31 May 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

In Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON scored his first goal of the season - the clincher in Oakleigh Cannons 0-2 win at Altona Magic. The win leaves them 3 points clear at the top of the league, and with a better goal difference than the 2 clubs on their tail. However, their current tally of 34 goals has been overtaken by old rivals Avondale, who have 37 - 18 of them in their last 5 games

South Korea K League 2, MARCUS DACKERS was substituted just before the hour by Daegu at Yongin with game goalless. Daegu took the lead, but the hosts snatched a 1-1 draw in the 97th minute. Only a single point covers the 5 clubs fighting for playoff places.

Back in England, NPL Division 1 West : Runcorn Linnets have released RYAN BROOKE (right) after 6 years at the club. He made just over 200 appearances for them, and the 83 goals he scored is a club record. SEAN MILLER is retained, but LUKE WALL disappeared off the radar some months ago and appears to already be a free agent.

NPL Premier Lancaster City have released AARON BENNETT.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year deal at The New Lawn, becoming our second signing of the summer transfer window.

The winger made 36 appearances for the Robins last season, scoring 13 goals and registering 10 assists, earning Carshalton’s Golden Boot award for the 2025/26 campaign.

Ifeanyi is known for his blistering pace, quick feet and attacking threat out wide...

Bryan has enjoyed a rapid rise through the football pyramid, having previously featured for Aveley Football Club, Maldon & Tiptree and Brentwood Town. He came through the academy at Leyton Orient before signing his first-year pro deal at Colchester United".

At Carlisle United "More than 3,000 supporters have already secured their place for the 2026/27 season, as momentum builds under new Head Coach Rob Elliot...

Rob Elliot has already made a strong impression since arriving at the club... Elliot has spoken openly about the connection between the club, the players and its supporters – and the importance of rebuilding that bond on and off the pitch...

Said Elliot... 'It feels like a club moving in the right direction... The goal is promotion,' he said...

'We want to take the club forward because having 3,000 already signed up for season tickets is incredible,' Elliot added".

Having missed out on promotion, the subsequent sacking of manager Kevin Maher, the departure of key players including Gus Scott-Morriss, Southend United now report that "captain Nathan Ralph will depart the Club upon the expiry of his contract.

The defender has been a stalwart throughout his seven years in South Essex, making 202 appearances and skippering the team since 2022.

Ralph also had an eye for goal during his time as a Shrimper, scoring on 13 occasions, of which two came in 2025/26.

The 33-year-old battled back from a long-term injury to return to fitness for the final few games of the season, and in his final game for the Club, he was able to lead the team out at Wembley for a second successive year. Ralph played the full 90 minutes of our Isuzu FA Trophy Final and made history as our first captain to lift a domestic cup".

Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Mason Obeng on a two-year deal from Walton & Hersham.

The Glovers secured Obeng’s signature despite strong interest from a number of National League clubs, with the highly-rated attacker choosing the move to Huish Park ahead of several other opportunities.

The energetic 22-year-old arrives following an outstanding campaign with the Swans, where he registered 22 goal contributions in 42 appearances as Walton & Hersham stormed to the Southern Premier South title and secured promotion to the National League South.

Alongside the club’s success, Obeng also earned individual recognition after being named the club’s Players’ Player of the Season, capping off an impressive year in South London.

Obeng reunites with manager Billy Rowley, who previously signed the attacker from Aldershot Town in the summer of 2024. Prior to that, he progressed through the academy system at Queens Park Rangers, developing a reputation as a quick, direct and hard-working attacking player".

30 May 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Meanwhile, in the Northern Premier League at Leek Town, Phil notes that only one player has been retained and SIXTEEN have been released including ADAM PORTER and HAYDEN CAMPBELL.

Off the field, however, Leek Town "is pleased to announce the appointment of JON MORAN (right) as First Team Coach.

Jon joins the backroom staff after the departure of Carl Dickinson, who left to take up the First Team Managers role at Chasetown in April.

Jon has an illustrious playing career as a defender being a product of the Crewe Alexandra Academy before playing for Nantwich Town, Forest Green Rovers, Chester, Bradford Park Avenue and Stafford Rangers [and Altrincham]. He then returned to Nantwich in 2022."

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The experienced midfielder arrives at Huish Park following a strong campaign on loan with Scunthorpe United, where he became a firm fan favourite...

Westbrooke joins the Glovers having attracted interest from several clubs across both League Two and the National League, with Yeovil securing the signature of a player boasting significant pedigree and experience.

The 29-year-old has made over 220 senior appearances, with the majority coming in the Football League. During his career, Westbrooke has celebrated promotion success with both Coventry City, winning League One, and Doncaster Rovers, lifting the League Two title.

Manager Billy Rowley said 'Zain is a clever, experienced midfielder who will bring a lot of calm to the team, but also the bite and competitiveness you need to win games. His passing range is top class, he reads the game really well, and he’s got the quality and personality to control matches. His experience will be massive for us over the course of the season'".

Sutton United "confirm the signing of Charlie Carter, who joins the U’s on a permanent deal following his departure from National League South side Dorking Wanderers.

He has opted to reunite with Chris Agutter following their time together at Stevenage, and will bring a wealth of know-how, leadership, work rate and real goal threat from midfield to his local club.

Indeed, Carter was born in Sutton and went to Cheam High School, before beginning his career in the youth setup at Fulham. He spent eight years in the academy at Craven Cottage before departing for Woking at the age of 16, captaining the Cardinals at various youth levels across three seasons.

He spent a season on loan at Chipstead... and later signed professional terms ahead of the 2017/18 season... and found himself remaining in the fifth tier with a switch to Chesterfield, continuing his rise up the divisions with a move to League Two side Stevenage the following year. He spent three years in Hertfordshire and ended his maiden campaign as the club’s top scorer with six goals, before establishing his relationship with Agutter following the Sutton boss’s promotion from the Boro’s Academy, taking on an Interim Assistant Manager role at Broadhall Way...

A return to the National League saw him make the switch to Eastleigh... He expressed a desire to leave and opted to return to his native Surrey, joining Dorking – then in the National League – and went on to become a cult hero at Meadowbank in just two seasons... and was named club captain ahead of the 2024/25 season before helping the club to successive top seven finishes...

Carter said... 'Obviously I spent a lot of time growing up around these areas – Sutton, Cheam, Worcester Park, I went to school in Cheam. It does feel like coming home, I think that’s something that really drew me to the club as well – being so local and playing for your local club is a big thing'...

Head Coach, Chris Agutter, added 'Charlie Carter is a magnificent signing. For me, he’ll be the best attacking midfield player in the league. I came up against him when he was at Dorking and know him from my time at Stevenage, proven in the Football League.

He’s a statement signing... and were really aggressive in trying to get him in the building – aggressive in a positive sense, in terms of being forceful and on the front foot.'”

There has been a departure and three signings reported by Woking over the last few days.

The departure comes with confirmation "that negotiations with Aaron Drewe have come to an end.

We’d like to reiterate the outstanding contribution from Aaron over the course of last season and wish him success for the future.

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'We brought Aaron in from the level below and he developed into one of our most consistent performers, whilst being another notable example of our recruitment model and commitment to player development”

'We were in discussions with Aaron long before the season ended, but it’s important to maintain our values, and the alignment with our longer-term vision, as opposed to being driven by emotions'".

As for the trio of players who have joined The Cards, Woking announce that "Lam Dulson signs on a... two-year deal from National League South side Maidenhead.

Dulson made his mark at Step 4 side Ware FC... between 2021-2024. He scored 26 goals during the 2023/24 season split between Ware and Bedford Town, helping Bedford to secure promotion.

His great non-league scoring form earned him a move to League Two side Cheltenham Town in 2024... In July 2025, he moved permanently to Maidenhead United...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'We looked at Liam last season whilst he was at Cheltenham, and we’ve continued to follow his progress. He’s powerful, quick, instinctive, can carry the ball, and gets shots away – in our environment and system he can thrive, and grow as a player'".

Also Woking "announce the signing of Josh Ayres. The 20-year-old striker joins the club on a one-year deal from League One side Rotherham United with an additional option year...

He’s enjoyed valuable loan experiences, most recently with Alfreton Town...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'At 6’5 Josh is a different profile to anything else we have in the building, and gives us another dimension'".

The third recent arrival at Woking comes with "the signing of Harrison Sohna.

The 23-year-old midfielder joins on a two-year deal from National League North side Hereford...

In July 2021, he transferred permanently to Sunderland...

After a successful trial in July 2024, he joined League Two side Cheltenham Town on a two-year contract...

On February 24th, 2026, he signed for National League North side Herford...

Director of Football Jody Brown said... 'He was in the Sunderland squad with Jermain [Defoe] at one point, and he identified him as a player that could add something to our group... Left footed, loads of energy, dead ball specialist, can operate in deep areas building play, but equally as comfortable playing as an 8 and making those forward runs, and being a goal threat'".

Macclesfield FC "announce the signing of goalkeeper Christian Dibble following his departure from Kidderminster Harriers.

The shot-stopper joins the Silkmen off the back of promotion with the Harriers to the Enterprise National League via a play-off final victory against South Shields...

Dibble, previously of Wrexham, has an impressive reputation for clean sheets... before he was recruited by Phil Brown for Kiddy in 2023.

Christian initially joined on a twelve-month deal before extending his stay with the Worcestershire outfit for a further two seasons... Christian was also awarded the Enterprise National League North golden glove in the process of achieving promotion with a further 17 clean sheets in 39 appearances for the Harriers... Hailed as the ‘best ‘keeper in the league’ by the many, Macc are delighted to have attained the services of the experienced shot-stopper ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

29 May 2026

BANKS REWARDED WITH NEW CONTRACT

Right: Lewis Banks and Aldershot Town's Jed Meerholz get acquainted on the opening day of last season.

Since arriving at the club, Banks has established himself as one of the most dependable performers in the squad, producing consistently high standards across his time in red and white.

The full back made an outstanding start to the 2025/26 campaign... before injury temporarily interrupted an excellent season".

[Banks actually started the first 14 league fixtures last season but missed the rst of the season apart from a seven-minute cameo in the final match of the season.]

Having now returned to full fitness... Lewis Banks said 'I’m delighted to be staying, I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club and I’m excited for what’s ahead next season'...

Manager Neil Gibson added, 'Lewis has been an incredibly consistent performer for this football club over a sustained period of time, and his influence around the group is clear for everyone to see. He started last season brilliantly before the injury setback'...

Director of Football John Coyne commented 'Lewis embodies so many of the qualities we value highly at this football club. He’s professional, dependable and sets high standards every single day'".

Footnote: Lewis Banks has made 112(+8) appearances for Altrincham since joining the club in June 2023. He had ended the 2022-23 campaign up at Arbroath in the Scottish second-tier where he had made 12(+1) league appearances. Prior to that he had made 118 appearances for Sligo Rovers, since early 2019, in the Republic of Ireland and had appeared for them in the European Conference League.

However, Lewis had started out at his hometown club of Stoke City where he had played up to under-23 level before leaving to join Stafford Rangers in summer 2018.

Lewis soon established himself as the regular right-back at Altrincham where he was not only reliable but weighed in with a number of goals. His versatility has also seen him perform well at left-back and in the centre of the back line. He enjoyed more game-time than any other Altrincham player in the 2024-25 season.

ALTRINCHAM'S PRE-SEASON GAMES

Two home ties are included in the five matches listed by the club but none of the matches is against a team higher in the football pyramid. A fixture announced by Vauxhall Motors is not on the Altrincham list, which implies that it will not be a first-team fixture.

• Saturday, 11 July v Colwyn Bay (Away) 3pm
• Tuesday, 14 July: v Wythenshawe Town (Away) 7.45pm
• Saturday, 18 July: v Vauxhall Motors (Away) time to be confirmed. This fixture does not appear in the list issued by Altrincham, suggesting it may be an Academy fixture
• Tuesday, 21 July: v Chorley (Away) 7.45pm
• Saturday, 25 July: v Macclesfield FC (HOME) 3pm
• Friday 31 July: v Manchester United U21 (HOME) 7pm

Later the Altrincham website added that "The Club is also in the final stages of confirming an additional fixture for Saturday, July 18th, with final agreement currently being completed with our proposed opponents.

The pre-season programme has been carefully curated to provide the squad with a sensible and progressive build up ahead of the Enterprise National League campaign kicking off on Saturday, August 8th, with a variety of different tests designed to support both conditioning and match preparation throughout the summer".

RENEWING ACQUAINTANCE No.6: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

The Harriers have had mixed fortunes since that day in May 2000 when a goalless draw at Moss Lane in the last match of the 1999-2000 season saw Altrincham's second-ever relegation from the Conference confirmed and the Harriers' promotion into the Football League completed.

Right: During the Harriers' last visit to Moss Lane, in October 2023, Lewis Banks (right) and Alex Newby take a drink break during the game against Kidderminster whilst (left to right) Eddy Jones, Lewis Baines, Isaac Marriott and Dior Angus head to the touchline for a refresher.

The Worcestershire club spent five seasons in what came to be rebranded as League Two before being relegated back to the Conference in 2005. So, in 2005-06 the Harriers met Altrincham who were destined to finish bottom despite finishing eighteenth in terme of points won but having a savage 18 points deducted for fielding James Robinson who had not received international clearance whilst at his previous club Accrington Stanley.

Alty survived not only that season but the next two as well with reprieves occasioned by other clubs' financial mismanagement.

In 2016 both Kidderminster and Altrincham were relegated back to the North with Alty finishing four points ahead of the Harriers.

Alty returned to the national level in 2020 but the Harriers remained in the North until 2023, only to be relegated once again to the North in 2024.

They regained their status this year via the play-offs after finishing third in the North division.

They have since been rocked by the departure of manager Adam Murray to Barrow; he has been replaced by Paul Wotton.

So Alty and Kiddy last met in 2023-24 when a 1-1 draw at the J. Davidson Stadium was followed by an Altrincham win, 3-1, at Aggborough.

HUGHES'S EXIT MAKES IT 29

Left: Mark Hughes, pictured at the J. Davidson Stadium in September 2025.

Last season marked significant progress, with the side finishing third in the Enterprise National League with 95 points, and reaching the play-offs.

While everyone connected with the club was disappointed not to achieve promotion, Mark played an important role in stabilising the team and helping to move the club forward.

Chairman, Tom Piatak said 'Mark has conducted himself with real professionalism throughout his time at Carlisle United. We are grateful for the work he has done, the standards he brought, and the progress made during the season.

'Following open and respectful discussions, both parties agreed this was the right time for the club to move in a different direction. Mark leaves with our thanks and best wishes'...

First Team Coach Frankie McAvoy will also depart the club".

Footnote: there have already been four managerial departures since the end of the 2025/26 season, to add to the 25 managerial departures between the end of the previous season (24/25) and the end of the regular 2025-26 National League season.

The four departures in May 2026 (so far)...

1. KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS Adam Murray left on 12 May 2026 to take up a position at Barrow. Replaced by Paul Wotton as announced on 26 May 2026.
2. SOUTHEND UNITED: Kevin Maher sacked 19 May 2026.
3. GATESHEAD: Rob Elliott left on 27 May 2026
4. CARLISLE UNITED: Mark Hughes left by mutual agreement and Rob Elliot appointed in his place on 28 May 2026.

In addition, since the end of the season both Hartlepool United and Eastleigh have appointed new managers to replace previous management regimes that had been terminated before the end of the season 2025/26. So there will be at least six newly appointed managers taking their bows in the NL in August 2026.

ELLIOT TAKES OVER

Elliot, 40, joins following his recent departure [yesterday] from Gateshead, where he earned a reputation for building belief, creating momentum and getting results quickly. He joins the club on a rolling contract and will arrive at Brunton Park on Friday to begin work immediately. 

Across two spells with the Heed, Rob led the club to a sixth-place finish in the National League and experienced FA Trophy success at Wembley.

He later returned in difficult circumstances, with the club 11 points from safety, and helped guide them away from relegation trouble to secure their fifth-tier status...

Rob, now arrives at Carlisle with a clear identity and strong ideas on how he wants his teams to play.

The club believes this is the right time to move forward with someone who can build on the progress made last season, bring added drive and intensity, and develop a tactically flexible, front-foot, attacking team that plays with purpose, creates chances and connects with supporters.

Rob Elliot said... 'I want us to play attacking, aggressive football with and without the ball. We want to win, we want the players to enjoy it and want the fans to be excited to turn up and watch a team that plays good football with an identity but more importantly gives absolutely everything for the badge.

'We want to be adaptable. We want to get to know and understand the players we have to get the best out of them on the training ground and in games. We want to have a clear plan when coming up against opposition. But we always want to be positive, aggressive and brave.

'I really like the owners’ vision for the club. Carlisle is a one club city and that matters. I know what it feels like when a football club is at the heart of a city, how important it is that the team represent the fans, people and the community'...

Chairman, Tom Piatak said 'Last season brought more stability on the pitch, a third-place finish and a squad that had started to move in the right direction. 

'Rob’s appointment is about building on that progress and taking the next step. He has energy, drive and a clear sense of how he wants his teams to play'...

As part of the club’s football leadership structure, Rob will report to [former Altrincham Director of Football] MARC TIERNEY (left), whose role has developed into Sporting Director.

Marc Tierney said... 'Rob encourages his teams to play with purpose, confidence, and freedom to express themselves on the pitch...

'We believe he is an ideal fit for this squad, this club, and the long-term vision we have for the future'"

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 29-year-old has put pen-to-paper for an [sic] two-year deal at Boundary Park with an option of a further year.

The experienced full-back played 46 times in all competitions in the 2025/26 season for Southend, registering 17 goals and four assists throughout.

Scott-Morriss also scored 17 goals in the 2024/25 season, making him a serious goal-threat from the wide position.

After his seven-year stint at Royston Town came to an end, Scott-Morriss made the move to Hemel Hempstead in 2021 before heading for Southend a year later.

Meaning his move to Latics marks the wide-man’s first season in the EFL.

When asked about his move to the North-West, he said 'I’ve played here a few times for the opposition so I know what the supporters are like, they’re a great fanbase so I can’t wait to get out there and show them what I can do'...

Micky Mellon added 'He’s been one of the stand-out performers at Southend and in the National League over the last three seasons and his numbers from full-back speak for themselves@">

And he is not the only deprtute from Roots Hall as Southend United "confirm that Noor Husin will depart the Club following the expiry of his contract to pursue another opportunity elsewhere".

Off the field, there is also a departure, as Southend United confirm that "After 18 years, Gary Lockett has made the decision to resign his position on the Club’s Board of Directors in order to devote more time to personal projects.

Lockett will remain a committed COSU member as well as a die-hard Southend United fan, and the Board thanks him for his service".

28 May 2026

RENEWING ACQUAINTANCE No.5: AFC FYLDE

Today is the turn of AFC Fylde who are managed by former Altrincham player CRAIG MAHON, who took over at Mill Farm in summer 2025 after a promising start to his management career last season at Curzon Ashton, having previously spent five years at the Tameside Stadium, initially as a player then player-manager.

