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NEXT MATCH
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE
Saturday, 14 March 2026
SCUNTHORPE UNITED (Away) 5.30pm

ALTY HEADLINES

OTHER HEADLINES

9 March 2026

ALTY v TRURO CITY: MANAGERS' VIEWS

Although Altrincham defeated Truro City 2-0 on Saturday, the Non-League Paper [NLP] reported that the Tinners had no fewer than 16 shots at goal, twice the Alty total of eight.

Six of the Truro shots were on target with Alty keeper Luke Hutchinson a major factor in keeping them out.

Speaking to the Non-League Paper, Alty boss Neil Gibson said of his loanee keeper from Bolton Wanderers, "He's stepped into the big shoes of Ethan Ross and is growing in confidence too. The trust the players have in him is huge"

The 23 year-old keeper was named in the NL Paper's Team of the Day.

Above: Neil Gibson gives his players a pep talk during a break in play against Truro City last Saturday.

The Alty boss also explained that "We've been short on numbers recently and some players were playing out of position today.

"But they stood up to be counted. We're now on four wins from five, we're up to 13th and so, sometimes, we need to remember the positive results we've had and feel the positivity throughout the group".

Gibson's counterpart, John Askey opined that "The number of chances we had in the first 15 minutes, hitting the post twice, if you don't take those then it'll come back to bite you as it did today.

"We couldn't have asked to play better at the start of the game but it ultimately sums our season up".

MIKE ADAMS R.I.P.

Right: Before kick off last Saturday against Truro City, a minute's applause was held in memory of former Altrincham FC director of finance, Mike Adams.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that, in Asutralia's NPL Victoria : CONNOR HAMPSON and his Oakleigh Cannons team mates would have been hoping to win at Melbourne City U21, as they would have gone top of the league. Unfortunately they only sit in 4th place after going behind in the 18th minute, and then not being able to add to their 41st minute equaliser.

As for Sunday's game in England's League One, ALI SMITH played the whole of AFC Wimbledon's 1-0 home win against Northampton Town.

ALTY v TRURO CITY

Alty TV has some ten minutes of high quality highlights from Altrincham's win last Saturday over Truro City.

NEXT: SCUNTHORPE UNITED

Altrincham's next match is a tea-time (5.30pm) kick off at Scunthorpe United, a match being featured by the DAZN streaming service.

It will be Altrincham's second tea-time match of the season but they have had four kick-offs changed to 12.30pm this season to accommodate DAZN. The Robins will be without the services of Declan Howe, as he is on loan from The Iron. With a dozen players currently unavailable through injury or suspension, Neil Gibson will have few options to vary his starting line-up.

Scunthorpe started the season like a train, going unbeaten in their first 11 matches. They then put together a run of 16 league games in which they lost only twice. However, just wo points came from their next six fixtures before a 3-0 away win at Yeovil, last time out, got them back on track.

NEW FACE: KIAN MATTISON

A surprise inclusion in Altrincham's squad last Saturday for the National League match against Truro City was Academy midfielder Kian Mattison (right). Unfortunately, Kian did not get onto the pitch against The Tinners.

With ten players unavailable for the game, manager Neil Gibson dipped into the Academy squad to include Kian, who has been training with the first-team squad.

Supporters may recall that, as well as figuring regularly for the Academy under-19s' team this season, Kian was a late substitute in Altrincham's FA Youth Cup win over South Liverpool at Moss Lane last October.

Kian, whose junior years were spent with Manchester United, has become the 35th player to be named in a National League squad for Altrincham this season.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Altrincham's next opponents, Scunthorpe United won last Saturday 3-0 at Yeovil Town. Somerset Live informs us that Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley said "The performance wasn't dreadful, but when you concede three goals at home, it’s just not good enough".

"'When I watch the game back on Monday, there’s probably a lot of good bits to our play,' Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley claimed..

The Glovers had arguably the better first-half performance, creating chances through Aaron Jarvis and James Daly, but were undone by a professional second-half display from the Iron. Danny Whitehall opened the scoring from the penalty spot, before substitute Leo Farrell added a quick brace to secure all three points...

'We were so wasteful, and I’m there on the bench fuming at the lads,' Rowley said".

8 March 2026

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

Speaking to George Allen on Alty TV, after the win over Truro City, manager Neil Gibson admitted that "I felt for Truro... We were very,very lucky we weren't behind considerably" before we scored. The performance at the start of the game was "not acceptable" he added.

Neil explained that after 20 minutes the team had "changed shape" and, following that change, we improved and "took our chances well".

As for the absences of Olly Crankshaw and Matty Kosylo against Truro, Neil explained that Crankshaw "felt his back" after the coach journey to Brackley recently and then, when playing in that game, he compensated for the back issue by running differently and, in turn, that caused a pulled hamstring. He will now be "out for a period of time".

As for Kosylo, his injury was not specified but he will be out "for a decent period of the season".

Although Declan Howe played against Truro and scored his third goal in five appearances, he had been ill in the week and he was subbed in the second half for that reason. Likewise Anthony Forde had a "little injury" so was withdrawn at the interval.

Neil remained upbeat, however, pointing out that since he and Lee Jones joined the club the team had earned 30 points in 21 games.

Footnote: The injured list now includes Ross, Banks, Sass-Davies, Breckin, Khan, Olson, Kosylo, Crankshaw and Forde. In addition, Sassi remains banned for a further three games and Golden has a further match to miss for his red card. That litany comprises eleven players who are currently unavailable.

ALTRINCHAM 2-0 TRURO CITY

Altrincham started this game dreadfully. Truro had no fewer than six good chances to take the lead inside the opening 17 minutes, four of which required good to excellent saves from Luke Hutchinson, another threat needed a brilliant tackle to save Alty and the sixth effort was fired disappointingly wide by the Truro player in question. Time and again Alty had allowed Truro players to advance unchallenged towards goal.

Right: Declan Howe is congratulated on his goal by Kahrel Reddin and Jimmy Knowles.

So it was completely against the run of play when Altrincham went ahead in the 28th minute. After a foul on Reddin, Forde's freekick from the right eventually found its way to Scunthorpe United loanee Declan Howe at the back post and he cleverly hooked the ball across goal and into the net towards the near post.

As half time approached, Truro made a blunder at the back when a ball was played across-field by a defender to Reddin. His effort was blocked but, from around 18 yards another Alty loanee, Liam Humbles, netted impressively (42 mins).

The second half was a poor affair, largely devoid of excitement. Altrincham seemed content to sit on their lead, with only sporadic attacking ambition being shown, whilst Truro failed to find a way to convert their forward momentum into a goal.

But for Altrincham the result was all that mattered and the win lifted them to thirteenth.

Match report here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : Rotherham United brought on DUNCAN WATMORE after 70 minutes with the game goalless, but 6 minutes later an own goal gave hosts Huddersfield Town the points totally against the run of play.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA could only watch aghast from the bench at the Toughsheet Community Stadium as Wycombe Wanderers, apparently cruising to a 0-2 victory at the 87 minute mark, contrived to concede 3 goals in 7 minutes to hand the points to Bolton Wanderers.

Stevenage captain CARL PIERGIANNI was booked, but they scored the only goal at Burton Albion.

OWEN DALE (right) was a 66th minute substitute for Plymouth Argyle, who came from behind to beat visitors Doncaster Rovers 2-1.

League Two : MARCUS DINANGA was on Bromley's bench at Grimsby Town, who were without JUSTIN AMALUZOR as they drew 1-1.

Having been behind to visitors Crewe Alexandra since the 17th minute, Bristol Rovers scored in the 87th and 92nd minutes to snatch victory - JOEL SENIOR claimed the assist for the equaliser.

Chesterfield scored first, but by the time they took JAMES BERRY off after 78 minutes visitors Shrewsbury Town were leading. Although the Spireites levelled, the visitors, with KEVIN BERKOE playing the full game, grabbed another goal in added time to win 2-3.

National League : JACK HINCHY played the first 71 minutes for Wealdstone, who came from behind to win 1-4 at Braintree Town.

Aldershot brought on MATT PENNEY for the second half at Forest Green Rovers, where they lost 2-1.

Halifax had already scored the only goal at Hartlepool United when BILLY WATERS (left) came off the bench. 4 minutes later the hosts withdrew TYRESE SINCLAIR.

