron John has expressed his excitement at returning to the Club after sealing a permanent move on Friday.

The 26-year-old has joined on a permanent deal, after making 40 appearances for Pools last season in a loan spell from York City...

'It’s really good to be back,' he said...

John became a key part of last season’s squad, and he... 'Last season was really good. I wasn’t shy about it; I really enjoyed my time here.

'Being on loan is something that I’ve chose[n] a lot in my career, but it’s just good to be back here permanently'...

The defender has Football League and National League experience with Doncaster, Rochdale and York City... The 26-year-old added... 'We’ve got a good, young group this year – and it’s just about giving my experiences, and helping them along the journey'".

Forest Green Rovers "confirm Laurent Mendy has signed for Scottish Premiership Team, Heart of Midlothian FC.

He joins Hearts, who came so close to winning the league last season, for what will be, if all targets are met, a club record fee of close to £1million.

Laurent joined us from Macclesfield in 2025, following in the footsteps of his former manager, Robbie Savage.

He was nearly an ever-present last season, making 47 appearances for the club...

Robbie Savage said this about his captain, 'It's an unbelievable opportunity for Mendy. I could not stand in his way of progressing his career and bettering his and his family's life, whilst getting a record fee received for the club'".

Harrogate Town "announce the signing of talented defender Archie Baptiste on a permanent deal.

The 20-year-old signs for an undisclosed fee from Middlesbrough on a two-year-contract.

'With Chanse departing we are getting another defender with high potential', explained Head of Player Recruitment, Lloyd Kerry.

'We think there's a lot about his game where he can adapt quickly to men's football, he communicates well, he's aggressive, and he's comfortable on the ball.”

'He suits our system in that right centre back role or the middle of a back three'...

Archie started his career at Chelsea before moving to North London and Tottenham Hotspur, eventually signing for Middlesbrough in 2025... before achieving promotion to The Football League during a short loan spell at Rochdale">

24 July 2026

THE ALTRINCHAM SQUAD

Six new signings have been made this summer (Barlow, Dennis, Evans, Hinchy, Humbles and Taylor) but two of those six (Hinchy and Humbles) were previously at the club as loanees.

Two other players, Olson and Breckin who were signed towards the end of last season, did not make a start for Altrincham in 2025/26.

Seven of the squad have yet to make a start for Altrincham in a competitive match, whilst a further seven players have started fewer than ten games in all competitions.

So, as we head towards 2026-27 season, just eleven players have made 10 or more starts for Altrincham in all competitions...

• 136 starts: Eddy Jones (pictured, right)
• 125 starts: Matty Kosylo
• 112 starts: Lewis Banks
• 114 starts: Jake Cooper
• 94 starts: Tom Crawford
• 46 starts: Kahrel Reddin
• 38 starts: Jimmy Knowles
• 25 starts: Charlie Olson
• 22 starts: Liam Humbles
• 18 starts: Charlie Kirk
• 15 starts: Lucas Weaver

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

Macclesfield FC "continued their unbeaten run in pre-season on the road at Warrington Town on Tuesday evening, with first half Macc goals from Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and a trialist.

John Rooney rotated his squad for the midweek fixture with only Christian Dibble retaining his starting place from Saturday’s win against Wolves at the Leasing.com Stadium. Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, Paul Dawson, Theo Chapman, Luis Lacey and Carlos Dos Santos came back in to the fold from the off alongside five trialists...

The hosts continued to have the lion's share of the chances in the opening stages...

It was somewhat against the run of play in fact that the Silkmen then took the lead on the half hour mark with their first real effort in anger on goal as Cameron Borthwick-Jackson nodded home Luis Lacey’s in-swung corner from close range...

Scanlon then levelled for the Yellows three minutes before the interval...

The Silkmen’s lead was almost immediately reinstated though as trialist wearing 18 capitalised...

Macc retaking the lead proved to be the last action of the half...

Two changes were made at the break with goalscorer Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Christian Dibble replaced by SAM HEATHCOTE and a trialist goalkeeper...

Rooney opted to make nine changes on the hour mark which saw the departure of Carlos Dos Santos, Luis Lacey, Theo Chapman, Paul Dawson and five trialists, in turn introducing Luke Duffy, Fin Shrimpton, Tom Wilson, Lincoln McFayden, ELLIOT OSBORNE (above, left), Jon Ustabasi, Ammar Dyer and trialist wearing nine.

It wasn’t long after the changes were rung that Warrington found an equaliser...

Elliot Osborne had Macc’s best chance to re-take the lead late on, driving forward through the heart of the Warrington midfield before blazing over from distance".

DEFOE BECOMES 32ND DEPARTURE IN 14 MONTHS

We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Jermain for his contribution during his time at Woking Football Club, and we wish him every success in the future.

The club remains fully focused on delivering its objectives both on and off the pitch. We would like to thank our supporters for their continued support".

Footnote: Defoe was appointed on 29 March, his first match as manager being a 1-1 draw at home to Altrincham. In all he managed seven league games, five of which were at home and lost just once, the final game of last season.

He becomes the SEVENTH manager to leave a National League club during the 2026 close season.

In all, there have now been THIRTY-TWO managerial departures from clubs who have or will have played in the National League during the calendar year 2026.

The 32 departures comprise:

• 4 departures in the close season of 2025
• 21 during the 2025-26 playing season
• 7 so far in the close season of 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 22-year-old has put pen-to-paper to join the Pilgrims following a hugely productive loan spell from Derby County last season.

Rooney scored three goals in 16 appearances as Paul Hurst's side secured a 12th place finish in the National League – and now returns to Lincolnshire a fortnight ahead of the club's third campaign back in the top flight of non-league football".

Yesterday we reported the arrival on Wednesday of Jamie Grimes but also on Wednesday Boston United "signed Sheffield United right-back Sai Sachdev on a loan deal running until the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old defender has spent the opening weeks of pre-season as part of the Blades' first team set-up, including a training camp in Spain...

Sachdev has made two senior appearances for the Bramall Lane club to date – in addition to a brief loan spell with Oldham Athletic in 2024.

The Leicester-born full-back links up with fellow Blade Luke Faxon in Lincolnshire".

One of the more exotic pre-season games for a National League club saw Eastleigh "beaten by a strong Valenciennes side at the Silverlake Stadium. ..

Matt Gray’s second home game in charge saw the Spitfires face third tier French side Valenciennes, just four days after the home defeat to the French side’s sister club Southampton.

The Spitfires were unchanged following their 3-1 defeat to Southampton last Saturday, which saw summer signing Nick Akoto open his account on his home debut after just 14 minutes...

Eastleigh: Townsend (Trialist 55′), Drake (Trialist 45′) , Sidwell (Underhill 45′), Bakare (Killick 61′), Eweka (Pierre 45′), Dickov (Ihnatenko 45′), Blair (Stone 61′), Trialist (Kelly 61′), Akoto (Mcfarlane 61′), Ghandour (Trialist 45′), Cousins (C)(Colwill 45′)"

Harrogate Town "confirm the signing of Rohan Vaughan, following a successful trial period with the club.

The 20-year-old forward has featured in all three of our pre-season fixtures so far and now signs a one year deal, with the option of a further year.

'He’s a young, powerful centre forward and we like his attitude and potential', Revealed Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry.

'We see him as a forward who can be a real handful for defenders, but he’s played wing back in pre-season and has a great left foot'...

Vaughan started his career at Burnley before signing for QPR in 2024, while gaining valuable experience out on loan at Oxford City, Dundalk and Dartford".

23 July 2026

NEIL'S REACTION

However, the manager judged that there had been "an improvement in the second half" in what was, overall, an "honest, good game".

Neil feels that the side has to be "brighter in the final third" and that with new players bedding in, the "combinations are not quite where we want them to be" yet.

CHORLEY VIEW

In a closely-contested encounter, clear-cut opportunities were few and far between, with both sides producing disciplined defensive displays throughout.

The Magpies came closest to breaking the deadlock six minutes after the restart.

New signing Elliot Taylor, who has arrived from Burscough, reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the area before curling a low effort agonisingly wide of the far post, with the goalkeeper well-beaten.

Altrincham’s best opportunity arrived in the second half through substitute Charlie Kirk (above, right), who capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area and drove an effort towards the near post, only to see his shot clip the top of the crossbar."

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

Since Alty and the Silkmen last met in a pre-season game at the Moss Rose in 2023, there has been a change of manager at both clubs, with Neil Gibson taking over at Altrincham and John Rooney taking over from Robbie Savage at Macclesfield.

Macclesfield finished fourth last season in National North but were defeated by Kidderminster Harriers in the promotion play offs.

Familiar faces at Macclesfield include defender SAM HEATHCOTE and midfielders ELLIOT OSBORNE and GEORGE WILSON, (pictured below, left to right).

ALTY OLD BOYS

Friendly : ALI SMITH played the first 75 minutes of AFC Wimbledon's goalless home match with Norwich City, who left CALEB ANSEN on the bench.

Despite a full shift from CARL PIERGIANNI, Stevenage were beaten 0-5 at home by West Ham United.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM wasn't in the Eastleigh squad which lost 0-3 at the Silverlake Stadium to French second tier side Valenciennes and neither was CHRIS CONN-CLARKE involved as Peterborough United scored the only goal at Peterborough Sports.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 31-year-old scored seven goals in 30 appearances during Chesterfield’s National League title-winning 2023/24 campaign and boasts a total of 197 EFL appearances across his career, as well as two League One titles.

Colclough links back up with Head Coach Kieron Dyer after working together at the Spireites...

Said Colclough... 'Obviously I’ve worked with the gaffer before, so I know what he wants'...

'Ryan [right] is someone I know well,' Dyer commented. 'He is a direct winger who can play on the left or on the right. He’s very quick and one of the best players at taking opponents on in one-vs-one situations'">

Footnote: Alty fans will recall that another ex-Altrincham winger also joined Southend United in recent years. That was DAN MOONEY whose stay in Essex was not a happy one for either party.

Also signing on at Roots Hall is a summer trialist as Southend United confirm the arrival of Tommy Backwell who "has put pen-to-paper on a one-year contract – with a Club option for an additional year – having impressed while training with the Club since the first day of pre-season.