As a player, Craig, who is 37 in June, joined Alty from Chester FC on 24 January 2020, as John Johnston departed in the opposite direction. Craig had just been on loan at Ashton United as he recovered from injury but, before that, he had been the record appearance-maker (239 games) at Chester FC since the formation of the club from the ashes of the defunct Chester City.

Right: Craig Mahon in action for Chester against Altrincham in 2019.

Craig had been a target of Phil Parkinson in summer 2019 but had elected to remain at Chester at that time. He had joined Chester FC in May 2013 from Vauxhall Motors, having previously been with Wigan Athletic (2008/9). At Wigan he had a loan spell with Accrington Stanley in League Two (2008/9) and became a Republic of Ireland youth international.

After Wigan, Craig joined Salford City in 2009 before arriving at Burscough (2010).

Early in 2010/11 season he joined Vauxhall Motors, where he made 117 appearances, before joining Chester in May 2013. Initially, when he joined Chester FC, he went on loan to AFC Fylde, before establishing himself at the Deva Stadium. He went to Ashton United on loan in December 2019 before joining Alty.

He made 7(+5) appearances for Altrincham, tasting defeat only once, before leaving in summer 2020 for Curzon Ashton.

As for his current club, AFC Fylde, they were created in 2008 from a rebranding of the former Kirkham & Wesham FC.

Starting in the North West Counties League they were promoted to the Northern Premier League Division One North in 2009 before reaching the top division in 2012.

Another promotion soon followed, to the Conference North in 2014. They were then elevated again in 2017 from the renamed National North to the National League proper where they were involved in two play-off seasons and won the FA Trophy before being relegated in the truncated Covid season in 2020.

2023 saw them regain top-flight status for two seasons before being relegated again in 2025, only to bounce back once more as North champions in 2026.

So the Coasters first crossed paths with Altrincham in 2016-17 when the Coasters were to finish as champions of National North and Altrincham were to finish bottom of the division!

The first match between the clubs, in August 2016, ended in humiliation for part-time Alty at Moss Lane, where the full-time Fylde team crushed them 6-0!

ANOTHER PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY REVEALED

The three fixtures announced so far are:

• Saturday, 11 July v Colwyn Bay (Away) 3pm
• Tuesday, 14 July: v Wythenshawe Town (Away) 7.45pm
• Saturday, 18 July: v Vauxhall Motors (Away) time to be confirmed

Whether these will all be first-team games or pitched at Academy level remains to be seen.

When Altrincham face Colwyn Bay in pre-season they will renew acquaintance with an "old boy", who joined the Robins from The Seagulls in late 1996.

In May 2024 Colwyn Bay announced "he appointment of DANNY McGOONA as our new General Manager.

Danny, who is a former player with the club, will oversee the administrative and day to day running of the club.

Above, BACK: Chris Adams, Michael Moore, Jamie Taylor, Ian Horrigan, George Shepherd, Steve Carroll. MIDDLE: Chris Waring, Andy Brown, Mark Maddox, Matt Dickins, Steve O'Connor, Paul France, Ricky Harris, Mick Carmody. FRONT: Kevin Lampkin, John Toner, Peter Glick, Gerry Berman (Chairman), Danny Adams, DANNY McGOONA, Niell Hardy.

Danny said 'As a Bay fan, former player and having been involved with the club for many years I’m proud to have been given this opportunity at what is a very exciting time.

'I will do my best to oversee the good work of the club, working alongside the new owners and board of directors'".

Danny's son Max is a current player at Colwyn Bay.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Elsewhere, Chorley announce the signing of LEWIS SALMON who recently left Alfreton Town.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Rob only wants the best for the club and for it to thrive... and that is absolutely the plan being worked on behind the scenes with Stephen [Paylor, the proposed new co-owner of the club].

However, meeting these terms would project the club immediately into an even more negative financial position and an uncertain future...

We share his ambitions and will work hard to make him proud of the direction we move in".

[Said Elliot] 'When I came back I had belief we could stay up... When I first spoke with the club, it was integral to me coming back that things were put in place to also develop the club further on and off the pitch with a training ground and staffing...

'Unfortunately, this isn't able to happen... Through this, along with not being able to retain all of the players and staff who achieved safety, it did not seem right for me to remain when others who gave so much aren't able to continue the journey'".

Gateshead also confirm that the above-mentioned "Stephen Paylor has joined the board but is limited in his capacity to impact the club and take on a larger shareholding due to the ongoing process and the need for approval by the new Football Regulator".

Footnote: So, as expected, Elliot becomes the third managerial departure in the National League in month since last season. It is also the 28th managerial departure in the year or so since the start of the last close season in May 2025.

27 May 2026

MATTY STAYS AT ALTRINCHAM

A hugely popular figure with supporters, Kosylo first joined the club in 2020 and has gone on to become a familiar and much loved presence in red and white over the past six seasons...

Matty Kosylo said 'This club has become a massive part of my life over the last six years, so I’m delighted to be staying. The support I’ve had from the fans since day one has been incredible, and I’m excited to keep creating more memories together'.

Manager Neil Gibson added 'Matty brings real experience, energy and quality to the group, and we’re delighted he’ll remain part of the squad for the new season.

'He’s been an important player for this football club over a number of years now, and his connection with the supporters speaks for itself'".

Footnote: Matty has made 125(+48) appearances for Altrincham and has netted 23 goals since joining in summer 2020, when he signed a two-year contract after leaving AFC Fylde. He had joined The Coasters in summer 2019 but had not replicated the success he had enjoyed over a three-year spell at FC Halifax Town, his previous club.

Earlier in his career, wingman Kosylo had played previously under the then Alty manager Phil Parkinson. That was back in 2014-16 at Nantwich Town, with Matty having begun his career at Stockport County before spells with Salford City, Ashton United, Hyde United and Vauxhall Motors (2013/14).

He left Nantwich for FC Halifax Town, for an undisclosed fee, in July 2016. At the time he was the Evo Stik NPL Young Player of the Year. Kosylo made a great impression in his three seasons at The Shay (2016-19), during which he scored 24 league goals in 74(+5) league appearances for The Shaymen.

Kosylo then joined AFC Fylde in 2019 but relegation in 2020 meant that The Coasters were prepared to release him from his contract to sign for Altrincham.

In 2021 he missed a number of games through injury but in 2021-22 he had a successful season, netting ten times. In May 2022 it was announced that he had re-signed for a further season. However, a pre-season ACL injury meant that he was out of action for the entire 2022-23 season but he returned to action in 2023 pre-season. He suffered another injury after half a dozen appearances before returning to action in late November 2023.

Another injury sidelined him until he returned over the Christmas period of 2023 but he was offered a new deal in summer 2024. 2024/25 saw him primariy named on the bench but two sendings-off in the space of three league appearances over Christmas and New Year 2025 saw him banned for seven games in all. Matty signed a new contract, which included a coaching role, in summer 2025.

His game time in 2025/26 was limited with just two starts and seven appearances from the bench in all competitions by the end of October 2025. However, his appearances increased markedly after Neil Gibson was appointed manager and he eventually made 23(+10) league appearances in 25-26 season, often at right-back, picking up 11 yellow cards in the process!

RENEWING ACQUAINTANCE: HARROGATE TOWN

The Sulphurites, so named from the mineral content of the North Yorkshire town's famous spa water, first encountered Altrincham in the Northern Premier League in 2002-03 season. Harrogate had been promoted in 2002 from the NPL Division One whilst Altrincham were spending their third season in the NPL after relegation from the Conference in 2000.

In fact, Harrogate's first ever fixture in August 2002 in the top division of the NPL was away to Altrincham and the newcomers stunned the Robins by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on the home side. This was Altrincham's heaviest home defeat in the league since they had lost 0-4 to Macclesfield Town on 18 November 1995.

Altrincham's worst opening-day result for many a year was compounded by the loss of Danny Murphy with a broken ankle and an injury to Ian Craney, who was unable to complete the last ten minutes of the game.

Physio Anne-Marie Jones is seen, right, calling for a stretcher as Rod Thornley stands over the injured Danny Murphy.

The Alty line-up comprised 1. Nick STEPHENS, 2. Stephen ROSE, 3. Chris ADAMS, 4. Mark MADDOX, 5. Gary TALBOT, 6. Andy McDONALD, 7. Danny MURPHY, 8. Ian CRANEY, 9. Chris YOUNG, 10. Rod THORNLEY (capt.), 11. Ryan HEVICON. Subs: 12. Simon WOODFORD, 14. Jason GALLAGHER, 15. Mike TURNER.

After seven successive top-ten finishes at this level, Harrogate surprisingly finished bottom (21st) in 2010 but were spared relegation by the demotion of Northwich Victoria for financial irregularities and the collapse of Farsley Celtic which saw their record expunged.

Their manager from summer 2009 was Simon Weaver and, despite this inauspicious first season, he remains the manager of the club in 2026, making him the longest serving manager in the top five divisions of English football, following the departure of Pep Guardiola from Manchester City. His father Irving Weaver took over the club from 2011.

After ten more seasons in what had then become National North, Harrogate were promoted to EFL2 in 2020. So they missed encountering Altrincham as the Robins only returned to the National League at the same time.

Six finishes in the bottom half of League Two ended with Harrogate's relegation to the National League on the final day of the 2025-26 season.

IT'S ALL NEIL GIBSON'S FAULT!

It was Alty's current boss Neil Gibson who inadvertently started the process!

On 26 May 2025 he left Wealdstone by mutual agreement, having saved the north London club from relegation on the final day of the 2024-25 season. Neil left voluntarily owing to the travel difficulties of being a North Wales-based manager being in charge of a Home Counties club.

Chris Millington at FC Halifax Town, Carl Magnay at Gateshead and Steve Cotterill (left) at Forest Green Rovers all rapidly followed Neil out of their managerial posts before the 2025-26 season began.

In addition to those four, there were a further 21 changes of manager at National League clubs during the 2025-26 season.

And by 26 May 2026, exactly a year after Gibson's departure from Wealdstone, two more National League managers have already departed their clubs since the end of the 2025-26 season and a third is expected to do so imminently.

The departed duo are Kidderminster Harriers' Adam Murray and Southend United's Kevin Maher whilst, as detailed below, Gateshead's Rob Elliot looks set to move on.

Out of those 27 or 28 managerial changes in 366 days, just one of the departing managers moved to a club operating higher in the pyramid than the National League; that was Brackley Town boss Gavin Cowan who moved up to Shrewsbury Town.

And there are strong rumours that another National League close-season sacking could be imminent...

COLCLOUGH AWAITS SENTENCE

Ryan Colclough was found guilty of Section 20 GBH without intent after appearing at Derby Crown Court on Tuesday, May 19.

The offence occurred at the Red Lion pub in Brimington, Chesterfield – taking place on January 27, 2024.

The jury returned a guilty verdict after being given majority direction. The decision was 10-2.

Sentencing has been adjourned until July 2 2026, to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

The 31-year-old, of Settlement Drive, Clowne, has been remanded in custody until his sentencing takes place".

Footnote: Ryan Colclough made a surprise debut from the Altrincham bench against Bromley on 24 November 2020, having been signed that day by Phil Parkinson on a short-term contract after departing from Scunthorpe United.

On 12 December 2020, after just one start and two appearances from the bench for Altrincham, Ryan signed for the club until the end of 2021/22 season. Later, Ryan extended his contract till the end of 2022-23 season, a deal announced on 14 August 2021.

In 2021-22 he was again a standout performer on the left-wing for Altrincham and his good form continued into 2022-23 where his cut in from the wing and long-range shooting became his trademark.

His excellent play and seven league goals in 2022-23 brought the attention of various clubs with Chesterfield matching his buy-out clause and signing him in a deal that was announced on 12 January 2023, his signature being secured for an undisclosed fee.

His Altrincham appearances totalled 88(+10) games in which he scored 26 goals.

ALTY AND MARCH OF THE DAY III

This major event is taking place in memory of Darby Rimmer MND Foundation Co-Founder, Chris Rimmer and Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow and in support of Stephen Darby, Marcus Stewart and the many families affected by MND.

Joining the walk at different stages are a host of former high-profile footballers... The event is split into two halves with two centrally recruited core teams of 24 completing each half, walking continuously in rotation.

Altrincham will play a big part in the first half of the walk, with former Alty players, Gary Scott and Ged Kielty (right) setting off from Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium on Monday June 1st, walking for 3 days to complete the first half of the walk at Stockport County’s Edgeley Park ground on Wednesday June 3rd.

Gary, Ged and the core team will be joined on the various stages by groups of walkers, representing the clubs that are being visited en-route.

The final stages of the first half of March of the Day III on Wednesday June 3rd are Manchester United FC; Swinton Lions RLFC; Altrincham FC; Wythenshawe FC; Stockport County FC.

On the afternoon of June 3rd, 25-30 Altrincham FC walkers, including the 2025/26 Manager’s Player of the Year, Matty Kosylo, will join Gary, Ged and around a hundred walkers from The J.Davidson Stadium, walking to Wythenshawe FC’s Hollyhedge Park ground in Sharston.

Altrincham FC are delighted to be playing an important role in this event, particularly as Motor Neurone Disease has very sadly taken two former Alty players, Mark Maddox and George Melling, as well as lifelong fan, Jez Spruce, from us.

The club has an initial fundraising target of £2500 and you can donate here.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Elliot returned to his role at the International Stadium midway through last season and inspired a stunning turnaround in fortunes as an almost inevitable relegation into the National League North was avoided in spectacular fashion.

With several new signings playing an integral role in a major upturn in results and performances, Elliot’s new-look Heed side moved on from a 15-game run without a win that left them 12 points from safety to lose just two of their next 15 games to comfortably preserve their National League status"

On X Kidderminster Harriers "are delighted to confirm the appointment of Paul Wotton as first team manager.

Paul arrives at Aggborough with more than a decade of coaching and managerial experience gained with Plymouth Argyle, Truro City and Torquay United".

Wotton succeeds Adam Murray who left recently to join Barrow.

Earlier this week Harriers announced that "Assistant Manager Stewart Watkiss and First Team Coach Mario Oliveira have both left the club".

Scunthorpe United "can confirm attacker Callum Roberts will leave the Iron in order to sign for an EFL club in the coming days.

The 29-year-old arrived at the club three years ago for an undisclosed fee from Aberdeen with the Iron assisting the dynamic and creative winger to reinvigorate his career...

Roberts will be remembered for his crucial goals and assists, and his significant contributions to the Iron’s promotion back to the National League in 2024-25...

At the conclusion of 2024-25, after putting to bed an initial campaign of frustration, he scooped the majority of the end of season accolades en route to promotion from National League North, and was the club's top goalscorer, scoring 20 league goals in his 43 appearances...

That form continued into the season just ended, with a further 48 appearances, 45 of which were starts in all competitions, where he provided a total of 32 goal contributions, with 21 of those goals. In achieving both figures in front of goal, he finished top of the charts for the club, and was joint third in the list of appearances.

Recently he went down in Scunthorpe United history, becoming the first ever player to retain the Ernie Storey Memorial Trophy for the club’s overall player of the season...

The Iron understand Roberts turned down a number of offers for his services following the end of the season, despite a number of which being much more lucrative than we could offer, however this latest offer was one too good of an opportunity for the outgoing attacker to turn down, and he departs with our well wishes, an abundance of memories and a fantastic legacy in claret and blue".

26 May 2026

TOM CRAWFORD EXTENDS HIS STAY

On Monday, Altrincham FC made the first announcement about any of these players when it confirmed that "club captain Tom Crawford has agreed a new two-year deal to remain at The J.Davidson Stadium.

A key figure both on and off the pitch, Crawford has become an integral part of the football club since arriving at Alty, leading by example with his performances, professionalism and leadership qualities...

Tom Crawford said 'From the moment I walked into this club, it’s felt like home. The support the fans have given me has been unbelievable and I’m delighted to commit my future to Altrincham and keep building something special together'.

Manager Neil Gibson added 'We’re delighted to keep Tom at the football club. He’s been a huge part of what we’re building here, both with his quality on the pitch and his character around the group.

'He’s someone the supporters connect with because of the way he plays the game.'...

Director of Football Operations John Coyne commented 'This is exactly the type of player we want committing his future to Altrincham Football Club. Tom represents the standards, attitude and ambition we are trying to build throughout the club.

'Retaining strong characters and top performers is just as important as recruitment, and we’re delighted he sees his future here at Alty.'”

Footnote: Tom, who is 27 next Saturday, was recruited by former manager Phil Parkinson as Altrincham's fourth signing of summer 2024.

The central midfielder had started off with Stoke City before joining his hometown club, Chester's academy as a teenager. His spell at Chester included loans at Runcorn Town and Leek Town in 2017-18.

In summer 2018 Tom moved to Notts County, then a League team, where he made 12 appearances between 2018 and 2020. A three-month loan at Dave Challinor's AFC Fylde completed his season in 2019.

101 appearances at Hartlepool United, where Challinor was then the manager, followed his release by the Magpies in summer 2020. He remained in the North East till the end of 2023-24, at which point he was released by the Pools.

He had missed much of 2022-23 season with an ankle injury but made 39 appearances for Hartlepool in 2023-24, scoring five times but picking up twelve yellow cards in the process!

Despite two sendings-off in the first 19 league games of the season, Tom was a key player in the 2024-25 campaign.

In 2025-26 he was a virtual ever=present making 43(+1) league appearances. He ended the campaign one appearance short of his century for the club, having made 94 starts and 5 more appearances from the bench. He has also weighed in with 12 goals.

His commitment to the cause is underlined by the fact that his 8 yellows and 2 red cards accrued in the league during 2024-25, added to least season's league tally of 13 yellows and a red means that he has accrued 21 yellows and 3 reds over the past two league seasons!

RENEWING ACQUAINTANCE: BARROW

Right: Jordan Sinnott smiles broadly after netting his first goal of the season, a superb freekick, to put Alty ahead against Barrow at Holker Street in March 2016 but the Bluebirds won the game 3-2.

We now turn our attention to the other four clubs that are joining the National League in 2026-27, all of whom have been at this level previously and all of whom have faced the Robins in the past.

We start with the relegated duo of Barrow and Harrogate Town, who were relegated from the EFL until the end of last season.

First up is Barrow, who until this summer had been back in the EFL since 2020 when they were promoted from the National League as the champions, based on points per game in the wake of the Covid pandemic which truncated the season. So they missed out on encountering Altrincham who were likewise winning promotion in 2019-20, rejoining the National League from the North division as Barrow left that level on their upward trajectory.

So, it was back in 2015-16 that the two clubs last competed in the same league. In that Conference campaign Altrincham were to be relegated whilst Barrow, celebrating a first season back at national level after promotion in 2015 as Conference North champions, finished eleventh.

The last league encounters with Altrincham in that 2015-16 season saw honours even. Alty won the Moss Lane fixture 1-0, thanks to a Damian Reeves goal, but the Cumbrians won 3-2 at Holker Street in the return fixture in March 2016.

In their six seasons back in the EFL (2020-26) the Bluebirds flirted with relegation in their first two campaigns, finishing 21st in 2021 and 22nd in 2022 before two excellent seasons saw them finish 8th and then 9th (in 2023 and 2024).