Boston United withdrew CONNOR TEALE after 88 minutes as they lost 1-0 at Rochdale.

KEATON WARD played throughout Gateshead's 1-2 win at Solihull Moors.. The hosts had a full shift from LEWIS BAINES.

JOE NUTTALL was a 77th minute substitute for Morecambe, who won 0-5 at Sutton United. They scored 4 in the first 25 minutes, including a 9 minute hat trick from Jack Nolan - immediately after which Sutton went down to 10 men.

Although KENNEDY DIGIE played the full game for Tamworth at Woking, he couldn't prevent his team losing 3-1.

Neither MATT GOULD nor KYLE FERGUSON came off the Yeovil Town bench, as visitors Scunthorpe United scored 3 second half goals without reply. ROSS BARROWS played 72 minutes for the Iron.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the whole match for Eastleigh, who went ahead at York City. However the Minstermen came back to win 3-1, with ALEX NEWBY putting in a full shift, while JEFF KING lasted 68 minutes.

A REGAN LINNEY strike gave Carlisle United a 2-0 lead at the break, but visitors Southend United came back to draw 2-2. Regan came off after 83 minutes, while CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was an unused substitute.

National North : Although TOM PEERS (right) was again missing from Chester's squad at home to Darlington, there was a full shift from DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY, who opened the scoring in their 2-1 win, before later being yellow carded.

SAM HEATHCOTE, ELLIOTT OSBORNE, and JAMES GALE all started for Macclesfield, while KACPER PASIEK and MIKEY STONE were both 76th minute substitutes. However, it was visitors Chorley who came from behind to snatch the points, winning 1-2 in the 95th minute. OWEN GERMAN played the full game for Chorley, while substitute keeper STEVE DRENCH remained on the bench.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR was again an unused substitute as Morton went down 0-2 at home to league leaders St.Johnstone.

Southern League Central : Despite having had ZAK GOODSON sent off after 28 minutes with the game goalless, Quorn managed to beat 3rd placed Real Bedford by the only goal of the game - the visitors were also reduced to 10 men after 77 minutes.

NPL Premier Division : Ashton United, without JAMES HARDY, lost to the only goal by visitors Leek Town, for whom ADAM PORTER played throughout, and HAYDEN CAMPBELL (left) came on for the second half, picking up a yellow card.

MONTEL GIBSON played 70 minutes for Hednesford Town, as they won 1-3 at Bamber Bridge to stay 2 points behind leaders Hebburn Town with a game in hand. Hebburn won 2-1 at home against Gainsborough Trinity, for whom JONNY MARGETTS was an 80th minute substitute.

After they had trailed to visitors Prescot Cables, DONTAI GABIDON scored the goal that put Hyde United ahead, although the final score was 2-2. He was substituted after 84 minutes. 7 minutes earlier JACK REDSHAW had given way to MAX HARROP, but WILL HALL wasn't in the squad.

A full shift from skipper DEAN FURMAN couldn't prevent Warrington Rylands surprisingly losing at home to an own goal against Cleethorpes Town.

NPL Division 1 West : SAM SHERIDAN (right) captained Atherton Collieries to a 2-0 home win over relegation threatened Darlaston Town.

Leaders Bury were again without JOE PIGGOTT, and the evergreen KEVIN ELLISON put Vauxhall Motors 0-2 ahead after 52 minutes, before being substituted soon afterwards. There were no more goals, meaning YASSINE TOURE was part of the defence that kept a very creditable clean sheet.

There were 2 former Altrincham goalkeepers in opposition at Ivy Gardens, and both Congleton Town's DAVE PARTON and Bootle's TONY THOMPSON were beaten just once. TOM HANNIGAN put in a full shift in front of Tony.

Mossley had MASON FAWNS sent off after 66 minutes when they were a goal up against visitors Shifnal Town, and although skipper MARK LEES played the full game, they had to settle for a 1-1 draw. ELLIOTT DURRELL was a 74th minute substitute for Shifnal.

It took BYRON HARRISON just 4 minutes to score the only goal of the game at the Weaver Stadium, as Nantwich Town saw off Newcastle Town. Byron left the action after 81 minutes, but AIDY ROXBURGH played the full game.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Tuesday 10th March 2026

Saturday 14th March 2026

7 March 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

Saturday 7th March 2026

BEFORE THE GAME: TRURO CITY

Altrincham's opponents today at the J. Davidson Stadium are Truro City.

Altrincham FC has a brief pre-match interview with left-back Eddy Jones (right). After three wins in their last four outings, he said that "It feels like we've turned a corner as a group". He also confirmed that he has been enjoying his more varied role in the Altrincham team this season.

Meanwhile, Truro City "Boss John Askey says that Tuesday’s draw against Southend United will have little or no bearing on the confidence of his Truro City side, ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Altrincham.

The Tinners delivered an outstanding first half showing at Roots Hall to deservedly lead at half-time thanks to Rekeil Pyke’s second of the season. And despite conceding just after the break when Charley Kendall netted, the Tinners defended manfully to grab a deserved share of the spoils.

After suffering six successive defeats – five of those due to goals in the final 10 minutes – Askey’s charges will make a first trip to Moss Lane to face the Robins 11 points from safety in the Enterprise National League..

'Our dressing room has been happy all season,' Askey said. 'Obviously when you are losing, you are down but we’ve always picked ourselves up and gone again. It has been the case all season and the Southend result won’t give us renewed confidence because of the way we have been playing – (confidence) is already there.

'We have improved a lot since Christmas without getting the results and we have been in most of the games. In those games, you think that surely we should win two or three of them but we haven’t'...

Tyler Harvey, Shaun Donnellan and Luke Jephcott, the club’s leading scorer in 2025/26, did not travel to Southend on Tuesday. Askey revealed that this was a decision based on the volume of travelling and frequency of games City have undertaken in recent weeks and not injuries..

Askey said: “With the amount of travelling we do, it is necessary to swap and change personnel. That’s also due to the number of games, along with the position we are in. It also gave a chance to look at one or two players and those that came in did well. I thought George (Cooper) did well, as did all the back four.

'Christian (Oxlade-Chamberlain), that was the best game (for Truro) I’ve seen him play and the midfield were good too. Caleb Roberts has made a difference for us and Rekeil, I’m delighted that he scored a goal and that should give him confidence. It was also his first 90 minutes for us'".

As for Altrincham it remains to be seen if any of the injured players are involved on Saturday. Those who missed the last game through injury were Ross, Banks, Sass-Davies, Breckin, Khan and Olson whilst Sassi and Golden are suspended.

Sassi's ban for his dismissal at Tamworth is for four matches as he had been previously red-carded this season, whilst Golden's handball on the line in the same game has earned him a two-match suspension.

ALTY OLD BOYS

From Phil Jordan we learn that on Friday in the Professional Development League, it was a better afternoon for PHIL PARKINSON this week as his Fleetwood Town U21 side came from behind at Coventry to win 1-2.

Premier League 2 : CALEB ANSEN was back on the the bench as Norwich City U21 shared 4 goals with visitors Arsenal.

Manchester United U21 were without their injured captain, SONNY ALJOFREE (right), as they drew 1-1 at Birmingham City U21.

League Two : Barrow withdrew ELLIOT NEWBY after 71 minutes at Cheltenham Town, and 6 minutes later the hosts withdrew JAKE BICKERSTAFF. Barrow led 1-2 at the time, but had to settle for a point when Cheltenham equalised in the 90th minute.

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY put in a full stint for St.Patrick's at Shelbourne.

After a goalless first half, they scored twice in 5 minutes around the hour mark, but had been pegged back before they snatched a 2-3 victory in added time. The win leaves them 2nd, just 3 points behind unbeaten leaders Bohemians.

Also, Macclesfield FC "confirm that KACPER PASIEK's loan from Preston North End has been extended to the end of the 2025/26 Enterprise National League North season!

The 20 year-old joined the Silkmen from Championship side Preston at the end of January on an initial one month loan deal with an option to extend, during which the young full back has impressed Manager John Rooney, and as a result, has activated the option to secure Kacper’s services for the remainder of the campaign.

