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NEXT MATCH
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE
Saturday, 25 April 2026
GATESHEAD (Home) k.o. 12.30pm

ALTY HEADLINES

OTHER HEADLINES

24 April 2026

ENDING ON A HIGH NOTE?

Should Altrincham beat Gateshead in their final fixture of the season on Saturday, they would finish with 57 points from their 46-game campaign, which would make it their fourth-best season, in terms of points, out of the six campaigns since they returned to national level in 2020.

Were Alty to finish twelfth, which is the highest possible on Saturday, they would be in their third highest place since returning to this level.

As for progress through the season to date...

Had the PPG for each manager applied throughout the season to its end, the outcome would, in theory, have been as follows...

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in the USL League One, SAM ROSCOE (right) picked up a yellow card as Corpus Christi were left bottom of the league by their 2-1 defeat at Sarasota Paradise. It was always likely to be tricky start to the Texan club's season, with their first 5 fixtures all being what the Americans call "road games". It doesn't get any better on Sunday, when their USL Cup challenge begins with a trip to Tennessee to face Chattanooga Red Wolves. Their next league match on May 3rd will see them play at home at last - although 3rd placed Spokane Velocity might not be ideal first footers.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The National League "has released the following statement.

Following the postponement of the match between King's Lynn Town and South Shields on Saturday 14 February 2026, the National League received reports that sprinklers had been activated during poor weather and that this may in turn have influenced the decision to postpone the match.

Following a thorough investigation, the National League charged King's Lynn Town with a breach of League Rule 8.11 - Each Club must take every precaution to keep its ground in good playing condition.

A League disciplinary panel met on Friday 17 April and imposed a £10,000 fine against King's Lynn Town"

.

23 April 2026

TOM CRAWFORD'S DiY INTERVIEW

Alty TV has "headed for the home of our main stand sponsor to film captain Tom Crawford in conversation with Martin Buckle, Atlantic Timber's Managing Director.

Atlantic Timber are one of our Match Ball Sponsors for this Saturday's final game of the season against Gateshead".

Tom and Martin's conversation revealed that both the football club and Atlentic Timber see themselves as "pillars of the local community".

Pictured right, the main stand at the J. Davidson Stadium which is emblasoned with the Atlantic Timber logo.

Footnote: Atlantic Timber's premises are on Atlantic Street adjacent to Altrincham Retail Park. Their site incorporates the former Castleton Steam Packing Company's premises which operated there more than a century ago.

NEXT GATESHEAD

When Gateshead face Altrincham at the J. Davidson Stadium on Saturday lunchtime in the final fixture of the National League season for the two clubs, it is unclear whether former Alty man Keaton Ward will be in the Heed's squad.

Keaton (left) joined Gateshead in January 2026 having previously made 14 (12) appearances in all competitions for Altrincham after joining last summer. He scored twice in those games.

He left Altrincham with his last three league appearances all being defeats only to suffer defeats in his first four Gateshead appearances.

But under the management of Rob Elliot the Heed's form has been reversed and from mid-February Keaton has started 14 games in which he has tasted defeat just twice, winning eight times and drawing on four occasions

Keaton has netted five times for the Heed in 18 starts this season but he has not played since 6 April, presumably through injury.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on the Coupe de France. Already a goal down to visitors Nice, Strasbourg withdrew MAXI OYEDELE after 72 minutes, but eventually lost their semi final 0-2. Nice will meet Lens in the final.

FINAL FIXTURES

Saturday 25th April 2026
All matches k.o. at 12.30pm

25 March 2026

NEXT: GATESHEAD

Alty welcome Gateshead to the J. Davidson Stadium on Saturday (12.30pm).

Before then has come news reported in the Chronicle Live that " Gateshead have confirmed North East-born businessman Stephen Paylor has become a joint-owner at the National League club.

The agreement... will see Paylor join principal shareholder Mark Nellist as two of the driving forces behind the scenes at the International Stadium.

Paylor has spent the last two decades in the United States with what the Heed described as ‘various successful business interests in Las Vegas and Arizona’ - but he has been in constant contact with Gateshead chairman Bernard McWilliams and Nellist over the last 12 months over a possible insolvent [involvement?] with the Tynesiders.

That agreement has now been confirmed and McWilliams... said 'We believe Stephen is an ideal partner for Gateshead Football Club.

'He has a successful history in business, player and club development and is the Founder and President of Next Level Soccer in Arizona, a prestigious youth academy and current Arizona State Champions for both Men and Women’s senior teams'...

Nellist, added 'his partnership will allow our club to grow with the links Stephen has in the United States and will give us a wider global audience'".

ALTY'S GOAL OF THE SEASON

Altrincham FC announces that "The time has come to get your selections in ahead of this weekend's Enterprise National League Final Day.

Be sure to watch Alty TV's YouTube compilation before voting for your Goal Of The Season, with Union Golf Road Supporters' Player Of The Year AND Young Player Of The Year voting also open".

Also "The End Of Season Awards will take place after the game (from 4pm) in the Community Sports Hall Bar, with the Emirates FA Cup semi-final between Manchester City and Southampton live on our big screens following the ceremony".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Tuesday's action...

League One : With DUNCAN WATMORE again absent, relegated Rotherham United were beaten 0-2 at home by Luton Town.

Having been booked earlier, OWEN DALE was substituted by Plymouth Argyle after 80 minutes of their 1-1 draw at Bradford City.

Stevenage held on to the final playoff spot, one goal being enough to see off visitors Barnsley. Skipper CARL PIERGIANNI played the full game for the victors.

League Two : JUSTIN AMALUZOR (right) enjoyed a rare full shift for Grimsby Town as they surprisingly won 1-2 at promotion chasing Cambridge United.

JAKE BICKERSTAFF lasted 77 minutes for Cheltenham Town, who had led at the break before succumbing 1-3 to visitors Tranmere Rovers, for whom CONNOR JENNINGS remains out of action with a knee injury.

National League : After Southend United struck in the opening minute, TYRESE SINCLAIR equalised for hosts Hartlepool United to send them in level at the break. The North East club raced into a 4-1 lead, with Tyrese netting again for their third, but they had to fight to the finish as Southend fought back, finally going down 4-3.

National North : Macclesfield beat visitors Southport, for whom LUKE BURGESS played throughout, 2-1. The Silkmen started ELLIOTT OSBORNE, JAMES GALE, and SAM HEATHCOTE, although James was withdrawn after 89 minutes.

NPL Premier Division : GEZ SITHOLE was an 82nd minute substitute for FC United, as they drew 1-1 with visitors Stockton Town.

And Tuesday's Manchester Evening News reports that JOE BUNNEY and his partner Ella Toone of the England Lionesses are considered to be the "first ever celebrity customers" of a cake shop in Tyldesley. From such events is fame created these days.

CSC FINAL

In Tuesday's final of the Cheshire Senior Cup held at Crewe Alexandra's Gresty Road, the winners were... Crewe Alexandra.

The Railwaymen defeated Runcorn Town 5-2.

MIDWEEK SCORES

National League

Tuesday 21st April 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

At relegated Braintree Town "The Club's board of directors have decided that now is the right time to seek fresh and additional investment into the Club to help consolidate and push forward in the future.