In 2025 the Bluebirds finished 16th before last season ended with them bottom of EFL2.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

James arrives from a sports betting background, with over 15 years of experience working with performance forecasting, sporting intelligence, and strategic leadership roles.

Before arriving at Mill Farm, James founded Sharp Edge Strategies, a consultancy helping organisations build structured decision-making and risk-profiled planning into their sporting operations. Prior to that, he held senior trading and leadership roles in the sports betting industry, working with prominent betting organisations across the globe. Earlier in his career, James qualified as a CIMA management accountant, a background that underpins his approach to forecasting, financial modelling and data-led decision making.

Since joining the club, James has been working across recruitment, academy development and first-team planning, operating closely with the wider football leadership team to build a long-term strategy, with AFC Fylde's DNA at its core.

With multiple elite-level football clubs now adopting a date-driven [?data-driven?] approach to their everyday operations, the club feel this is the appropriate step to adopt a similar strategy with regard to recruitment, as well as other processes within the club...

James said 'This is a brilliant time to be a part of AFC Fylde. The first-team squad, led by Craig, Alex and Chris, have had an outstanding season. Winning the league with 100 points whilst playing with an attacking and entertaining style doesn't happen by accident. It is the result of committing to a clear footballing identity and making that central to everything we do. My job now is to help us build on that foundation, ensuring our recruitment, player development and performance analysis all reflect that identity, with the club's DNA and playing philosophy at the heart of every decision'".

Boreham Wood Football Club "announce a further one-year extension to the Club’s hugely successful teamwear partnership with PUMA, continuing a relationship that has coincided with some of the most memorable and successful periods in the Club’s history.

Since teaming up with PUMA ahead of the 2019/20 season, Wood have proudly worn the PUMA logo during an era packed with historic moments, beginning with a National League Play-Off semi-final appearance in 2019/20 before becoming “history makers” in 2020/21 by reaching the Emirates FA Cup Third Round for the very first time and welcoming Championship side Millwall to Meadow Park during the pandemic...

Following relegation to National League South, the Wood responded in outstanding fashion during the 2024/25 campaign by sealing a return to step one of Non-League football at the first time of asking via the Play-Offs.

The 2025/26 campaign then delivered another unforgettable chapter in the Club’s history, as the Wood reached the Emirates FA Cup Third Round Proper once again, became the first National League side ever to win the National League Cup, record a club-record 90-point tally in the Enterprise National League, and compete in the Enterprise National League Promotion Final under the famous Wembley arch, underlining the remarkable progress achieved throughout the Club’s partnership with PUMA".

Worthing report that "Bailey Smith is the latest player to commit his future to the Reds, with the young forward signing a long-term contract.

The swift attacker, who turned 21 at the start of the month, becomes the latest player to sign up for the 2026/27 season and beyond.

After an outstanding pre-season where the forward netted four goals in five pre-season friendlies to enter the campaign as our leading scorer, Bailey appeared a handful of times for the Rebels in the opening months.

His season was then heavily disrupted by a severe injury... early on into Adam Hinshelwood’s reign... The Worthing local ruptured his hamstring while stretching for the ball resulting in a gruelling five-month period of rest, recuperation and rehabilitation. However, his determination and endeavour helped Bailey return to fitness ahead of schedule, which allowed him to contribute to the crucial final matches of the season that culminated in the Reds lifting the National League South title.

Alongside his blistering pace and natural athleticism, Smith’s versatility is a huge asset to Hinshelwood and his coaching staff".

25 May 2026

THE OPPOSITION: INTRODUCING HORNCHURCH

Of the six clubs joining the National League for 2026-27, only two are new to this level and to competing with Altrincham. They are the pair promoted from National South, the champions Worthing and the play-off winners Hornchurch from Essex.

Yesterday we looked at Sussex club Worthing, today it is the turn of Essex's Hornchurch.

The town will best be known to Altrincham supporters of a historical persuasion as a pivotal location in the Battle of Britain in 1940 when its RAF airfield was the base for Spitfire and other fighter aircraft.

Situated south east of Rpmford, the airfield is no longer in use but much of it has been converted into a Country Park and, more recently, an RAF Heritage Centre was established there.

Originally known as Sutton's Farm, the airfield was established as early as 1915 when it offered an ideal location for the defence of London in WW One, being just 14 miles east of central London.

It was from this airfield that William Leefe Robinson won the VC for being the first pilot to shoot down a German Zeppelin airship bomber. He later survived after being shot down by the Red Baron, Manfred von Richtofen, but he died in the influenza pandemic in late 1918, aged just 23.

After a period of inactivity the airfield was reopened as an RAF fighter base from 1928 and it remained in use until operations were moved to Biggin Hill in Kent in 1962.

The first Hornchurch Football Club was established in 1881 but subsequently folded, with a successor club arising in 1923 as Upminster Wanderers. They were renamed Hornchurch & Upminster in 1952 before renaming themselves again in 1961, this time as Hornchurch.

Hornchurch FC folded in 2005 when they were a Conference South member. They reformed as AFC Hornchurch in that same year and after a period in the Essex League and going into administration in 2009, they regained National South Status in 2012 but lasted only one season before relegation.

Having renamed themselves in 2019 as plain Hornchurch FC, in 2021 they won the FA Trophy becoming the lowest ranked club to win the competition, being at the seventh level of the English football pyramid.

By winning the Isthmian League Premier in 2024, they returned to National South before promotion to the National League proper in 2026, via the play offs, after finishing as runners up to Worthing in National South.

Hornchurch, known as the Urchins, play at Hornchurch Stadium in Upminster, Essex, which is on the north side of the Thames, inside the M25 motorway which encircles London and the ground is not far from the M25's Dartford River Crossing.

As reported here yesterday, the club is in discussions with the local Havering Council (based in Romford) to ensure that upgrades to the stadium are in place to meet the Step 1 Ground Grading criteria by 31st March 2027.

Their stadium, like Gateshead's International Stadium, accommodates a 400 metres running track around the football pitch. Its current capacity is 3,000.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Across the Atlantic in the USL League One, SAM ROSCOE (right) managed to get through the whole of Corpus Christi's home match against One Knoxville without picking up another card, but despite leading twice, and playing against 10 men from only 3 minutes after the restart, they still seek their first league victory. The match ended 2-2 after goalkeeper Logan Erb, playing only his second game for the club conceded a 97th minute own goal.

And "Down Under" in Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON put in a full shift as Oakleigh Cannons won 0-1 at Preston Lions. It was a victory that was needed, as Hume City's 5th consecutive win the previous evening had propelled them to the top of the league before today's match. Cannons thus regained top spot, and are 1 point clear of City, and 3 clear of Heidelberg, who they visit at the end of June.

South Korea K League 2 : MARCUS DACKERS still awaits his first goal for Daegu, and they withdrew him after an hour of the home game against Ansan Greeners. A goal up at the time, they went on to win 3-0.

Sunday's Manchester Evening News reports SONNY ALJOFREE's "emotional farewell message as the defender announced that he will be leaving Old Trafford this summer".

Now 21, Aljofree (right) wrote that "After 14 years at this amazing football club, my second home, and the place I've grown from a boy to a man, I can't thank ... everybody... enough.".

The MEN adds that "Aljofree is yet to make a first-team appearance for United this season, although he was called up to first-team training back in April amid a lack of available centre-back options".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We can all come up with excuses for the lack of news, like they’re on holiday, they’re negotiating and so on, but surely supporters who make the club and fund the holidays abroad should at least have some information on the club that is theirs...

The reality is this: fans aren’t expecting live coverage of club representatives and the owners but just some explanation into issues at the club, i.e., transparency, even if they came out and said negotiations are taking a while and they didn’t want to jeopardise any deal or they’re working to make everything as best as possible".

THE OPPOSITION: INTRODUCING WORTHING

Worthing is a sizable town of about 114,000 inhabitants, situated on the West Sussex coast, 13 miles west of the city of Brighton.

Worthing Football Club has two nicknames, "The Rebels" and "The Mackerel Men".

An even earlier nickname for the club was The Shrimps, a label also borne by relegated northern seaside town, Morecambe.

"The Rebels" nickname for Worthing FC stems from the club's principled resignation from the West Sussex League in 1921. The club went on to be a founder club of the Sussex County League.

However, the club's badge alludes to its earlier nickname of "The Mackerel Men", as it features an image of three mackerel whilst the club mascot is called 'Mackie the Mackerel'. This nickname alludes to the town's former pre-eminence as a fishing village, with mackerel its chief catch in the nineteenth century.

After current manager Adam Hinshelwood had started his first stint as manager of the club towards the end of 2013, the club found itself £200,000 in debt and in danger of folding.

They were saved by a former player called George Dowell who assumed control in March 2015. However in June 2015, Hinshelwood moved on to take on a coaching role at his former club, Brighton & Hove Albion.

Hinshelwood returned as manager of Worthing in 2017 and in 2020 he took the club up into the National South division.

He was head-hunted by York City in early 2024 and led the Minstermen to a commendable second place in the National League. But, despite having amassed 96 points in the regular season, York failed to get through the play-offs and, early in the 2025-26 season, Hinshelwood was sacked by York in acrimonious circumstances.

Hinshelwood next started a third term as Worthing manager, in October 2025, leading the team to the National South championship title in 2026.

Hinshelwood's father was the former Crystal Palace player Paul Hinshelwood, whilst his son Jack plays for Brighton & Hove Albion.

In 2026-27, Worthing will become the fourth Sussex club to have played league football against Altrincham after Crawley Town, Lewes and Eastbourne Borough, but they will be only the second opponent from West Sussex, after Crawley.

And finally, newcomers Worthing will share with Southend United the distinction of being the only National League clubs to boast a seaside pier in their locality!

ALTY OLD BOYS

Although he joined the action on the hour, the game ended goalless. However, they remain in 2nd place, 2 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers, who surprisingly lost again at home to Sligo Rovers.

The sides meet next weekend, and Bohemians, who won 2-4 at Galway United, are now within touching distance of both of them.

On "X", LEWIS SALMON (right) has said goodbye to Alfreton Town declaring "it's time to move on. Memories for life with a great group of lads".

From an earlier era, Forest Green Rovers have not renewed the contracts of five "first-team backroom staff" including JOHN McMAHON the assistant manager. McMahon played for Altrincham in 1989/90 season.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Kyle has signed a two-year deal with the Rovers and joins on the back of a successful season with the Tudors, making the National League South play-offs, which ended in defeat to Weston Super-Mare on penalties.

The left-footed commanding centre-back joined Hemel Hempstead Town on a free transfer from AFC Dunstable in the summer of 2020.

He would then go on to make 190 appearances for the Tudors over six years, attaining the captain's armband and scoring 13 goals in the process.

Worthing "Vice Captain Sam Beard has extended his stay at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium by signing a new contract with the club...

The left-back rose through the ashes of an injury-plagued season to play a pivotal part in an unprecedented campaign for the Rebels. Colossal performances across the run-in helped solidify the defence... An uncompromising defender, Beard started eight out of our final nine matches as the Mackerel Men soared to the summit of the National League South table with seven victories during a decisive period.

After commencing the season in typically strong fashion under Chris Agutter, which included the 28-year-old netting his first and only goal for the Reds... the defender suffered a long-term knee injury shortly after Adam Hinshelwood’s appointment.

Following four months on the sidelines, Beard returned to action in early March... During the 2025/26 term, he registered a half century of appearances in all competitions for the club in the. In total, he featured on 27 occasions last season, with 23 of those occurring in the Enterprise National League South.

One of our more experienced characters in the dressing room, ‘Beardy’ is familiar with the demands of fifth-tier football, having competed at the level while at Barnet".

Manager Adam Hinshelwood proclaimed the t Beard "was a big part of our success towards the end of the season" .

"Beardy stated, 'What we achieved together last year was amazing and I’m hoping for more memories like that. Up the Rebels!'"

Barrow announce "that the Club will relocate its first team training operations to Tameside Stadium, the home of Curzon Ashton, ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The move follows a detailed review process over recent months, with new Manager Adam Murray heavily involved in the assessment of a number of different facilities alongside club staff before a final decision was made...

A major factor in the decision was the quality of the playing surfaces available on-site. The agreement includes guaranteed access to the main stadium grass pitch, while the upgraded artificial surface was also viewed as an important step forward in helping manage player loading and reduce injury risk across the season...

The move also allows the Club to maintain its Manchester training base, something viewed as an important strategic part of Barrow AFC’s immediate and near-term planning, particularly from a recruitment and operational perspective...

Chairman Paul Hornby also spoke on the move, 'We’d like to thank everyone at FC United of Manchester for our working partnership over the past few seasons. This move is a natural next step for Barrow AFC now as we seek to improve on several fronts'".

Akin to his namesake goalkeeper at Altrincham, Ethan Ross, Woking "confirm that Craig Ross has signed a new two-year deal in his player/coach role.

Two-time Player of the Year, Ross has made 208 appearances for the club and recorded 53 clean sheets across his time between the posts. He returned ahead of last season and has continued to make a significant contribution both on and off the pitch, combining his playing duties with an increasingly influential role within the coaching and management setup.

Director of Football Jody Brown said, 'The plan to bring Craig back to the club last summer was economically driven in terms of player/coach removing an extra salary, but also this was a goalkeeper that had just played over 40 games in our division that season, and someone that knew the club, and noticeably cared for it...

'He trains well every day, makes big saves and keeps it a competitive environment. He’s growing as a coach and adds value to the management team in ways that aren’t immediately noticeable to the outside world'”.

Southend United "confirm our retained list...

Under Contract: Sam Austin, Harry Boyes, Ben Goodliffe, Leon Parillon, Slavi Spasov

Club Options Triggered: Oli Coker, Charley Kendall, Harry Taylor

Loan Made Permanent: Harry Cardwell

In Negotiations: Collin Andeng Ndi, Keenan Appiah-Forson, Jack Bridge, Joe Gubbins, Noor Husin, Gus Scott-Morriss, Nathan Ralph

Departing Following Contract Expiry: Tom Hopper, Cav Miley, James Morton, Josh Walker, George Wind...

Southend United Director of Football Oliver Gage gave his initial thoughts on our retained list... 'We’re pleased to have retained a strong core within the squad, while also creating room to make targeted additions and improvements as we continue building towards the standards and ambitions we have for next season and beyond.

'There are also a number of players still in negotiations with the club, which is natural given our season has only recently concluded'.

Speaking on the decision to trigger options in the contracts of Oli Coker, Charley Kendall and Harry Taylor, Gage believes... 'All three players bring qualities we really value, and we’re excited about the part they can play in what we’re building over the coming seasons'".

At Kidderminster Harriers "We’d like to again thank all Kidderminster Harriers fans for their incredible support over 25-26.

Our overall home attendances at Aggborough were increased on last season and, up and down the country, our fans backed the boys through thick and thin – not least a staggering 1,050 who travelled to South Shields to see Harriers promoted back to the National League..

The club has been working over recent months to plan for the season ahead, and this work continues following our move to the National League. While the close season will soon bring details of a new Manager and the status of the playing squad, we appreciate the enthusiasm for news on Season Tickets..

We are proud to have been able to keep our pricing structure largely the same for three years. We believe in providing the best possible value for all of our supporters. We will strive to continue doing this, while also ensuring the club is able to meet costs – which have risen significantly in that time – and provide a playing budget that allows us to learn from the mistakes of a few years ago and survive in the National League and build on that solid foundation in seasons to come".

Promoted Hornchurch "have commenced discussions with the London Borough of Havering Council regarding our development proposals.

As shared in our interview with the club chairman Alex Sharp, due to our promotion to the National League, our home will need to be redeveloped to meet the Step 1 Ground Grading criteria by 31st March 2027.

We have commenced discussions with the London Borough of Havering Council... to establish planning requirements and likely timelines.

However, due to the extent of the works, we must advise supporters the stadium’s capacity and arrangements may differ game-to-game...

• The Riverside will be completely redeveloped and replaced with a new covered terrace, complete with a new TV Gantry.
• A new away entrance is to be built, complete with supporting WC and catering facilities, at the Windmill End of the stadium.
• The Eastside terracing is to be demolished and replaced with seating.
• The Directors' Box is to be refurbished/ replaced.
• A new boardroom is to be installed.

A further update will be provided in due course".

At Harrogate Town "Despite our season ending in extreme disappointment, we’d like to thank our supporters for helping us reach some important milestones last season.

Our average league attendance of 3,053 for the 2025/26 season was the highest in our history and above 3,000 for the first time. Of this number, an average of 2,526 were home supporters, again the highest this figure has ever been and an increase of 40% compared to just three seasons ago...

We are proud to announce that Harrogate Town has been ranked in 1st place for Family Excellence out of all 24 clubs in League Two, up from 2nd place last season, and 3rd best out of all 72 Clubs in the entire EFL up from 18th place last season, scoring the highest possible mark of 10/10 for ‘People’.

We are one of 22 Clubs to achieve the Gold standard Award, which we first achieved last season, and our aim was to retain the status and rise through the ranks... The EFL’s Family Excellence Scheme assesses the matchday customer experience that Clubs provide to Supporters, home and away, from purchasing tickets right through to the moment they leave the stadium and beyond. The 'mystery shopper style' assessors rate 12 areas of the Club operations including the quality of matchday activations and experience, stadium accessibility and facilities, retail and refreshments, and how the club communicates with Supporters...

As well as People, the club achieved 10/10 for Website, Ticket Purchase, and Social Media".

At Carlisle United the club has issued an update to its supporters' group. It lists developments at the club

"Atmosphere:

• Singing Section was a huge success for Brackley and Boreham Wood. This will now become a permanent fixture in Section 4 of the Pioneer Food Stand.

Club, Marketing & Media:

• Season ticket campaign launched, over 2,000 sales already.
• Working on website layout and usability improvements.
• Continuing fan story telling video pieces.
• Kit PR and promotional videos are being planned.
• Pre-match content for final two games of the season received well by fans and players alike.
• Painting the pictures in a professional light and connecting fans and players together.
• Academy coverage has improved with a dedicated resource at most end of season matchdays.
• Reviewing seasonal media performance but initial signs are good - Output has improved significantly, with posts up 197%, impressions up 105%, shares up 152% and reactions/likes up 35.8%, showing a major increase in both content volume and audience engagement.

Ongoing

• We have received the final samples and are very pleased with the kits for next season. We are working on the PR to announce new kit suppliers shortly."

Hartlepool United "confirm that Academy graduates Harry Conyard, Noah Gilbraith, Jacob Penprase and Charlie Thornton have all signed their first professional contracts with the Club ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The quartet will now become part of Lee Clark’s First Team squad ahead of the new campaign, representing another significant step in their progression from Academy football into the senior environment at Pools.

The four players join Kian Foreman in signing professional terms with Pools, while former Academy players Lincoln Pawlak and Alex Pavan also secured professional contracts with Doncaster Rovers earlier this year.

The latest group of professional contracts reflects Pools’ continued commitment to developing homegrown talent and strengthening the pathway between the Academy and First Team".