Pasiek (pictured, left) made the best possible start to life with the Silkmen, scoring on his debut against Bedford Town at the Leasing.com Stadium, before starting in the next two successive fixtures against Kidderminster Harriers and Leamington. All three fixtures resulted in victory, which Kacper contributed to significantly.

Kacper was then included in the match day squad for our Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Brentford and has since gone on to feature from the off in league games against Kings Lynn Town and Scarborough Athletic, from which we secured a further four points.

Terms were agreed earlier in the week which confirmed Pasiek was eligible to be included in the squad for... every game going forward between now and the end of the season"

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Forest Green Rovers "announce the permanent signing of D’Mani Mellor from Macclesfield.

The 25-year-old forward joins from the Silkmen after making 32 National League North appearances and scoring 11 goals during the current campaign.

Mellor came through Manchester United’s academy, representing the club at U18, U19 and U21 levels. He scored seven goals in 13 appearances for the U21S in Premier League 2, making his senior debut for the Red Devils during the 2019/20 season, coming on as a substitute in the Europa League against FC Astana.

Mellor spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Salford City, making three appearances, before joining Wycombe Wanderers on a free transfer. During his time with the Chairboys, he made 13 appearances and had loan spells with Rochdale, on two occasions, and Sutton United.

He later joined Gateshead on a short-term deal before signing for Macclesfield in September of the 2024 campaign, where he has enjoyed the most prolific goalscoring spell of his senior career. Scoring 19 times in 39 appearances during the 2024/25 season under current Rovers manager Robbie Savage".

In response to FGR boss Robbie Savage's signing of another of his former players at the Moss Rose, Macclesfield FC "confirm that D’Mani Mellor has completed his transfer to Forest Green Rovers for an undisclosed fee.

Whilst thanking D’Mani for all of his efforts during his time with us, we must place on record our understandable disappointment at the timing of the move.

As a Club we did everything we could to keep D’Mani, but due to the fact that the terms of his release clause were met and the player also expressed his wish to leave, we could not prevent him from becoming the fifth Macclesfield FC player to leave for The New Lawn since last summer.

Everyone at Macclesfield FC is committed to achieving our fourth promotion in five years, and we would like to reassure supporters that the Club’s contingency plans with regards to future recruitment will now be executed".

Aldershot Town "confirm the signing of Callum Stewart on loan until the end of the season from Shrewsbury Town.

The 24-year-old forward started his career at Coventry Sphinx before moving up the levels to Leamington, where he was the joint top goal scorer in the National League North with 14 goals in 23 games.

Callum’s run of form with Leamington earned him a move to EFL side Shrewsbury Town in January 2025, where he has made over 20 appearances for the club.

His most recent spell has come on loan at Brackley Town, making 10 appearances, scoring 2 goals".

Boston United "are seeking further investment into the club, as the construction of the Jakemans Community Stadium nears completion.

The South Stand and Sports Hub are well under way and chairman David Newton is inviting expressions of interest in external investment to keep the club progressing..

Mr Newton said 'We have spent the past 18 years sorting the issues around the significant financial problems and debt that we inherited back in 2007. Since then, we have put in place a good structure for both the club and the Community Foundation and, of course, we are nearing completion of the new stadium and community Sports Hub.

'It was also important to focus on rebuilding the reputation of the club both in the football world and within the Boston area, as the reputation had been damaged by the financial and governance issues around that club at that time.

'The move from our historic home at York Street was of course forced upon us when the lease came to an end, but equally the club could not remain there as it was becoming a poor state structurally, and also could not generate the income needed for the club to not only survive, but also to move forward.

'In short, we have put the foundations in place for the club to progress both on and off the pitch. We are really proud to have a very solid and passionate fanbase that have continued to support the club through the difficult times, and I was delighted when we achieved promotion to the National League under Ian Culverhouse back in 2024, to reward such fantastic support...

'The club had debts of over £3 million (the equivalent of about £5.5 million today) and did not have a secure home. Today the club is basically debt free and is in its new home. Its reputation has been rebuilt – and the Community Foundation (and education programme) has grown beyond recognition. The club is back at the heart of the community...

'Despite this transformation, the club's finances are still very challenging, particularly since the recent increases in minimum wage, employer’s National Insurance contributions, water, gas and electricity, food costs, and business rates...

'It is also clear that we need additional investment (time, money and skills)... It is essential that any new investor respects the history of the club, and its privileged position within the local community...

'In an ideal world we would like to attract local investors, or those with an affinity to the town and who share our passion for this wonderful community-based club, but equally we would be remiss not to look at opportunities for bring in investment from other areas of the UK or overseas... so we would love to hear from anyone who would like to be become part of our continued journey'".

Boreham Wood chairman Danny Hunter reports that "I can, on the injury front, report we are very close to getting both Callum Reynolds and Erico Sousa back, and our midfield maestro Tom White is now ready to take his place on the bench. These players will add to Luke’s options which is fantastic for the run in and our play-off hopes.

On a sour note, Ollie Kensdale is now out for the season, Coxey is out for a week after Saturday and I’m told Luke Norris is still reporting pain in his foot, so we’ll see how he improves over the next few weeks, but we might need to re-evaluate things if there’s no improvement.

Apart from the above, the club is working well, the squad is quietly getting stronger by the week as our new players settle in and as our existing players start to view the finishing line. I do feel as the pitches quicken and improve that, as a pass and move side, we will be more than capable of dealing with the run in…. I say that as I know we have nous, ambition, work rate and the ability to go on a run and perhaps nick third spot which would be one hell of an achievement for a club our size".

As fpor the Wood's National League Cip Final at home to Wrest Ham United U21s, Hunter states thst "This Cup Final really does promise to be a great occasion for a club and community of our size and for the very first time ever we have actually sold out three hospitality areas and it is exciting to welcome a club of West Ham’s stature who are taking the game seriously and are also treating it as a great occasion".

Scunthorpe United "confirm first team manager Andy Butler and assistant manager John Schofield have both signed new contracts with the club, which will run until the summer of 2028.

Leading the club back to the National League in his first season as a manager, Butler and his assistant Schofield earned a contract extension back in October 2024 following an impressive start, with the Iron then sitting top of the Vanarama National League North..

From there, Butler, along with Schofield and the backroom staff would lead the team to promotion via the play-offs in a record-breaking campaign...

Butler, now 42, returned to the club in the autumn of 2022... before succeeding him as manager in the summer of 2024. As a player, he featured for the club over two spells, firstly between 2002 and 2008 before a return in 2019-20...

Scunthorpe United can also confirm goalkeeper coach Paul Musselwhite has also penned improved terms with the Iron as he comes towards the end of his thirteenth campaign in his role".

Woking "announce the signing of Kian Pennant from Sky Bet Championship side Leicester City.

Pennant, 21, joined the Foxes academy system in 2019 and was a regular in their U21 side. He scored his side’s only goal against Juventus U21’s in the Premier League International Cup back in September. After that, he joined fellow Enterprise National League side Gateshead on loan, scoring against Sutton United back in November this season.

Kian has been capped by England at youth level...

Director of Football, Jody Brown, had this to say, 'Kian’s got elite-level pace and athleticism, he’s left-footed, and he’s a goal threat. He can play wide or central'">

Carlisle United's "Heritage Group hosted a special archive event at the University of Cumbria's Brampton Road Campus...

Guests also had the opportunity to chat with first team players Elliot Embleton and Josh Williams, alongside former Blues Bobby Parker and George McVitie.

Visitors were able to explore a wide selection of items from the Carlisle United archive, presented as a pop-up exhibition in the Vallum Gallery. Media students from the university were also given the chance to gain practical experience by interviewing guests during the event.

Representatives from the Supporters’ Trust and the London Branch were also in attendance, recognising their generous £500 donations each towards a contingency fund for CUHG.

The funds will help support the refurbishment of display cabinets received from Tullie and assist with costs involved in establishing the club’s archive...

Tom Little, Head of Marketing and Media said 'This type of initiative is what the club is about, engaging with fans across the city and county and hopefully bringing some new supporters down to Brunton Park'".

Sutton United boss "Chris Agutter says his side are full of confidence ahead of tomorrow’s... clash with Morecambe.

The U’s will be looking to build on back-to-back positive away results, including a strong 2–0 win over Hartlepool United earlier this week...