The former Bristol City and Cheltenham Town midfielder... Backwell said 'I’ve enjoyed it here since day one. It’s a huge club in the National League, and the gaffer [Kieron Dyer] has come and wants to play good football, so I feel this suits me'...

Formerly a scholar at Southampton, Backwell came through the ranks at Bristol City before a loan spell at Cheltenham Town gave him his first professional games...

He completed a permanent switch to the Gloucestershire outfit in February 2025... The 23-year-old then enjoyed a loan spell at Weston-super-Mare FC">

And Southend United also announce that "Sahid Kamara has agreed a two-year contract with a club option for a third.

The former Braintree Town winger signs for the Shrimpers having starred while on trial at the Club...

Holding both Dutch and English citizenship, Kamara’s signing is subject to international approval,,,

Kamara said... 'I like the gaffer’s [Kieron Dyer] plans, I like his philosophy with attacking football, and I think I can bring my qualities to it.'

Kamara spent time in the academies of both Charlton Athletic and Birmingham City before earning his first senior minutes in the National League South while on loan at Welling United.

The 22-year-old made 18 appearances for the Wings in 2024/25, before joining Braintree Town having been released by Birmingham City">

As well as Altrincham, Barrow were another National League side to play pout a goalless draw against National North opposition on Tuesday night.

"The Bluebirds dug out a hard-fought 0-0 draw away at Radcliffe ... The fourth game of pre-season turned out to be a very different affair to last time out, where the scoring frenzy of the Mansfield game was not so easily replicated.

The hosts sat deep and soaked up a lot of pressure, making it difficult for Adam Murray's Barrow side to create more than the few big chances they did.

Speaking on the game, Manager Adam Murray said 'It was a real game of football. Last night was very physical, and they gave us different challenges to what we’ve dealt with so far in pre-season.

'We spent a lot of time during the game with the ball, which gave us a clear indication of the areas we need to improve on in possession."

'Our intensity and work rate were excellent throughout. We had two goals disallowed that, looking back at the footage, were perfectly okay...

'Even in pre-season, we want the mentality of, ‘If we can’t win, we don’t get beat.’"

There has been a double signing at Forest Green Rovers where the club "announce the signing of midfielder Kyle Kelly on loan from Liverpool FC... for a period of six months.

Kyle is an emerging talent, having played through the Liverpool youth system since he was 14..

Kelly is a left-footed midfielder who, in March 2024, debuted for St. Kitts and Nevis after representing England at U15 level...

Manager Robbie Savage said, 'What a great guy, very excited to have Kyle join us at FGR. He loves a tackle, loves getting around the pitch, a very promising young talent who is thought of very highly at Liverpool'">

Meanwhile the BBC reports that Rovers have also signed Omari Patrick, aged 29, who "left Tranmere at the end of last season having scored seven goals in 41 games during 2025-26.

He has also played for Carlisle, where he was part of the team that won promotion to League One in 2023, as well as Sutton United, Bradford City and Kidderminster".

Boston United "have completed the signing of experienced defender Jamie Grimes following his departure from Chesterfield.

The 35-year-old, who spent a hugely successful loan spell at the Jakemans Community Stadium between February and April, has put pen-to-paper on an initial one-year deal to become a permanent addition to the United squad.

Grimes' 16 appearances in amber and black included eight wins, five clean sheets and one crucial goal at Forest Green Rovers.

His arrival bolsters a backline which has already welcomed George Ward, Lewis Shipley and Sai Sachdev this summer".

Yahoo Sports reports that "Gateshead have signed defender Jack Robinson and New Zealand Under-20 international striker Luke Supyk after successful trials.

Former Middlesbrough man Robinson, 25, has signed a one-year deal after missing the 2025-26 season through injury.

Supyk, 20, left A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the end of last season and has signed a two-year contract after scoring three times during his trial spell.

'Everyone has been real welcoming since I've come here and I've had a few good games under my belt,' he told the club website".

Wealdstone "announce the signing of 24-year-old attacking midfielder Dan Chesters..

Chesters joins the Stones following two seasons with Salford City, having started his career in the academy at West Ham United.

He made his senior debut for the Hammers in 2021, coming off the bench in a UEFA Europa League win over Genk, before gaining further first-team experience during loan spells with Colchester United and Salford City.

The midfielder has spent the past two weeks training with Gary Waddock’s squad...

He is capable of playing as both an attacking midfielder and a wing-back...

Manager Gary Waddock said... 'There was interest in him from elsewhere, so we are delighted that he has chosen to join us@".

22 July 2026

CHORLEY 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Owen Evans, 2. Lewis Banks, 24. Sam Barnes, 25. Joel Bailey, 4. Jack Hinchy, 12. Kian Breckin, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 7. Otis Khan, 16. Remi Raymond, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 9. Kristian Dennis,

Substitutes: 27. Louie Fallon, 5. Jake Cooper, 8. Liam Humbles, 10. Aidan Barlow, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver, 6. Charlie Olson, 23. Charlie Kirk, 11. Jimmy Knowles.

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

The last pre-season clash between the two sides came in July 2023 at the Moss Rose when Alty won 2-1.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish League Cup : With their home tie against Hamilton Academicals goalless, Kilmarnock, who had rested a few regulars, brought JOE HUGILL into the action after 55 minutes. However it was his fellow sub Greg Kiltie who struck the game's only goal 5 minutes later.

It took TYRESE SINCLAIR only 11 minutes to put Livingston ahead at home to Forfar Athletic, and it helped to earn him a breather as his side went in at the break 4-0 up, and substituted him and two others there and then.

It was a very one-sided game, Livingston having 25 (19) shots to Forfar's 3 (1), so it was hardly surprising that it finished 8-0.

There was an interesting encounter on Tuesday evening as Hednesford Town, with BEN LOMAX in their starting XI and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY on the bench, entertained a PFA squad, selected from free agents looking for new clubs. HARRISON HOLGATE was among those on view, and Louis, JAKE MOULT's brother, was also involved.

The game was a 2-2 draw. Dylan played the second half, as Hednesford came back from a 0-2 deficit, and was fouled for the penalty which yielded the equaliser.

Although he wasn't in the squad, it is believed that JOSH GINNELLY is part of the project, having apparently been in Azerbaijan until recently.

Champions League Qualifier : Larne were no match for their Serbian visitors, Red Star Belgrade, and lost the first leg 0-4. MONTEL GIBSON was an unused substitute.

ALTY FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER

'For this year's fundraising challenge, the Alty FC Foundation team decided to push themselves a little further to raise money for the programmes we deliver across Altrincham and Trafford.

'After some research, we settled on taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – a gruelling 24-mile route featuring over 1,500 metres of ascent across Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. It was certainly going to be a tough test, but one that everyone was excited to tackle. '

Following practice walks and plenty of fundraising appeals, we set off at 6am on Friday July 17th, ready for the challenge ahead...

'Completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge was a fantastic achievement for Grahame, Dan, Mattie, Abbie, William, Marc and Simon. Although exhausted, we were all incredibly proud to have completed the challenge and, most importantly, to have raised vital funds to support the amazing programmes delivered by the Alty FC Foundation.

'A huge thank you to our sponsors – Wiseup Networks, HR Dept, DJH, SK Kits and Rights & Media. Your support was invaluable in helping us take on this challenge.

'Finally, thank you to everyone who donated. Your generosity helped make this challenge an incredible success, and every contribution will make a real difference to the communities we support.

'There is still time to donate if you haven’t had chance to do so, by clicking here'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Originally coming through the youth setup at Derby County, Grant made the switch to Manchester City at the age of 12. The shot-stopper went on to become a regular for the Elite Development Squad and under 19s in Premier League 2 and the UEFA Youth League. Grant was included on the bench for the first team’s UEFA Champions League group stage fixture against Red Star in 2023.

In July 2024, John McGrath brought Grant on loan to Buxton. The ‘keeper made 41 appearances in the National League North, keeping 10 clean sheets and conceding just 52 in the league. The ‘keeper... made the move to Stoke City in the summer of 2025".

Also signing a goalkeeper are Sutton United< who "confirm the signing of Spike Brits on a season-long loan deal from Manchester City.

The dynamic, technical goalkeeper returns to his home city after making the move to Manchester in 2023, and will aim to make the number one spot his own after joining Chris Haigh and Klevis Muca within the goalkeeping union.

Hailing from Kingston-upon-Thames, Brits spent ten years in the youth ranks at AFC Wimbledon... It was Pep Guardiola’s side that secured Brits’ signature in June 2023... for a club record fee received for an academy player...

Brits said 'I’m buzzing to be here and joined the club for the season, especially being local lad who grew up in the area...

Chris Agutter added... 'I really believe it’s another statement of our intent in terms of what we want to achieve at Sutton United this season. We appreciate Manchester City’s trust in developing one of their top talents. This in itself is a reflection of the great work that is happening at Sutton United FC.'

He will wear the number one shirt during his stint at Gander Green Lane, vacated ever since the departure of Jack Sims at the start of the month".

Kidderminster Harriers report that "Zachary Willis has put pen to paper on a Harriers deal following a successful summer trial.

The versatile defender, capable at full back, the heart of defence or further forward, has been training with the group this summer and featured in our last two friendly squads at ‘Player D.’

Zachary came through the ranks at Birmingham City and progressed to U21 level, featuring extensively last season for the Blues, alongside a first senior loan at Peterborough Sports.

He left Birmingham in the summer and now calls Aggborough his home">

21 July 2026

TONIGHT: CHORLEY 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

So far this summer the Robins have drawn 2-2 at Colwyn Bay and experienced an abandoned match at Wythenshawe Town which was goalless when terminated after 43 minutes.

Given the lack of game time for the squad so far, it would not be surprising if, once again, Neil Gibson utilizes a much-changed side in the second half of the game.

Last season Chorley finished fifteenth in the twenty-four strong Enterprise National North division.

ALTY'S NEW HOME KIT

After a single season wearing the "pinstripe" home kit, Altrincham FC now announces "the all-new Altrincham FC 2026/27 Puma home shirt...

Right: Kahrel Reddin will be wearing a different Altrincham home shirt in 2026-27. Here we see him in last season's home kit.