Following the death of former director Kim Cowell last summer and the subsequent resignation of director Alan Stuckey last month, the Club's Board of Directors are now just two: Lee Harding (who joined the board in 2003) and Vic Dixon (who joined the following year) and, while they continue to work hard and as best they can to support the Club, the workload on the shoulders of these two volunteers is obviously more intense than the six man board that took the Club to the play-offs for promotion to the Football League ten years ago.

Both Dixon and Harding are happy to remain involved with the Club as directors, sponsors, or just supporters and both look forward to helping the Club build on the progress made in the last 24 years".

Rochdale "is delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Thomas as Chief Executive Officer...

Co-Chair Cameron Ogden commented: “After an extensive search and interview process, we are delighted to welcome Laura to the Football Club as our new CEO.

'Laura has extensive leadership experience at multiple organisations, including the world-renowned British Cycling'...

Laura added... 'What draws me here is something that you can’t manufacture: owners with a genuine connection to the town, a fanbase that cares deeply, and a team that is proving what’s possible on the pitch'...

Laura is a senior commercial and marketing professional with over two decades of experience".

Solihull Moors "confirm that defender Alex Whitmore will leave the Club at the end of the season...

An ever-present throughout this season, Whitmore has played a key role in the heart of the Moors' defence and has been a consistent presence in the side. His leadership, commitment and professionalism have made him a popular figure amongst teammates, staff and supporters alike...

Whitmore said 'Leaving is not a decision I have taken lightly. This football club has become a real home for me and my family and I have nothing but positive memories from my time here.'...

Chris Millington, First Team Manager, said 'Whits has been impeccable in his approach since Coops and I joined the Club. We identified early on his importance to the team and the culture of the Club and moved to try and secure his signature with a new deal. It was an incredibly difficult decision for Whits as his personal circumstances dictate he could not sign'".

Before last night's fixture, Southend United "head coach Kevin Maher spoke with BBC Essex ahead of our Enterprise National League fixture at Hartlepool United on Tuesday...

It’s a third consecutive away game for Maher’s side, having faced both Aldershot Town and FC Halifax Town on the road in the last seven days, picking up two more wins to move up to sixth in the table.

Reflecting on the most recent result, a 6-2 thrashing of the Shaymen in West Yorkshire, Maher was pleased...

'When you look back, scoring six goals away from home is brilliant,' Maher told BBC Essex. “I like how ruthless we were in taking those goals... We showed that ruthlessness in front of goal'...

The Shrimpers carry the best form of any team in the division in the last five matches...

'There’s not long left in the season, but in these few games we talk about the standards we’ve got to keep. Everyone who wants to be part of what is hopefully an exciting end to the season knows they’ve got to be ready to perform. We haven’t got time for tiredness, and we’ve got to be ready for every game and to attack them'" concluded the head coach.

At Woking "With just one game remaining in the 2025–26 season, we caught up with our Chairman, Todd Johnson...

'I’m really happy with how we’re finishing the season. We’re in a really good place. We’re going to finish in the top ten, which is another big step forward for the club.

We dug such a deep hole early on, I wish we could somehow hit the rewind button and start the season all over again, but the way we’ve responded since has been really satisfying. Just one loss in our last 14 matches, what a great run...

'Off the pitch, the fan zones have been busy, both home and away, the bars are full, hospitality has been strong, the club shop is fully stocked, and we’ve made real improvements to the food and beverage offering throughout the stadium. You can just feel the energy around the club again...

'We obviously had some challenges this season as well. The late postponements were incredibly frustrating and disappointing, and we understand the impact that had on everyone, as well as how it reflected on the club. We took action, addressed the issues, learned from it, and we’re all glad to put that behind us...

By the time I came into the club in December, we were right back in another relegation fight. Since then, we’ve gone from finishing 17th to 15th, and now we’re guaranteed to finish 10th, with a chance to move up to 9th depending on the final results.

'That’s real progress...

'We’re obviously really pleased to have Jermain [Defoe] at the club... He’s been humble, he’s been focused, he connects so well with the players, and he’s completely aligned with what we’re trying to do as a club'".

21 April 2026

NEXT: GATESHEAD

On Saturday (12.30pm) Altrincham's final opponents of the season are Gateshead who, like the Robins, attained mathematical certainty last week of remaining in the National League for the 2026-27 season.

Also like Altrincham, Gateshead experienced a change of manager this season with Alun Armstrong moving to a new role and being replaced by Rob Elliot who has achieved a remarkable turnaround in form that has seen them comfortably avoid the drop.

As things stand, Gateshead lie 17th, three places and four points behind Altrincham in the Enterprise National League.

24 CLUBS IN THE NATIONAL LEAGUE, 24 MANAGERS GONE

Aldershot Town became the seventh National League club to say goodbye more than once to a manager this season as they announced "that after a meeting took place today [Monday] at The EBB Stadium with Deane Wood and John Coleman, both have agreed a mutual termination of John Coleman’s contract here at Aldershot Town".

John will remain in charge for the final game of the season this Saturday Vs Truro...

Signing for the Shots as first-team manager back in October 2025, John joined us in a period with one of our hardest challenges as a football club on the pitch. By the start of December, we were 7 points adrift in the relegation zone, having secured just 13 points in this time. From then, with a number of key signings John and the squad turned things around, with a run which put us to the top of the form list continuing into the new year.

Deane Wood expressed his gratitude for John’s efforts and the way which he carried himself, but most importantly, keeping the club up, but feels a change is needed due to the recent run of results, giving the club the best possible chance of a reset in the summer.

This football club would like to thank John for his efforts during his time here, and wish him all the very best for his future endeavors [sic]!

The club can also confirm that player-coach James Henry will also be leaving at the end of the season after our final fixture Vs Truro.

James, featuring 83 times for the Shots scoring 22 goals in the red and blue... has been a huge part both on and off the pitch during the past 2 seasons, and we’d like to thank him for all his efforts during his time here as well".

Footnote, as detailed here just three days ago, there have been 23 previous changes of managership in the National League since the end of last season.

Clearly Coleman was not expecting to leave as the BBC adds that "After their 2-1 defeat at Brackley Town on Saturday, Coleman was far from impressed with his players and admitted they are not at the level required.

'I've been kidded thinking that I've got players who are good enough,' he told BBC Radio Surrey after the game.

'The brutal fact is that the players aren't good enough, and this football club and the travelling supporters, they deserve better than what they saw today. They will get better next season because I will have to assemble a side that cares and that has technically better footballers, that today was nowhere near enough.'

Shots owner Wood recently revealed that the club would face significant financial losses in the near future as they are braced to lose potentially up to £800,000 this year.

Previously in his coaching career, Coleman has managed Accrington Stanley, Rochdale and Gillingham".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan has provided a North West Counties League Review after the season proper ended in that division on Saturday.

In the Premier Division, BEN ELLIOTT scored West Didsbury & Chorlton's winner in a 2-1 victory at Euxton Villa, while JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam were held 2-2 at home by Charnock Richard.

DARIUS PALMA (right) was among the scorers as Wythenshawe won the championship in style, thrashing visitors Longridge Town 7-1, and will switch leagues with neighbours Wythenshawe Town next season in returning to NPL Division 1 West.