'We’re very confident,' said Agutter. 'We’re playing well. We’re building momentum again, which is great. We’ve played some really good football and we’re looking forward to the challenge of an improved Morecambe side.

'They’ve changed manager and their approach is very different. I think it’s fairly safe to say that has led to significant improvement'...

Sutton now sit six points above the drop zone, with the recent run of results helping to strengthen belief within the squad... after a chaotic campaign so far....

'I’ve said a few times since we came in – we’re not a bottom-half team. We won’t be a million miles away from the right end of the table that we want to be at.'" stated Agutter.

Agutter went on to say that... 'There is a lot of difference between the Morecambe we played down at their place and the Morecambe we’ll play tomorrow. They look a lot more robust and we know they’re going to put up one hell of a fight...

'It’s us versus ourselves,' he said... 'If you look at our goal difference and the amount of draws we’ve had, that’s been the problem. Turn a few of those draws into wins and we’re pushing for the playoffs.'”

6 March 2026

NEXT: TRURO CITY

As Altrincham face Truro City on Saturday at the J. Davidson Stadium, they have no fewer than four rival teams who are just a single point behind them. All except Eastleigh also have a fixture on Saturday.

All four clubs are from the south; Woking, Sutton United, Wealdstone and Eastleigh and Alty have still to play their reverse fixtures against all of those clubs except for Wealdstone.

Avoiding the drop is within Altrincham's own hands as there are now seven clubs (including Sutton United and Eastleigh) whose maximum points haul this season is a lower total than can be achieved by the Robins.

CHARITY GAME AT ALTRINCHAM

Altrincham FC announce that "The J.Davidson Stadium is playing host to an exciting charity match on Sunday, April 26th with Wythenshawe Vets taking on the Once Upon a Smile Celebrity Team.

Tickets for the game are on sale here.

The Once Upon a Smile Celebrity Team is back for one game only this April - taking on the Wythenshawe Vets Team for the families of Isaac and Ellis.

The Wythenshawe Vets are a squad of retired professional footballers including Papiss Cissé, Danny Drinkwater, Stephen Ireland and Emile Heskey, to name just a few.

Co-Captains and Charity Founders Danny Miller and Daniel Jillings are pulling together a fantastic team of celebrity friends, football pals, and influencers to go head-to-head with the vets, all in great spirit while raising vital funds for Once Upon a Smile in our 15th year of supporting bereaved children and families".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Before making his debut on Wednesday night against Braintree Town, Gateshead announced "the signing of goalkeeper Adam Desbois on an initial deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.

The 25 year-old joins The Heed having spent the campaign on non-contract terms with Enterprise National League South side Slough Town, for whom he made 33 appearances after joining in the summer of 2025

Desbois has previously appeared for Cheshunt and Hampton & Richmond Borough in the sixth tier, after spending his academy days with Reading and Brighton & Hove Albion

Footnote: Desbois was the goalkeeper for Slough Town when they knocked Altrincham out of the FA Cup this season.

Rochdale Head Coach "Jimmy McNulty confirmed that Harvey Gilmour has picked up a calf injury.

As, such the midfielder will miss up to five weeks, after suffering the setback in our victory at Aldershot Town at the end of February...

'Unfortunately, Harvey got a calf injury in the last game', says McNulty. 'He sprung [sic] off the ground and in that moment felt something.

'We’ve had that scanned and it’s looking like a five-week injury, which is of course a loss...

'His form is challenged by the guys supporting him in that particular position, Casey Pettit, Ed Francis, Ryan East'.

Harvey will be joining Tobi Adebayo-Rowling and Sam Beckwith on the sidelines".

In response tothe news of a transfer embargo, Morecambe "confirm that the club has been placed under an embargo by the National League following a disputed payment issue relating to Bond Group Investments.

The club is aware of the matter and has been in communication with the National League throughout the process. This commercial dispute is currently being handled by Panjab Warriors’ solicitors.

The club’s position is very clear that no such payments were ever part of the acquisition of Morecambe Football Club, and this can be verified via the final sale and purchase agreement that was agreed to by all parties and supervised by the EFL back in August 2025 on completion of the sale.

The club can also categorically confirm that all sums outstanding were duly settled prior to Monday 18 August 2025, in accordance with the National League Regulations, after which completion was instigated.

Morecambe FC remains committed to working with the relevant parties to resolve the issue as quickly as possible and will provide further updates when appropriate.

NATIONAL NORTH NEWS

The BBC reports that "Non-league football club King's Lynn Town have replaced their manager following a turbulent three weeks.

The Norfolk side made international headlines last month when footage emerged showing a sprinkler in operation at the ground.

The CCTV was allegedly captured on 13 February - hours before the club postponed its next-day fixture against South Shields due to a waterlogged pitch.

Manager Ian Culverhouse - who had said he was "sick to death" of leaks [sic] from inside the club - has been replaced with former Birmingham City defender Paul Caddis.

The 37-year-old recently managed Hereford FC in the National League North...

Said Culverhouse 'I'm sick to death with everything that goes on at this football club getting leaked out by people not associated and it's got to stop'".

5 March 2026

NEXT: TRURO CITY

On Saturday, Altrincham play Truro City at the J. Davidson Stadium.

The Tinners have won just once on the road this season, at Morecambe, but they secured an excellent point at Roots Hall on Tuesday against a Southend side currently occupying the last play-off place.

Nevertheless, The Tinners find themselves bottom of the National League, eleven points from safety.

With three wins in their last four outings, Altrincham's form has greatly improved recently and they will start this game lying 15th, albeit having played more games than two of the clubs below them who could catch them by winning their matches in hand.

Altrincham won the reverse fixture in Cornwall, 1-0.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Wednesday's action...

National League : There were 93 minutes on the clock at the International Stadium when KEATON WARD (right) struck the only goal for Gateshead against Braintree Town.

And from Macclesfield FC comes news that "former forward and fan’s favourite MERRICK CORFIELD has sadly passed away.

An intelligent and innovative player, Merrick enjoyed a glittering career at the Moss Rose over two spells between 1967 and 1973. A member of our inaugural FA Trophy-winning team back in 1970, Merrick was also voted Player of the Year at the end of that season.

A double Northern Premier League winner, Merrick’s legacy will be etched into the fabric of our Club forevermore. May he rest in peace".

Footnote: Merrick played for Altrincham in 1971-72 season.

WEDNESDAY SCORE

Wednesday 4th March 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The National League reports on "Current embargoes" stating that "The National League may place a Club under embargo if it meets one of the following criteria:

An embargo prevents the Club from signing a new player or changing the terms of an existing loan, except where the terms of the Embargo allow.

An embargo is separate and without prejudice to any other penalties that the League may impose against the Club, including for financial breaches.

Below are embargoes that have been active within the past 30 days:

The BBC reports that "Gateshead have signed Grimsby winger Zak Gilsenan on loan until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old Irishman recently scored three goals in nine league appearances on loan at National League North side Buxton.

Gilsenan... joined the Mariners from Blackburn last summer".

The player himself said that Gateshead "see me as being a creative spark and that's what I want to be...

"I like to get the ball forward, see passes, try to make things happen and get fans on the edge of their seats".

At the other end of the table, Rochdale point out that "Following Tuesday night’s 3-2 win over Brackley Town, Dale have reached a new record points haul for a league campaign.

Jimmy McNulty’s men have taken an incredible 85 points, with 11 games remaining.

27 wins from our 35 games so far, along with four draws, have seen us top the Enterprise National League as it stands.

Our previous record total was 82... If Dale were to continue their current points-per-game ratio, which stands at 2.43, we will be on track for 112 points come the end of the campaign. For reference, the current National League points record is 111, set by Wrexham in 2023".

Solihull Moors report that former Gateshead man "Ben Worman said...

'I think we’ve had a patchy spell of results. We’ve played well for certain periods of certain games, but we need to put that into 90 minutes now and have a good performance over a bit more of a longer period of time and most importantly, get three points and hopefully we can do that in front of a home crowd...

'We don’t really keep an eye on specific teams, just our own performance and our own collective responsibility in getting three points. I think even though we’ve lost and been on the wrong end of results recently, obviously we got a point on Saturday, but the results previous to that, they’re all games that we’ve played well enough and at stages to see that we’re capable of winning it in the end.