23 May 2026

NATIONAL LEAGUE 2026-27

Leaving the National League:

• Promoted to EFL: York City, Rochdale
• Relegated to North/South: Brackley Town, Morecambe, Braintree Town, Truro City

Joining the National League:

• Promoted from National North: AFC Fylde, Kidderminster Harriers
• Promoted from National South: Worthing, Hornchurch
• Relegated from EFL: Harrogate Town, Barrow

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Knowles scored 10 goals in 45 National League games this season, having joined the club from Walsall in 2024.

'We believed an option had been triggered on Tom's contract following the conclusion of the season,' a club statement said.

'However, due to a legacy administrative error, this extension was not an option, meaning Tom will leave the club.

'Unfortunately, Tom has decided to look at other opportunities and has played his last game in the FGR colours'".

FGR added in reference to Knowles, "As a much-loved player and fan favourite, we are gutted to share this news.

Tom flourished last season under Robbie, scoring 13 goals with 7 assists. He also won both the fans' player of the year and goal of the year awards".

Subsequently FGR announced that "Following the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign, the club can confirm a number of changes to the First Team backroom staff ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The club would like to express its thanks to the following staff members for their services to the club, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours:

• Dan Connor, John McMahon, Dan Watson, Tom Carter, Jake Roe

The Football Lowdown reports that "With promotion to the National League secured, Hornchurch can begin to prepare for the 2026/27 campaign...

As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, Hornchurch are closing in on a deal to sign experienced defender Tom Dallison from National League South side Ebbsfleet United.

The 30-year-old will be leaving the Fleet this summer, following the expiry of his contract and is set to sign for McMahon’s side on a free transfer, with a three-year deal having been agreed.

Dallison featured 26 times in the National League South for Ebbsfleet last season... Dallison has spent almost his entire career in the EFL, playing for the likes of Crawley Town and Colchester United and registering over 100 appearances...

Hornchurch do possess experienced attackers such as Josh Rees and Dominic Poleon who know the National League all too well, but defensively they don’t have many individuals who have played at that level".

At Aldershot Town the club "confirm our home pre-season fixtures!

A mixture of leagues and tests which we want to see as many of you there to watch as possible!..

Our pre-season fixtures will be at a heavily reduced rate, we want The EBB Stadium popping!

Our fixtures Vs Portsmouth and Oxford will be capped at: Adult: £10, Concession: (Military Personnel, Senior (Over 66), Disabled, 15 And Under) £5, Under 11’s: FREE...

Introducing our Army Spectacular Family Fun Day fixture! We’re delighted to say, our fixture against Farnborough will be a special day, supported by The Army, Our Aldershot men’s team will take on Farnborough, where admission prices will be JUST £1!... We face Farnborough at 3pm, Saturday 18th of July at The EBB Stadium!"

Relegated Harrogate Town "anounce our first signing of the transfer window with the arrival of Chesterfield midfielder Bailey Hobson on a permanent contract.

The 23-year-old started his career with Sheffield United before joining Alfreton on a permanent deal, where the attacking midfielder would score 22 in 92 for the National North side.

Chesterfield would then move to secure the emerging talent’s signature on an initial two-year contract.

Hobson would gain more National League experience away from The Spireites with loan spells at Kidderminster, Barnet and most recently Brackley, from where the midfielder was recalled to his parent club in November.

During his time at SMH Group Stadium Hobson would help Chesterfield achieve promotion back to the EFL as National League champions following the 2023/24 campaign.

'He’ll run all day, has great energy, is a really fit lad and can cover a few positions, we think he’s a really good fit for us in terms of his style', added Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry".

MARCH OF THE DAY III

The team includes Altrincham FC ‘Manager’s Player of The Year’ Matty Kosylo and former Alty players Gary Scott and Ged Kielty, who are part of the Stage 1 Core Team walking from Liverpool to Stockport over three days between Monday 1st to Wednesday 3rd June.

Joining the walk at different stages are a host of former high-profile footballers including: Steph Houghton, Ryan Giggs, Jill Scott, Paul Scholes, Sue Smith, Nicky Butt and David May.

We're walking for the third year in a row for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation as we remember former Alty players Mark Maddox and George Melling, as well as lifelong Alty fan, Jez Spruce, who all succumbed to Motor Neurone Disease.

To donate please click here.

You can find out all about ‘March of The Day III here".

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The club says goodbye to six players who depart Meadow Park this summer. They depart with the club’s upmost gratitude and thanks after all making huge contributions to the Club during their time at Meadow Park. They include [comprise] Nathan Ashmore, Cameron Coxe, Jack Payne, Erico Sousa, Charles Clayden and Joe Newton...

The club’s retained list has been published in full below:

Under contract: Chris BUSH, Charlie O’CONNELL, Zak BRUNT, Junior DIXON, Abdul ABDULMALIK, Aaron HENRY, James CLARKE, Callum REYNOLDS, Luke NORRIS, Tom WHITE, Lewis RICHARDSON, Marley MARSHALL-MIRANDA, Regan BOOTY, Ollie KENSDALE, Matt RUSH

Out of contract, departing the club: Nathan ASHMORE, Cameron COXE, Jack PAYNE, Erico SOUSA, Joe NEWTON, Charles CLAYDEN

In discussions: Femi ILESANMI

Transfer listed, available for transfer: Junior DIXON, Aaron HENRY, Luke NORRIS

Southend United "confirm the appointment of Catherine Honey as the Club’s new General Manager.

Honey will formally take up the role on June 1 and will lead the club’s non-football operations, overseeing areas including operations, commercial activity, media, administration and supporter-facing services...

She brings extensive experience across sport, major events and football operations, having held senior leadership roles across some of the UK’s biggest sporting events and venues, including the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Major League Baseball London Series and Women’s Super League football.

The club believes that experience in operational delivery, venue management and supporter experience will be vital as Southend United continues working to improve standards across the non-football side of the business, including matchday operations, stadium maintenance and supporter-facing services.

Her appointment forms part of the club’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and modernise its off-field structure".

21 May 2026

ALTY SEASON TICKETS

The price for a physical season ticket card has gone up 100% to £10.

The savings figure quoted in the image issued by the club is the amount for an early bird purchase compared with paying £23 at the turnstile for each of the season's 23 league fixtures.

The price to be paid for a season ticket after the Early Bird offer window closes is unknown.

The club adds the following details...

✅ "What’s Included:

• Entry to all 23 National League home matches
• Priority access to FA Cup, FA Trophy, and play-off tickets
• Save up to 9 matches’ worth compared to matchday pricing
• 10% discount in-store and online at Alty retail
• 10% off stadium room hire
• Partner perks from local businesses
• Digital season ticket delivered instantly via email
• Option to add a physical card for £10

Early Bird pricing available until: 11:59pm on Sunday, 7th June 2026

Physical card (if selected): Order by Monday, July 13th

Pick-up only, from Monday, August 3rd

Default delivery: Season tickets are digital by default and will be emailed immediately after checkout.

Add the "Physical Card" option to your basket if you'd like a printed version, which can then be picked up from early August at The J.Davidson Stadium (cards will not be posted out).".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Marcus joins the Shots following the end of his contract at Gillingham where he spent the last two years of his career, a move that was earned after an incredibly successful season with Enfield Town...

His career began in the Mediterranean sunshine on the island nation of Cyprus, where he was born and played football from a young age. In 2016 Marcus made the switch to English Football, joining Berkhamsted FC ... before eventually making the jump into the EFL with Gillingham.

A versatile and prolific striker, Marcus has an incredible work rate...

Scott Davies was full of praise 'Securing Marcus is fantastic news. He’s had really good experience of being in the EFL with Gillingham over the past couple of seasons...

'The style in which he adopts off the ball is infectious. I know that he will run all day long and be a real nuisance for defenders in the league so I’m delighted that he’s signed'”.

FC Halifax Town have posted "A Note From The Chairman", which tells us that "Obviously, we were hugely disappointed to lose Adam [Lakeland] so unexpectedly following the culmination of last season.

We, of course, moved quickly to appoint our new manager...

We are delighted that John McGrath has accepted the role and responsibilities of first team manager. We recognise and applaud John’s ambition to continue to build on the foundations laid by our previous managers..

As soon as we have any further confirmed player news this will be communicated. We will also shortly be able to confirm details of some exciting home friendlies.”

Forest Green Rovers "announce our fantastic 2026/27 pre-season schedule below. Rovers will play seven pre-season fixtures over a period of four weeks. Rovers will also play Slimbridge; however, the game will be behind closed doors and not available to the public.

Tuesday 7th July, 19:00: Bishops Cleeve (A)...

Saturday 18th July, 15:00: Merthyr Town (A)... Rovers do have some recent history with Merthyr, having signed the National League North side’s leading goalscorer Ricardo Rees back in January.

Tuesday 21st July, 19:00: Bristol Rovers (H)

Saturday 25th July, 15:00: Cardiff City (H)

Wednesday 29th July, 19:00: Bristol City (H)

Saturday 1st August, 15:00: Swindon Town (H

Following the sacking of Kevin Maher, Southend United "confirm the appointment of Jonathan Duckett as the club’s new Head of Recruitment.

Duckett joins the Club with extensive experience across the professional game, having worked in recruitment and scouting roles across all four top divisions of English football, as well as at international level with The FA.

Most recently, Duckett has spent the last two seasons as Head of Recruitment at Colchester United, having previously held senior recruitment and technical scouting roles with Norwich City and The FA...D

Jonathan Duckett said... 'It’s a club with huge support, real passion and enormous potential, and that was something that really stood out to me throughout the discussions'".

Sutton United "confirm the departure of Kane Crichlow, who joins Dagenham & Redbridge on a permanent transfer.

The Daggers, who have been invested in by KSI in recent months, ended the 2025/26 campaign 13th in the National League South but, after failing to mount a swift response to the fifth tier following their relegation in 2025, will be looking up under new leadership, with former Hemel Hempstead Town boss Lee Allinson joining the club alongside player-assistant manager Andy Carroll.

As such, Crichlow has completed a permanent switch to East London, having spent the second half of the campaign on loan at former club Chelmsford City, from whom he joined Sutton from ahead of last season.

The Bermuda international notched three goals in 21 appearances for the Clarets as they finished 10th in the sixth tier, having previously struck 13 goals in 38 appearances in 2024/25. The former Watford midfielder had previously appeared 11 times for the U’s, three of them being starts, prior to returning to the Melbourne Stadium on loan".

20 May 2026

ALTY SEASON-TICKET BENEFITS

These benefits are available as soon as you sign up for a 2026/27 Altrincham FC season ticket. Simply show your digital or physical season ticket in-store to claim the superb below benefits from our local partners.

Right: Atlantic Timber sponsors the Main Stand at the J. Davidson Stadium

• Atlantic Timber - Get a fantastic 15% off in-store. Our wonderful Main Stand sponsor, and local timber merchants, have been trading for over 40 years and are based on Altrincham Retail Park in Broadheath.
• Jardim Rodizio - 25% off food and drinks before kick-off on home matchdays.
• Kangaroo Self Storage - Receive an extra 10% discount self-storage. You can find our long-time sponsors at 41 Craven Road, Altrincham (WA14 5HJ) – on the edge of the Atlantic Retail Park.
• Lane 7 - All our 2026/27 season ticket holders receive FREE bowling Monday to Wednesday in the Stamford Quarter.
• Nell's Pizza - Receive a brilliant 15% off your bill at Nell's Stamford Quarter restaurant - not just on matchday, but ANY day of week".

ANOTHER PRE-SEASON GAME REVEALED

• 14 July: v Wythenshawe Town (Away) 7.45pm
• 18 July: v Vauxhall Motors (Away) time to be confirmed

ANOTHER NATIONAL LEAGUE MANAGER GOES

Last week, promoted Kidderminster Harriers saw their manager choose to decamp to Barrow instead of staying at Aggborough and now, just two days after lifting the FA Trophy, at Wembley, Southend United have sacked Kevin Maher (pictured left at Altrincham in 25/26 season).

In a statement, which strangely eulogises Maher but not does not give a reason for his dismissal, the Shrimpers announced that "Kevin Maher and members of his coaching staff, Darren Currie and Mark Bentley, will depart the Club following a review at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.

The Board has decided this is the right moment to start the next chapter in Southend United's journey and a comprehensive search to find a new head coach is underway.

Kevin and his staff have played a hugely important role during a significant period in the Club’s history. Since the COSU takeover, they have helped stabilise the football club, delivered back-to-back top seven finishes, taken us to Wembley on two occasions, and on Sunday, delivered our first domestic cup triumph.

Kevin was involved in more games as both a player and head coach than anyone in our 120-year history and departs with his status as a club legend firmly cemented.

Everyone at Southend United thanks Kevin, Darren and Mark for their commitment to the Club and the wider community and wishes them every success in the future.

Footnote: 25 National League managers left their post in the twelve months up to the end of 2025-26 season. Maher's departure now leaves 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 as recently as 2024-25 season!

Also, 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.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

McGrath joins following two successful seasons in charge at Buxton, where he led The Bucks to consecutive playoff finishes in the Enterprise National League North.

A playing career that spanned nearly two decades, and a managerial career now spanning one decade, McGrath brings a wealth of experience... Whilst on the books with Villa, he was capped at under 21 level with the Republic of Ireland...

McGrath was part of the Doncaster Rovers squad that won the Football League Third Division in 2004, the Weymouth side that won the Conference South in 2006, and the Burton Albion side that won the Conference Premier in 2009. McGrath made nearly 200 appearances in the football league.

In 2015, McGrath joined Mickleover Sports, a partnership that would last for nine years... In 2024, McGrath made the jump to the National League North to take charge at Buxton FC".

Boston United announce that "assistant manager Chris Doig has left his role at the Jakemans Community Stadium. The 45-year-old has linked up with EFL side Northampton Town as their new assistant manager - working under ex-Pilgrims' defender Chris Hogg, who is the new manager at Sixfields.

The Cobblers met the release clause within Chris' contract - and he departs with the club's thanks and best wishes for the future.

News on Paul Hurst's new assistant will be communicated in due course.

has "launched a major Supporter Survey, giving fans the opportunity to share their views and help shape the future direction of the Club.

The survey forms part of the Club’s commitment to strengthening engagement with supporters and ensuring fans play an active role in helping influence the future of Pools.

Supporters are invited to provide feedback across a wide range of areas including matchday experience, communication and media, ticketing, supporter engagement, retail, accessibility, community impact and the overall direction of the Club.

The survey has been designed to help the Club better understand supporter priorities, experiences and expectations as work continues across all areas of the Club ahead of the new season.

Rose Stoker, Commercial & Operations Director at Hartlepool United, said 'Since Landon Smith’s takeover of the Club earlier this year, there has been a real focus on strengthening the connection between Pools and its supporters, while ensuring fans feel listened to and involved in the future direction of the Club'".

Solihull Moors "can confirm three of our Pre-Season Friendlies:

• Knowle v Solihull Moors... Tuesday 7th July 2026
• Alvechurch v Solihull Moors... Saturday 11h July 2026
• Hereford v Solihull Moors... Saturday 25th July 2026

Southend United report that they "beat Wealdstone on penalties to win the Isuzu FA Trophy final at Wembley Stadium.

Following a goalless draw, some penalty shootout heroics from Collin Andeng Ndi, who saved two penalties, secured a dramatic 4-2 shootout win for the Shrimpers...

Neither side really looked like finding a late winner meaning, for the second time in the club’s history, a Wembley final would be decided by a penalty shootout.

As with our last penalty shootout, against Forest Green Rovers last season, Jack Bridge took first and the outcome was the same, emphatically thumping home his spot kick.

Wealdstone’s first taker Olufela Olomola was unable to repeat this thanks to an excellent stop from Andeng Ndi.

Joe Gubbins, another scorer against Forest Green, took next and calmly slotted into the bottom corner.

JACK HINCHY (ex-Alty loanee) then stepped up but once again Andeng Ndi was equal to it, parrying away to give the Shrimpers a perfect start to the shootout.

However, the Shrimpers failed to make it three from three with Baptiste denying Charley Kendall.

Wealdstone then followed this up with their first conversion thanks to Micah Obiero.

Harry Boyes then stepped up and scored to heap the pressure on Wealdstone’s next taker Connor McAvoy, but he was up to the challenge and scored.

This meant, just like at the New Lawn, Scott-Morriss had the chance to win a shootout for Southend, and that’s exactly what he did".

Southend's opponents, Wealdstone declared "What a journey it's been for Wealdstone; not just from The Vale to Wembley Stadium in physical terms, but the whole cup run that's caught the imagination and brought over 14,000 to the national stadium hoping the Stones could lift The Isuzu FA Trophy.

But they couldn't - defeated only on penalties after having arguably the lion's share of the best of the chances during a stalemate against Southend United, currently one of the biggest hitters in non-League football.

Gary Waddock, Wealdstone's manager who joined just in time to witness the spot-kicks success at Kidderminster in the quarter-finals of this competition, paid tribute to everyone connected to the club; a club it's clear has made a big impression on him already.

Said the Stones' boss with a wry smile after the game 'Our club - with the backing of our supporters, who were fantastic throughout the game - can be proud of itself. We've got a good club - and we showed that today. I can't thank anyone enough, really, for the support we've had as a group of players and staff...

'We've gone toe-to-toe with the biggest clubs in this division this season and everyone keeps telling us we're "little old Wealdstone". Well "little old Wealdstone" is doing alright, I reckon, even though it wasn't our day today...

'I love Wembley. I really [?love] Wembley...the problem is I've never won here!' lamented Waddock, who lost in an FA Cup Final as a young Queens Park Rangers player against Tottenham Hotspur...

Unprompted, the Stones' boss singled out the 14,000-plus Stones' supporters who gave their all too...

'It's unfortunate we couldn't have gone the other end with the penalty shootout as they might have helped us a little bit'".

19 May 2026

ANDY MORRISON, A FRIEND OF ALTY

It is a long road to recovery but two and a half months later, Morrison is looking and feeling much better when The Athletic visits him at his home in Cheshire.

He has begun to feel a slight movement above his right eye. Talking isn’t quite as exhausting as it was at first. He has been told to expect an incremental improvement in his facial muscles over the course of 12 months...

He only made 48 appearances for City, joining when the club was at its lowest ebb in late 1998... But those fans remember him as a cult hero for the impact he had at that time as they won promotion in a dramatic play-off final over Gillingham at Wembley. As manager Joe Royle later said, 'Big Andy dragged us up kicking and screaming'".

All associated with Altrincham will wish Andy a great improvement in his health over the coming months.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Whilst his brother Ron has been released by FC United of Manchester, GEZ SITHOLE has been retained by the club.

Elsewhere, we learn that TONY THOMPSON has joined Prescot Cables, following four seasons at Bootle.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"OUT OF CONTRACT PLAYERS TO BE ENGAGED IN NEGOTIATIONS: Corey Edwards, Kyron Gordon, Ian Henderson, Tyler Smith

OUT OF CONTRACT PLAYERS LEAVING THE CLUB: Tarryn Allarakhia, Aidan Barlow, Jake Burger, Manny Duku, Anthony Gomez-Mancini, Bryce Hosannah, Connor McBride, Tom Myles, Joe Pritchard, David Tutonda

LOAN PLAYERS RETURNING TO PARENT CLUBS: Archie Baptiste, John-Kymani Gordon, Callum Perry, Oliver Whatmuff

PLAYERS REMAINING UNDER CONTRACT: Tobi Adebayo-Rowling, Sam Beckwith, Bryant Bilongo, Mani Dieseruvwe, Ryan East, Ethan Ebanks-Landell, Ed Francis, Harvey Gilmour, Luke Hannant, LIAM HUMBLES, Dan Moss, Casey Pettit, Devante Rodney

Woking "would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Harry Beautyman following the decision not to renew his contract.