The shirt features dryCELL moisture wicking technology to help keep you cool and comfortable, while the lightweight performance fabric makes it ideal for both matchdays and everyday wear. A premium woven club crest completes the look with a high quality finish.

As with our new away kit, a full complement of kit partners feature - with long-time backers AO and McHale & Co. Solicitors joined by the recently announced Banks & Lloyd and CEG.

Our new home kit will make its on-field debut on Saturday when we take on Macclesfield at The J.Davidson Stadium...

Prices for 2026/27 are frozen at £42 for junior shirts, with adult shirts priced at £49.99".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Friendly : FC United travelled to Trafford, and GEZ SITHOLE rounded off the scoring in their 0-3 win from the penalty spot. SEAN HIGGINS was a second half substitute for the hosts.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Although "Participating clubs receive an increased broadcast fee this season, £10,000, split 75% for the home club and 25% for away", Haythornthwaite points out that £2,500 does not go far for every club like Fylde when it "has a 12.30pm [kick off] in London" necessitating an overnight stay.

In fact, Fylde has six 12.30pm kick offs assigned so far in the schedules which, so far as broadcasting changes to kick-off times and dates are concerned, have only been published up to January 2027; and three of those games are away in the capital.

He also stated "Then we go to Friday night kick-offs, [which are] no good to us a a club. We need a Saturday to get all the revenue". Fylde have three such fixtures whereas some competitors only have a single Friday evening game.

The festive season is another bone of contention for the chairman with Fylde assigned a home game for New Year on January 2nd against distant Boreham Wood rather than a return fixture with their (relatively) near neighbours Barrow who host the Coasters on Boxing Day.

At Kidderminster Harriers "Paul Wotton has admitted Levi Amantchi’s arrival at Aggborough ended a four-year pursuit of the striker.

Former Walsall man Amantchi joined the club on a season-long loan from Gateshead on Friday and bagged a goal in the 2-0 win at Halesowen 24 hours later...

The gaffer said 'That’s what Levi is. I’ve tried signing Levi the last four years, and he’s had a stop-start career over the last couple of years, but there’s a player in there – I know there is.

'I think I can get it out of him and I’m really happy to have him. He’s an honest lad.

'We need different options in the team, we need all sorts, we need different things'...

Harriers also signed winger Ethan Moore last week, though fans only caught a glimpse of the youngster in the warm-up as he continues to boost his summer fitness'...

Added Wotton... 'He brings us pace, power and he’s very direct. He’s a great age, but he’s building up his fitness'">

20 July 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

USL League Two : Corpus Christi travelled to Paterson, New Jersey and earned a goalless draw against New York Cosmos, with SAM ROSCOE putting in a full shift. Cosmos are the third incarnation of the once famous name, and are in their first season, currently bottom of the league.

The original club, which had such notable players as Pelé, and Franz Beckenbauer, was formed in 1971. After the club folded in 1985, an attempt was made to launch it again in 2013, but it collapsed in 2020. Perhaps this time they'll be able to pick up on the feel-good factor in the USA generated by the World Cup.

Isle of Man Tournament : Shrewsbury Town comfortably beat their hosts 0-4 to finish 3rd. KEVIN BERKOE started, and also went out for the second half although he could well have been substituted during that period.

In the final it was Radcliffe v Bury (or Bern v Jonno!) and JORDAN HULME was in Radcliffe's starting lineup.

After a goalless first half, Bury went ahead after 58 minutes. 3 minutes later BRAD JACKSON came off the Radcliffe bench, only to see Bury increase their lead from the spot in the 71st minute. Although Radcliffe pulled one goal back, an injury to their trialist keeper at the start of added time led to the referee ending proceedings a tad early, so Radcliffe lost 1-2.

CONN-CLARK REVIVING HIS PETERBOROUGH CAREER

The attacking midfielder, who spent most of last season at Brunton Park, has made a positive impression at the start of pre-season with his League One club.

Posh boss Luke Williams has spoken highly of Conn-Clarke's attitude and performance levels so far.

And the club's chairman Darragh Macanthony says the 24-year-old could yet have a future at London Road despite being made available for a move at the end of last season... Macanthony said 'The manager isn’t one who pesters me for new players. He wants to improve the ones he already has and he’s been raving about Chris Conn-Clarke who has returned in great shape.

'We’ve been here before with Chris, but if he can... come good after a couple of poor seasons he will get his chance'".

He is working under manager Williams for the first time, the Peterborough boss having taken charge last season after Conn-Clarke had made his loan move to Brunton Park.

'It’s the first time I’ve worked with Chris,”' Williams said. 'And I’ve enjoyed working with him. He is the type of player who can produce something out of the ordinary. He’s a real quality player, but he he was also prepared to work hard to shut space down, track back and try to regain possession.

'You add his quality to that work-rate and you have one hell of a player'...

The former Altrincham man struggled for a regular place in Mark Hughes' starting XI in the closing months of the National League campaign".

Footnote: As previously pointed out in the Alty Files, no fewer than six of Altrincham's Saturday matches have been moved from 3pm, with five assigned to 12.30pm and one to a 5.30pm kick off. Three of these affected Saturday games are home fixtures.

Alty have eleven evening (7.45pm) kick-offs of which two are on Fridays and two are on Wednesdays, the rest are on Tuesdays.

19 July 2026

NEXT: CHORLEY

Neil Gibson will hope to give 22 players another 45 minutes on Tuesday night when the Robins visit Victory Park, Chorley for another friendly encounter.

The Magpies and Robins last met in a league encounter in 2019 when the Lancashire club defeated Altrincham in a National North play-off semi-final at Chorley which the host won 3-1 on penalties in a shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Chorley went on to spend just a single season in the National League in the truncated 2019-20 season, so had been relegated by the 2020-21 season when Altrincham effectively took their place at national level.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish League Cup : KIAN TAYLOR (left) unusually started up front for Airdrie, and it was he who scored to send them in at the break with the lead over visitors Annan Athletic. By the time he was substituted after 85 minutes his side had wrapped up a 3-0 win.

Kilmarnock would have been expected to win comfortably at Elgin City, but having a man sent off after 37 minutes wasn't helpful, and it was in the 93rd minute that JOE HUGILL finally scored the only goal of the game.

To have any real chance of winning their group, Livingston had to win their home game against runaway leaders Patrick Thistle. TYRESE SINCLAIR set up the goal that put them ahead, but was substituted after 87 minutes with the score at 1-1. Livingston proceeded to miss 3 of their 5 penalties, and lost 2-3.

South Korea K League 2: MARCUS DACKERS barely got a kick, only coming off the Daegu bench at Gimpo in the 96th minute of a 1-1 draw.

Friendlies : Stevenage took on Andorra (who play in the Spanish second tier) at San Pedro del Pinatar in Murcia. CARL PIERGIANNI played the first half. The game ended goalless.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR started for Grimsby Town in Slovenia as they took on Ukrainian opposition in Zorya Luhansk. They were behind in 6 minutes, but levelled just before the break, at which point Justin was substituted. There were no further goals.

Although TOM HANNIGAN (right) hit the post, Bootle went down 2-0 at Llandudno.

CHRIS MERRIE started on the bench as AFC Fylde entertained Huddersfield Town. The Coasters took a 6th minute lead, which they still held at the break, and CRAIG MAHON sent Chris on for the second period. Within 4 minutes of the restart the Terriers scored twice to turn the game round, and hung in to win 1-2.

Aldershot Town led visitors Farnborough Town 1-0 when MARCUS DINANGA came off the bench after an hour, and provided the assist for his side's second goal 6 minutes later. Despite conceding late on, Shots won 2-1.

LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOTT NEWBY started for Morecambe at Bamber Bridge. It was from Elliott's corner that the Shrimps scored their second goal, and soon afterwards he forced a good save from Bridge keeper Goodness Gospel-Eza. By the time he was substituted in the 86th minute Morecambe had wrapped up a 0-3 win.

Manchester United met Wrexham in Helsinki, and DERMOT MEE was the one out of 3 keepers who didn't get onto the field. Wrexham won with the only goal of the game. With neither Senne Lammens nor Karl Darlow available, it must be assumed that Dermot is now only 5th in the Old Trafford pecking order.

DYLAN MOTTLEY- HENRY started for Hednesford Town, while BEN LOMAX came on for the second half. At that point the Pitmen were leading, but visitors Solihull Moors soon turned things round and won 1-2.

ELLIOTT OSBORNE, GEORGE WILSON, and SAM HEATHCOTE all started for Macclesfield at home to Wolves U21. It was Sam who headed home from a 20th minute corner to open the scoring, and 22 minutes later he did exactly the same thing. Both he and George were replaced after an hour, but Elliott played the whole of the Silkmen's 2-1 win.

Matlock Town have announced the retirement at the age of 32 of JONNY MARGETTS (left). He had knee surgery recently but has, unfortunately, suffered a post-operative reaction.

MONTEL GIBSON had been an early player to slip under the radar, leaving Hednesford Town to sign for Ulster club Larne. He played the first 64 minutes of their 0-1 Champions League qualifier victory at Tre Fiori in San Marino, and the first 59 minutes of their 2-1 home second leg win last Tuesday. On Tuesday evening they play their home first leg against Serbian outfit Red Star Belgrade.

ETHAN ROSS wasn't involved in Forest Green Rovers' 1-2 win at Merthyr Town.

It's been a busy summer at Southport. LUKE BURGESS played in the first 60 minute game against visitors Fleetwood Town, who won 0-1 while new signings REGAN GRIFFITHS and HARRY PERRITT (right) played in the second game, which finished the same way. TOBY MULLARKEY played for Fleetwood in the second game.

Spalding United drew 2-2 with visitors Scunthorpe United, withdrawing YUSIFU CEESAY after 64 minutes. ROSS BARROWS started for the Iron, and put them 0-2 up with a shot from practically on the halfway line.

The whole line up was changed at 1-2 on the hour when DECLAN HOWE was among those joining the action.

One of the more bizarre decisions of the close season was York City's release of last season's ever present goalkeeper Harrison Male. Those who remember George Sykes-Kenworthy shipping 6 goals at Altrincham will be utterly amazed that he now appears to be first choice.