'We’re just taking each game as it comes, trying to attack as much as possible and ultimately just getting as many wins underboard [sic] now from now to the end of the season.'”

Wealdstone's new manager "Garry Waddock reflected the frustration of players and supporters alike as Wealdstone couldn't make the most of their chances against a rejuvenated Morecambe at The Vale.

The Shrimps won 3-2, but the scoreline could have had a very one-sided look by half-time if Stones had maximised the benefit of purposeful build-up and an up-tempo approach to the game.

'If you don't take your chances you get punished', rued new Royals' boss Waddock after his first match at the helm.

'They're a good side and with a new manager who knows the club really well and they've put in some good performances lately,' he added of visitors Morecambe...

'We need to be more clinical and I feel for the players tonight; they should have got something out of the game'.

Coming in mid-season, with the club having already recruited for a system and formation, Waddock didn't think it was right to change too much too soon".

4 March 2026

NEXT: TRURO CITY

Next Saturday, Altrincham welcome Truro City to the J. Davidson Stadium.

Whilst Altrincham had no midweek game, The Tinners travelled to Southend United on Tuesday where they secured a very creditable 1-1 draw against the play-off aspirants.

However, the point gained did not lift them out of the bottom place in the Enterprise National League. They are eleven points from safety.

"Charley Kendall's equaliser rescued a point for Southend United, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Truro City at Roots Hall.

Rekeil Pyke put the visitors ahead just after the half-hour mark, before Kendall smashed home his fifth goal of the season to start the second half.

The Shrimpers hit the woodwork twice shortly afterwards and tested Tinners keeper Aidan Stone on a number of occasions throughout the match, but were unable to find the second goal to earn the three points....

The draw moves Southend back into the play-offs ahead of FC Halifax Town on goal difference, with a trip to Carlisle United to look forward to on Saturday".

ALTY WOMEN HIT SIX

For Altrincham FC, Ben Edwards reports that last Sunday "Daryll Abrahams’s [Altrincham FC Women's] side got back to winning ways, picking up a 6-1 victory at home against Liverpool Feds Reserves, thanks to braces from Georgia McKnight, Fran Boyle and Kira Saycell....

The Elite U18s were in action on the other pitch at Partington Sports Village, winning 4-2 over West Kirby U18 Women in the Cheshire Women & Youth Football League U18 Premier Division".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Tuesday's games...

Professional Development League : Captained by JACK KINGDON, Cardiff City U21 drew 1-1 away to their Millwall counterparts.

PHIL PARKINSON didn't get off to the best of starts in his new role coaching Fleetwood Town U21. Having led at half time, they conceded 3 times to their visitors from Huddersfield Town.

Welsh Premier League Championship Group : Connah's Quay Nomads manager JOHN DISNEY has now made JAMES JONES (right) his captain, but their chances of catching up with leaders TNS diminished as their 1-2 loss at the Essity Stadium increased the gap to 18 points. To rub salt in James's wounds, he also picked up a yellow card against the club where he started his career.

League One : Wycombe Wanderers scored the only goal of the game just before the hour at Barnsley, and immediately withdrew JUNIOR QUITIRNA.

Rotherham United withdrew DUNCAN WATMORE at half time, but could still only muster a goalless draw at home to Mansfield Town.

League Two : Tranmere Rovers were still without CONNOR JENNINGS at Newport County, whose 3-1 win pulled them out of the relegation spots for the first time this season at the expense of Barrow.

MARCUS DINANGA watched from the bench as Bromley were held to a goalless draw by visitors Oldham Athletic.

Chesterfield gave JAMES BERRY a rare start, but withdrew him after 69 minutes shortly before wrapping up a 3-0 home win over Colchester United.

Grimsby Town left JUSTIN AMALUZOR on the bench as they dispatched visitors Salford City 3-1.

National League : It was an unhappy return to Boreham Wood for JEFF KING as York City lost 3-2, and he was withdrawn after 66 minutes soon after they went down to 10 men. ALEX NEWBY (left) came off the bench 5 minutes later. The result helped Rochdale to regain top spot with a 3-2 home win over Brackley Town.

CONNOR TEALE played the full game as Boston United drew 2-2 at home to Woking.

TYRESE SINCLAIR was withdrawn after 80 minutes as Hartlepool United lost 0-2 to visitors Sutton United.

JACK HINCHY has joined Wealdstone on loan from Notts County, and went straight into the starting XI at home to Morecambe. He was withdrawn after 94 minutes. The Shrimps brought on JOE NUTTALL after 87 minutes, shortly after going down to 10 men, and held on to win 2-3.

Tonight's results saw Altrincham drop one place to 15th, the team that overtook them being Yeovil Town who beat visitors Tamworth, for whom KENNEDY DIGIE played the full game, 2-0. The Glovers brought KYLE FERGUSON off the bench after 88 minutes, leaving MATT GOULD as one of their only two unused substitutes.

Coupe de France : Strasbourg's 2-1 home victory over Reims saw them through to the semi final. MAXI OYEDELE was an unused substitute.

National North : Unfazed by reports of an arson attack at Moss Rose overnight (apparently a small fire in an outbuilding) Macclesfield won 1-2 at Darlington, with JAMES GALE notching both goals, the first of them remarkably from further out than 2 yards, though the second was his customary tap-in. James started alongside ELLIOTT OSBORNE and SAM HEATHCOTE. KACPER PASIEK was an unused substitute

CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde lost the chance to overtake South Shields at the top of the league, going down 2-1 on Tyneside. CHRIS MERRIE played the full game for the Coasters, but GEORGE WILSON stayed on the bench, while LIAM BROCKBANK is still out injured.

National South : MILES WELCH-HAYES played the first 70 minutes for Maidenhead United as they won 2-0 at home to AFC Totton.

It had been 33 years since Neil Warnock selected a Torquay United team, and he didn't have the injured CALLUM DOLAN available. The Gulls came from behind to draw 2-2 with visitors Farnborough Town.

Southern League Central : At three-quarter time, Quorn looked dead and buried at Bury Town as they trailed 4-1. But the Suffolk club reckoned without ZAK GOODSON (right) who notched a hat trick to earn a 4-4 draw - the second of his goals was a penalty.

NPL Division 1 West : There was a 6 goal thriller at the Berry Street Garage Stadium. Hosts Bootle had both TONY THOMPSON and TOM HANNIGAN booked as they played the whole game, while Vauxhall Motors reinstated Robins loanee YASSINE TOURE to the starting XI, and he scored the 88th minute goal that gave them a 3-3 draw. KEVIN ELLISON was withdrawn by Motors after 74 minutes.

CHESHIRE NEWS

The BBC reports that "Macclesfield Football Club's ground has been targeted by arsonists, police said.

Cheshire Police said a deliberate fire had been set in two portable toilets at the Moss Rose stadium on London Road at about 01:15 GMT.

The club, which competes in National League North in the sixth tier of English football, said the 'situation was under control' and no injuries had been reported.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said officers arrived at the stadium and found an outbuilding next to the club shop 'well alight'.

The fire service said it had attended after receiving reports of a fire visible over a wall into the stadium, and concluded it had been started deliberately.

A spokesperson said 'Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the blaze using hose reel water jets.

'They remained at the scene until 04:30, damping down and using a thermal imaging camera to check for hotspots'.

Cheshire Police said enquiries were ongoing".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The Deck reports that "FGR forward Ricardo Rees is set to miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season after sustaining an injury against Gateshead.

He’s torn ankle ligaments and isn't likely to play again this campaign.

Big blow for Forest Green".

Footnote: Rees was only signed from Merthyr Town at the end of December.

Boreham Wood chairman Danny Hunter muses, "Who knows what 2026 might bring us? The permutations at this stage of the season are of course endless with us sitting in fourth place in the league and having reached the final of the National League Cup...

Pressure can at times suffocate some of the bigger clubs as Southend United and perhaps Carlisle United are now finding out. York City though it appears are handling things very well up to now under Stuart Maynard and they also have a very loyal but expectant support base to satisfy and at the moment they are dealing with things beautifully....

There’s no doubt Luke [Garrard, Boreham Wood manager] and the dressing room are still targeting third, but I know we will experience weeks where we will take one step forward and two steps back until the season’s end. That said, for a club our size just to be in the play-off mix, shows how well we are run, how good recruitment has been and what a job Luke Garrard, his staff and the dressing room are doing.