In the playoffs Ramsbottom United will host Chadderton, while DAVID JONES'S Atherton Laburnum Rovers receive Padiham. Irlam just missed out in 6th place, while West Didsbury & Chorlton ended 9th.

Litherland REMYCA and City of Liverpool were relegated, being replaced by Nelson and Runcorn Town. The latter lost only once all season, and have 3 cup finals still to play, including the Cheshire Senior Cup, in which they take on Crewe Alexandra at Gresty Road.

In the Welsh Premier League, sadly, Bala Town were beaten 1-2 by visitors Briton Ferry on Saturday, so JOEL TORRANCE (right, in his Alty days) and his team were relegated. They had been on course to stay up, leading until the 88th minute, before conceding twice within a minute. They will now compete in the Cymru North Alliance next season.

Professional Development League : Usual captain JACK KINGDON was missing as Cardiff City U21 went into the last game of the regulation season at home to Hull City U21. The Bluebirds needed to get a draw to pinch the last playoff spot from Charlton Athletic's academy side who had lost earlier, but were beaten 1-2.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 25 APRIL

Saturday's match at home to Gateshead is the first Altrincham fixture on that date since a Wednesday night in 2018 when Altrincham drew 1-1 at home to Marine

Fresh from their fine title-clinching performance at Grantham, Altrincham's return to the J Davidson Stadium was hardly the return of the conquering heroes as they fielded a starting eleven devoid of nine first-team regulars (James Poole, Tim Deasy, Ben Harrison, James Jones, Shaun Densmore, Tom Peers, Andy White, Simon Richman and Josh Hancock), albeit half or more of those were injured to varying degrees. Alty only named three substitutes.

Likewise, Marine, with one eye on their Liverpool County Cup Final in 24 hours time also made several changes and named just one player on their bench.

And a change of fixture date helped to account for a crowd of just 482 which robbed the occasion of much of its potential for celebration of the championship win.

Above: On 25 April 2018, Marine generously afforded Altrincham a guard of honour as they took to the field as champions of the EvoStik Northern Premier League.

After Altrincham had taken a tenth-minute lead through Jordan Hulme's smart conversion of a John Johnston feed, Alty failed to build on their advantage, despite dominating possession for most of the match. Marine equalised in the 53rd minute with a well-taken shot from Murray before Alty substitute Josh Hancock missed a penalty, awarded when he himself had been upended. His spot-kick hit the post and was cleared.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Harry SHERIDAN, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. Tom HANNIGAN, 5. Sam HEATHCOTE, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Chris MERRIE, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. Max HARROP, 11. Theo BAILEY-JONES. Subs ONLY THREE NAMED 12. Rhain DAVIS, 14. Josh HANCOCK, 20. Andrew JONES

MIDWEEK FIXTURE

Tuesday 21st April 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The National League says that "the numbers show that we've never had a title race like it. The Dale's winner in the ninth added minute at Braintree on Saturday meant that the title race is going down to the wire as the top two go toe-to-toe, with promotion the prize... And the evidence confirms that this could end up being a record-equalling title race...

By the time the teams emerge onto the pitch, the top of the National League will have changed hands 34 times this season. Eight different clubs have led the division at one time or another...

So if Rochdale were to win on Saturday and get their noses in front one final time, it would match the only season in history to have seen a more volatile title race: Doncaster Rovers' Fourth Division title win of 1965-66, where the lead changed hands 35 times.,.

A Rochdale win at Spotland on Saturday would match that Doncaster total...

The closest, most punishing, most relentlessly contested title race in English football in 2025-26 has been ours. And yet only one of the clubs who have led it will earn automatic promotion to League Two. The other – whichever of Rochdale or York finishes second – will be sent into a six-team knockout for the division's single remaining promotion place.

At the other end of that same EFL ladder, the League Two relegation fight offers the parallel that makes the point most clearly. Five clubs sit below the 40-point mark with barely any season left to play, scrapping away to secure at least the feted 22nd-place position. Two will drop into the National League. Three will be granted a stay. The team that finishes second in the National League, on almost three times the points tally, has to go to Wembley and win there to join them".

20 April 2026

SUTTON MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Alty TV has some eight minutes of match highlights from the win at Sutton United on Saturday.

They clearly show that Lucas Weaver (right) was deliberately elbowed, off the ball, by Pruti in an incident in which it was the Altrincham man who received a yellow card.

NEXT: GATESHEAD

Altrincham's final opponents of the season are Gateshead, who visit the J. Davidson Stadium next Saturday (12.30pm).

On Saturday they lost 0-3 at the International Stadium, where Woking were the visitors.

The BBC reports that "Jermain Defoe extended his unbeaten run as Woking manager to a fifth match as the visitors downed in-form Gateshead.

The former England striker saw his side turn in an impressive performance against opponents who had lost just one of their previous 11.

Chinwike Okoli headed wide the best chance of the first half-hour, but Cards captain Harry Beautyman gave them the half-time lead when he poked home at the far post in a goalmouth scramble.

The result was still in the balance until the 67th minute when Matt Ward latched on to Steven Fletcher's clever pass and finished from the right, before Olly Sanderson's run and chip wrapped things up deep in added time".

Former Altrincham midfielder Keaton Ward was not in the Heed's squad, which comprised; 47. Adam Desbois, 6. Brad Nicholson, 3. David Ferguson (c), 28. Louis Storey, 20. Fenton John, 32. Harry Chapman, 22. Josh Anifowose, 17. Josh Home, 11. Tyrelle Newton, 25. Ethan Moore, 29. Ashley Boatswain. Subs: 15. Levi Amantchi, 19. Mark Beck, 10. Jacob Butterfield, 21. Billy Chadwick, 18. Joe Grayson, 45. Cnnor Pani, 31. Ben Williams.

NATIONAL LEAGUE UPS AND DOWNS

This summer, the four relegated clubs from the National League will be, in ascending order, Truro City, Braintree Town, Morecambe and Brackley Town. Three of those four have spent just a single season at this level this time around, with Truro and Brackley returning immediately to step two and Morecambe suffering a second successive relegation from the EFL 2 status they held last season.

The fourth relegated team, Braintree Town, only survived two seasons at this level following their promotion to national level in 2024.

National League Promotion:

National League North:

National League South:

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON and his Oakleigh Cannons team mates travelled to league leaders South Melbourne, and totally dominated them, winning 0-3 and moving into 2nd spot only one point behind.

Cannons had 19 shots on goal (8 on target) while the hosts produced just 2 off target attempts.

In other news, Scunthorpe United has a video interview with DECLAN HOWE (right), who scored four goals in 7(+1) appearances whilst on loan at Altrincham this season.

Having returned to The Iron, Declan scored the equaliser for them on Saturday in their draw at Wealdstone.

In the post-match interview, he touched on how the loan spell with Alty "instilled confidence in me" as he "got a lot of game time" and he was "thankful for that" as it succeeded in "putting me on a better platform".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS NEWS

Brackley Town "captain, record appearance holder and club legend Gareth 'Gaz' Dean will retire at the end of the season."

Dean writes that "I’ve decided to finally hang up my boots after 18 seasons & 830 career appearances. The truth is, I’ve dreaded this day — not because I’m in love with football, but because I’ll miss the competition, the opponents, the battles, my teammates and staff, and of course the supporters and volunteers.