They will be less surprised to learn that he gave way to a trialist at half time after visitors Sunderland hit 4 unanswered goals. The trialist fared better, and the game ended 1-5, with JEFF KING and ALEX NEWBY among the Minstermen's second half contingent.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Stanway joined the Bluebirds in the summer of 2024 from Chester and has made over 60 professional appearances for the club.

Barrow-born Stanway leaves with everyone at the club's best wishes and we know he'll make the club and the town proud in his future career".

Footnote: Goalkeeper Stanway made 45 appearances for The Bluebirds in 2025-26 season.

Against Oldham-based club Avro, FC Halifax Town "fell to a 4-3 defeat in The Shaymen’s fifth pre-season outing.

It took 16 minutes to open the scoring. A defensive error left the Avro player with a tap in and Sam Johnson with no chance to keep it out...

Town did find the back of the net after 28 minutes. Josh Hmami’s corner was flicked on at the near post by Amari Morgan-Smith, and found the back of the net via an Avro man.

The hosts retook the lead within five minutes...

The Shaymen for back level on 36 minutes. Allen’s cross from the left found the head of Hmami, who’s flicked header looped over the keeper to make it 2-2.

Avro retook the lead early in the second half, with a tidy finish low to Johnson’s left.

Town again struck back. This time Trialist F cut in from the left-hand side, took it round a defender and slotted it into the bottom left corner.

Once again, the hosts got themselves in front. A low ball into the box was tucked away on the stretch to make it 4-3."

At Kidderminster Harriers< "winger Ethan Moore has become the latest member of the Harriers squad after penning a deal ahead of the new term.

Moore is a product of the Sunderland Academy, where he rose through the ranks and overcame a serious knee injury to return to action last season.

As well as featuring 16 times for their PL2 outfit last term, he bagged crucial senior experience in the National League as part of the Gateshead side that pulled of a remarkable escape from relegation danger.

He made 11 appearances for the Heed, starting and scoring in their final game of the term at Altrincham.

With the bit firmly back between his teeth, the pacey 21-year-old has chosen to call Aggborough his home".

Down on the South Coast, Worthing "announce the signing of goalkeeper Harrison Foulkes...

The former Dorking Wanderers shot-stopper has embarked on the next step of his career, taking the leap into National League football at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium.

Foulkes will be a familiar figure to many Worthing supporters, with the 25-year-old turning out for several rivals over the years. Most recently and notably, Foulkes held the position of number one at Dorking Wanderers for two years, where he was regarded as one of Non-League’s finest netminders.

Born in Sussex, the young prospect was snapped up by Hull City as a teenager and was sent out on multiple loans at Pickering FC to aid his development.

The ‘keeper then swapped Humberside for Derbyshire, with a move to Pride Park – the home of Derby County. Loans at Ilkeston Town and Kettering Town would follow in due course.

After two years on the books at Pride Park, the Englishman relocated back down to the South Coast, penning a deal with Eastbourne Borough.

A solitary successful season... convinced Dorking Wanderers to snap up his services.... Foulkes accrued almost a century of appearances for Marc White’s side, barely missing a match in consecutive campaigns...

Last campaign, he collected a treble of individual accolades, winning the Supporters Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season and Bunch of Amateurs Player of the Season...

On his move, Harrison said.. 'Stepping into the National League, that’s where I want to be now in my career'".

Meanwhile, in Surrey, "Chris Agutter believes Sutton United took another positive step forward in their pre-season preparations despite suffering a late defeat to League One side AFC Wimbledon.

The U’s led for much of the contest through Temi Babalola’s first goal for the club, before conceding twice in the closing stages to fall to their first loss of pre-season...

'It was a really good workout,' he said. 'Same as the other two games, we split the group into 45-minute blocks as best as possible while managing a few lads who weren’t quite ready for Saturday-Tuesday football yet. All in all, I’m really happy... I thought, at times, we were very, very good today. Defensively we were excellent'...

Having faced National League South opposition in their opening two friendlies, the Head Coach believes... 'We’re going to be a really good side... The players need to be robust, they need to get used to working under fatigue. They’ve played 45 minutes today with tired legs against a very good League One side'...

The Sutton boss also confirmed that the withdrawals of Alex Kirk and Emmanuel Osadebe were purely precautionary".

18 July 2026

ALTY'S CANCELLATION LEADS TO MOTORMEN'S PROBLEMS

Vauxhall Motors FC were scheduled to host Altrincham FC in an excellent pre-season friendly tomorrow [Saturday] afternoon which would bring people through the turnstile and ultimately bring money to a club in pre-season with a bumper crowd and an appealing fixture.

However, we were saddened to hear that Altrincham had cancelled the fixture with not much notice for tomorrow [Saturday], which left us looking for alternatives.

We put a message out to numerous contacts regarding a fixture opportunity at the Premier Jet Stadium on Saturday afternoon, to which Mold Alexandra were one of the first to come back and take us up on an offer.

We were unaware at the time that Mold Alexandra were meant to be visiting Cammell Laird 1907 FC on Saturday afternoon....

After social media comments directed at Vauxhall Motors FC, we then found out that Lairds were meant to host Mold on Saturday afternoon. With this in mind, we have taken the decision to cancel Saturday’s fixture against Mold.

Instead, we will visit Liverpool FC to take on a Liverpool XI, behind closed doors."

NEXT: CHORLEY

The Magpies, too, have had a disrupted summer as their planned fixture at home to Preston North End last Wednesday was also called off, owing to the clash with England v Argentina in the World Cup on the same day.

Prior to that Chorley lost 1-2 at home to Bury last Saturday.

Chorley report that they "were narrowly defeated 1-2 by Bury...

A strong Magpie XI in the first half took the lead through a Billy Whitehouse penalty, but the visitors scored twice in the second half through Tom Carr and Oscar Threlkeld against a second -half XI which consisted mostly of youth prospects and trialists.

Andy Preece’s side took the lead in the 11th minute after a trialist was brought down in the box by a Bury defender – Whitehouse stepped up and slotted his penalty past Mitch Allen in goal into the bottom left corner.

Into the second half, Bury drew level – following an error at the back... Then in the 74th minute the winner came for the away side – a corner by Leo Graham was met by Threlkeld on the volley inside the area, and he guided it well into the bottom corner past the trialist keeper".

Familiar faces at Chorley include goalkeeping coach STEVEN DRENCH and forward KOLE HALL

ALTY OLD BOYS

Radcliffe are on the Isle of Man where they met Shrewsbury Town at the Ballacloan Stadium in Ramsey. BRAD JACKSON (left) started, but was withdrawn after 64 minutes. With the game goalless after 90 minutes, a penalty shootout took place, and Radcliffe won it 4-2.

Peterborough United are taking part in a football camp at the Banus Football Center (sic) in Marbella. It would seem that CHRIS CONN-CLARKE has been given a chance to redeem his reputation, as he's been given the 38 shirt. He was in the starting lineup against Neom SC from Saudi Arabia, but a completely different lineup appeared after the break. The match ended goalless.

Norwich City have taken a squad of 27 to Switzerland, and CALEB ANSEN was an unused substitute at St.Gallen, where the Canaries strolled to a 0-3 victory, all the goals coming in the first half.

In Australia's NPL Victoria Oakleigh Cannons extended their lead at the top of the table to 7 points with a 0-1 victory at nearest challengers Hume City. CONNOR HAMPSON and his teammates clinched victory with a penalty on the stroke of half time. With only 5 fixtures left in the regulation season, Cannons look well set to finish top, but to become champions they need to also win the subsequent playoffs.

ROSS OF THE ROVERS

The imposing 6ft 5in goalkeeper will provide a major boost to Robbie Savage's goalkeeping options...

The 29-year-old began his youth career at Arsenal before moving to West Bromwich Albion... During his time with the Baggies, Ross gained senior experience on loan at Worcester City and Redditch United...

Ross joined EFL side Colchester United in 2018. During his two-year spell with the U's, he made 10 appearances and also enjoyed a short loan spell at Maidenhead United.

Ross joined Lincoln City on a free transfer in the summer of 2020... before spending the second half of the 2020/21 National League season on loan at Weymouth. He went on to make 26 appearances for the Terras...

Stockport County signed Ross on a free transfer following his departure from Lincoln in the summer of 2021...

Loan spells with York City and Altrincham helped Ross gain valuable first-team experience before he joined Altrincham on a permanent deal in October 2023. Ross made 65 appearances for the Robins, keeping 19 clean sheets...

Ross suffered a serious knee injury in 2025, which kept him sidelined for an extended period. He was released [sic] by Altrincham following the expiry of his contract this summer.

Manager Robbie Savage said 'Ethan has been training with us over the past week. He is a fantastic goalkeeper and brings a wealth of experience at this level, adding real competition to Pags and Luke. I can't wait to see him in match action'.

Ross will wear the number one shirt for Rovers during the 2026/27 season".

ALTY'S MEDIA TEAM

We are pleased to announce the appointment of three new volunteer media officers for the 2026/27 season, as part of an expanded media team at The J.Davidson Stadium.

• Tom Jolley, Ben Edwards (Altrincham FC Women Media Officer), Jess Barrow

Tom, Ben and Jess join Media Manager Alex Birch, Volunteer of the Year Jonathan Moore (Club Photographer), Club Person of the Year Mark Bennett (Alty TV) and writer John Edwards (editorial and match reports) as part of our expanded media operation, with a number of returning student volunteers - including George Allen, Alex Bartholomew, Ayush Bhattacharjee and Jack Worswick - also involved once more.

Long time Alty media officer Brian Flynn, who is facilitating the media officer induction phase through to the end of August, is also continuing as part of our matchday media team on Radio Robins, Alty TV and DAZN".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The situation has echoes of the predicament the Heed found themselves in 12 months ago when the financial outfall of a historic transfer saw them banned from registering new players and contracts ahead of last season.

That issue, which revolved around the signing of defender Harrison Clark after he had spent time with Scottish club Livingston, was resolved in early-July and that allowed the National League club to register a new of new additions to their squad ahead of what would be a dramatic 2025/26 campaign.

The Heed’s name has appeared on a list of clubs under a registration ban on the FIFA website once again and is said to have been in place since May - although the Tynesiders have claimed they received no notification of an issue from world football’s governing body until last week.