Tomorrow evening, I must belatedly thank York City for allowing us to take JEFF KING on his initial loan... In truth, we did everything we could to keep him, and I discussed with the York hierarchy the possibility of taking him on a permanent deal. However, it was made very clear that No meant No and as everyone can see, Kingy is now very much in Stuart Maynard’s plans.

On the injury front we still have Callum Reynolds, Erico Sousa, Ollie Kensdale, Luke Norris and Tom White out but now only for the short term which means we are slightly light in one or two positions but nothing that we cannot deal with and hopefully we can expect another signing soon...

After the pressure of relegation two seasons ago, the pressure of promotion last season, I must say I feel no pressure this season, just expectation and excitement".

Woking have provided "an update on the pitch...

Since last week’s match was called off, the club has been working extensively with a number of independent specialists to assess both the ongoing drainage challenges and the damage sustained in the goalmouth area.

Work has now been completed in servicing the existing drainage system. This has included using underground camera mapping technology to inspect the entire drainage network, along with high-pressure water jetting to clear blockages and restore the system as effectively as possible.

In parallel, particular attention has been given to the damaged section of the penalty area by the Seymours Stand, which match officials identified as a safety concern during the last two home fixtures... This involved removing the affected goalmouth section entirely and relaying it with a high-quality hybrid turf system similar to those used in top-level stadiums".

It's one in and one out at Boston United who "have completed the signing of former Brighton & Hove Albion winger Luca Barrington.

The 21-year-old, who spent his formative years in the academy at Manchester City, made 43 appearances during a loan spell in the EFL with Grimsby Town last season, scoring four goals in the process.

Barrington has been without a club so far this season...

He is registered and eligible to make his debut against Woking on Tuesday evening".

Heading out of Boston United is "goalkeeper Bobby Jones[who] has departed the club by mutual consent.

The 24-year-old was recalled from his loan spell at Chester FC to facilitate his exit - and subsequent move to the Cestrians on a permanent basis.

Jones made three competitive appearances for the Pilgrims - all in the National League Cup".

Following Carlisle United’s 2–1 victory away to Eastleigh, we spoke to Mark Hughes...

'I thought it was a challenge for us because we knew how they want to play, a new manager as well, obviously very direct, looking to hit long balls'[he said].

'It was difficult to get the ball down and play our normal game but you have to earn the right to play, and I thought we did that. Eventually, our quality came through, and we were able to take the game away from them, so yeah, really pleased...

'We didn't want back-to-back defeats, so it was important to get back to winning ways, and we've been able to do that... Apart from one moment, they created very little...

'I thought he (REGAN LINNEY) looked more like his old self. He was getting shots off, taking people on, and all that was missing today really was that goal. He’ll be pleased with the performance. When Regan's flying, we all know the quality that he has, so it's only a matter of time before he gets back on the scoresheet...

Stephen Wearne 's been really good since I brought him back into the side, pushing for man of the match in most games. He brings energy, and he's a goal threat as well. He’s scored a lot of goals at previous clubs, and now he's starting to do the same for us'".

Wealdstone "confirm the signing of midfielder JACK HINCHY (below, right) from League Two promotion-chasers Notts County, on a loan deal until the end of this season.

The 23-year-old played for the Pies in league action as recently as mid-February, one of three appearances for his parent club during this campaign... The first game he featured in on loan at Altrincham earlier this term was a 1-1 draw here at The Vale back in early October.

He played a further three times for Alty before County recalled the playmaker due to several midfield injuries at Meadow Lane...

Since signing for Notts permanently in summer 2024, the Swindon-born schemer has racked up 34 first-team appearances along with one senior career goal to his name.

Said Stones' boss Gary Waddock of Hinchy's capture 'Jack's a good character and a really good footballer... I know he's the type of player the club has been looking for so I'm delighted to have him in our group,' added Waddock.

'He gets on the ball and wants to play, bringing that calmness and composure'".

3 March 2026

MIDWEEK GAMES

Altrincham dropped a place to 15th on Tuesday night as Yeovil moved above them.

Tuesday 3rd March 2026

Wednesday 4th March 2026

NEXT: TRURO CITY

Altrincham welcome Truro City to the JDS on Saturday.

Truro City currently lie bottom of the National League with 24 points from 34 games. Just six points have been earned away from home by Truro; on the road they have just a single win to their name, gained at Morecambe.

Since that win they have lost their last five league games on the run.

Their only player to figure in all 34 league fixtures this season is Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain, who has started 31 of those games.

Their joint leading scorers are Luke Jephcott and Tyler Harvey who each have five goals to their name.

Last Saturday, The Tinners lost 2-3 at home to a very late goal from Braintree Town.

Their line up for that match comprised 24. Aidan Stone, 3. Connor Riley-Lowe (c), 4. Will Dean, 9. Tyler Harvey, 12. Oxlade-Chamberlain, 15. Luke Jephcott, 17. Caleb Roberts, 18. Freddie Issaka, 25. Shaun Donnellan, 32. Harry Charsley, Cooper. Subs: 1. Dan Lavercombe (gk), 2. Zac Bell, 5. Tom Harrison, 19. Rekell Pyke, 20. Ryan Law, 22. Jack Stretton, 29. Harry Kite.

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS: 7 MARCH

When Altrincham welcome Truro City to the J. Davidson Stadium on Saturday it will be six years to the day since the Robins sealed a place in the National North promotion play-offs by beating Spennymoor Town 4-1, in what was to prove to be their last regular league fixture before the Covid-induced suspension of the National League.

It would be another four months before the play-offs took place, behind closed doors.

The win on 7 March 2020 restored Alty to fifth place on an afternoon when their play-off cause was aided as rivals Chester FC and Gateshead lost, and Boston only drew.

However, the game against Spennymoor was not the one-sided affair suggested by the final score but, nevertheless, Altrincham were well-deserving winners.

Above: Six years ago on Saturday, in their final match before COVID intervened, Jordan Hulme (9) watched as his superb shot dipped into the top corner of Spennymoor keeper Matt Gould's net to make it 4-1. Matt was later to join Altrincham, of course.

Right: Jordan Hulme and Elliott Durrell netted three of Alty's goals against Spennymoor

The hosts got off to a great start as, in just the third minute, Elliott Durrell continued his run of scoring in every game for Altrincham with his fourth in four outings since joining the club.

A superb cross-field ball from man of the match Josh Lundstram led to the second goal for Alty in the 39th minute when Hulme fired home across the keeper to make it 2-0. The Moors started the second half with a purpose and got back into the game in the 52nd minute. Right-back Forbes was allowed to advance in space before hitting a fine shot into the top left-corner of Thompson's net from nearly 30 yards.

In retrospect the turning point was a fine save by Thompson from Ramsdale, six minutes later.

Midway through the half Alty regained their two-goal lead when Tom Hannigan's diving header converted Mooney's corner from the left (68 mins).

Alty's fourth goal came in the last minute of normal time. Hulme was located in space, outside the box, left of goal. Almost nonchalantly he hit a superb dipping shot into the far, top corner of Gould's net.

ISUZU FA TROPHY SEMI-FINALS

The semi-finals take place on Saturday, 28 March, with the final, which is at Wembley Stadium, taking place on Sunday, 17 May.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Monday's action...

Premier League 2 : The timing of SONNY ALJOFREE's substitution in added time at the end of the first half would suggest he picked up an injury. Manchester United U21 were beaten 0-2 at home by their Chelsea counterparts, who leapfrogged them to top the table. Only 2 points separate the top 5 clubs.

Irish Premier Division : Although St.Patrick's totally dominated visitors Galway United, only 4 of their 22 goal attempts were on target, and it was only in the 90th minute that they managed to find the target and win 1-0. BARRY BAGGLEY played the full game, although he picked up a yellow card.

Meanwhile, Scotland's Killie Chronicle reports that MARCUS DACKERS (right) "is set to leave Kilmarnock to seal [a] six-figure move to South Korea, the Killie Chronicle understands.

The former Manchester City youth joined in the summer and made 30 appearances this term, scoring four goals, but has seen limited action in recent times.