Harry has been a hugely important figure during his time with us, both on and off the pitch. Across two seasons, he made 90 appearances and scored 25 goals.

The new opportunity presented offers him and his family long-term stability both geographically and professionally. Whilst we’d love to have kept Harry for another year, the club is appreciative of everything he has given us over the last two years...

Director of Football Jody Brown said... 'we offered Harry a new contract. We made that decison based on what he brought as a captain and goalscoring midfielder. We also recognise how hard that will be to replace.

'We turned down a strong approach for Harry this time last year, and I’m glad we did... When he eventually finishes playing, he will be remembered as one of the best goalscoring midfielders to come out of the National League'".

The BBC confirms that "Aldershot Town have signed Malta international Basil Tuma from Reading.

The 21-year-old winger spent the second half of the 2025-26 season on loan at Slough Town, under the new Shots boss Scott Davies.

'Basil was arguably the best attacking player we had at Slough last season,' Davies told the Shots' official website.

'I know for a fact that, when he's on it, he will be one of the best forward players in the division'".

Tuma becomes the ninth player already signed by The Shots since the end of the 25/26 season.

18 May 2026

ALTY'S TOP SCORERS

This season Altrincham's top scorer in the National League was Jimmy Knowles, with eleven goals, one every 271 minutes.

The top scorers for Altrincham in the National League only, since the club returned to the top-flight of non-League football in 2020, have been as follows...

• 2020-21: Josh Hancock 12 goals in 2878 minutes; a goal every 240 mins
• 2021-22 Dan Mooney 12 in 2729 minutes; a goal every 227 mins
• 2022-23 Chris Conn-Clarke 9 in 2187 minutes; a goal every 243 mins
• 2023-24 Chris Conn-Clarke 23 in 3745 minutes; a goal every 163 mins
• 2024-25 Regan Linney 23 in 3091 minutes; a goal every 134 mins
• 2025-26 Jimmy Knowles [pictured, right] 11 in 2984 minutes; a goal every 271 mins.

In all competitions the top scorers per season were as follows...

• 2020-21: Josh Hancock 12 goals
• 2021-22: Dan Mooney 13 goals
• 2022-23: Jordan Hulme, Chris Conn-Clarke 10 goals
• 2023-24: Chris Conn-Clarke 23 goals
• 2024-25: Regan Linney 25 goals
• 2025-26: Jimmy Knowles 16 goals

In terms of the percentage of the team's total number of league goals in a season the figures are:

• 2020-21: Josh Hancock 26%
• 2021-22: Dan Mooney 19%
• 2022-23: Chris Conn-Clarke 13%
• 2023-24: Chris Conn-Clarke 27%
• 2024-25: Regan Linney 34%
• 2025-26: Jimmy Knowles 20%

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil also reports on a number former Altrincham players and loanees who are now playing outside England, or will be doing so next season...

USL Cup: Not for the first time this season, a single goal was Corpus Christi's undoing when they lost to visitors FC Tulsa (only 10 hours distant rather than Gene Pitney's 24). SAM ROSCOE picked up a late booking.

South Korea K League 2: MARCUS DACKERS (right) opened his account for Daegu at bottom club Gimhae - but he was a tad fortunate to do so. With the game still goalless he stepped up to take a penalty. The keeper stopped it, but Marcus was able to knock in the rebound. Gimhae equalised after 54 minutes, and Marcus was substituted 3 minutes later. His replacement, the 39 year old Brazilian Edgar, was among the scorers as Daegu took control, going on to win 1-4, and hang on to the lowest playoff spot.

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL only scored 1 goal during his 8 Altrincham appearances, but at Livingston he scored his second consecutive brace, and his 5th goal in 4 games, as Kilmarnock rounded off their season with a 1-4 win. When relegated Livingston start out in the Championship next season they will have TYRESE SINCLAIR to look to as they aim to bounce straight back.

French Ligue 1: MAXI OYEDELE was left on Strasbourg's bench in their final league game of the season. When they conceded a 55th minute own goal to put Monaco 1-4 ahead, few would have given them any chance of recovery, but they took the game by the scruff of the neck and earned a 5-4 win. However, having finished only 8th, they won't be involved in European competition next season.

Cricket: Switching from football to the sound of willow on leather we learn from Ian Wilkinson (Radio Alty commentator and the matchday tannoy announcer at the JDS) that NATHAN WATERSTON (left) played on Sunday for Cumbia's cricket XI as they faced Cheshire at Keswick.

Nathan scored 12 runs as the Cumbrians triumphed by six wickets in a match in the NCCA NV Play Trophy Group 1.

Barrow-born Nathan, a striker, joined Alty on a one-month loan in January 2019 from his hometown club and he made his Robins debut as a substitute at Leamington on 26 January 2019.

After progressing through Barrow's junior system, the Bluebirds signed him in March 2018. In his second appearance for Altrincham, again from the bench, at FC United of Manchester on 9 February 2019, Nathan was fouled in the closing minutes and suffered an ACL injury which terminated his loan and his season.

ISUZU FA TROPHY FINAL

Sunday, 17 May 2026

• Southend United 0-0 Wealdstone (Southend United won 4-2 on penalties)

ISUZU FA VASE FINAL

• AFC Stoneham 0-0 Cockfosters (AFC Stoneham, from Eastleigh in Hampshire, won 4-2 on penalties)

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

After the FA Vase Final had also gone to penalties following a nil-nil draw, the spectators who had been at the stadium for the entire day were almost rewarded with their first goal in the sixth minute when Harry Cardwell was slipped in by Gus Scott-Morriss and his shot across goal came back out off the base of the upright... before the game became a midfield battle with the Stones having the better half-chances...

At the break, Wealdstone manager Gary Waddock made a change to the team and formation with Junior Tiensia replacing Jack Cook before Andeng Ndi failed to hold on to a Tshikuna corner and it fell to Georgiou who lashed it over.

When the game went into injury time Andeng Ndi made up for [an earlier] error with a doubled fisted save from JACK HINCHY before his redemption was complete when he saved two penalties to leave Scott-Morriss to fire home.

Although it was tough on the Stones, they can hold their heads high for coming so close in a match that they could easily have won on another day".

17 May 2026

JOHN COYNE, NEW ROLE FOR A STABLE PRESENCE

Indeed, Companies House reported in June 2025 that there had been seven Board resignations at Altrincham AFC in the previous year

Those seven who left in that period were Lawrence Looney (15 May 2025), Scott Burton (15 May 2025), Mark Luby (21 January 2025), Neil Faulkner (13 January 2025), Rob Esteva (19 June 2024), Mark Chapman (24 May 2024), Christopher Parry (24 May 2024). In addition in February 2026, it was announced that Sam Mackenzie, whilst remaining on the Board, would relinquish her role as CEO at the end of the 25/26 sseason.

The resignation of Bill Waterson in August 2025 brought the total to eight departures whilst Antonio Albert Valdes's resignation made it nine (18 March 2026),

Altrincham FC has now published an extended interview with John (pictured, right)

In the interview, cinducted by Head of Communications Alex Birch, "Altrincham FC’s Director of Football Operations discusses the men’s first team, pre-season planning, the Elite Academy pathway and the wider football structure ahead of the new campaign... John has recently taken on the role of Director of Football Operations.

Having served on the club’s board for the past seven years across a variety of departments including academy development, commercial strategy, retail, licensing and digital operations, Coyne will now oversee football operations across the club’s men’s first team, academy and women’s structure...

'One of my first major projects was helping launch the Elite Academy back in 2019 alongside Lawrence Looney and Sara Newton, which was a huge piece of work at the time and something I’m still incredibly proud of today.

'Since then, I’ve worked across commercial operations, retail, licensing including the Puma partnership, digital infrastructure, wider strategy and a number of operational projects as the club has continued to grow...

'The role itself is not something completely new for the football club because we’ve had Directors of Football previously in different forms over the years... I oversee football operations across the entire club structure, so that includes the men’s first team, academy and women’s set up, alongside all of the operational and strategic work that sits around those departments...

'The role is really about ensuring all of those areas are aligned and moving in the same direction

ALTY OLD BOYS

The match was low on quality, and not helped by some questionable refereeing that got ROD THORNLEY'S brother Ben increasingly annoyed in the commentary box - in particular the booking of PADDY LACEY'S younger brother Shea for simulation after he'd been clearly fouled from behind.

In the end skipper SONNY ALJOFREE had the last chance to force extra time but was foiled by the keeper - unfortunately his weak challenge earlier was a contributory factor to the hosts scoring the game's only goal.

DERMOT MEE (above left) has made only 3 appearances for the side this season, and at 23 seems likely to be released next month.

NON-LEAGUE FINALS DAY

And what promises to be a packed day of action will begin with the Vase Final, when AFC Stoneham take on Cockfosters with that game kicking-off at 12.30pm BST.

The Trophy Final will follow on, when Southend United play Wealdstone with that game starting at 4.30pm BST...

This season, should either Final end in a draw after 90 minutes, there will be no extra time played and the tie will go straight to a penalty shootout".

FA Vase Final

• AFC Stoneham v Cockfosters

FA Trophy Final

• Southend United v Wealdstone

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A key player since first joining on loan in January 2023, from FA Trophy triumph, last minute winners and the best celebrations, he’s been here through it all".

The Shaymen, with equal brevity, also "confirm that Jo Cummings will leave the club upon the expiry of his contract.

A big player both on and off the pitch over the last three years, contributing to two consecutive playoff finishes".

New Hartlepool United "manager Lee Clark says he is 'absolutely delighted' to take charge of the Club and is determined to help drive the Club back towards the Football League...

'When the opportunity came to speak with the Club, I took it with both hands,' he said... 'This is a club I know really well. I’ve been here many times over the years and seen some great days. When the supporters get behind the team, it’s a terrific place to be..

'I want ridiculously fit footballers who can play with high intensity,' he explained. 'I want a team that presses, plays on the front foot and shows desire, togetherness and passion every single week...

'We demand pride in the shirt, hard work and commitment,' he said. 'I’ll be demanding that from the players every day because that’s what the fans deserve.'”

Scunthorpe United "will travel ever so slightly less miles completing their National League fixtures next season - just 42 fewer than in the last campaign in fact.

Last season, the team travelled 7,254 miles to complete their 23 regular away league games, but they will travel 7,212 to take on the sides in the National League Premier Division next season.

Last season, following promotion back non-regionalised football, United reintroduced trips to face teams over 200 miles away, and despite losing the longest trip of the season Truro City to their relegation, there are six opponents over that threshold in 2026-27, compared with last season’s five. There are also just five teams to face within a 100 mile radius of the Attis Arena, in comparison with the six there were last season following the promotion of York City and Rochdale back to the EFL.

Harrogate Town becomes the Iron’s shortest trip of the campaign at just 60 miles... The longest trip of the season will see the Iron head back to Yeovil Town, with that trip to Somerset a 532-mile round trip...

The 7,212 mile total expected to be travelled this season is the lowest the Iron will travel in three seasons of being at this level but is higher than any recent EFL mileage tallies".

Interestingly, whilst in League One, Scunthorpe consistently travelled fewer miles than they have since relegation to the National League. For example their last season in the EFL in 2021-22 required 6,662 miles of travel, whereas their their three subsequent seasons in the National League have all required more than 7,200 miles on the road.

WOking announce that "Season ticket sales for the 2026/27 season are off to a fantastic start, with more than 800 already sold and growing every day. Thank you for the incredible support...

The Club would also like to provide a brief update regarding the current temporary capacity restriction at the Laithwaite Community Stadium following recent discussions with the Trust and Supporter Liaison Group (SLG).

The Club has received its National League licence for the 2026/27 season and continues to work closely with both the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) and the National League...

Based on our ongoing dialogue with SAG and the progress being made, the Club remains confident that the current restriction will be lifted, and we look forward to welcoming supporters back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium for what promises to be an exciting 2026/27 Enterprise National League season.

Menawhile, Woking report that "both Timi Odusina and Roy Syla have committed their futures to the club, with Odusina signing a new two-year deal through to the summer of 2028, while Syla has extended his stay until 2027.

Timi first joined the club on loan in September 2023... He has gone on to play 82 times so far for the Cards. Roy was acquired back in January after impressing on trial, and has made 11 appearances so far.

Director of Football Jody Brown said, 'Timi, in terms of data, is one of the best ground defenders at this level. He rarely gets beaten in a dual or in a 1v1 situation, and his athleticism allows us to press high without a fear of the space behind. He’s got a great mentality, is competitive every day, wants to be on the pitch and wants to fight for the club and his teammates every day'...

'Roy came in and displayed great work ethic, personality and quality to earn his contract and eventual opportunity'".

16 May 2026

ALTY'S NEW CEO

Back in February, his former club Rochdale announced that they "confirm that Managing Director Andy Duff will step down from his role at the end of the 2025/26 campaign. Andy joined the club in the summer of 2024 as Director of Commercial Operations, before assuming the role of Managing Director in January 2025.

In that time, he has overseen significant progress off the pitch, including the introduction of new ticketing partner, Fanbase, enhancements to commercial and retail operations, and strengthened fan relationships.

Commenting on the news, Andy said 'My two seasons at Rochdale AFC have been a thoroughly enjoyable challenge. I appreciate the opportunity that Cameron and Simon gave me to help lead the club away from a difficult period and into a new era under the ownership of the Ogden Family.

'I am proud of the achievements and operational improvements we have delivered during my time, especially via the introduction of a new ticketing system, fan relationships, retail operations and all of our commercial and community engagement... I will continue to support the Board until the end of the season and during the recruitment process, before taking some time off with my family over the spring and summer months'"

ALTY OLD BOYS

League Two: Salford City will meet Notts County at Wembley in the final to decide who goes up to League One.

County were already 1-0 up on Chesterfield after their away first leg, and the Spireites gave a rare start to JAMES BERRY, although they substituted him after 72 minutes. They were actually the dominant side, but couldn't break through, the game ending goalless.

Salford were also ahead after their away leg at Grimsby Town, and a 53rd minute strike put them 3-1 ahead on aggregate. The Mariners brought JUSTIN AMALUZOR (right) off the bench after 62 minutes, and forced extra time with 2 goals in 4 minutes - but there was to be no happy ending, a 117th minute goal sending Salford through.

Irish Premier Division : Shelbourne were holding St.Patrick's 0-0 when the hosts withdrew BARRY BAGGLEY after 76 minutes. 6 minutes later the visitors scored the only goal of the game. St.Patrick's remain second, 3 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers, who lost by the same score at Dundalk.

A number of Alty Old Boys have been released by their clubs this week...

Macclesfield FC "announce the signing of midfielder GEORGE WILSON (left), following his departure from AFC Fylde!

Wilson played a pivotal role in the Coasters’ automatic promotion to the Enterprise National League this season, featuring in 41 of their 46 league games, grabbing three goals and recording three assists from his central position.

The 25 year-old was reluctantly released at the culmination of the 2025/26 campaign upon the expiry of his initial one year contract. The Silkmen immediately registered their interest in the midfielder, who was equally as quick to show a willingness to join Macc’s journey...

Wilson previously enjoyed a season long spell in the division above for local rivals Altrincham under Phil Parkinson, from which the Coasters snapped up Wilson. Prior to which he also played a starring role in Coalville’s 2022/23 Southern Premier Central season...

George is known to play in a more defensive midfield role by trade, though can play anywhere across the midfield as a stereotypical box-to-box style player, and in defence if required, with a versatile and composed approach to play".

Fleetwood Town announce that they have "made available for transfer TOBY MULLARKEY" whilst among those "players [who] will leave the Club upon the expiry of their contracts and have been made available on free transfers" is HARRISON HOLGATE".

And Rotherham United have released DUNCAN WATMORE.

Morecambe confirm that among plauers who "will depart the club upon the expiration of their contracts" is JOE NUTTALL.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The highly rated defender arrives at the EBB stadium following his development through the academy system at Reading FC. Michael made his senior debut at the age of 17 and went on to make over 30 appearances for The Royals. An energetic centre back, Michael arrives with valuable professional experience and plenty of room still to develop.

Michael spent the latter stages of the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Farnborough FC, making 14 appearances... A local lad, Michael grew up supporting Aldershot... <> Scott Davies said 'Signing ‘Stickers’ I’m sure will go down well with the fans. A local boy, a 10 minute walk away from the ground and someone who watched the club as a youngster. He joins with great experience for someone who is only 22 years of age. To secure his signature will be a huge coup for the football club. A real leader'.

Also at Aldershot Town, "the club would like to welcome Kevin Watson to the coaching team for the upcoming season.

Aside from his coaching career, Kevin saw plenty of success as a player for the likes of, Tottenham, Swindon, Colchester and Luton, where he transitioned into a player-coaching role. His longest spell was at Colchester, where he played over 150 games and recorded 27 goal contributions.

Scott Davies said 'Kev Watson has joined the management team as first team coach. Yet again, Kev will be a fantastic addition for myself and the group of staff and players. He’s managed at the level before when at Ebbsfleet, and been at various other clubs too. He will be playing an important role working alongside Mark Jones in the bulk of the day-to-day coaching'".

The Sun reports that relegated "Braintree Town have been placed under a transfer embargo by the National League for failing to pay players’ wages.

The club is currently up for sale amid ongoing financial issues...

They lost four of their last five games to finish second bottom in England‘s fifth tier and were relegated in the process.

One would think that will confine them to the National League South next season, but they won’t be able to rebuild this summer until the transfer embargo is lifted.

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

Crucially, more bad news could follow for the club. As the league rules state, an embargo is separate and without prejudice to any other penalties that the League may impose against the club, including for financial breaches.

So points deductions or fines may indeed follow".

15 May 2026

ALTY APPOINT CEO

"Andy, who has a huge depth of experience in marketing and commercial operation, joins us fresh from a highly-successful two-year spell as Managing Director at Rochdale AFC...

Previously, he was a senior figure in Everton's community operations, and, prior to that, he led and managed all aspects of Wrexham's commercial activities, reporting directly to their CEO and the Board throughout 2022...

Andy's marketing skills were honed with the likes of global brands Kellogg's and Walt Disney before setting up a marketing agency in the North West, based at Station House in Altrincham for over five years.

He completed an Executive MBA in Manchester 'CEO of a Sports Organisation' which is designed to equip senior leaders with skills in governance, finance and strategic leadership before branching out into football...

Chairman Mark Luby, who said 'It is a great coup for us to have a man of his experience joining us, when you look at some of the clubs he has worked for, and I am really delighted to welcome him to Altrincham. I am looking forward to working with him in the future and to continue taking the club forward'...