I always promised myself I wanted to be remembered for the player I have been, not someone who stayed one year too long.

I feel that time is now, to step aside and let someone else take the reins.

I’m aware I could play for more years and continue to drop levels for comfort, but truth is, it’s just not me! I wanted to compete at the highest level in my final year, which is reflective of my character, I’ve pushed myself and tested myself continuously throughout my career.

I also promised myself I would retire at the club I’ve chosen to be loyal to for the past decade, and I’m a man of my word...

This is a goodbye as a player, but I’m excited to remain at the club in another capacity".

After their match on Saturday, Solihull Moors "hosted our End of Season Awards sponsored by Konsileo.

The award winners were as follows:

Meanwhile, Southend United "confirm that the Club’s End of Season Awards ceremony at Cliffs Pavilion has been rescheduled and will now take place on Monday, May 18 from 6:30pm.

The decision has been made to allow the First Team squad and staff to fully focus on preparations for the upcoming Enterprise National League Play-Offs and Isuzu FA Trophy Final fixtures, with priority on a successful end to the season on the pitch.

While this decision has not been taken lightly, and we appreciate this may cause some inconvenience for supporters, we believe this adjustment provides the team with the best possible environment to prepare during a crucial and busy period. With unfinished business on two fronts, we want to minimise any distractions and help the team carry its momentum through to the season’s conclusion.

The Sutton United "End of Season Awards’ Ceremony took place following yesterday’s final home game of the season against Altrincham...

Wealdstone announce that "Deon Woodman was named the Wealdstone FC Supporters Club Player Of The Season, carrying off the stage the prestigious Jock Law Trophy just before the conclusion of the club's End-of-Season Awards event at The Vale.

Striker Micah Obiero's goals and tireless work rate earned him sufficient votes from his peers to be named the club's Players' Player Of The Season, and he also collected The Golden Boot award from George Duck - after the club's all-time leading goalscorer delivered a virtuoso speech which had players, staff and supporters enrapt by his tactical insights and unswerving enthusiasm for the Stones!

The Stuart Pearce Shield - for Junior Stones Player Of The Season - went to Dante Baptiste, while the podcast vote saw Nathan Tshikuna collect the StonesCast Player Of The Year award...

Phil Jeffreson was crowned Supporter Of The Season as he took away the Mark Barton Memorial Shield. The Lew Sheppard Cup - for Moment Of The Season - went to a fans' vote, which saw Micah Obiero's late FA Trophy semi-final winner emerge as the top-selected option.

Women's Player Of The Season went to Avril Clarke, at the end of the team's inaugural campaign, while Academy Player Of The Season was awarded to Kai Bartol...

There were four other awards presented, right at the start of the trophy-giving schedule, and they marked appearance milestones for the men's first-team: 100 games played by Enzio Boldewijn and Dominic Hutchinson, 150 by Micah Obiero and 200 by club captain Jack Cook".

19 April 2026

SUTTON UNITED 1-2 ALTRINCHAM

Having been the better side for a spell of sveral minutes, Altrincham conceded a cheap goal in the 19th minute when Jones headed a Sutton cross which fell for Francis to score, with Hutchinson having come off his line and therefore out of position.

Lifted by the goal, Sutton were then the better side till half time but, when Alty made a double change after 62 minutes, as Kosylo and Weaver came on, things improved for the visitors.

Altrincham equalised after Kosylo won a freekick just outside the box, which Crankshaw netted, low to the keeper's left (70 mins).

Soon afterwards, Weaver took advantage of an error by Sutton to advance and feed Crankshaw who made it 1-2 (73 mins). But Crankshaw's game ended after 76 minutes with a shoulder injury.

Eight minutes of added time extended to nearly ten minutes being played as Altrincham achieved only their fourth away win of the league season.

Match report here

AFTER THE GAME AT SUTTON UNITED: NEIL GIBSON

Alty TV has a post-match interview by Radio Robins' Laurence Howarth with Alty manager Neil Gibson

Neil believed that "We were full value for the 2-1 victory" after conceding the opening goal to a mistake.

Speaking about the two substitutes, Weaver and Kosylo, who changed the game, the manager said that "Lucas has been fantastic in the last three days in training" whilst "Matty Kosylo will always bring energy". After their introduction he believed that "we went up a notch" in our performance.

Neil explained that he is working on our poor disciplinary record but today he thought the number of bookings did not reflect the game, not least that Lucas Weaver got booked when he was clearly elbowed in an off the ball incident in the second half.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 25 APRIL

The Through the Years records of Howard Watts and Mike Garnett reveal that next Saturday, 25 April, will be the 28th time that Altrincham have played on that date.

Remarkably not one of the preceding opponents in all of those games remains in the same division as Altrincham and just one such club is competing at a higher level, namely Grimsby Town.

Accrington Stanley were Alty's opponents in 1914 but the current EFL club of that name is a different entity formed after the original club folded.

The other 25 teams to have played Altrincham on 25 April have either dropped down the leagues or gone out of business.

The last game played by Altrincham on this date was against Marine who secured a 1-1 draw at Moss Lane in 2018 in an Evostik Premier fixture.

However, Altrincham should have played more recently on 25 April 2020 which, as in 2026, was the last scheduled fixture of that season.

They had a fixture at Farsley Celtic in the National League North on that date but the game was never played owing to the Covid-induced lockdown.

AND FINALLY, GATESHEAD

Altrincham are hosting Gateshead next Saturday, 25 April, in the final match of the 2025-26 National League season (k.o. 12.30pm)

After their magnificent recent run which lifted them comfortably clear of the relegation places, the Heed surprisingly crashed 0-3 on Saturday at home to Woking.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Our report on Saturday's action starts in League One where OWEN DALE played the full game as his Plymouth Argyle team won 1-3 at AFC Wimbledon for whom ALI SMITH was the goalscorer.

Carl PIERGIANNI captained Stevenage to a 2-2 home draw against already promoted Lincoln City.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA played the full game but could not help his Wycombe Wanderers side avoid a 0-1 home defeat by Blackpool.

League Two ELLIOTT NEWBY was subbed at half-time as Barrow lost 1-3 at home to Walsall at Holker Street.

Cheltenham Town beat Newport County 1-0 but JAKE BICKERSTAFF had already been subbed before the hour-mark before the winner was scored by his team.

Also in the West Country, JOEL SENIOR played the whole game for Bristol Rovers who won 2-1 away to Newport County

Although they won 4-1 at Gillingham, Grimsby Town's JUSTIN AMALUZOR was booked after 45 minutes and subbed on 76 minutes

KEVIN BERKOE played the full game in a goalless draw for his Shrewsbury Town team at Crawley Town.

From the National League comes the surprising news that CALEB ANSEN was in goal for Braintree Town as they lost at home 1-2 to Rochdale. The winner for Dale came in the ninth added minute.

In the other evening kick-off ALEX NEWBY was an unused sub for York City as they beat Yeovil Town 3-0. JEFF KING started for the Minstermen but was substituted after 73 minutes.

However, KYLE FERGUSON was not in the squad for The Glovers.

Likewise, KEATON WARD was not involved as in-form Gateshead surprisingly crashed 0-3 at home to Woking.

An 89th minute equaliser by DECLAN HOWE earned Scunthorpe a late point at Wealdstone. ROSS BARROWS had joined the game for The Iron 11 minutes earlier.