Having been given two minutes off the bench in the 3-0 win over Aberdeen, he was brought on for the final eight of the defeat to Celtic and was not even among the substitutes for the draw with Dundee United last weekend, nor yesterday at Falkirk".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

From Ipswich, the independent TWTD site reports that "Released academy midfielder Emmanuel Okunowo has rejoined his former loan side Braintree Town.

The 20-year-old officially left the Blues [Ipswich Town] last summer having been with the club since he was eight, but has remained at Playford Road while recovering from an injury suffered during his loan spell with the Iron in the second half of last season.

Okunowo, who also had a loan stint at Needham while with Town, made his second debut for the National League side as a sub during Saturday’s 3-2 victory, assisting the winning goal for Aidan Francis-Clarke in the fifth minute of injury time.

Former Blues centre-half Tommy Smith also came off the bench for the Essex side, who are now fourth from bottom, three points off safety".

2 March 2026

BRACKLEY MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Alty TV has eight minutes of highlights from Altrincham's win at Brackley last Saturday.

NEXT: TRURO CITY

Truro City will become the first club from Cornwall to play a competitive match in Altrincham when they visit next Saturday for a National League fixture.

The reverse fixture ended in a 1-0 win for Altrincham against the Cornish side who are currently bottom of the league table.

Their manager is John Askey, a familiar face in Cheshire as the former manager of Macclesfield Town.

The Cornish Times reports that, on Saturday, "Aidan Francis-Clarke scored five minutes into second half stoppage time to see Braintree Town to a narrow 3-2 win at Truro City.

The Tinners turned the game on its head however, with Freddie Issaka equalising on the cusp of half-time, before an own goal put City in front shortly after the hour.

Back came Braintree though, with Francis-Clarke diverting a header past Aidan Stone ten minutes from the end prior to his match-winning touch deep in added time.

Luke Jephcott was rewarded for scoring from the bench in Wednesday’s 2-1 defeat at Eastleigh with a place in the starting XI, at the expense of an injured Lirak Hasani, in the only change made by manager John Askey..

Fine margins meant, moments after being the width of the post away from winning it, the Tinners were in fact losing it when Francis-Clarke turned home a loose ball, leaving Truro 12 points adrift with as many games to play".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan informs us that SAM ROSCOE was reported during February to have left Linfield in Northern Ireland. He will shortly be starting the USL League One season with the newly franchised Texan club Corpus Christi FC.

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW

The Altrincham FC Monthly Draw for February produced the following outcome:

Congratulations to all of the winners.

21ST NATIONAL LEAGUE MANAGER GOES

In a statement issued on Sunday evening, Woking "confirm that Manager Neal Ardley and Assistant Manager Simon Bassey have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect.

Right: Neal Ardley, pictured at Altrincham when Woking were the visitors in October 2025.

This decision follows a decline in performances over the past two months which saw us go from within touching distance of the play-off positions and the opportunity of reaching the FA Trophy semi-finals to where we find ourselves today.

Chairman Todd Johnson said 'We’ve reached the conclusion that it’s time to make a change. Ultimately, this is a results-oriented business, and the results did not match our ambitions. Our focus is on building a positive, club-oriented, winning culture. We believe in this group of players and in creating the right environment for them to play with confidence, intent and ambition'.

The Club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Neal and Simon for their contributions over the past 14 months, particularly their role in helping to stabilise the Club during a challenging period upon their arrival in December 2024, and wishes them both every success in the future. The wider staff structure and football framework remain in place, ensuring continuity as we move forward. In the interim Craig Ross, Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman will take charge of the team".

Footnote: So, below, we produce yet another update on the departures of National League managers since the end of last season. The total is now 21 managers who have been sacked or resigned from National League clubs since May 2025, a period of ten months.

Those 21 departures have occurred at sixteen of the 24 current members of the National League over a period of ten months, with Morecambe, Yeovil Town, Gateshead, Eastleigh and Wealdstone changing manager twice.

Changes between the end of the 2024/25 season and the start of the 2025/26 season:

  1. FC HALIFAX TOWN Chris Millington left and Adam Lakeland was appointed
  2. FOREST GREEN ROVERS sacked Steve Cotterill and appointed Robbie Savage
  3. GATESHEAD Carl Magnay resigned and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
  4. WEALDSTONE Neil Gibson resigned and the club appointed Sam Cox.

Departures since start of the 2025/26 season:

The seventeen departures (so far) since the start of this season are listed below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

  1. MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
  2. YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard
  3. YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
  4. SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington
  5. SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
  6. EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett
  7. YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley
  8. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
  9. ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
  10. ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
  11. GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
  12. BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
  13. BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town, replaced by Andy Whing
  14. MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley
  15. EASTLEIGH: Scott Bartlett, "relieved of his duties", replaced as "interim manager" by Richard Hill
  16. WEALDSTONE: Sam Cox, "removed from his position as manager", replaced by Gary Waddock
  17. WOKING: Neal Ardley, "relieved of duties"

The eight clubs still employing the manager who was with them at the end of last season are Rochdale, Boreham Wood, Carlisle United, Scunthorpe United, Southend United, Tamworth, Braintree Town and Truro City.

Four of those eight clubs were not in the National League last season; Carlisle were relegated from EFL2, whilst Scunthorpe United, Boreham Wood and Truro City were promoted from the regional divisions.

So, Rochdale, Southend United, Tamworth and Braintree Town are the only four clubs which were in the National League last season and remain there this season with the same manager who completed last season with the club.

Jimmy McNulty (Rochdale), Kevin Maher (Southend United), Andy Peaks (Tamworth) and Steve Pitt (Braintree Town) are the quartet of great survivors. Former Brackley Town boss Gavin Cowan also merits a mention as he remains the only one of the 21 departing managers who moved on to become manager at a higher-ranked club; in his case, Shrewsbury Town.

CHESHIRE NEWS

On 31 January, Chester FC announced "that Manager Calum McIntyre will depart the club upon the expiry of his contract at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season".

On 28 February, Chester FC announced that "First Team Manager Calum McIntyre has left his position.

It was previously announced that Calum would depart at the end of the season. However, all parties believe it is now in the best interests of the football club to part company with immediate effect".

The club later confirmed that "Connell Rawlinson has been named as Interim First Team Manager".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boreham Wood "confirm that our National League Cup Final against West Ham United PL2 will be held on Tuesday 17 March at the Mangata Developments Stadium Meadow Park, with kick-off at 19:00.

This isn’t just another match; it’s a chance to make more club history as we aim to be the first National League club with its name engraved on the trophy.

Cup finals don’t come around often, and if we want to lift silverware against top opposition on home soil, we need the Wood Army louder than ever. Pack the North Bank, fill Meadow Park to the rafters, and drive your local club forward as the Wood chase another night to remember in WD6!"

Scunthorpe United "announce the loan signing of youthful forward Leo Farrell, who joins the club from EFL League One side Barnsley FC on an initial 28 day-loan.

Starting his career with his local side, the Tykes, Farrell is a direct forward who has broken into the first team for the Yorkshire-based club in recent months, featuring off the bench for Connor Hourihane's side on several occasions...

Farrell is no stranger to the men's game, previously gaining experience in the Northern Premier League across several spells with Guiseley AFC... before a season-ending injury ...

Earlier this campaign, the 20-year-old returned to Guiseley on a short-term deal that was due to run until January... before being recalled back to Barnsley in order to link back up with their first-team squad on a more regular basis".

Another new face at Scunthorpe United is 19 year-old "versatile defender Zain Tahir [on loan] from EFL Championship side Sheffield United for the remainder of the season.

With the ability to play as a centre-back or at left-back, Tahir has... made the permanent step up to the Under 21s, where he's already been a regular across the past couple of seasons...

Having been a key figure in Sheffield United's Professional Development League National title winning season last campaign, the defender signed his first professional contract with the Blades in 2025".

1 March 2026

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

Speaking to Alty TV after the 2-0 win at Brackley, Alty boss Neil Gibson told Laurence Howarth about some "honest conversations" after the defeat at Tamworth. Beating Brackley was a third win in four games, he pointed out.

A new managerial appointment at Brackley and his new signings made planning to face the Saints difficult.