Andy's start date of June 1st, in just over a fortnight, could hardly be better timed... He said 'There is already a really strong foundation in place thanks to the work of Sam [Mackenzie] and everyone connected with the club over recent years, and I’m looking forward to building on that alongside the Board, staff, supporters and volunteers.

'Altrincham is a club with huge potential both on and off the pitch. The ambition here is clear, but just as importantly there is a genuine community feel and togetherness around the football club that really stood out to me'"

THE DEPARTED PLAYERS

The odds on team captain LEWIS BAINES being one of those five would have been very much against that eventuality as late as New Year 2026. Baines, who had missed the first six league games through injury, started seven of the next ten league fixtures at which point Phil Parkinson was replaced as manager by Neil Gibson.

The new manager seemed to regard Baines as an integral part of his plans as he played all but one minute of Gibson's first nine games in charge in the National League. Yet Baines was never again to feature in an Altrincham squad after being an unused sub in the match at home to York City on 30 December 2025.

Baines was subsequently loaned out to NL rivals Solihull Moors and, from late February 2026, he was a virtual ever-present for the Midlands club albeit only tasting victory once in his 9(+2) National League appearances.

Above, left to right: Lewis Baines, Lucas Edwards, Billy Sass-Davies, Sam Reed and Yassine Toure.

Four of the five released players are defenders. Academy graduate LUCAS EDWARDS is one of the five and he was not included in any league squads for the club, spending much of the season on loan at Irlam.

Central defender BILLY SASS-DAVIES, signed in summer 2025 after leaving Hartlepool United, also never played for Alty in the National League, or indeed in any competition in 25/26, due to injury. He was named in the final match of the season against Gateshead but was only an unused substitute. However, he had made 5(+4) appearances in a previous spell on loan at Altrincham.

Injury also blighted former Sheffield Wednesday defender SAM REED's season with 11(+12) appearances being his season's total for Altrincham.

The fifth released player was forward YASSINE TOURE who, like Edwards, never featured in an Altrincham league squad. The youngster spent most of the campaign on loan at Vauxhall Motors.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Off the pitch, as clubs issue their retained lists, MARCUS DINANGA has been rwleased by Bromley and TYRESE SINCLAIR has joined Scottish club Livingston after his release by York City.

NW NEWS

"The FA Leagues Committee have confirmed the League Allocations for the 2026/27 season, with the teams now provisionally known for the Premier Division, First Division North and First Division South.

It's quite a change from last season so make sure you have made a brew before reading the below!!

Withdrawal from NWCFL: Before we look at the makeup of each division, there are a couple of Premier Division clubs that will not be in the NWCFL next season whose departure from the league is not related to promotion or relegation.

City of Liverpool have been unable to agree a groundshare in time for the 2026/27 season, and will therefore be placed in Step 7 for the forthcoming season...

Stockport Town have withdrawn from the league. This news was released last night, with the resignation due to their "consideration of the long-term future and its ability to compete at Step 5 of the National League System". You can read more about that in our News Section or by clicking here.

Premier Division: The big news in the Premier Division is that we will be running with a 20 team division, down from the 24 we have had for the last three seasons. The FA have long stated its intention is to have 20 teams in the 16 Step 5 divisions across the country as part of the 'perfect pyramid', and they look to be going back to this.

As known, Wythenshawe and Padiham both return to the Northern Premier League Division One West as Champions and Promotion Winners respectively. City of Liverpool and Litherland REMYCA finished the season in the relegation spots.

There has also been a some lateral movement of clubs to reduce the number of teams to 20, with Cheadle Town and West Didsbury & Chorlton both moving to the Midland League Premier Division...

Trafford rejoin the league after being relegated from the Northern Premier League last season...

Above: Altrincham warm up at Trafford FC's Shawe View ground for a pre-season friendly in July 2019.

Promoted from the First Division North are Nelson and Droylsden who have both been placed in the Premier Division...

As well as Cheadle Town and West Didsbury & Chorlton, there will also be a few more familiar names departing the league and playing in the Midland League Premier Division next season. Wythenshawe Town, who were relegated from the Northern Premier League last season, have been laterally moved, along with First Division South Champions Runcorn Town and PlayOff Winners Stockport Georgians.

Runcorn depart after being with us since the 2010/11 season, and have returned to Step 5 after a four year stay in our First Divisions...

First Division North: The main talking point from the First Division North is that it has increased in size from 18 clubs to 22 clubs!

As mentioned above Nelson and Droylsden were promoted. We also say goodbye to Maine Road, who have been relegated from the NWCFL after finishing bottom of the division. Their Points per Game average of 0.62 was amongst the lowest across Step 6, therefore they will be playing at Step 7 next season. Their new league will be announced at a later date when the Football Association announce the makeup of the Step 7 leagues...

Ashton Athletic and Garstang, who also finished in the relegation spots, have been reprieved thanks to their Points per Game average (both 0.82) so will remain in the First Division North next season.

Litherland REMYCA have dropped into the First Division North after relegation... The reason for the 22 clubs in this division is that we welcome six new clubs to the division. Two are lateral movements from the First Division South, three are promotions from the County Feeder Leagues with one club being placed with us.

Right: Alty's Joe O'Neill (front) and Peter Thomson (background) are seen in action at Cammell Laird's ground in 2006.

Moved laterally to the First Division North are Ashville and Cammell Laird 1907... Promoted to us from the Liverpool County Premier League are Halewood Apollo. They are still playing their season, and are currently in sixth place, two points off the top five but with three games in hand. Presumably they need a top five finish to secure promotion - certainly an incentive! Halewood play at Volair Halewood, situated midway between Runcorn Town and South Liverpool.

Promoted to us from the Manchester Football League are Uppermill. They finished in second position in their league this season behind Dukinfield... Uppermill is a village to the east of Oldham heading towards Saddleworth Moor, around seven miles from Chadderton, however they currently share grounds with NPL West side Mossley.

Promoted to us from the West Cheshire League are AFC Knowsley... The club that have been placed with us in the North is Flixton.

Flixton return to the league after being with us from 1986/87... and resigning from the Premier Division at the end of the 2011/12 season. Now under new ownership, their facilities at Valley Road have undergone a major makeover with brand new pitch, perimeter fencing, stand and clubhouse. Flixton is less than two miles away from Trafford who will be rejoining the Premier Division.

First Division South

Like the North, the First Division South has increased in numbers and will run with 20 clubs. As mentioned above Runcorn Town and Stockport Georgians have been promoted to the Midland League. We lost Wolverhampton Sporting Community midway through the season after they withdrew from the league.

We also say goodbye to Haughmond, who have been relegated from the NWCFL... Market Drayton Town, who also finished in the relegation spots in the third from bottom spot, have been reprieved thanks to their Points per Game average of 0.79 so will remain in the First Division South next season.

Unlike the First Division North, no team is being relegated to the South from the Premier Division. However we get to 20 clubs by welcoming seven new clubs to the league. Three are lateral movements from the Midland League First Division, with three being promotions from the County Feeder Leagues and one new club.

Moved laterally to the First Division South are AFC Bridgnorth, Bilston Town and Wednesfield Community... Promoted to us from the Cheshire League are Crewe.... Promoted to us from the Staffordshire County League are Brereton Social... a village just south of Rugeley. This is around ten miles south east from Stafford Town.

Promoted to us from the Salop Leisure League (Shropshire County League) are Dawley Town.... The club that have been placed with us in the South is Widnes Town. They have risen from the ashes of Widnes who spent five seasons with us from 2013/14 to 2018/19 when they were promoted to the NPL. They won the NPL West in 2024/25 but folded before taking their place in Step 3. The new club will be playing at the Halton Stadium in Widnes, but we hear they will have to spend most of next season at an alternative ground as the pitch at the Stadium is apparently getting re-laid at the end of the Rugby League season.

All allocations are subject to appeals; the constitution will be ratified at the League AGM on 20 June 2026. The full initial allocations for the NWCFL can be seen below".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Former Pools captain Gary Liddle will remain part of the First Team coaching staff, while Chris Beech has been appointed Head of Recruitment. An additional assisting First Team coach will be announced in due course following the conclusion of current season commitments.

The appointments follow an extensive review of the Club’s football operations carried out by Bromby & Partners, who were appointed in March to support the development and transition of the football structure ahead of the 2026/27 season.

A highly experienced manager and former Premier League midfielder, Clark joins Hartlepool United with more than 15 years of managerial and coaching experience across the English Football League, Scottish Premiership, Middle East and Africa...

A UEFA Pro Licence holder, the Wallsend-born manager has previously led Huddersfield Town, Birmingham City, Blackpool and Kilmarnock...

Most recently, Clark returned to English football with Rotherham United following managerial spells overseas with Al-Merrikh and Al-Ittihad.

Lee Clark, First Team Head Coach at Hartlepool United said... 'We want a team that competes with intensity, plays with purpose and understands the responsibility that comes with representing this Football Club. Standards are hugely important and we want players who demand the best from themselves and each other every day'">

Walton & Hersham, who have won promotion to play in the National South division next season, were managed until November 2025 by current Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley who moved on to the Somerset club in November 2025.

On Thursday, the Surrey club issued a statement in which they "confirm that the club has submitted a formal complaint to The Football Association regarding the conduct of Mr Billy Rowley, currently First Team Manager at Yeovil Town FC on Tuesday 28th April 2026.

This complaint follows a series of incidents that have caused significant concern to the club’s ownership and management team. These concerns include repeated approaches and engagement with Walton & Hersham FC contracted players without the club’s knowledge or consent, conduct which we believe has undermined player retention and contractual discussions.

The complaint also details concerns surrounding Mr Rowley’s attendance at the club’s end-of-season staff event, accompanied by Yeovil Town FC’s Head of Recruitment, where interactions with contracted Walton & Hersham FC players took place despite clear indications that their presence was not welcomed by club ownership.

In addition, our complaint outlines concerns regarding inappropriate correspondence sent directly to club ownership, including the use of profane and threatening language, as well as further disparaging remarks allegedly made publicly about Walton & Hersham FC, its ownership and its officials.

We believe Billy has made repeated attempts to influence contracted players regarding their futures, contributing to unnecessary instability within the club. This has been confirmed by Yeovil Town FC contacting us today, acknowledging that they’ve made a formal offer towards Mason Obeng after he rejected our offer.

Walton & Hersham FC has provided The Football Association with a full account of these matters and has offered supporting evidence, including statements and material evidencing the conduct referenced in our complaint.

While we had hoped these concerns would be addressed with the seriousness they warrant through the appropriate private channels, the lack of meaningful action or acknowledgement has left us with no alternative but to make our position public".

Eastleigh "announce the appointment of Matt Gray as our new First Team Manager... Gray was previously at the club as assistant manager between 2007 and 2011.

Following his time with the Spitfires, Gray would then go on to have assistant manager positions at Aldershot Town and Crawley Town before joining the coaching staff at Sutton United in 2018... Gray was given the role on a permanent basis ahead of the 2019/20 National League campaign... In his second season in charge, he took Sutton United to the EFL for the first time in the club’s history ...

In their first season in League Two, Sutton would finish just one point outside of the play-off places... His time at Sutton United would come to an end in 2023. Following an 18 month break from management, he had a brief spell with Eastbourne Borough at the start of last season.

Gray will be joined at the Silverlake Stadium by Jason Goodliffe, who has been assistant manager to Gray for over 200 games. He joined Gray at both Sutton United and Eastbourne Borough...

Gray said... 'This is a proper football club, and it is one with excellent off-the-pitch facilities; hopefully we will be able to match that with performances on the pitch!'”

14 May 2026

JUST SIX CURRENTLY CONTRACTED

Thirteen other players are in discussions with the club regarding a new contract.

"Confirmation of our retained and released list" came from Altrincham FC on Thursday morning.

Above: The six players whose contracts already extend into 2026-27 season, left to right we see Kian Breckin, Anthony Forde, Otis Khan, Charlie Olson, Kahrel Reddin and Lucas Weaver.

The statement :

"Under Contract for 2026/27: Kian Breckin (0+1 league appearances), Anthony Forde (4+5), Otis Khan (7+2), Charlie Olson (0), Kahrel Reddin (26+10) and Lucas Weaver (8+22)

Club Option Exercised for 2026/27: Louie Fallon (2+1), Jimmy Knowles (34+11) and Remi Raymond (0+2).

We're say[ing] goodbye and thank you to a player who’s had a big impact on the football club since his arrival four years ago...

Lewis Baines joined the Robins from Chorley in the summer of 2022 and played 150 games in his four seasons at The J.Davidson Stadium. A hugely important player during the club’s run to the playoffs in 2023/24, Manager’s Player of the Year and captain for 18 months thereafter, the central defender finished the 2025/26 season on loan at Solihull Moors."

ALTY SEASON TICKETS

The price for a physical season ticket card has gone up 100% to £10.

The savings figure quoted in the image issued by the club is the amount for an early bird purchase compared with paying £23 at the turnstile for each of the season's 23 league fixtures.

The price to be paid for a season ticket after the Early Bird offer window closes is unknown.

The club adds the following details...

✅ "What’s Included:

• Entry to all 23 National League home matches
• Priority access to FA Cup, FA Trophy, and play-off tickets
• Save up to 9 matches’ worth compared to matchday pricing
• 10% discount in-store and online at Alty retail
• 10% off stadium room hire
• Partner perks from local businesses
• Digital season ticket delivered instantly via email
• Option to add a physical card for £10

Early Bird pricing available until: 11:59pm on Sunday, 7th June 2026

Physical card (if selected): Order by Monday, July 13th

Pick-up only, from Monday, August 3rd

Default delivery: Season tickets are digital by default and will be emailed immediately after checkout.

Add the "Physical Card" option to your basket if you'd like a printed version, which can then be picked up from early August at The J.Davidson Stadium (cards will not be posted out).".

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : CARL PIERGIANNI captained Stevenage at Edgeley Park, but, facing an uphill task after losing their home leg, they went down 2-0 (3-0 on aggregate).

Right: Mikey Stone

Off the field, Macclesfield FC's retained list includes the following references to former Altrincham players or loanees:

• Players under contract for the 2026/27 season: ELLIOT OSBORNE
• Club remains in discussion with the following players: JAMES GALE, SAM HEATHCOTE
• Players out of contract / released: DANNY WHITEHEAD, DONTAI GABIDON, REGAN GRIFFITHS, MIKEY STONE

In addition loanee KACPER PASIEK has returned to his parent club, Preston North End.

ISUZU FA TROPHY

The FA reports that "Non-League Finals Day 2026 on Sunday 17 May will be broadcast exclusively live on TNT Sports, bringing two of the lower-league game’s showpiece events to football fans nationwide.

AFC Stoneham meet Cockfosters in the Isuzu FA Vase Final, kicking off at 12:30pm BST. The match will be shown live on TNT Sports 5 and HBO Max.

Later in the afternoon, Southend United face Wealdstone in the Isuzu FA Trophy Final at 4:30pm BST, live on TNT Sports 4 and HBO Max."

The BBC reports that "Southend United captain Nathan Ralph believes last season's play-off disappointment at Wembley will provide extra inspiration when they return to the stadium for Sunday's FA Trophy final.

The Shrimpers will be seeking the first major cup success in their history against Wealdstone on Sunday, having lost three times in the final of the EFL Trophy... They were also beaten 3-2 by Oldham Athletic after extra-time in the 2025 National League final and this season only got as far as the semi-finals...

Changes continue at Roots Hall with chief executive Tom Lawrence and first-team coach Jason Demetriou set to leave the club following the game as part of a summer restructure, which will also see the departure of some of head coach Kevin Maher's squad.

'The fact that it might be the last time (for some of us), we want to go out on a high and make sure it's a special day,' said Ralph, who has been with the club for seven years. The 33-year-old has only played once... since knee surgery in February...

Ralph said losing 1-0 to Scunthorpe United in the play-offs, after winning three of their last four places to finish sixth in the table, had been tough to take. 'We had a few days off after that, it was important to get it our of our system... We've got a new goal now, the boys are all on the same page and we're focusing towards that'.

As of Tuesday, Southend have sold 22,000 tickets for Wembley, a game which pits them against the same opponents who beat them 1-0 in the first round of this season's FA Cup".

Meanwhile, The Irish World reports that "Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Gary Waddock leads Wealdstone to Wembley on Sunday in the FA Trophy final against Southend United, with some unfinished business to settle...

For Wealdstone... 2026 marks the 60th anniversary of the club’s FA Amateur Cup triumph at Wembley, when they defeated Hendon 3-1.

It’s also 41 years since Wealdstone’s only previous FA Trophy success, when they beat Boston United 2-1 at Wembley, with a young Vince ‘Vinnie’ Jones in their squad...

Waddock told the media... 'It’s every kid’s dream to go to Wembley and I mentioned that to the players throughout the week [leading up to the semi-final]. But for me, as a local lad, going back to Wembley as a manager of this football club I’m delighted.'

For Waddock, Sunday is perhaps the chance to settle a few very old scores at a ground, within sight of which he grew up, in Alperton. His visits there with Queens Park Rangers, Ireland and Walsall would make victory with Wealdstone a moment as special as it is overdue".

NW NEWS

'After careful consideration of Stockport Town FC’s long-term future and its ability to compete at Step 5 of the National League System, the Board has taken the difficult decision to resign from the North West Counties Football League for the 2026/27 season.

'The Board would like to thank all staff, players, volunteers, supporters, and everyone who has represented the club since its inception in 2014 for their contribution, dedication, and support over the years'...

Stockport joined the NWCFL at the start of the 2015/16 season in the First Division...

The league split after their third season with Stockport put in the First Division South, with the club finishing in 10th or 11th place for a number of years. This was until the 2022/23 season when they finished second behind Wythenshawe after dropping points in two of their last four games. They lost in the Play Of Semi Finals to Cheadle Town.

The following season they again finished second, this time reaching the Play Of Final, but their jinx continued as they lost to Abbey Hey on penalties. Despite this, with vacancies at Step 5 due to teams dropping out across the country, Stockport were then promoted to the Premier Division as one of the losing Play Off finalists with the best Points Per Game record.

Last season was their first in the Premier Division which saw them finish in tenth place. This season they continued to establish themselves firmly as a Premier Division team with a 12th place finish".

Footnote: Stockport Town grew out of the Woodley Sports Football Club.

13 May 2026

PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY

These include: "18/07 - Altrincham (h)"

It is believed that this may be an Altrincham FC Academy rather than first-team fixture.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish Premiership: Kilmarnock were completely in charge in their home game against Dundee, but only got their noses in front just after the hour. Dundee had only managed a single shot on target, but were level after 77 minutes when Tom Lowery put through his own goal. However Killie were not to be denied, and when they won a penalty in the 85th minute it was converted by JOE HUGILL to put them 2-1 ahead, and he struck again in the 94th minute to earn a 3-1 win - although that was followed by him pulling off his shirt. The inevitable yellow card rounded things off.

THE GREAT NL MANAGERS' HANDICAP: THEY'RE OFF!

In fact, it was less than two weeks ago, on 30 April 2026, that Adam Lakeland became the last incumbent to leave his job as a National League manager in the 2025-26 season. Indeed, there was a perfect symmetry about that departure as Lakeland had been the first manager of the 2025 close season to be appointed to a NL club, when he replaced Chris Millington at FC Halifax Town on 14 June 2025.