Regan LINNEY scored the only goal as Carlisle United won 1-0 at Truro City whilst JOSH LUNDSTRAM was substituted after 64 minutes as Eastleigh drew 1-1 with Tamworth in Hampshire.

On-loan LEWIS BAINES put through his own goal as Solihull Moors lost at home 0-3 to Boston United for whom CONNOR TEALE played 86 minutes before being replaced.

FC Halifax were already losing 1-5 to Southend United at The Shay when BILLY WATERS came off the bench. The match ended 2-6 to the Shrimpers.

National North : LEWIS SALMON Scored Alfreton's winner in a 3-2 victory at Marine which keeps The Reds' hopes of avoiding relegation alive.

In South Korea's K League 2 MARCUS DACKERS played the full game for Daegu but they lost 1-2 at home to Cheonan City who won despite playing with ten men from the 52nd minute.

ENL FIXTURES

Tuesday 21st April 2026

Saturday 25th April 2026
All matches k.o. at 12.30pm

Tuesday 28th April 2026

Wednesday 29th April 2026

18 April 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Saturday 18th April 2026

BEFORE THE GAME: OTIS KHAN

Alty TV's Brian Flynn interviewed midfielder Otis Khan who, last weekend against Eastleigh, returned to start his first game in 14 league fixtures following his injury at Carlisle United.

Otis (right) said the club 's plan is "to be challenging for the play offs" next season and with many of the existing players, supplemented by new arrivals, he is optimistic about that scenario.

As for today's fixture, Otis indicated that he has played at Sutton United "many times" and that the team is aiming to win the game rather than coast to the end of the season.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Friday's action in the Irish Premier League saw BARRY BAGGLEY's St Patrick's Athletic playing away to Drogheda United on Friday evening. Barry played the full match in which his side led 0-3 at the interval before ending the game as 1-3 victors; they remain second in the league table.

23 MANAGERS MOVE(D) ON

As promised in yesterday's Alty Files news this week of the termination of Nicky Featherstone's spell as Hartlepool United manager, below is an update on the mayhem wrought at management level in the Enterprise Naional League this season...

Since the end of last season (2024/25), there have now been a phenomenal 23 managerial departures affecting sixteen of the 24 current members of the National League, with Morecambe (three times), Yeovil Town, Gateshead, Eastleigh, Wealdstone and Hartlepool United (all twice) changing manager more than once.

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 NINETEEN 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" replaced by interim trio of Craig Ross, Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman before Jermain Defoe appointed
  18. MORECAMBE: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Jim Bentley was stepping down as manager and that the search for a new manager had begun
  19. HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Nicky Featherstone would not be continuing as manager after the end of this season

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 remained there this season with the same manager who had 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 this season, though Pitt's team has been relegated back to the South division for next season.

Should Rochdale and Southend United be the promoted duo leaving the National League this season, that would leave Tamworth's Andy Peaks as the only NL manager next season (26/27) who had also been in charge of the same team at the same level last season (24/25)!

That is because fellow title contenders York City's manager, Stuart Maynard, does not meet the criteria as he was only appointed after the current season had started, whilst the other four play off teams, Scunthorpe United, Boreham Wood, FGR and Carlisle United were not in the NL last season

So Altrincham's NEIL GIBSON and Solihull Moors' Chris Millington, along with Andy Peaks will be the only managers in next season's National League who were also in charge of a National League club at the start of February 2025 and during at least some of 2025/26.

Neil Gibson was in charge at Wealdstone from 27 January to 26 May 2025 before joining Altrincham last October, and Chris Millington was in charge at FC Halifax Town in 2024/25 before moving to the Moors during this season.

Finally, former Brackley Town boss Gavin Cowan merits a mention as he is the only one of the 23 departing managers who moved on to become manager at a higher-ranked club; in his case, Shrewsbury Town.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Amongst other updates in Carlisle United's report to its Supporters' Group, the club stated that "After 20 home league games, gates are in line with League 2 last season with home fans [increasing by] 3%.

The ‘Raise the Roof; campaign generated [the] second highest attendance of the season in the league

ALso,

Footnote: So, despite relegation Carlisle's attendances have not suffered unduly and, indeed, home support has actually increased. By way of comparison, Altrincham will have had just 13 home Saturday matches at 3pm out of 23 fixtures this season in the National League.

An increased ticket allocation for the Isuzu FA Trophy Final is reported for the second time in a week by Southend United who state that "We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to supporters for their exceptional backing following the sale of our ticket allocation for Non-League Finals Day at Wembley Stadium: connected by EE.

As anticipated, demand for tickets has been extremely high, with the Club selling its entire seated allocation across Levels 1, 2 and 5 within just three days...

We are pleased to confirm that the Club has now received an additional allocation of 9,906 tickets across Levels 1, 2 and 5, taking our allocation up to 30,901.

We are aware that initial allocations meant a number of supporters, including Season Card holders, secured tickets in Level 5. These allocations were based on the availability provided to the Club at the time, prior to any further tickets being released by Wembley Stadium".

There has been a remarkable turnaround at Gateshead where an horrendous sequence of 13 successive league defeats has been followed by nine wins and four draws in the next fifteen fixtures!

Having been, at one point, as the club states "eleven points adrift at at the bottom of the National League table", the club is now safely assured of starting next season at the same level as this season.

As a consequence of this transformation, manager Rob ELliot has been named the Enterprise National League's Manager of the Month for MArch.

Altrincham's final match of this season, on 25 April, will see The Heed visit the J. Davidson Stadium for a 12.30pm kick-off.

As for another ex-Football League club, we learn that Forest Green Rovers are "one of only two National League teams with a youth academy (EFL Category 3 level), [but it] has taken the tough decision to reduce the scope of the FGR Academy – costs have become unsustainable, standing at over £1 million per year.

The FGR Academy will continue to operate squads for U15s, U16s and the U18 Scholarship Programme: the flagship of the academy, where players undertake a two-year football apprenticeship. But it will be dropping the U9s to U14s programmes.

FGR Chairman Dale Vince OBE said 'This was a tough decision because I love what we do at the Academy but the fact is, at over £1m per year, it’s unsustainable for a club our size.

'So we’re reducing the scope of the Academy, but we’ll continue to fund the U15s, U16s, and U18 squads; that’s good news'".

17 April 2026

MANAGERIAL MAYHEM CONTINUES IN NATIONAL LEAGUE

It is only three days since we reported the 22nd managerial departure in the National League since the end of last season but, within 72 hours of that announcement, yet another name has been added to the litany of bosses who will have left their roles by the conclusion of the current campaign

The latest news on this front comes from ninth-placed Hartlepool United who "confirm that Nicky Featherstone will step down from his role as First Team Manager at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.

The decision has been taken following a comprehensive review of the Club’s football operations by Bromby & Partners, who were appointed in March to help shape the strategic direction and structure of the football department ahead of next season.

Featherstone initially stepped into the role in an interim capacity in October before being appointed permanent manager in December. He has led the team in 31 matches during a testing transition period following the change of ownership, with a highly respectable points tally during that time.

A long-serving former captain and widely regarded as a Club legend, Featherstone has made an outstanding contribution to Hartlepool United across more than a decade of service. He made over 450 appearances for the Club and was a central figure in the team that secured promotion back to the EFL in 2021.