Neil admitted that his players were "a bit sluggish" in the first twenty minutes and pointed out that Brackley were a threat from dead balls and corners.

With Eddy Jones playing in the back three, Liam Humbles (left) in an unaccustomed role at left wing-back was praised by Neil. "Humbles was magnificent" he said.

As for Luke Hutchinson's tip onto the bar, the manager said of his goalkeeper, "his potential is massive".

Neil also praised his assistant Lee Jones for his organisation of the players at set-pieces.

The Alty manager was frustrated that Tom Crawford had "scored" by converting a corner in the second half only for the referee to disallow the goal, having blown his whistle early. Although he then awarded a penalty instead, this was missed by Declan Howe.

AFTER THE GAME: ANDY WHING

Brackley Town's manager Andy Whing told the Non-League Paper, after the game against Altrincham on Saturday, that "It is bitterly disappointing not to have won that game.

"I thought we were excellent and especially in the first half.

"I don't know how we were not two or three goals up after the first half performance".

BRACKLEY TOWN 0-2 ALTRINCHAM

In a fairly even first half, nevertheless Alty had to weather five corners and several freekicks. Ironically, the visitors took a 44th minute from the Robins' first corner when Jake Cooper netted with a fine volleyed effort, from towards the back post.

In the second half, Altrincham withstood a period of pressure before getting back into the game. They won a penalty from a corner but Howe missed it, allowing Maxted to save with his legs (84 mins).

Deep in added time Reed fed Howe who got behind his defender, rounded the keepr and netted to make amends for his penalty miss (90+5 mins).

The win lifted Altrincham up to fourteenth and was their first double over another team this season.

Altrincham made four changes for the game. Golden and Sassi were suspended, whilst Forde and Reddin dropped to the bench. Into the eleven came Jones, Crankshaw, Grant and Humbles.

Match report here.

NEXT: ALTRINCHAM v TRURO CITY

Altrincham have a blank midweek so there next fixture is on Saturday 7 March when Truro City are the visitors to the J. Daviidson Stadium.

Before that, next Tuesday, the Tinners are away at Southend United.

Currently Truro lie bottom of the National League, twelve points from safety. Having taken a 2-1 lead on Saturday they lost 2-3 at home to Braintree Town, whose winner came in the 95th minute.

In the reverse fixture with Altrincham, Truro City lost 0-1 to a Keaton Ward goal.

ALTY OLD BOYS

News of Alty "old boys" comes from Phil Jordan...

League One : Returning to Mansfield Town, where he began his career, ALI SMITH put in a full shift for AFC Wimbledon, who came from behind twice to earn a 2-2 draw.

Rotherham United had scored the only goal of the game after only 7 minutes against visitors Plymouth Argyle, and they substituted DUNCAN WATMORE after 53 minutes. OWEN DALE wasn't in Argyle's squad.

Stockport County led at Stevenage, but, having returned to the starting lineup, CARL PIERGIANNI equalised, and they went on to win 2-1.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA lasted 75 minutes for Wycombe Wanderers, who beat visitors Burton Albion 3-0.

League Two : Although KEVIN BERKOE played the whole game, Shrewsbury Town lost 1-2 at home to Walsall.

Although he was booked, JOEL SENIOR (left) played the whole of Bristol Rovers' 1-1 draw at Swindon Town.

The only goal at Barnet had already been scored by the hosts when Chesterfield brought on JAMES BERRY after 75 minutes.

Barrow's 0-1 home defeat by visitors Gillingham leaves them outside the relegation only on goal difference, although they have one or two games in hand on the other strugglers. ELLIOT NEWBY was an unused substitute.

MARCUS DINANGA returned to Bromley's squad for the first time since November 11th, but was left on the bench as they beat 10 man Accrington Stanley 2-1. Both goals were Michael Cheek penalties.

National League : MATT PENNEY lasted 57 minutes for Aldershot, who were beaten 0-2 by visitors Rochdale.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the full game for Eastleigh, but visitors Carlisle United won 1-2, with REGAN LINNEY playing throughout, while CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was left on the bench.

The scoring was complete in the 2-2 draw at Halifax, where Sutton United were the visitors, by the time the hosts threw on BILLY WATERS after 79 minutes.

All KEATON WARD had to show for his efforts was a late yellow card as Gateshead lost 0-2 at the International Stadium against Forest Green Rovers.

ROSS BARROWS played the whole match for Scunthorpe United, who were indebted to Danny Whitehall as he hit a hat trick to earn a 3-3 draw against visitors Solihull Moors who played with 10 men from the 53rd minute.

KENNEDY DIGIE played the full game for Tamworth as they won 3-2 at home against Boreham Wood.

York City made heavy weather of beating Morecambe 0-1. The Shrimps played with ten men for more than forty minutes after Lewis picked up a red card for a foul. York failed to convert the resulting penalty and it took the Minstermen till the ninth added minute to net the only goal of the game. ALEX NEWBY played throughout the match.

National North : CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde showed his old club Curzon Ashton no mercy at Mill Farm, winning 5-1. CHRIS MERRIE (right) played throughout, and laid on the final goal for substitute GEORGE WILSON.

Macclesfield travelled to Bridlington to face Scarborough Athletic, and were trailing in the 63rd minute when the hosts had a man sent off. An 80th minute JAMES GALE effort earned them a 2-2 draw. SAM HEATHCOTE, KACPER PASIEK (substituted 55 minutes), and ELLIOTT OSBORNE also started for the Silkmen, but MIKEY STONE was an unused substitute.

National South : CALLUM DOLAN is still not appearing for Torquay United, and they were soundly thrashed at home by Chelmsford City 0-5.

MILES WELCH-HAYES was also inactive today as his Maidenhead United team lost by the only goal at bottom club Chippenham Town. The defeat drops them outside the playoff zone to 10th place, but only 7 points separate the clubs in 2nd and 11th places.

Southern League Central : ZAK GOODSON was among the scorers as Quorn won 1-4 at St.Ives Town.

NPL Premier Division : SHARIF DEANS played the whole of Prescot Cables 0-4 home defeat by Lancaster City.

DONTAI GABIDON was Hyde United's scorer in their 2-1 defeat at Warrington Town, before he was substituted in the 77th minute. 12 minutes earlier JACK REDSHAW had given way to MAX HARROP, and he was booked late on. WILL HALL was the only Old Boy to put in a full shift.

Warrington Rylands skipper DEAN FURMAN played the whole of their 1-1 draw at Whitby Town.

NPL Division 1 West : Atherton Collieries captain SAM SHERIDAN put in a full shift, but they lost 3-1 at Avro, for whom DAVID FITZPATRICK also played the whole game. Avro moved up to second in the league, 7 points behind Bury, but with 3 games in hand.

Although both TONY THOMPSON (left) and TOM HANNIGAN played the full game for Bootle, they were beaten 1-2 by visitors Witton Albion. DAMOLA SOTONA opened the scoring for Albion, and he and JOEL BEMBO-LETA played the full game. Having been booked, JAMES LAWRIE was substituted in the 72nd minute.

Although both RYAN BROOKE and ELLIOT ROKKA came off the Runcorn Linnets bench, they lost 2-1 at Clitheroe.

Captain MARK LEES and MASON FAWNS both played a full part as Mossley won 3-4 at Kidsgrove Athletic.

A 29th minute KEVIN ELLISON goal gave Vauxhall Motors a 1-0 win over visitors Trafford. YASSINE TOURE was a 78th minute substitute for Motors.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND lasted 79 minutes for Wythenshawe Town, but after a goalless first half visitors Stalybridge Celtic, with KYLE BROWNHILL playing the full game, took control and won 0-4. AARON CHALMERS scored Celtic's third goal.

FA VASE : Both local clubs bowed out of the competition. Droylsden were beaten 2-4 at home by Cockfosters, while West Didsbury & Chorlton, having led through LEWIS BILLINGSLEY, conceded a 93rd minute equaliser at Hallen, and lost the subsequent shootout 5-6.

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL was withdrawn by Kilmarnock after 78 minutes as they crashed 5-1 at Falkirk - MARCUS DACKERS wasn't in the squad.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR could only watch helplessly from the bench as Morton finished with 9 men at Airdrie, losing 3-1.


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A/Z Site Index to The Alty Files at www.altrinchamfc.co.uk