Chronicle Live understands Gateshead have had no issues registering their solitary new signing after they completed a deal for former Sunderland academy defender Tommy Lavery and new contracts handed to the likes of Fenton John and Josh Home have also been registered.

The situation is also not expected to hamper the club’s attempts to strengthen their squad ahead of Lee Cattermole’s first season in charge and work to add further new faces to the Heed ranks is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Cattermole has reflected positively on the first week of pre-season friendlies after his side followed up a 6-0 win at Northern League club Blyth Town with draws at Heaton Stannington and National League North newcomers Hebburn Town.

Cattermole has set his sights on ensuring the Heed are ‘well-drilled’".

Aldershot Town "announce the departure of Kiban Rai, who leaves the club with immediate effect.

Kiban joined the Shots in June 2025, becoming the first player of Nepalese descent to represent the club. He would go on to make 18 league appearances...

The midfielder would join Merthyr Town on loan in early February, where he would remain until the end of the campaign. Returning in the summer, he would make a brief cameo in our pre-season opener, which would prove to be his final appearance in an Aldershot Town shirt.

First-team manager Scott Davies has this... 'Kiban has been extremely unfortunate this summer with the rebuild that’s taken place. We felt as though we managed to secure some top attacking players which meant that Kiban would be surplus to requirements'".

FC Halifax Tow confirm the loan signing of attacking midfielder Arian Allen, from League One side Stockport County.

The attacking midfielder joined Everton’s academy at the age of 10, where he spent the following six years. Allen then made the move up to Scotland to sign for Rangers’ academy in February 2024. In February 2025, Allen made the move to Stockport, joining the Emerging Talents Programme at the club.

Allen was given an opportunity to train and play with the first-team in pre-season, featuring in friendlies against Salford City and Hull City in the summer of 2025. He made his debut for the club in the Carabao Cup against Crewe Alexandra, and signed a new deal with Stockport that August, keeping him at the club until 2027.

Boreham Wood can confirm that midfielder Aaron Henry has joined fellow Enterprise National League side Wealdstone.

Aaron joined the club in July of last year following his departure from Charlton Athletic. In November, the Wood number 14 joined then National League South side Hornchurch on a loan until being recalled at the end of January...

[In the] the National League Cup Final in March, and with the Wood trailing 2-1 to West Ham United in the final minutes, Aaron Henry produced the all-important equaliser with a low-driven strike from long range, sending Meadow Park into ecstasy before Luke Garrard’s men triumphed on penalties."

Kidderminster Harriers "have signed experienced former Walsall and Rochdale striker Levi Amantchi.

25-year-old joins us on a season-long loan from Gateshead, where he’s already played a part in their pre-season preparations for the National League term ahead.

The Heed signed Amantchi from Walsall last season, the striker ending a loan spell at eventual National League play-off winners Rochdale before moving to the International Stadium.

The former Bromley and Maidstone man featured 19 times for Gateshead at the back end of the last campaign and will be a member of Paul Wotton’s ranks for the full term ahead.

Gateshead have more on this.

Hornchurch "announce the signing of midfielder Asher Yearwood from Maidenhead United.

The exciting, goalscoring midfielder joins the club after a successful season at Maidenhead United. Asher has risen through the Non-League pyramid, starting out at Thame United and Risborough Rangers before joining Beconsfield Town.

He then moved to Gosport Borough, scoring 18 goals and providing 11 assists in the 2024/25 season, before joining Maidenhead United. He now will be playing in the National League for the first time.

Speaking on the move, manager Daryl McMahon said... 'He had a very good season last year at Maidenhead... He is a totally different type of profile in midfield to what we already have at the club.

He runs beyond a lot; he runs beyond the centre-forward. He has fantastic energy with a real enthusiasm for the game. He is someone who instantly lifts the session with his enthusiasm, quality, running power and we believe that after a really good season, he is someone we can develop as well. Even though he is 28-years old, he is still someone who has that willing to improve, willingness to learn and we are excited to welcome him.'”

At Wealdstone "Midfielder Aaron Henry has returned to The Vale for a third time and becomes Wealdstone's fourth summer signing.

A creative presence in the middle of the pitch, still only 22, he is already the veteran of two previous Stones' loan spells - and is now putting pen to paper on a permanent deal after Boreham Wood FC and Henry mutually agreed to terminate his Meadow Park contract.

A product of Charlton Athletic's youth system, Wealdstone provided plenty of first-team experience for Henry when he arrived on loan for the second half of the 2021/22 campaign aged just 18; making a positive impression on The Vale faithful during his 20 appearances....

During season 2023/24, he was on loan at Crawley Town in EFL League 2 then later returned for a second Wealdstone stint - playing another 20 times...

National League Rochdale provided a platform for game time in 2024/25, once again on loan... before Boreham Wood captured Henry's signature on a permanent deal last summer...

Said manager Gary Waddock... 'Most recently, he's been in a squad competing at the top of the table so that's also a big plus in terms of the mentality he'll bring to the squad... Aaron is technically very good and he'll get us playing, that's for sure'">

Sutton United's "Chief Operating Officer, Tim Allison, has provided an update regarding changes to the stadium during the off-season...

'Firstly, the pitch has undergone its usual renovation. The pitch is now two years old and has settled nicely since its installation in the summer of 2024. All of last season’s grass, and accumulated organic matter, was stripped along with the top few inches of the surface. The artificial grass stitched deep into the pitch has been “combed” upright back through the multiple tons of sand added to return the pitch to its previous height and grass seed sown to start the process of a brand new playing surface. Already... strong growth has emerged, which is currently being crafted into a Premiership quality playing surface...

The other major outdoor project being undertaken relates to the Sutton United Community Pavilion... The latest iteration of its building commenced during the last season [and] we have seen an acceleration since we hosted Altrincham at the tail end of the season. Foundations have been dug, and piling taking place, such that the building – that has sat for many months in our car park – can shortly be transported into place.

We have had to demolish toilets, reroute electricity and other utilities, and repurpose some of the land behind the Parkside Terrace. Whilst we are still some months away from completion we are hopeful it won’t be long before we have a fully functioning building serving the Club and Community through our Foundation, able to operate 7 days a week throughout the year...

Across other parts of the stadium we have improved some of the toilets with both repairs and renovations taking place. Unfortunately supporter abuse in blocking sinks has led to permanent damage to some of the flooring which has also had to be replaced...

Other stadium improvements include phase 2 (after phase 1 last summer), of the PA upgrade. All areas of the stadium are expected to have new speakers upon completion of phase 2,".

17 July 2026

FRIENDLY AT VAUXHALL MOTORS CALLED OFF

Our next pre-season game will be against Chorley at Victory Park on Tuesday evening (7:45pm)".

So, after the abandonment of the midweek friendly at Wythenshawe Town, comes another unexpected event in the club's pre-season.

Unless the "unforeseen circumstances" involve an alternative fixture, Alty's players will be lacking in pre-season pitch-time

ALTY OLD BOYS

However, by the 57th minute they were 3-0 down. JAMES JONES and his teammates gave it their best shot, and had pulled two goals by the time a further 20 minutes had elapsed, but couldn't score again, losing 3-2 to end their European interest for this season.

On "X" Pete O'Rourke writes that "RYAN COLCLOUGH is on trial at Southend United. The winger previously worked with Southend manager Kieron Dyer at Chesterfield. The 31-year-old free agent left AFC Fylde in January".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Harriers boss has confirmed that a deal for a goalkeeper is already in place, though an announcement will have to wait, while progress is also being made on further additions to his squad...

'We’re very close to a couple more as we speak', he explained. The goalkeeper is sorted, but we can’t announce it for a while yet. 'After that, I think, with the two that I’m very hopeful of getting done in the next 24 hours, another two on top of that possibly, so we’re very close'...

He went on 'Yes, I’m happy with the squad. Really happy. It’s about being patient as well. It’s nice to do early business, but you don’t want to do all your business too early. There’s always players coming up and there’s players that you didn’t think were available who you’ve got half a chance of now. It’s just taking time. It’s still a fair way until the first league game'...

He admitted 'Every season it’s becoming more and more difficult recruitment-wise. There’s a lot of people wanting a lot of high wages. Every day that goes past and they haven’t got a club, those wage demands come down. It’s about holding your nerve, definitely'...

The preparations continue with a trip to Halesowen Town on Saturday...

'We’ve got a couple of niggly little injuries that won’t be risked... Every player had 45 minutes on Tuesday night. There’ll probably be a few players we’ll start looking at for an hour because their fitness levels are very high...

'We’re in a good place, we’ve got lots of plates spinning, we’ve got a little bit of recruitment to do which we’re fully on top of'".

Southend United report that "Tom Lawrence has resigned his role as a Director of Southend United Football Club in order to take up a position at another club.

Lawrence joined Southend United as Chief Executive Officer in July 2021, navigating the Club through a particularly challenging period before stepping down from his position at the end of the 2025/26 season".

THe reason for his departure was soon clarified as...

Carlisle United "announce that Tom Lawrence has been selected for the position of Chief Executive Officer.

Tom will begin working with the club this week under an interim employment arrangement while the formal appointment process is completed with the Independent Football Regulator; the permanent appointment as Chief Executive Officer remains subject to the required regulatory approval.

He brings extensive senior leadership experience across both the English Football League and the National League. A qualified solicitor, he has served as Chief Executive Officer at Southend United and Gillingham and currently sits as a Non-Executive Board Member of the National League.

Tom joins Carlisle after more than five years as Chief Executive Officer and In-House Solicitor at Southend United ".

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of striker Amari Morgan-Smith, following his departure from fellow National League side Kidderminster Harriers.

Coming through the academy at Crewe Alexandra, the forward spent time on loan at Alsager Town, before making the permanent switch to Stockport County. The forward’s next move was to Ilkeston Town in the Northern Premier League Premier Division...

The move earned Morgan-Smith the move to Luton Town, then in the Conference Premier. The striker scored 18 in 48 across two seasons before joining Macclesfield Town.