Millington had departed from The Shay on 27 May 2025 becoming the first summer departure that year.

Less than a year later on 12 May 2026, we already have our first National League* managerial departure of the summer of 2026 as Kidderminster Harriers, only promoted to the National League last weekend through the play-offs, announce that "Harriers can reluctantly confirm that Adam Murray is to leave his position as Manager following an approach from another club.

* Technically Kidderminster's promotion will not be confimed until the National League AGM which takes place later this summer.

Shortly after the weekend’s final, a club presently in the EFL met a release clause within Adam’s contract to discuss their vacancy, which Adam has expressed a desire to pursue.

We understand the timing of this announcement will come as a disappointment to fans following Saturday’s promotion.

Chairman Richard Lane commented 'Adam has been very open and honest with me since the weekend. While he was a year into a two-year contract and a project with us here, I fully respect that, given the overall financial package on offer, he feels it is an opportunity for him and his family that he cannot turn down.

'While the timing is unfortunate following such a fantastic end to the season, I am sure we all wish Adam nothing but the best for his future... Our focus now is on moving quickly with a managerial appointment that will lead us into a new chapter in our history after promotion'".

Later, Barrow confirmed "the appointment of Adam Murray as new First-Team Manager on a deal until the summer of 2028... ahead of the club's 125th anniversary season. Chairman Paul Hornby spoke of his delight of securing Adam’s services... 'We as the board identified Adam as a target early due to his track record, current performances, and philosophy.

'We had to bide our time, due to his success with Kidderminster this season which extended into the post-season games but are really pleased to be able to have him on board. He’s a young, hungry manager but already has a whole range of experiences in England and in Europe including two promotions into the National League in the last four years'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

It was the second promotion of his career after guiding AFC Fylde into the National League as champions in 2022-23.

'This is deeper and it's an emotional one for me because of the journey of the season,' he told BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester. 'It still rings in my ears - Bedford at home - when [I heard] I'm getting "sacked in the morning" and that hurt me.'

He said his faith in God helped him through it, adding 'I took some really vicious personal messages on social media. It was tough at times but I've always believed in myself.'"

The most active National League club this summer in terms of new signings this summer is Aldershot Town who "are excited to announce the signing of Michee Efete.

Michee becomes Scott Davies 6th signing ahead of the 26/27 season, joining the club after recently playing at Yeovil Town!

Throughout his career, the 29-year-old has enjoyed lengthy spells at Ross County, Grimsby Town and Norwich City where he began his career. Michee has also experienced playing overseas with a loan spell with Breidablik Kopavogur in Iceland...

Operating primarily as a right back, Michee brings pace and a strong work rate down the flank... He joins the Shots... having been a regular part of the Grimsby side that secured promotion to League Two in 2022 via the play-offs".

Earlier, Aldershot Town announced "the signing of Kwaku Frimpong.

The midfielder joins the Shots from Worthing FC after making 29 appearances for them in the 25/26 National League South season. The 23 year old is yet to feature in the Enterprise National League and will relish the chance to impress the Shots fans. ...

Hailing from Cardiff in Wales, Kwaku signed his first contract for AFC Wimbledon in 2021 [where he]... made 4 first team appearances for the club...

Providing pace and power in the midfield, Kwaku will be a solid addition to the squad... Scott Davies has this to say about our newest recruit 'Kwaku is ... someone that fits the bill of what we are looking for in a central midfielder. He’s dynamic, aggressive and can drive with the ball to open up the opposition.

He’s someone that I’ve tried to sign for the past three summers, so to finally get him is extremely pleasing'".

Boston United "have completed their first signing of the summer after capturing the signature of experienced midfielder Gavan Holohan. The 34-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a one-year contract at the Jakemans Community Stadium after leaving National League rivals Hartlepool United.

Holohan has previously played under Paul Hurst and Chris Doig at Grimsby Town – and won the National League promotion final in 2022, having done the same with Hartlepool the year before".

Boreham Wood "announce that long-serving First Team Manager Luke Garrard has put pen to paper on a three-year contract extension at the Mangata Developments Stadium Meadow Park!

Following his return to Meadow Park in September 2024, Luke transformed our fortunes after a turbulent start to life in the National League South. Under his leadership, the team’s results quickly improved and ultimately secured an immediate return to the National League through a thrilling play-off campaign...

Back in the National League for the 2025/26 season, Luke guided the Wood into contention for promotion to the EFL while also overseeing another memorable FA Cup run... The 2025/26 season also saw Garrard’s side lift the National League Cup after defeating West Ham United U21...

Luke’s side ended the 2025/26 National League campaign with a club-record 90 points and a fourth-place finish... to reach the Promotion Final at Wembley against Rochdale. Despite the heartbreak, Garrard’s three-year contract extension ensures the Club can continue building on an exceptional foundation ahead of next season...

Chairman Danny Hunter added... 'Yesterday’s late defeat at Wembley was cruel, but it happens. We have no complaints and we wish Rochdale the very best of luck in the EFL. That said, we’re hungry to join them and we hope next season – if we work hard – it’ll be our turn. To do that, you need a great manager, great infrastructure, great staff, great players, and a competitive budget. I feel that we’ve got all five of those ingredients'".

"It’s a new season for the Vegan Society’s partnership with Forest Green Rovers... After a brilliant first year as partners the club will continue its collaboration with the Vegan Trademark, the world’s largest vegan certification scheme.

Once again, the club’s training shirts will carry the logo of the society's Vegan Trademark... The partnership between Forest Green Rovers and the world's oldest vegan charity... began more than eight years ago when the club’s menu was first certified by the Vegan Trademark.

Forest Green Rovers is the only football club in the world to have achieved Vegan Trademark certification... Additionally, the club’s kit tops are all certified by the Vegan Trademark...

On the partnership, Forest Green Rovers CEO Dane Vince, said... 'This Partnership will help the club to innovate, increase our crowds and impact and continue to support our journey in sustainability.'"

12 May 2026

AFTER JUST 5 YEARS...

It is less than five years since 29 May 2021 when Altrincham completed their first season (2020-21) back in the National League, following their relegation in 2016.

But, in that short period, only Altrincham and five of their 22 opponents that season (2020-21) have remained in the National League without ever being promoted or finishing in a relegation place.

In 2020-21, 23 teams started the season, but only 22 finished it as Dover Athletic failed to complete their fixtures.

Five other clubs who competed that season are now playing at a higher level, in the EFL (Notts County, Chesterfield, Bromley, Wrexham and Barnet), whilst two more were also promoted to the EFL but have since returned to the National League (Sutton United and Hartlepool United).

Incidentally, Barnet should actually have been relegated in 2021 after finishing rock bottom of the National League but were reprieved by Covid measures and succeeded in gaining promotion four seasons later!

In contrast to the promoted clubs there are six clubs who were part of the National League in 2020-21 who are now playing at a lower level in the non-League pyramid (Torquay United, Dagenham & Redbridge, Maidenhead United, Weymouth, King's Lynn Town and Dover Athletic).

Curiously all six of those relegated clubs are southern clubs (although King's Lynn have in recent years been shoe-horned into National North).

So, apart from the two yo-yo sides (Hartlepool United and Sutton United), just nine of the 23 NL teams in 2020-21 find themselves at the same level of foottball at the end of the 2025-26 season. They are Eastleigh, FC Halifax Town, Solihull Moors, Boreham Wood, Aldershot Town, Yeovil Town, Altrincham, Wealdstone and Woking.

But amongst those nine, since 2021, both Boreham Wood and Yeovil Town have been relegated from the National League but have come back up, leaving only seven clubs who have been ever-present in the National League since 2020-21.

In terms of current longevity those seven clubs have been in the top-flight of non-league since the following year; Woking (2012), Aldershot Town (2013), FC Halifax Town (2013), Eastleigh (2014), Solihull Moors (2016), Altrincham (2020) and Wealdstone (2020. Woking should actually have been relegated in 2021 but COVID measures precluded relegation so just the other six have never finished in the relegation places nor been promoted.

However, all six of the above clubs, except Wealdstone, have competed at least once in the promotion play-offs between 2021 and 2025!

Historically, Altrincham remain the club to have enjoyed most seasons at this level with 2026-27 being their 34th at the top level of non-league, three more seasons than second-placed Woking.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Tony has been a fantastic servant to the club over two and a half seasons, making an outstanding 119 appearances in Bootle colours. A big character both on and off the pitch, he quickly became a key figure around the club and a hugely respected presence within the dressing room.

His contribution during our 2023/24 play-off charge was instrumental, playing a vital role in one of the club’s most memorable campaigns in recent years. Tony’s commitment, leadership, and passion for the shirt never went unnoticed, and he leaves having made a lasting impact on teammates, staff, and supporters alike.

We thank Tony for everything he has given to Bootle FC and wish him all the very best for the future, both in football and beyond. He will always be welcome back at the Bucks.

And in NPL Division 1 East: BRUNO ANDRADE had slipped off the radar after his ignominious dismissal from Rushden and Diamonds. Regular readers may remember that he was sent off for fighting with team mate Tyler Winters at the end of March.

It now transpires that he signed for Matlock Town only a few days later, making 2 substitute appearances, and scoring 1 goal. However, he was released by the Gladiators, who, having lost their playoff semi final at home to Bradford Park Avenue, appointed a new manager, and only retained 3 of their squad - this despite having finished second in the regular season.

However, their first "new" signing has been announced. JONNY MARGETTS returns to the club from Gainsborough Trinity, for whom he was last season's leading scorer with 11 goals. He will be hoping to rekindle the form that saw him score 33 goals in 28 appearances in 2023/4.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Players confirmed for the 2026/27 season [18]: Ollie Banks, Hiram Boateng, Ben Brookes, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Ryan Fallowfield, Joe Felix, Joe Grey, Craig Hewitt, Alex Hunt, JEFF KING, Mark Kitching, ALEX NEWBY, Greg Olley, Ash Palmer, Ollie Pearce, Josh Stones, Morgan Williams, Mark Shelton

Extension Triggered: Greg Olley

New Contracts Agreed: Ryan Fallowfield

Players joining the club from the 1st July: Mark Shelton

Contract offers: Callum HoweGeorge Sykes-KenworthyBen FarrarEthan StiverPaddy McLaughlin (non-playing role)

Season still in play: Ashley Nathaniel-George

Loan players returning: Zak Johnson

Players leaving the club upon the expiry of their contracts: Ricky AguiarDan BattyTyler CordnerLeone GravataCam JohnHarrison MaleDarragh O’ConnorTyrese SinclairRory WatsonMo Fadera

Playing contracts expired:

Paddy McLaughlin

Dan Batty will be leaving the Minstermen this summer at the completion of his contract... Harrison Male will also depart this summer...

Rory Watson and TYRESE SINCLAIR both depart having played key roles in the clubs recent success.

Cam John and Ricky Aguiar both played big parts in the clubs play off run last season... Tyler Cordner, Leone Gravata, Mo Fadera, and Darragh O’Connor will all depart as well this summer"

11 May 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL

• Rochdale 2-2 Boreham Wood (aet, Rochdale won 3-1 on pens)

The BBC reports that "Rochdale ensured promotion back to the English Football League on penalties after a dramatic National League promotion final against Boreham Wood at Wembley...

Mani Dieseruvwe headed an equaliser in the 97th minute as Dale came from 2-0 down with 13 minutes remaining to force extra-time and on-loan Manchester City goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff was the hero with two saves as they prevailed 3-1 on spot-kicks.

Wood were within seconds of reaching the EFL for the first time in their 78-year history, despite having been beaten home and away by Dale during the regular season and finishing 16 points behind Jimmy McNulty's side.

Fleet-footed Abdul Abdulmalik was the star for the Hertfordshire side, who only came back up via the National League South play-offs 12 months ago, teeing up the opening goal for Matt Rush midway through the first half before curling home through a crowd from a corner halfway through the second period.

Dale sub Tyler Smith set up a grandstand finale with a cool finish as a huge Whatmuff clearance broke to him off Dieseruvwe, who then popped up to head home Casey Pettit's last-gasp cross to keep Dale's dream alive.

Whatmuff was the hero in the shootout, blocking Callum Reynolds' spot-kick and making a stunning one-handed save from Matt Rush before Cameron Coxe hit the underside of the bar with Wood's fourth penalty to spark Dale celebrations".

NL COMPOSITION CONFIRMED

Whilst the clubs promoted from National North, AFC Fylde and Kidderminster Harriers, are familiar foes, both of the National South clubs to win promotion, Sussex club Worthing and Hornchurch, from Essex, will be new opposition for Altrincham next season.

The other clubs joining the National League next season are the relegated northern duo of Barrow and Harrogate Town.

NATIONAL LEAGUE JOURNEYS

However, the departures from the National League of York City, Rochdale (both upwards) and Morecambe (downwards) leave no overall change in the number of journeys northwards.

Journeys to the south will no longer take in the relegated trio of Brackley, Braintree and Truro but they are replaced by three other clubs which are located to the south of Altrincham in Kidderminster, Hornchurch and Worthing.

The losses of York (91 miles), Rochdale (28), Morecambe (68), Brackley (131), Braintree (212) and Truro (322 miles) total 852 miles of savings but their replacement by journeys to Harrogate (68 miles), Barrow (103), Fylde (52), Kidderminster (88), Hornchurch (206) and Worthing (257) comprise 774 miles, leaving a net reduction of just 78 miles or 156 miles for return trips across the 2026-27 season.

PARKY'S "BRILLIANT TIME AT ALTY"

Asked about his time at Moss Lane, Phil (right) said, "First and foremost, I had a brilliant time at Alty. We had a lot of success and I genuinely haven't got a bad word to say about the place. It's just one of those things, isn't it?

"Everyone knows what I did there. I would bring players in, polish them up, develop them, move them on.

"Every couple of seasons I would have to reinvent the squad pretty dramatically. That was the point we were at last summer.

ALTY OLD BOYS

USL League One : Corpus Christi remain winless at the bottom of the league after losing 1-3 at home to Charlotte Independence. SAM ROSCOE played the full game.

League Two : JUSTIN AMALUZOR lasted 68 minutes as Grimsby Town, having opened the scoring in the first minute of their semi final home leg, were overturned 1-2 by Salford City.

In the other semi-final, Chesterfield failed to score for only the 6th time this season.

This was certainly helped by hitting the post with an early penalty and, just possibly, by not bringing JAMES BERRY off the bench. Visitors Notts County scored the only goal of the game to make themselves favourites to progress after the home leg in a few days time.

French Ligue 1: Having been booked in the 2nd minute of Strasbourg's visit to Angers, MAXI OYEDELE was withdrawn at half time. His team led at that stage, but eventually had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Meanwhile, the NL Paper on Sunday had lists of all of the top ten goalscorers in 2025-26 in every league from step 1 to step 6 of the non-league pyramid.

Four players who have worn the Alty kit were included, they were...

• REGAN LINNEY (National League) was the fifth top scorer with 19 goals for Carlisle United.
• BRUNO ANDRADE ((NPL Midlands) was the sixth top scorer with 15 goals for AFC Rushden & Diamonds .
• BYRON HARRISON was joint tenth top scorer in the NPL West with 16 goals for Nantwich Town.
• JOHN JOHNSTON was joint ninth top scorer with 24 goals for Irlam in the NW Counties Premier .

10 May 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL

• Rochdale v Boreham Wood

PROMOTIONS CONFIRMED

Whilst the clubs promoted from National North, AFC Fylde and Kidderminster Harriers, are familiar foes, both of the National South clubs to win promotion, Sussex club Worthing and Hornchurch, from Essex, will be new opposition for Altrincham next season.

The other clubs joining the National League next season are the relegated northern duo of Barrow and Harrogate Town.

ALTY OLD BOYS

South Korea K League 2 : MARCUS DACKERS wasn't in Daegu's squad as they visited Suwon Bluewings. Whether he could have upgraded their goalless draw is open to conjecture.

National North : KOLE HALL (right) has missed the whole season for Chorley after being diagnosed with Grade 4 incurable Glioblastoma Brain Cancer. Whilst he is improving after surgery, his footballing future remains unclear.

National South : With their playoff final at Hornchurch locked at 1-1, Torquay United called CALLUM DOLAN off the bench after 70 minutes, and 8 minutes later he provided the through ball from which Deon Moore scored his second goal - his first had put them ahead after only 6 minutes.

However the hosts, hoping to reach the National League for the first time, equalised in the 93rd minute to force extra time.

Unfortunately there was no happy ending in extra time for the Gulls. After Callum had picked up a booking, Hornchurch scored to lead for the first time in the game after 117 minutes, leaving Torquay no time to recover.

League One : CARL PIERGIANNI was booked as Stevenage lost their home leg against Stockport County, the only goal not arriving until the 94th minute.

Scottish Premiership : Kilmarnock simply needed to draw at St.Mirren to make sure they stayed up, and they saved their place in style with 3 unanswered goals. JOE HUGILL was withdrawn after 79 minutes, having been booked earlier.

Off the field, 43 year -old Rossington Main player/manager GREG YOUNG has hung up his boots.

REGIONAL PLAY-OFF FINALS

National League North:

• South Shields 0-2 Kidderminster Harriers

National League South:

• Hornchurch 3-2 Torquay United (aet)

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

To put that into perspective, that’s over 15% of our town’s population who’ll be marching down Wembley Way and roaring Luke and the lads on under the arch!..

Let’s look to “achieve the impossible dream”, let’s do it together, and let’s create another historic day we’ll never forget.

Ticket Prices:

Adult: Category One – £40.00, Category Two – £35.00

Concession (65+, students, under 16s) Category Two only – £18.00

Additional Charges

Adult Service Charge – £3.00 per ticket; Concession Service Charge – £1.50 per ticket"

Rochdale "announce that "Oliver Whatmuff, Kyron Gordon and Mani Dieseruvwe have all been named in the Enterprise National League Team of the Season.

The trio, who have all played an instrumental part in Dale’s record-breaking season, were voted in by representatives of our fellow 23 National League clubs.

Whatmuff, on loan from Manchester City, has made 38 league appearances for Dale, keeping 18 clean sheets.

Gordon has featured 45 times in the league, scoring five and has been a key part of the league’s joint-meanest defence, which has conceded just 41 goals.

Striker Dieseruvwe has netted 26 times in 40 league appearances since joining last summer. He became the first Dale player to net that number since Jimmy Wynn in the 1938/39 season.

Goalkeeper Whatmuff and defender Gordon have also contributed to Dale’s joint-most clean sheets in a season, 20, matching the 1968/69 and 2004/05 campaigns.

The full National League Team of the Season is as follows:

Oliver Whatmuff (Rochdale), Gus Scott-Morriss (Southend United), Kyron Gordon (Rochdale), Morgan Feeney (Carlisle United), Malachi Fagan-Walcott (York City), Alex Hunt (York City), Zak Brunt (Boreham Wood), Abdul Abdulmalik (Boreham Wood), Callum Roberts (Scunthorpe United), Mani Dieseruvwe (Rochdale), lie Pearce (York City)"

Prabhu Srinivasan, Owner & Chairman of Yeovil Town FC writes that "One of the things we have come to appreciate most about Yeovil Town the depth of history that supporters carry with them. It runs through everything here – and it makes this club genuinely special.