Featherstone will remain in charge for the Club’s three remaining fixtures...

Nicky Featherstone, said 'It has been an honour to lead this football club. Hartlepool United means a huge amount to me and it always will.

'I’m proud of what we’ve done since I first stepped into the role and the way the group has responded. I’ve given everything to it. Of course, I’m disappointed, but I fully respect the decision that has been made and the direction the Club is looking to go in'".

Footnote: An update to the catalogue of managerial departures this season will be published in tomorrow's update of the Alty Files.

Hartlepool have failed to score in their last four league games which started with a 7-0 defeat at Wealdstone. Before that, however, Pools had won five of their previous seven fixtures.

PITCH PERFECT

Alty TV has a lengthy video about the transformation this season of the formerly troublesome pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium into one of the best in the National League. Indeed, many of the visiting teams have expressed their admiration for the playing surface this season.

The 16-minute video, compered by Brian Flynn, features Alty's young groundsman Harry Mills, with CEO Sam Mackenzie, Manager Neil Gibson, Captain Tom Crawford and ground staff volunteer Bryan Ford all also interviewed.

Manager Neil Gibson praised the work of Harry and the ground staff and credited their work to improve state of the pitch as a factor in the team's good home form this season. He also alluded to some of the less perfect pitches at opponents' grounds this season and attributed some of his players' injuries to them.

CEO Sam Mackenzie, as well as Bryan and Neil, also pointed to the reduction of fixtures played on the pitch as being a significant factor in its improvement. Safeguarding the playing surface was a major factor in the club not entering the National League Cup this season, Sam explained.

Harry Mills is the grandson of the late Harry Wood whose long-term volunteering for the club was honoured by the club. He acknowledged that he was grateful to James Litherland for his advice as well as for his oversight of pitch treatments.

ALTY UNDER-19S

York City report that the Minstermen's "U19s came from 2-0 down to earn a point in a National League U19 Alliance North thriller at Altrincham on Wednesday.

[Ex-Alty loanee] TIM RYAN named an unchanged starting eleven...

Alty took the lead in the 27th minute...

Eight minutes shy of the break, Alty were inches away from doubling their lead, but for a sensational save from White...

The second half began with White forced into a simple save down low, but he couldn’t prevent the goal that came just a minute later.

Alty’s centre-back went on a weaving run through the middle before laying it off to his teammate, who fired into the bottom corner.

However, a second yellow card for one of their players for a deliberate trip gave York a man advantage for the last half hour...

Greening pulled one back... No more than three minutes later, City were level...

The drama kept on coming, Kettlewell scoring again for the Minstermen’s third in seven minutes...

That lead would last for very little time, though, with ten-man Alty winning a spot-kick straight after they had been put behind.

The penalty taker went the opposite way to White and nestled the ball into the bottom corner to level the match once more", and it ended 3-3.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in League Two, MARCUS DINANGA wasn't in Bromley's squad as they were held 0-0 by visitors Cambridge United.

Europa Conference League Quarter Final: Strasbourg comfortably won their second leg at home to Mainz 4-0, recovering from a 0-2 first leg deficit. MAXI OYEDELE was an 88th minute substitute for the club from Alsace, who will now meet Spanish side Rayo Vallecano in the semi final.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Carlisle United "will trial a ‘singing section’ for the final home game of the regular season at Brunton Park.

As the club continues to strengthen its connection with supporters and enhance the matchday atmosphere, this initiative will provide a dedicated space for fans to come together and get behind the team.

Following constructive discussions and feedback gathered during recent supporter meetings, it was agreed that the next step would be to pilot this concept during our fixture against Brackley Town. The ‘singing section’ will be located in Section 3 of the East Stand.

The trial aims to create a more vibrant and unified atmosphere, giving supporters who wish to stand and sing a designated area, while also helping to build momentum ahead of the play-offs and future seasons.

Supporters are encouraged to get involved and can purchase tickets HERE!

Fans wishing to relocate to this area can do so free of charge - contact the ticket office on 0330 094 5930 (option 1)".

16 April 2026

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Altrincham's final away trip of the season takes them to Sutton United on Saturday. Last season Altrincham crashed to a 5-0 defeat at Gander Green Lane in what was just the second game of the 2024-25 season.

Right: Pictured during the reverse fixture this season at the J. Davidson Stadium, Alty's two goalscorers, James Gale (left) and Jimmy Knowles.

For this season's game, Sutton United announce that the referee will be Aaron Farmer, "making his second visit of the season to Sutton having taken charge of the game against Solihull in August. In his third season as a National League referee, he has also refereed half a dozen games this season in the EFL".

So far as the Alty Files can tell, he has never previously refereed Altrincham.

The reverse fixture this season was a lunchtime fixture streamed live by DAZN and which Alty won 2-1. A much improved second-half performance from Altrincham saw them come back from a 0-1 deficit to earn a well-deserved victory against their visitors who at that stage of the season had just a single win to their name from eight outings this season.

The "U"s took the lead after 22 minutes. The goal came after Hutchinson had punched a cross comfortably clear only for the visitors to recycle it. With Banks policing the near post, there seemed little danger but Nadesan poked the ball into the far corner of the net.

After bringing on Crawford and Barnes at the interval, Altrincham largely dominated the second half and they equalised early on with Knowles's deft header from a recycled Osborne corner (52 mins).

The winner came after Reed had won possession and, via Knowles, Golden and Reddin, Crawford's deflected shot hit the bar but Gale was on hand to score. The match was to prove to be Alty boss Phil Parkinson's last league win before his dismissal following a run of seven league games which saw just a single point earned.

In fact, both teams had different managers for the fixture from their current bosses, with Sutton's incumbent at that time Steve Morison serving a touchline ban that day. This week's clash sees Morison's successor, Chris Agutter, pitting his wits against Neil Gibson.

Just four of Altrincham's starting eleven that day also started the Robins' match last weekend; they were Hutchinson, Sassi, Marriott and Knowles.

Altrincham v Sutton United: 30 Luke Hutchinson, 2 Lewis Banks, 34. Dan Sassi, 4. Lewis Baines (c), 23, Tylor Golden, 6. Elliot Osborne, 8 Isaac Marriott, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 20 Kahrel Reddin, 10 Keaton Ward, 9 James Gale. Subs: 3. Sam Reed, 7. Olly Crankshaw, 22. Tom Crawford, 24. Sam Barnes, 17. Lucas Weaver, 27 Louie Fallon, 40. Charlie Kirk.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Wednesday's games...

League One : ALI SMITH played the whole of AFC Wimbledon's 0-2 home defeat by Stockport County.

Manchester Premier Cup Final : JOSH OLLERENSHAW was in goal for Curzon Ashton on neutral ground at Broadhurst Park, but they were beaten 2-1 by Droylsden.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Aldershot Town "can confirm that the transfer embargo temporarily placed upon the club has now been lifted.

Over the past 48 hours the Club have worked diligently and collaboratively with the relevant authorities to resolve the matter.

This matter occurred due to an admin requirement needed from the club, which the relevant authorities now have. We are pleased this is now resolved for the club.

Rochdale report that "The class of 2025/26 broke through the 100 points barrier with Saturday’s dramatic win over Wealdstone.