Whilst with Macclesfield, Morgan-Smith joined Kidderminster for the first time, on a one-month loan... before being released and signing permanently with the Harriers. After one full season... the forward joined Oldham Athletic, then in League One, in the summer of 2014. Again, just a one season stay before Morgan-Smith returned to non-league to sign for Cheltenham Town...

Upon their return to the Football League, Morgan-Smith was loaned to York City... At the end of the 2016-17 campaign, the forward would join York permanently for their first season in the National League North. In February 2018, the forward made the switch to National League North rivals AFC Telford United. The following summer, the striker joined Alfreton Town...

In June 2020, Morgan-Smith made his return to Kidderminster again".

16 July 2026

ALTY CEO LEAVES

However, today (Thursday), Altrincham FC has issued a short statement, as follows:

"Altrincham Football Club can confirm Andy Duff has left his role as CEO by mutual agreement.

We thank Andy for his efforts during his time with the football club and wish him well for the future".

Background: On 7 June 2023 the club announced the appointment of its first CEO in the form of John Williams, who had previously been Commercial Director at FC Halifax Town. However, his departure was unexpectedly announced on 5 December 2023 "with immediate effect". Sam Mackenzie (Partnerships Manager) was appointed to the CEO role on an interim basis.

Sam assumed his CEO role initially on an interim basis before being confirmed in 2024. On 13 February 2026 it was announced that Sam Mackenzie would "step away" from her role at the Football Club at the end of the 2025-26 season.

On 15 May Andy Duff's appointment as CEO was announced.

Therefore, the current Board comprises:

• Mark Luby (Executive Chairman)
• John Coyne (Director of Football Operations)
• Sam Mackenzie

THE ABANDONED GAME AT WYTHENSHAWE

The game at Ericstan Park was called off shortly before half-time after the incident, with the Robins later confirming the referee abandoned the match over concerns for the 'safety and welfare' of both teams.

An eyewitness told Altrincham Today that tensions had been building throughout the first half following a series of robust challenges on what was described as a hard, dry playing surface.

The flashpoint came moments before the interval after Altrincham had the ball in the net.

One supporter said an unidentified Wythenshawe Town player - wearing the number six shirt - then appeared to launch a head-height kick at an Altrincham player, thought to be defender Charlie Olson (left).

'Suddenly the Wythenshawe Town player ran and did a head-height kung fu kick on one of our players,' the supporter said...

Photographs taken after the incident appear to show the player involved being confronted on the pitch by a woman believed by spectators to be a family member, with eyewitnesses suggesting she may have been his mother. Altrincham Today has been unable to independently verify her identity".

In a post on X, Astley Mulholland, joint manager of Wythenshawe Town and a former Alty player, stated "video footage speaks for itself. It clearly shows one of our players being punched while on the floor. Our player then reacts by kicking out".

NEXT: VAUXHALL MOTORS

Right: Alty take the field at Rivacre Park against Vauxhall Motors in August 2013.

Originally intended to be a fixture predominantly for the Altrincham FC Academy players, the abandonment of Tuesday's game at Wythenshawe Town is expected to convert this match into more of a first-team pre-season game so that squad players can get the planned number of minutes of game time into their system before the start of the season proper.

Apart from Cheshire Senior Cup clashes with the Motormen, the most recent of which featured KEVIN ELLISON's men winning 3-1 at the J Davidson Stadium in October 2024, the clubs last competed in the same league back in 2013-14, at the end of which season Vauxhall took voluntary demotion from Conference North to the West Cheshire League for financial reasons.

The Motormen currently play in the NPL Division One West, step 4 of the non-league pyramid.

ALTY OLD BPYS

CHESHIRE NEWS

The National League reports that "One club last season taught everyone that anything is genuinely possible - but this time it’s all about promotion for Macclesfield.

They club created worldwide headlines when they sent FA Cup holders Crystal Palace packing, one of the greatest upsets ever in the famous competition.

They couldn’t quite do the double by winning the Enterprise National League North play-offs, but they want another crack at it.

We asked Silkmen superfan Owen Banks to fill us in on the club’s summer so far..

'I think it'll be a very difficult season but I think we will comfortably finish in the play-offs again...

'The player I'd hate to see get for any money would definitely be Paul Dawson. It would feel season-ending if he left...

'It’s between four clubs. I think the title contenders will be Macc, Morecambe, South Shields and maybe even Hednesford'...

Asked if you could sign one player this summer from any team in the division, who would it be?... 'I am going to say [ex-Alty loanee] DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY from Hednesford'".

NW NEWS

It is the first time the IFR has taken action since the Football Governance Act passed into law a year ago.

Morecambe directors Kuljit Singh and Harjit Singh failed to reply to two requests for information under section 65 of the Act...

A censure statement gives the IFR the right to name football clubs, owners, directors or senior executives who fail to meet licensing standards.

Other powers include financial penalties, court injunctions demanding compliance and suspension or revocation of a club's operating licence".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Gibson has signed a one-year deal at Victoria Park after three seasons with the Sulphurites, with his new club holding the option of an extra year.

The County Durham-born defender, 29, was on the books at Newcastle United as a youngster".

According to News Now "Forest Green Rovers boss Robbie Savage says the club will turn down bids for midfielder Laurent Mendy...

Forest Green finished seventh last season, just inside the play-off places, but lost after extra-time at the eliminator stage ...

There has been renewed speculation in recent days that midfielder Mendy is being lined up for a summer move to Hearts after Savage confirmed they rejected a bid from the Scottish club for the Frenchman in January...

Savage told BBC Radio Gloucestershire 'We had a bid in January for Laurent which we thought was miles under our valuation. There's no bid at all for Laurent Mendy. There has been contact from Hearts but no official offer from Hearts, not from any other club.

'"I think our stance is pretty clear, not for sale... The investment that Dale [Vince] has put into this football club - we want to keep our best players'...

Savage also acknowledged the club were on the lookout for a new goalkeeper...

Savage added 'If a keeper comes in then he will be in competition with the one who does best in pre-season - whether that's Luke [McNicholas] or Pags [Fiachra Pagel].

'Will it be a loan, will it be a free transfer? But if we don't bring one in, it'll be down to Luke and Pags to fight it out for that starting position'".

Off the field News Dive reports that FGR owner "Dale Vince is set to receive compensation from the Daily Mail’s publisher after alleging that the newspaper misrepresented him through the use of his image.

Vince, who has contributed over £5 million to the Labour Party over the years, initiated legal proceedings against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL) regarding a June 2023 article titled “Labour repays £100,000 to sex pest donor.'

Although the article referred to a different individual, former donor Davide Serra, Vince’s photograph was included alongside the piece...

The headline of the Mail actually indicated that Labour was returning funds to Serra...

Vince contended that the article improperly utilized his personal data, potentially leading readers to mistakenly infer that he was implicated in sexual harassment".

15 July 2026

ALTY ISSUE STATEMENT AFTER ABANDONED GAME

It said, "Tonight's pre-season friendly against Wythenshawe Town was abandoned shortly before half-time following an on-field incident.

The decision to abandon the match was made out of concern for the safety and welfare of both sets of players after the situation escalated.

The match officials will submit their reports to the relevant authorities, and it would be inappropriate for the club to comment further until that process has been completed.

We thank our supporters for their understanding".

FRIENDLY FRACAS

Earlier Altrincham had lost two of their players (Liam Humbles and his substitute Owen German) to injury on an uneven surface with which, it seems, the visitors had been concerned before kick-off.

Report to follow

Altrincham made four changes from the eleven which started at Colwyn Bay last Saturday. Out went Banks, Jones, Bailey and Khan. In came Olson, Kosylo, Taylor and Kirk.

1. Owen Evans, 14. Matty Kosylo (c), 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 23. Charlie Kirk, 26.Anthony Forde, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver.

UPDATE FROM JOHN COYNE

Pre-season is always about building the right foundations for the season ahead... Every player is at a different stage physically, so programmes are tailored to the individual rather than taking a one size fits all approach...

Saturday provided an excellent first run out for the squad, with almost every player getting 45 minutes as we continue to build match fitness in a controlled way...

Looking ahead to the weekend, there still appears to be little sign of the temperatures easing, but we will be taking a squad to Vauxhall Motors for another valuable fixture that should also provide supporters with an easy away trip.

Alongside the remaining announced fixtures at Chorley, Macclesfield and at home to Manchester United Under 21s, we will also face an EFL side behind closed doors on Tuesday 28th July. We are just working with our opponents to coordinate a joint announcement before confirming the details.

Behind the scenes, Neil and Lee continue to work diligently on our recruitment plans.

There are still a couple of areas where we would like to add further strength... We remain well placed to act when the right players become available. We also continue to benefit from some excellent relationships with our partner clubs...

As has been announced elsewhere across the division over the last week, I can confirm that we will not be taking part in the National League Cup this season".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Boreham Wood made the short journey to Real Bedford, and TYLOR GOLDEN started. The game was level 1-1 at the break, at which point Tylor came off. Wood ran riot in the second period, winning 2-8.

GEZ SITHOLE opened the scoring as FC United beat Rochdale 2-0 at Broadhurst Park.

Scottish League Cup : Having been released by Morton, KIAN TAYLOR has signed for Airdrie. He was left on the bench against his old club last week, but was a 70th minute substitute at Clyde, where his team lost 1-0.

TYRESE SINCLAIR opened the scoring for Livingston as they won 0-2 at Brechin City, before being substituted after 87 minutes.

Having played throughout the goalless home draw with Raith Rovers, Kilmarnock's JOE HUGILL missed the first penalty in the shootout. Fortunately, his teammates were less profligate and they won 4-2.

On the cricket front, Ian Wilkinson advises that NATHAN WATERSON's Cumbria beat Hertfordshire by 49 runs. The former Alty man had top-scored in the Cumbrians' first innings but was first man out in the second innings for five runs.

The win places Cumbria top of the NCCA Cluberly Eastern Division 2.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The figure eclipsed our 2006/07 total while the Club competed in the Championship, and also means our number of season ticket holders has increased for a sixth consecutive season.

Speaking on the milestone, Head Coach Kieron Dyer praised the Shrimpers faithful for their commitment to the Clu. 'Before I joined Southend, the thing that stood out to me from the outside was how the supporters got around the team and packed out Roots Hall,' said Dyer".

