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REPORT

Report by George Heslop.

The match started late at 2.20pm as the match officials had been delayed in Trafford Centre traffic.

Skem were a big strong side, quick to close down their opponents and to win tackles, and they successfully disrupted Alty's normal passing game in the early stages. However, Altrincham improved and started to pass the ball more quickly and move the opposition defenders around. Alty opened the scoring in the 25th minute when a very good move was finished by a headed goal, on his debut, by Melingui.

One of a number of contentious dceisions then gave Skelmersdale a penalty, which they netted. But, just before the interval, Alty's best move so far, involving five or six passes, culminated in a cross from the right which Melingui, using his strength well, headed home to make it 2-1 to the visitos at the break.

With a diagonal wind behind them, Arrowsmith on Alty's left was proving a threat. In the 55th minute, a good opportunist goal by Folagbade made it 3-1, as he picked his spot and finished with confidence. Just past midway in the second half Folagbade scored again, to make it 4-1 to Altrincham. This goal followed a cross which bobbled around the box.

By the time the game finished, in fading light, around 4.05pm, it was pouring with rain. Alty's whole team had shown great commitment but keeper Burrows deserved special mention. Returning from injury he took an early knock but played on, despite Clancy and Campion having to taking his goalkicks. The Alty management was very pleased to secure points which allowed the team to close in on Skem who remain second in the league, behind Chester. The team spirit was exemplified by the injured Sam Heathcote who, neverthless, turned up to help with the warm ups.