It marks the first time in the club’s history that Dale have reached the monumental total, having already set a club record points tally as early as 3rd March.

The previous record of 82, set in our 2009/10 League Two promotion campaign, was matched by our 2-0 win at Aldershot Town on 28th February.

The 3-2 win at home to Brackley Town three days later broke through that record with 11 games remaining in our Enterprise National League campaign.

As it stands, our points per game average stands at an incredible 2.32.

The first 22 of our 44 games so far saw Dale accrue 52 points at an average of 2.36 before the turn of the calendar year. In 2026, Jimmy McNulty’s men have won 50 points, at an average of 2.27, aided by a superb 15-match unbeaten run across January, February and March...

Whilst plenty of club records already smashed this season, there are still two games remaining to create even more memories.

The FA Trophy Final takes place on 17 May when Wealdstone face Southend United who report that "Following the latest ticketing review, we’re pleased to confirm that a further batch of 2,562 tickets for our Isuzu FA Trophy Final has been released to us.

This takes our total allocation to 21,000 ahead of the start of sale period 2, which opens at 6pm this evening (Wednesday, April 15) for supporters with a previous booking history before 3pm on Friday, April 10.

This latest release includes some licensed standing areas between Blocks 534-540. Please note, in line with stadium regulations, no under-12s are permitted in licensed standing areas. These tickets will be released once our initial allocation reaches capacity.

Tickets are available to purchase online only from the Southend United BTMK Box Office website...

A reminder that Southend United supporters should only purchase tickets from our official allocation. Following positive discussions with Wembley Stadium connected by EE, additional capacity will be made available if required, ensuring every Shrimpers supporter who wishes to attend has the opportunity to do so.

We’d like to thank supporters for their outstanding backing during the initial sale phase to season ticket holders, with more than 11,509 tickets sold in the first two days".

14 April 2026

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Alty's final away opponents on Saturday are Sutton United and they offer the Robins a last chance to improve on their woeful away record this season when just three of the previous 22 away league games have been won.

Former Alty loanee DANNY CASHMAN is at Sutton United these days but has yet to play for the "U"s in the National League due to injury.

On Tuesday, Sutton United announced that boss "Chris Agutter has made wholesale changes ahead of tonight’s Surrey Senior Cup clash with Farnham Town.

Chris Haigh returns to make his first start since the previous round against Horley Town, and is the last line a defence which consists of Kwaku Donkor, Edon Pruti, Hayden Muller and Toby Byron, the latter making just his second start since signing from Worthing.

Charlie Bell returns from his suspension to join Jake Taylor and Lewis Simper in midfield, while Jayden Harris and Jermaine Francis take up the flanks behind David Ogbonna, who leads the line for the U’s."

Sutton lost the game at Farnham, the semi-final of the competition, being defeated on penalties after a goalless draw.

MIDWEEK SCORES

Altrincham remain fifteenth after Tuesday night's National League games.

However, Southend United's win at Aldershot confirmed that the Shrimpers will be one of the top seven clubs and therefore will be involved in the play-offs. Eighth-placed FC Halifax Town lose out as a consequence as they can no longer secure enough points to qualify

Tuesday 14th April 2026

22ND NATIONAL LEAGUE MANAGER LEAVES HIS POST

Morecambe Football Club "can confirm that Jim Bentley will be remaining with the Club after the end of the season to help support the Club’s development across both footballing and non-footballing areas.

Morecambe FC Chairman Kuljit Singh Momi, said 'Although Jim has confirmed his wish to step down from the first team manager’s role, I am delighted that we will continue to benefit from his undoubted passion, knowledge and experience of all things Morecambe to help drive the Club forward once again.

'Not only is Jim a Morecambe footballing legend, and I thank him most sincerely for his efforts and contribution over the last three months, he is also a great ambassador for the Club and his valuable input alongside our executive leadership team will be integral to the continued rebuild of our wonderful football club.'”

The search for a new first team manager is already underway, and further details will be announced in due course.

In the meantime, everyone at Morecambe FC wishes Jim him every success in his new role".

Footnote: Since the end of last season (2024/25), there have been 22 managerial departures at sixteen of the 24 current members of the National League, with Morecambe (three times), Yeovil Town, Gateshead, Eastleigh and Wealdstone (all twice) changing manager more than once.

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 EIGHTEEN 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" replaced by interim trio of Craig Ross, Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman before Jermain Defoe appointed
  18. MORECAMBE: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Jim Bentley was stepping down as manager and that the search for a new manager had begun

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 remained there this season with the same manager who had 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, though Pitt's team has been relegated back to the South division for next season.

Should Rochdale and Southend United be promoted to the EFL at the end of this season, that would leave Tamworth as the only club in the National League whose manager (Andy Peaks) was in charge of them in that division for the 2024/25 season and remained in charge of the same club in the same division in 2026/27!

Former Brackley Town boss Gavin Cowan also merits a mention as he remains the only one of the 22 departing managers who moved on to become manager at a higher-ranked club; in his case, Shrewsbury Town. NEIL GIBSON is one of only two of the 22 managers to leave one National League club (Wealdstone) and, later, be appointed to another club's managerial role in the same division (at Altrincham). The other is Chris Millington who left FC Halifax Town and was then appointed at Solihull Moors.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in the Professional Development League, although PHIL PARKINSON'S Fleetwood Town U21's tightened up at the back after their recent travails, a single goal by visitors Swansea City U21 proved enough to inflict their 4th consecutive defeat.

League One : Stevenage remain in the final playoff spot despite having to play with 10 men from the 42nd minute, and being well beaten 5-1 at the Toughsheet Stadium by Bolton Wanderers. Skipper CARL PIERGIANNI played throughout.

Having been dropped to the bench last time out, Rotherham United omitted DUNCAN WATMORE from their squad at Wigan Athletic, where a 3-0 defeat confirmed the relegation which had been threatening for quite some time.

League Two : Barrow helped their survival prospects, coming from behind to beat visitors Oldham Athletic 3-2. ELLIOT NEWBY claimed the assist for their 91st minute winner, being substituted immediately afterwards. Harrogate Town are now 4 points adrift of the Cumbrians, who are only a single point behind Newport County, Crawley Town, and Tranmere Rovers who have a game in hand. They have a slightly better goal difference than the Welsh club.

Cheltenham Town were trailing to visitors Gillingham when they withdrew JAKE BICKERSTAFF (right) just before the hour. Within 4 minutes they were level, and then won it 2-1 in the 5th added minute.

All the goals in Chesterfield's 2-1 home win over Grimsby Town had been scored when the Mariners brought on JUSTIN AMALUZOR after 68 minutes. The hosts didn't call JAMES BERRY off the bench.

National League : MATT PENNEY (right) played the full game for Aldershot, but they lost 0-2 at home to Southend United, who clinched their playoff spot with the result, leaving Halifax disappointed.

JACK HINCHY wasn't in Wealdstone's squad as they drew 1-1 at home with Boston United, for whom CONNOR TEALE played the full game.

LEWIS BAINES was a 69th minute substitute for Solihull Moors in a goalless draw at Woking.

National North: Alfreton Town and visitors Buxton shared 4 goals. LEWIS SALMON played the whole match for the hosts, as did CONNOR KIRBY for Buxton.