The BBC reports that "Three organisations have put in bids to operate Halifax's Shay Stadium, Calderdale Council confirmed.

The Shay - home of FC Halifax Town and rugby league club Halifax Panthers - was set to be sold to Ken Davy earlier this year, to help balance the council's books.

However, following criticism from campaigners about the decision, the Huddersfield Giants owner pulled out of the sale.

Expressions of interest have been received from local property consultants Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates, Roxor Group owner Tony Wood and a consortium of Halifax Panthers directors.

Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates have proposed a community asset transfer to a not-for-profit organisation with professional direction.

Roxor chief Wood proposed establishing a community trust to operate the stadium.

Meanwhile, the Halifax Panthers directors suggested a collaboration with other groups and key stakeholders to run the stadium...

At a meeting on Monday, councillors were told a task group had been set up, led by Mike Payne, cabinet member for corporate services...

Payne said'We want to reassure supporters that there are no plans for the council to withdraw from its operation of the stadium.

'However, it clearly isn't viable for the current level of expenditure to continue without adequate resourcing.

'The Shay is now operating without a defined budget which is contributing towards a wider council overspend.'" ident" a positive solution would be found.

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of defender Nick Akoto, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal

The 27-year-old right back joins us following his exit from Burton Albion. Akoto spent the last two seasons with the Brewers, making 33 appearances for them in that time.

Prior to his time at Burton, Akoto spent several years playing in America... with a two year stint at Tennessee Wesleyan University. He scored 5 goals and grabbed 8 assists in his 30 appearances there.

He transferred to Keiser University in 2021... Following his college career, Akoto signed with USL League One side, South Georgia Tormenta...

In his youth career, Akoto was part of AFC Wimbledon’s under-18 side. He left the London club in the summer of 2017".

Hartlepool United "confirm that Kian Foreman has joined National League North side Hebburn Town on loan until January 2027.

The temporary move has been agreed to support the 18-year-old’s continued development through regular senior first-team football... Foreman made his senior debut as a second-half substitute in the Isuzu FA Trophy tie against Tamworth in December 2024 before making his National League debut away to Rochdale in April 2025.

The young forward enjoyed a successful loan spell with Hebburn Town during the 2025/26 Northern Premier League campaign...

Following his recall by Pools, Foreman concluded the campaign with a further loan spell at National League North side Spennymoor Town...

Foreman will remain eligible to represent Hartlepool United in National League Cup fixtures during his loan spell.

Lee Clark, First Team Head Coach at Hartlepool United, said 'I’ve been really impressed with Kian since the first day of pre-season... We’ll be keeping a close eye on his progress throughout the loan and, with the agreement we’ve put in place, he’ll also be available to play for us in the National League Cup, so he’ll remain an important part of our plans.'”

14 July 2026

ALTY'S SECOND PRE-SEASON GAME

Town will start 2026-27 five rungs below Altrincham following relegation last season.

Alty boss Neil Gibson indicated that he would start the game with the second-half eleven which featured at Colwyn Bay with the second-half of this match being played by the eleven who kicked off at Colwyn Bay.

ALTY SQUAD NUMBERS

This bore the new squad numbers for 2026-27 and these were as follows...

• 1. Owen Evans (right) 2. Lewis Banks, 3. Eddy Jones, 4. Jack Hinchy, 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 7. Otis Khan, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 12. Kian Breckin, 14. Matty Kosylo, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver, 20 Kahrel Reddin, 22. Tom Crawford, 23. Charlie Kirk, 24. Sam Barnes, 25 Joel Bailey, 26. Anthony Forde, 27 Louie Fallon.

22 of the 25-man squad were in action at Llanelian Road. So, three players were not involved on Saturday; last season they bore the following numbers:

• 16. Remi Raymond, 18. Owen German, 41. Max Beddow.

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

As things stand, over 30 of the Reds’ National League matches will be broadcasted live. During international breaks, the 3pm Blackout Rule that prevents matches that kick off at that specific time slot on a Saturday afternoon doesn’t apply. The first two matchweeks fall before the start of the Premier League campaign and are being treated as an international break window would.

As such, our tantalising curtain raiser away to Carlisle United on Saturday 8 August and our first ever home match in the National League against Forest Green Rovers on the following Saturday will be both be available to watch live.

Our second contest of the campaign at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium against Wealdstone on Saturday 22 August has been moved to a 12:30pm kick-off to accommodate broadcast, while our following games over the Bank Holiday weekend away to Tamworth (Friday 28 August (19:45pm KO) and at home to Boreham Wood on the following Monday (3pm KO) will also be available to watch on DAZN...

Over the festive period, Adam Hinshelwood’s side have four successive matches broadcasted live, concluding with Monday 28 December’s hosting of Aldershot Town at Woodside Road.

All fixtures and kick-off timings are subject to change. Selections for the second half of the season will be confirmed in due course".

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of attacking midfielder Max Dickov, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal.

The 24-year-old signs for the club following a period on trial with the Spitfires. He started in Friday’s friendly against Horsham.

Last season, Dickov started out with Mansfield Town. He made 14 League One appearances for them in the first half of the season before being loaned out to Tranmere Rovers for the remainder of the campaign.

Before that, Dickov was with Brentford’s B team. He spent three seasons there and was a part of their 2022/23 Premier League Cup-winning side.

Dickov’s youth career was spent with Manchester City and Oldham Athletic. He was capped by England schoolboys".

Footnote: Max is the son of former Manchester City player Paul Dickov.

Forest Green Rovers "invite supporters to our third Fan Engagement Day during the summer holidays, a unique fan-focused event to be held at The New Lawn on Tuesday 4 August 2026.

With open training beginning at 10:30 am, we will also be hosting a Fans’ Forum on the evening of 4 August, with doors opening at 6:00 pm. This is a free, ticketed event...

Supporters can meet the players and the management team in the Carol Embrey suite for photos and autographs...

The FGR Community will be running Summer Holiday Camps on the School Pitch throughout August, offering a great option for kids (and parents!) for the summer holidays alongside the Open Training Session...

Have your say on the Forest Green Rovers menu by sampling a selection of dishes and sharing your feedback. Tell us what you'd like to see on future matchday menus, including vegan sausage rolls, steak bakes and more!"

Hartlepool United "will compete in the National League Cup for the first time this season, with Manager Lee Clark believing the competition will provide a vital stepping stone for the Club’s emerging young talent.

Speaking to BBC Radio Tees, Lee Clark explained that the introduction of an Under-21 side and a full-time Loans Manager made entering the competition a natural next step as the Club continues to strengthen its player development pathway...

Said Clark... 'It’s also an opportunity for our fans to see the next generation and local lads representing the Club. I’m big on giving young players' opportunities, so we felt it would defeat the objective of putting those building blocks in place if we didn’t take up this opportunity...

'We’ve had a big turnover of players this summer, but you can’t keep doing that every year. You want a solid squad with a strong core, and if you’ve got academy players coming through who can help the first team, that’s hugely beneficial. It means you’re not constantly having to recruit...

'The league, the FA Cup and the FA Trophy are competitions we’ll go into with our strongest possible team to try and win every game,' he said....

While Hartlepool are still looking to add to the squad before the season begins... 'I’m pleased we’ve not had to rely on the loan market because all of these players are ours. We could have filled the squad quickly, but they wouldn’t necessarily have been the right fit. We’ve stayed patient to get the right characters and the right identity.'”

Southend United "confirm that Meet the Shrimpers will take place at Roots Hall Stadium on Monday, July 27, giving supporters the chance to get closer to the first-team squad ahead of the new season.

The event was originally planned as a large-scale community celebration at a local park. Despite the club having submitted the application several months in advance, the required event licence was not received in sufficient time for us to safely organise an event of that scale.

Rather than cancel the occasion altogether, the Club has worked hard to create an enjoyable alternative at Roots Hall, ensuring supporters can still meet the players and enjoy an afternoon at their football club.

The day will begin with an open training session on the pitch... Following training, players and coaching staff will make their way into the Shrimpers Bar for an extensive signing and photo session, giving supporters of all ages the opportunity to meet the squad.

There will be plenty happening throughout the afternoon, with the FA Trophy on display in the Far Post Bar for supporters to have their photographs taken with, while the Club Shop will be open".

Yeovil Town report that "Ahead of our upcoming pre-season home fixtures, we would like to inform supporters that we will be trialling a cashless fanzone for our fixtures against Cardiff City U21s and Newport County.

Over the summer, we have carried out extensive work to improve WiFi connectivity across the stadium and surrounding facilities, helping to provide a more reliable service for supporters on matchdays.

We appreciate that some supporters may have questions about the decision to move towards a cashless system. Over the course of last season, we closely monitored payment methods used within the fanzone and have made this decision as part of our ongoing efforts to streamline matchday services and improve the overall supporter experience.

The trial will allow us to assess how a cashless environment works in practice ahead of the new season. We will continue to listen to supporter feedback throughout this process and review the outcomes of the trial",

13 July 2026

NEIL HAPPY WITH OPENING FIXTURE

The Alty boss was "Really pleased with the way we went about it". However, he was a little disappointed with conceding the opening goal, which he judged to be "a little bit soft".

As for individuals, Neil felt that Charlie Kirk "looked really good, really sharp".

As for the absence of trialists, Neil stated that he likes to have his squad assembled by this stage of pre-season so that he can work on formations and tactics with a settled group.

He indicated that for Tuesday's fixture at Wythenshawe Town he will reverse the elevens so that those who finished the game in North Wales will start the match at Ericstan Park, and vice versa in the second half.

However, at Wythenshawe he will "play a different shape", probably 4-3-3".

ALTY OLD BOYS

To make matters worse they lost the resulting shootout 2-4. They are now next to bottom of the 6-team group.

BAY WATCH

"An 88th minute penalty by Jordan Davies earned the Seagulls a draw in an end to end 2-2 draw against National League side Altrincham...

The Bay took an early lead when Adam Davies scored his third goal in three games from a free kick after five minutes, but Altrincham equalised seven minutes later with Anthony Forde curling home a free kick from 20 yards.