Kidderminster Harriers won 1-3 at Radcliffe, who brought on JORDAN HULME just after the hour, and JUDE OYIBO after 74 minutes.

South Shields overtook CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde at the top of the table with a 4-1 home win over Macclesfield. The Silkmen started ELLIOTT OSBORNE who was substituted after 68 minutes, and SAM HEATHCOTE, while KACPER PASIEK came on for the second half, and JAMES GALE entered the fray after 81 minutes.

NPL Premier Division : AIDY ROXBURGH (right) scored Nantwich Town's second goal as they thrashed visitors Darlaston Town, 5-1. BYRON HARRISON added the 3rd and 4th goals before both Old Boys were withdrawn in the 68th minute.

Liverpool Senior Cup Quarter Final : Although neither side is from Liverpool, Runcorn Linnets and Runcorn Town clashed this evening. Linnets played a weakened team, ELLIOTT ROKKA, who came off their bench, after 75 minutes, being the only Old Boy involved as they won 3-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Wealdstone report that "manager Gary Waddock felt his players deserved the utmost credit after pushing Enterprise National League title hopefuls Rochdale all the way on Saturday evening.

A scoreline which might read like a routine 2-1 win for the high-flying hosts belies just how well Stones went about their business - including taking a deserved lead only to be pegged back and, ultimately, defeated with a late Dale winner...

'We should be really proud of how we played today,' said Waddock. 'To take on this team (Rochdale) and go toe-to-toe with them, it's very encouraging.

'On the balance of play, I feel we should have got a result of some kind, and that would have been deserved...

'We went with a box midfield to give us four in the middle and outnumber them. We knew how they would play and we wanted to match them up'".

14 April 2026

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Altrincham's next opponents are Sutton United who, like Altrincham, attained mathematical certainty last Saturday of remaining in the National League for the 2026-27 season.

Last weekend the "U"s lost 3-0 at Carlisle United and the Cumbrian News & Star tells us that "Sutton United boss Chris Agutter admitted to 'mixed feelings' as his side sealed National League safety in defeat at Carlisle United.

On the game, Agutter said 'That’s frustrating, because we felt we could cause them problems with our set-up.'...

Agutter added 'We concede goals in bunches. That’s been the case since I’ve been here. We need more out there to take control of the situation...

'We’re limping through to the end of the season with a lot of tired legs and lads short of their bes'...

Agutter replaced Steve Morison at the Sutton helm last October and... 18th-placed Sutton [are] now eight points above the drop zone with two games to play...

'When we came in in October, we scraped a 0-0 at Braintree* and got absolutely battered. We’d won one game by that point.

'The challenge given to us by the guys upstairs was keep us in the National League. We wanted to be more attacking, aggressive, front foot, and we’ve done that'".

*Footnote: By coincidence, when Neil Gibson took over as Alty manager, his first match was also away at Braintree, where the Robins likewise secured a goalless draw.

LAST GAME: EASTLEIGH VERDICT

On Saturday, Altrincham secured a 1-0 win over Eastleigh who report that "Despite losing 1-0 at the J. Davidson Stadium, other results going Eastleigh’s way meant that our spot in the Enterprise National League was secure!

Right: Liam Humbles, Alty's loanee from Rochdale, put in another good performance on Saturday

Both goalkeepers were extremely busy, with Josh McNamara making some incredible saves throughout the game. After making one of the best saves of the season in the 18th minute, he was very unlucky to concede the follow-up shot from Tom Crawford. Likewise, Luke Hutchinson denied Harvey Saunders numerous times throughout the game to ensure that the Robins would keep a clean sheet...

Following an absolutely world-class save from McNamara in the 18th minute, the Robins took the lead as he unfortunately could not get to the rebound in time.

Olly Crankshaw put it on a plate for Liam Humbles (right), but somehow McNamara managed to get a fingertip to keep the close-range shot out. Harris was unable to get the ball clear as Crawford’s deflected shot found its way into the back of the net to make it 1-0 to Altrincham."

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Tuesday 14th April 2026

THREE DEFEATS IN YORKSHIRE FOR ACADEMY

In their two most recent games, the Altrincham FC Academy side which competes in the National League Football Alliance North Division suffered narrow away defeats and they therefore remain bottom of the division.

On 25 March, they lost 1-0 away to York City at the Minstermen's Traning Ground.

The following week, on 1 April, they suffered another narrow defeat in Yorkshire, this time at the hands of Guiseley, losing 2-1 at Nethermoor.

As for the under-19s who play in the National Football Youth League, there was also defeat in Yorkshire as they went down 3-1 away to Bradford Park Avenue's under-19s at the Horsfall Stadium on 27 March. That was their twentieth and final fixture of the league season.

Altrincham under-19s finished seventh in the eleven-strong division.

The Altrincham starters were Christopher Antoniades Afernee Denise, Callum Dakin, Rafael Fereday, Josh Herreaman, Kian Leckey, Benjamin Mensah, William Molloy, Charlie Noble, Thomas Tattersall and Jimmy Taafe. The three subs were Giovanni Ezomo, Benjamin McNamara and William Sneyd.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in the Premier League 2, CALEB ANSEN was kept busy at the Etihad Campus Academy Stadium as Manchester City U21 comprehensively outplayed Norwich City U21. The hosts led the shot count 19 (11) to 3 (2), so one might conjecture that Caleb did well to keep the score down to 3-0.

NWCL Premier Division : West Didsbury & Chorlton were without BEN ELLIOTT and LEWIS BILLINGSLEY for tonight's home game with Cheadle Town. SHERIFF NJIE and HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS (above, right) started for the visitors, and Sheriff pulled them level after they had trailed at the break. Harlan went off after 67 minutes, and Cheadle went ahead for the first time in the game after 84 minutes, and hung on to win 1-2.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Brackley Town "Chairman Matt Wise reflects on the season following relegation and looks ahead to the future" on an open letter to supporters.

He stated "This is clearly a challenging moment for everyone at the club and not where we had wanted to be. This has been an incredible season full of new experiences and opportunities that have challenged us but left us with some great memories such as hosting Man Utd PL2 in the National League Cup with a gate of 3000, beating Notts County to reach the 2nd round of the FA Cup and hosting the 3rd round draw and the team putting in some terrific league performances...

We plan now for next season’s campaign in National League North.

The club has been on a journey of continued success over many years from Southern League to National North and then last season making the step to the National League. This is a bump in the road on that journey...

A small town has got behind a team punching above our weight as one of only two part-time sides at Step 1. Everyone should feel proud of that work and commitment despite the disappointment...

Planning for the new season is underway with Andy and his team working on player recruitment. The club has continued to develop facilities at St James Park throughout the season...

Relegation is a set-back but that is all. The board has exciting plans to continue to take the club forward...

Matt Wise, Chairman".

At Aldershot Town "The club can confirm Christy Grogan has returned to his parent club, Stockport County, following a recall this week.

Christy certainly made an impression on the Shots squad and the fans, with 16 appearances for the Shots since joining us in December.

A huge member of this squad, a young Shot who’s got a bright future ahead of him, everyone at the club would like to thank Christy for the way he carried himself during his time here with his passion and commitment to this football club, and wish him the very best for his bright future ahead!"


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Alty Files Website Index

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.

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