Sol Forde had a header superbly saved by the Altrincham keeper and Aeron Edwards sent a glancing header just over the bar from another set piece before half-time. P> A ball across the Bay box saw Jimmy Knowles [left] drive a shot past Mark Halstead to put the visitors 2-1 ahead on 58 minutes.

A worry for Bay was Alex Downes having to come off injured midway through the half and it needed a great save by Halstead to prevent Tom Crawford scoring a third goal for Altrincham, managed by Neil Gibson. Then, with two minutes of normal time left, Bay were awarded the penalty for handball from a Nathan Peate header and Jordan Davies made no mistake from the spot".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

• The South Stand and concourse will unfortunately not be ready for the first fixture of the season. It is hoped that works will be complet... around the end of August...
• Additional walkways have now been introduced into the North Stand to allow easier access in and out of the terraced areas
• A large screen (scoreboard) has been installed, which has been kindly sponsored by Peter Prime of Prime
• We will be participating in the National League Cup again for the coming season. This has a number of benefits:
  • Fringe players, players coming back from injury and under-23s players can gain valuable match time.
  • It is a great opportunity to see the Premier League stars of the future (and some existing Premier League players) here at the Jakemans Community Stadium.
  • It gives us the opportunity to build relationships with the visiting Premier League clubs, where hopefully we can look to explore loans or other ways of working together.
  • It supports the Premier League who contribute £1 million each season to the National League Cup – and remain extremely committed to it.
  • It has provided some excellent games here at the Jakemans Community Stadium, which have been well supported and, of course, has provided vital income into the club. That income can rise to around £100,000 if we progress in the competition
• Under a new National League directive, under-14s MUST now be accompanied by a responsible adult to all games...
• We have changed kit suppliers from Umbro to New Balance.
• We are delighted to confirm that 890 season tickets have been sold so far
• We are delighted with the signings that we have made. Work continues to fill the final flew slots"

At Sutton United "Chris Agutter was pleased with the opening outing of Sutton United’s pre-season campaign, believing [the] 2-2 draw with AFC Totton provided valuable minutes, important learning opportunities and, most importantly, no serious injuries.

The U’s twice took the lead in an eventful first friendly of the summer, with the contest also featuring a first half red card and several debut appearances for the club’s new signings.

The biggest concern of the afternoon came when defender Jordan Moore-Taylor was forced off following a heavy challenge, but Agutter has provided a positive update on the former Forest Green Rovers defender, along with Will Nightingale, who was replaced just minutes after coming on in the second half...

'It was a naughty challenge, really. In my opinion, it was the worst tackle in the whole game, but Jordan’s fine... As for Nightingale, we just felt it was an unnecessary risk,' Agutter explained...

'I thought it [the match] served its purpose,' he said... 'We mixed the teams between the two halves, with a nice blend of experienced senior players, younger lads looking to impress and trialists. There were definitely some positive bits. With ten men for over an hour, I thought we defended really well.

'We probably looked most vulnerable from set-pieces, so our set-piece coach will probably get a bit of stick from me'...

Besart Topallaj’s dismissal midway through the first half then forced Sutton to play with ten men for over an hour, altering the manager’s original plans but providing an unexpected test...

The afternoon also offered supporters a first opportunity to see many of Sutton’s summer recruits in action, alongside several academy players and trialists...

The manager revealed the squad had already completed almost 40 kilometres of running on the training pitch before the opening friendly".

12 July 2026

COLWYN BAY 2-2 ALTRINCHAM

The hosts took an early lead through Jordan Davies (5 mins) from a freekick.

It was also directly from a freekick that Anthony Forde (left) equalised for Alty six minutes later, netting from the edge of the "D" in a central position.

Alty's new team for the second half made it 2-1 in the 58th minute when Jimmy Knowles converted with a tap-in from a Kirk cross.

The referee awarded the Bay a late penalty for handball which Davies converted to leave the game a draw (88 mins).

Altrincham (First Half): 1. Owen Evans, 2. Lewis Banks (c), 3. Eddy Jones, 5. Jake Cooper, 25. Joel Bailey, 26.Anthony Forde, 7. Otis Khan, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 17. Lucas Weaver

Altrincham (Second Half): 27. Louie Fallon, 14. Matty Kosylo, 6. Charlie Olson, 24. Sam Barnes, 12. Kian Breckin, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 4. Jack Hinchy, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 23. Charlie Kirk, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 15. Sam Taylor.

Colwyn Bay: 1. Mark Halstead, 6. Sol Forde, 21. Ryan Astles, 5. Lewis Sirrell, 12. Declan Poole, 19. Matty Hill, 23. Aaron Edwards, 8. Callum Bratley, 11. Jordan Davies, 9. Adam Davies, 10. Louis Robles. Subs: 13. Seb Osment, 2. Dan Roberts, 4. Nathan Peate, 3. Sam Hart, 20. Aron Williams, 14. Uniss Kargbo, 12. Issa Kargbo, 24. George Hughes, 25. Alex Downes, 7. Jack Kenney

Brief match report here..

NEXT: WYTHENSHAWE TOWN

This will be Town's fourth pre-season game of 2026, all of which have been home matches. After beating New Mills 2-0, they have faced Lower Breck and near neighbours Wythenshawe.

They have been managed since May 2026 by ex-Robins striker ASTLEY MULHOLLAND (right) and former St Ambrose pupil Domain Rouse who was on Bury's books amongst his other clubs.

Following three top-three finishes in the NW Counties Premier, Town were promoted to Division One West of the Northern Premier League in 2024, finishing 19th in 2024-25 and then 20th of the 22 clubs last season.

That meant relegation and a switch of leagues to the Midland League Premier Division for next season. So they will be competing at Step 5 of the non-league pyramid in 2026-27.

CHARLIE KIRK SIGNS

The 28-year-old former Crewe Alexandra and Charlton Athletic man, who played 40 times for the Robins in 2025/26, becomes the final player from Alty's retained list to commit to staying at The J.Davidson Stadium ahead of the new season...

Charlie said... 'I really enjoyed my first season at the club, we've got a great group of lads here and I'm looking to kick on in pre-season to be ready to go in August.'"

Manager Neil Gibson [added]... 'I believe he'll be a real asset to the squad.

'Charlie has an excellent character and he's someone who sets really high standards as a senior pro within the squad and I'm looking forward to working with him again.'"

ALTY OLD BOYS

South Korea K League 2 : Visitors Seongnam had led twice at Daegu, but were down to 10 men when the hosts brought MARCUS DACKERS off the bench after 87 minutes - and 3 minutes later he provided the assist as they won 3-2.

Friendly matches : MICHAEL GYASI scored the clincher for Bedford Town, who beat visitors Berkhamsted 2-0.

TYLOR GOLDEN came on for the second half to make his Boreham Wood debut, with his side 1-0 up against Watford. The visitors equalised, but Wood went on to win 2-1.

Newport County's DAN SASSI (right) was withdrawn just before the hour, hosts Gloucester City having just equalised through ASHLEY HEMMINGS, and were soon 2-1 down. Their hopes of recovery were then quickly hampered by one of their trialists being sent off. There were no further goals.

Yeovil Town were 1-3 up at the break at Melksham Town, and brought on MATT GOULD and JACK KINGDON for the second half. They went on to add a 4th goal.

Barrow led 2-0 at half time against visitors Workington, and brought on OLLY CRANKSHAW, ISAAC MARRIOTT, and KENNEDY DIGIE for what turned out to be a goalless second half.

KEVIN ELLISON started for Vauxhall Motors, who entertained PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester. The Seals had TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS in their lineup, and Tom opened the scoring after just 5 minutes. All of those players came off at half time, and Chester went on to win 0-2.

Both JEFF KING and ALEX NEWBY started for York City, who beat visitors Barnsley 2-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

And this time it'll be on a permanent contract - after two previous stints on loan from Millwall, both of which coming during the 2023/24 season.

'We've been impressed not just by his athleticism while he's been training with us, but just as much his attitude of wanting to be here; to play for the club...'

After a month at Braintree, he spent the remainder of 2025/26 as a mainstay in a Tonbridge Angels side which achieved a comfortable mid-table finish in the Enterprise National League South"

Wealdstone is also "pleased to confirm the signing of midfielder Jayden Harris.

The 26-year-old recently brought to an end a two-year spell with fellow Enterprise National League club Sutton United, which included over 40 appearances last season.

Gary Waddock, Wealdstone manager, said... 'It's great to get someone of Jayden's experience over the line'...

A product of Fulham's academy set-up, Harris joined Aldershot Town in summer 2021 after a brief loan spell at Woking.

His form earned a move to Carlisle United the following year, and then another loan at Eastleigh during season 2023/24...

Added the Stones' boss, 'We'll have a group with more younger players scattered around, so Jayden's extra experience will prove key'">

Heading the other way, West London Sport reports that "Defender Deon Woodman has joined League One club Bromley from Wealdstone.

Woodman, 23, was at QPR before joining the Stones in 2024, having previously been at the club on loan... He has moved for an undisclosed fee.

Wealdstone said they had 'reluctantly' accepted Bromley’s offer".

Carlisle United "made it back-to-back wins to start pre-season after a 3-2 win in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Motherwell.

Rob Elliot's side came back from behind to secure victory, with REGAN LINNEY, David Ajiboye and Seb Mason getting on the scoresheet.

He said 'It was a really good game and exactly what we wanted. Another 45 minutes into two different teams and I thought the first group, against what was probably their strongest side, were excellent. We finished that half 1-1, but our pressing was outstanding and we probably could have scored another one or two.

'The second half was excellent as well. We introduced a few academy lads and I thought we were on top for long periods. We got the goals and probably could have added more'...

Speaking on United's performance, in particular signs of high-intensity pressing, United's Head Coach said 'That's exactly how we want to play. I'll be honest, we're nowhere near where we need to be yet, but that's just because we've only been together for two weeks...

He said 'Reegs [Regan Linney] was excellent again. He caused all sorts of problems'. Linney was substituted on 30 minutes after a whack to his right knee in United's half.

'Regan took a knock to his knee, but it's just a whack, so he should be fine'">

The following pages, which initially replicate those pages with the same web addresses which formed part of the official Club website, will be re-branded from 2018 as part of this new unofficial Alty Files site.