When our commercial brochure was released, many of you reached out to share the story of Ciderspace – the history of Martin Baker, Hugh Gleave, and Taff Morgan, and what that space means to this community. We listened, and we’re glad you did.

For Yeovil Town to succeed and grow, we must operate as a strong commercial entity. Over the past year we have worked hard to build new revenue streams and partnerships – because without a significant and sustained growth in commercial income, the ambitions we all share for this club simply cannot be realised. That work is not optional. It is essential.

But a football club is also built on identity, memory, and the people who shaped it long before any of us arrived. Ciderspace belongs in that category. The Ciderspace name is not going anywhere – and any future partnership connected to that space will respect and preserve the identity it carries.

To every supporter who reached out – thank you for sharing that history with us. This is your club as much as it is ours, and moments like this remind us exactly why that matters.

Achieve by Unity".

Footnote: Ciderspace is the name of the fanzone at Huish Park

Carlisle United "confirm the retained and released list...

Players already under contract for 2026/27: David Ajiboye, Luke Armstrong, Hayden Atkinson, Gabe Breeze, Jack Ellis, Elliot Embleton, Morgan Feeney, Ryan Galvin, Cameron Harper, Georgie Kelly, REGAN LINNEY, Jonah Lowes, Junior Luamba, Seb Mason, Bevis Mugabi, Amaru Smith, Stephen Wearne, Callum Whelan, Josh Williams

Players released: Jake Allan, Archie Davies, JOSH GRANT, Aaron Hayden, Sam Hetherington (invited back for pre-season), Dan Hopper, Jordan Jones (mutual agreement), Sam Murray, Freddie O'Donoghue, Thomas Randall, Ethan Robson, Terell Thomas, Charlie Wyke

Players with clauses activated for the 2026/27 season: Harvey Macadam

Loan players returning to their parent club: CHRIS CONN-CLARKE, Alex Gilliead, Archie Mair, Hugh Parker, Ephraim Yeboah.

MARC TIERNEY, Head of Football Operations said 'On behalf of everyone at Carlisle United, I’d like to thank each of the departing players for their contribution during their time at Brunton Park and wish them all the very best for their future careers.'"

Another club issuing its retained list is CRAIG MAHON's AFC Fylde who won promotion back to the National League as champions of National North.

Under Contract: Will Lancaster, Cullen Meadowcroft, CHRIS MERRIE, Faris Mohammed, Max Taylor, Tom Whelan

Option Exercised: Patrick Boyes, Danny Mayor, Ethan Mitchell, Danny Ormerod, Luca Thomas, Zac Jones, Alex Healy-Byrne

Currently in Negotiations: Jack Morris, Jon Ustabasi, Corey Whelan

Released: Charlie Jolley, LIAM BROCKBANK (right), Kieran Coates, Jesse Hailwood, Luke Hunter, Lincoln McFayden, Taelor O'Kane, GEORGE WILSON"

Also at AFC Fylde the Coasters "announce the signing of striker Cedric Main.

The powerful and clinical centre forward impressed in the National League North last season...

The Dutchman hit 20 goals last season whilst assisting five times during his second campaign at Blackwell Meadow, [Darlington]. Main joined Steve Watson's side from York City back in the summer of 2024, and also hit 20 goal contributions the year prior...

He would join FC United of Manchester before impressing and making his move to the North East.

Known for his physicality and pace, Main is a player full of threat, with a clear eye for goal...

Head Coach CRAIG MAHON said 'We're delighted to bring Cedric into the football club.'...

Coasters Chairman David Haythornthwaite added 'Cedric is someone who has been on our radar for some time... This will be the first of several marquee signings planned for the summer'".

//

9 May 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Premier League 2 : SONNY ALJOFREE captained Manchester United U21 as they made the short journey to the Etihad Academy Stadium to challenge their Manchester City counterparts in the semi final. They found themselves behind after only 3 minutes, but went in 1-3 up at the break, the third being a penalty converted by PADDY LACEY'S younger brother Shea.

Within 2 minutes of the restart they increased their lead, but City weren't lying down and pulled two more goals back before having to concede defeat. The statistics that showed City with 24 (11) attempts to United's 18 (10) seem to point to a cracking game. United will face Brighton U21 in the final.

Irish Premier Division : Bottom club Waterford caught St.Patrick's on the hop at Richmond Park, scoring inside 5 minutes, but the match eventually ran to form and the hosts won 4-1, withdrawing BARRY BAGGLEY after 87 minutes.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINALS

National League North:

• South Shields [2nd] v Kidderminster Harriers [3rd], 12.30pm

National League South:

• Hornchurch [2nd] v Torquay United [3rd], 3pm

Sunday 10 May

National League:

• Rochdale [2nd] v Boreham Wood [4th], at Wembley, 3pm

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We would like to express a huge amount of thanks to both players for their service and wish them nothing but the best for the future".

Scunthorpe United "can confirm its retained list following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign.

Six players will be leaving the club when their contracts expire this summer.

OFFERED NEW CONTRACT AND CURRENTLY NEGOTIATING@ ROSS BARROWS, Maison Campbell, Tyler Denton, Will Evans, Louis Jones, Callum Roberts, Harry Shipstone

OPTION ACTIVATED: Oli Ewing, Branden Horton

LEAVING THE CLUB: Mark Beck, Andrew Boyce, Max Brogan, Joey Dawson, Jonathan Gjoshe, Kian Scales

UNDER CONTRACT: Alfie Beestin, Jean Belehouan, DECLAN HOWE (right), Pat Jones, Oli Rose, Joe Rowley, Connor Smith, Joe Starbuck, Danny Whitehall".

Also at Scunthorpe United "Work commenced on Wednesday to resurface the main pitch at the Attis Arena in preparation for the 2026-27 season.

Usually taking place towards the end of May following an extensive period of pitch hiring, that period has been curtailed in order to allow the extensive programme of work to commence early, which will see the existing surface removed and replaced as part of a significant investment into improving the playing surface following challenges experienced over the past two seasons.

In addition to the resurfacing works, improvements are also being made to the stadium’s irrigation system to support the long-term quality and consistency of the pitch throughout the season.

The club is also in the process of appointing a dedicated first team grounds person, bringing the responsibility and day-to-day management of the pitch back in-house as part of its long-term commitment to improving standards at the Attis Arena.

Club officials, alongside specialist contractors, have moved quickly following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season to allow maximum growing and recovery time throughout the summer months, with the project designed to ensure the pitch is in a significantly better condition than in recent years.

The resurfacing project forms part of the club’s continued commitment to improving facilities both on and off the pitch, with the aim of providing an elite playing surface for players, staff and supporters throughout the upcoming season">

Relegated Truro City "can confirm its retained and released list after the conclusion of the club’s 2025/26 National League campaign.

A significant proportion of last season’s squad remain under contract for 2026/27, with three players having options to extend their stays at the Truro City Stadium exercised.

Goalkeeper Aidan Stone, who kept eight clean sheets after signing from Yeovil Town in July 2025, saw his option taken up by Truro City before the previous term concluded.

The options on midfielder Lirak Hasani and attacker Ben Starkie were exercised after the season ended...

Strike duo Rekeil Pyke and Saikou Janneh have been released along with midfielder Harry Charsley – a January signing from SkyBet League 2 side Oldham Athletic.

National League South winner Sam Sanders, who became John Askey’s first signing as City boss two years ago, departs upon the expiry of his contract...

Players Under Contract for 2026/27: n Lavercombe, Zac Bell, Connor Riley-Lowe, Will Dean, Tom Harrison, Yassine En-Neyah, Dan Rooney, Tyler Harvey, Billy Palfrey, Dominic Johnson-Fisher, Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain, Luke Jephcott, Tylor Love-Holmes, Ryan Law, Jack Stretton, Shaun Donnellan, Harry Kite

Options Taken For 2026/27: Lirak Hasani, Ben Starkie, Aidan Stone

Released: Sam Sanders, Rekeil Pyke, Saikou Janneh, Harry Charsley".

A fourth arrival of summer has been announnced at Aldershot Town with "the signing of midfielder Dominic Odusanya.

The 27-year-old joins from Chelmsford City, having made 33 league appearances for the Clarets across the 2025/26 season, occupying the role of club captain.

With 30 National League appearances to his name thus far, Odusanya also boasts an extremely impressive record in the sixth-tier. As well as narrowly missing automatic promotion with Eastbourne Borough in 2025, the midfielder played a key part in Maidstone United’s title-winning side of 2021/22, before both scoring and assisting in Braintree Town’s thrilling 4-3 play-off final victory over Worthing in 2023/24...

Manager Scott Davies said... 'He’s one of 3 captains that we have now secured who led their teams last season.

Dom does the stuff within a game that nobody sees, the work that goes unnoticed but is so important. I’m sure he will be a great addition to the group and will add valuable experience'”.

8 May 2026

GED'S SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISER

Ged Kielty, 49, set off from Hornsea on April 29, arriving at his final destination on Sunday, May 3, in Southport.

The ex-midfielder and Trafford FC manager is fundraising for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, which helps fund research into motor neurone disease, as well as raising awareness about it...

Mr Kielty described his very personal reasons for choosing the charity. He said 'I was fortunate to play football with two lads at Altrincham FC who sadly went on to have MND.

'I only played with George Melling for a short time, but I played lots with Mark Maddox [right] at Alty and other clubs. Mark lived with MND for 12 years. After his diagnosis, Mark ran the London Marathon to raise funds and increase people's awareness of MND.

'Mark sadly passed away due to MND at the age of 50. I am 50 in September 2026, so I plan to run and raise money in Mark and George’s honour for MND, hoping they will inspire me during any difficult periods'...

Mr Kielty has surpassed his fundraising target of £3,250, having already reached £4,261 and counting. More information about how to donate to Mr Kielty’s fundraiser can be found via his page on Give As You Live".

ALTY OLD BOYS

The final will be played in Leipzig on May 27th.

Off the field, Phil adds that one of last summer's Altrincham trialists "BEN LOMAX has been released by Port Vale and OWEN DALE has returned to Oxford United at the end of his loan at Plymouth Argyle; his contract expires at the end of this month. One expects that he'll be released."

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The following players will leave the club this summer upon the expiry of their contracts:

• Dale Gorman, Kian Pennant, Sam Ashford, Luke Hall, Jamie Andrews and Jack Turner.

The following players have been offered new deals in advance of the expiry of their current contracts:

• Harry Beautyman, Roy Syla, Jake Forster-Caskey, Aaron Drewe, Timi Odusina and Tunji Akinola.

The following players remain under contract with the Club:

• Will Jaaskelainen, Chin Okoli, Tariq Hinds, Caleb Richards, Timmy Akinola, Matt Ward, Aiden O’Brien and Tom Dryer.

Director of Football Jody Brown said... 'A special mention must go to Dale and Jamie, who have both spent two years with the club and worked under four different managers during that time. Their professionalism, dedication, and contribution to the club’s development have been invaluable, and they have played an important role in our growth both on and off the pitch...

Work is already underway behind the scenes as we continue negotiations and preparations for the new season. We are hopeful of bringing supporters some positive news in the near future, while remaining committed to the club’s principles and philosophy, both on the field and financially'".

At York City the club is "delighted to reveal the signing of Mark Shelton, who will join the Minstermen upon the expiry of his contract at Barnet FC.

The midfielder will join City officially on the 1st July.

Mark began his career through the youth setups at Nottingham Forest and Burton Albion...

His first professional highlight came with Salford City whom he played a key part in their promotion to the football league for the first time ever.

He repeated the same feat in his next move to Hartlepool United, where he featured over 90 times. Achieving promotion to the EFL via the play-offs in 2021.

Shelton then spent a season at Oldham before becoming a fans’ favourite at Barnet, where he gained his third National League promotion, this time as a champion.

In League Two last season, the 29-year-old featured 40 times for the Bees, helping them to an 8th-place finish".

Aldershot Towna one-year contract extension to our longest serving player, Ollie Harfield.

Ollie joined the Shots in 2022, going on to make 86 league appearances out of a possible 92 across his first two seasons...

Following a freak knee injury in September 2024, Ollie has undergone an extremely lengthy and ultimately successful rehabilitation period, just missing out on a return to action at the tail end of the 2025/26 campaign.

Ollie’s current fitness status, as well as his continued ambassadorial presence around the club has clearly impressed his new manager, Scott Davies, who with this announcement makes the defender very much a part of his plans ahead of a maiden campaign in charge at the EBB Stadium.

'Securing Ollie for next season is hugely important. With the turnover of players this summer, it’s crucial to keep a core of the squad that understand the football club and what it takes to be an Aldershot Town player. I know that Ollie is a massive favourite with the fans, and I’m sure that we are all delighted to see him return from a long-term injury'" said the manager.

7 May 2026

BRIAN NEWHALL R.I.P.

Right: Brian Newhall, (on the right), is pictured with another sadly departed Altrincham supporter, Steve Murray, at the away game at Grantham in 2018 when Altrincham clinched the NPL title.

The service will be followed by a celebration of Brian's life at his beloved Altrincham Football Club (The John King Lounge). It would be great to see as many friends and family there as possible.

Any donations to The Christie Charity (Melanoma Research Fund)".

DAN SASSI RELEASED

Dan, 22, started out at Stoke City before joining Burnley where he stayed from 2020-23. At Turf Moor he benefitted from coaching by manager Vincent Kompany.

In February 2024 he joined Blackpool who sent the 6ft 3inch centre-back on loan in September 2024 to Rochdale where he made 14 appearances. In January 2025 he also had a loan spell at AFC Fylde which lasted till the end of the season

He arrived on loan at Altrincham on the eve of the 2025-26 season.

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"Nine players in total will be leaving the club following the expiration of their contracts.

Under contract for 2026/27: George Cox, Harry Ransom, Joel Colbran, Matt Burgess, Oliver Godziemski, Teddy Jenks, Wiktor Makowski

Contact extension triggered: Brad Dolaghan, Razzaq Coleman De-Graft

Available for transfer: Ben Jackson

In discussions with: Bailey Smith, Joe Cook, Sam Beard, Sam Packham, Taylor Seymour

Out of contract and released: Callum Morton, Daniel Jordan, Daniel Nkrumah, Jack Spong, Jack Young, Shiloh Remy, Anointed Chukwu, Kwaku Frimpong, Odei Martin Sorondo".

6 May 2026

STATISTICAL REVIEW OF ALTRINCHAM'S SEASON: PART FOUR

Areas covered include attendances and player discipline.

ALTY OLD BOYS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

• Florent Hoti, Jack Jenkins, Nat Ford. Sean Tarima, TOM PUGH, Zak Emmerson

Thank you for your service and good luck in the next stage of your careers!

We’d also like to thank Ash Palmer, BILLY WATERS, Kieron Morris, and Tommy Lavery who leave the club following the conclusion of their loan spells.

Having already made on close-season signing, John Gilbert from Maidstone United, Aldershot Town "announce the signing of Nino Adom-Maliki.

The 22-year-old left back joins from Enfield Town, having made 43 appearances in the National League South for the Towners across the 2025/26 season, registering two goals and three assists.

A product of Millwall’s academy, Nino featured in ten Championship matchday squads before being loaned to then-League Two Sutton United in February, making 18 EFL appearances">

New manager Scott Davies's third summer signing is also confirmed by Aldershot Town who "announce the signing of defender Kiki Oshilaja, who joins from Slough Town ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 26-year-old defender joins after impressive spells with both Slough and Cray Valley Paper Mills...

Kiki started out at Dulwich Hamlet, coming through their youth system before gaining senior experience at several clubs including Carshalton Athletic, Thamesmead Town, Sheppey United, Beckenham Town, and VCD Athletic...

Moving to Slough in 2025, Kiki has already enjoyed an excellent year under Scott Davies, making 35 league appearances across the campaign just gone...

Davies had this to say... 'Kiki is someone that I’ve had the luxury of playing with over the past season at Slough. Kiki has worked his way up the levels and had plenty of interest this summer from various clubs, so to secure him so early on is great news.

He’s dominant aerially, extremely mobile and also very good in possession."

Hartlepool United "confirm its retained list following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season...

• Professional Players Under Contract for 2026/27: Kian Foreman, Max Kouogun, Jamie Miley, Nathan Sheron
• Professional Players Contract Extension Options Activated: Jay Benn, Josh Donaldson, Reiss McNally
• Professional Players Undergoing Contractual Discussions: Luke Charman, Campbell Darcy, Jack Hunter
  *Adam Smith – discussions are ongoing regarding his future role, with a number of options under consideration.
• Professional Players Out Of Contract/Released: Joe Aungiers, Adam Campbell, Matty Daly, Nathan Ferguson, Sam Folarin, Nick Hayes, Gavan Holohan, Danny Johnson, Vadaine Oliver, Tom Parkes, Alex Reid, Louis Stephenson, Brad Walker
• Loan Players Returning to Parent Clubs: Cameron John, TYRESE SINCLAIR, Charlie Caton, Calvin Okike

Chris Maxwell, Head of Football Operations at Bromby & Partners said... 'There is still important work to be done, including the appointment of a new first-team coach and the continued development of our backroom structure@".

Carlisle United Chairman Tom Piatak writes that "Sunday did not bring the outcome we all wanted, and the disappointment is real. We wanted more, expected more...

But this season has also laid important foundations, on the pitch, in the stands, and across the wider community. There is a stronger connection around this football club today than there was a year ago...

We are not here to stand still... Every decision will be made with one clear goal: giving Carlisle United the best possible chance to be successful and giving our supporters a team they can believe in...

The bar has been raised. Now it has to go higher. That is the challenge, and that is the standard we must embrace...

There is no loss of belief here. There is only focus, determination, and a clear understanding of the work ahead".

Morecambe Football Club "is aware of stories circulating on social media relating to a winding up petition that has allegedly been filed against the Club last week by Ascot & Ryley LLP, a company owned by two former directors of the Club...

At this moment in time, the Club has not received any papers or other notification of such action and is surprised and disappointed to learn of these developments.

This relates to another legacy debt that the Club was burdened with three years before last year’s takeover by Panjab Warriors and which dates back to August 2022.

The original terms offered to the Club at that time involved a repayment schedule over five years to August 2027, which Ascot & Ryley has been seeking to change in recent months based on a ‘change of control’ clause agreed between the Club’s former board of directors and Ascot & Ryley’s owners.

The existence of such a clause was never disclosed to Panjab Warriors before or during last year’s takeover and the Club’s owners do not believe that unilaterally seeking to enforce it in this way is in the best interests of the Club or its true and loyal supporters.

Whilst the Club disputes the new repayment terms being claimed by Ascot & Ryley, it has been in recent discussions with the company in several attempts to resolve this matter amicably and in a manner which respects the terms originally agreed with the Club in 2022.

The Club has disclosed this unwelcome development to both the National League and the Independent Football Regulator and will continue to keep its supporters informed of further developments."

5 May 2026

CHESTER APPOINT PARKINSON

Right: Player Tom Peers and manager Phil Parkinson will be reunited at Chester FC

He becomes the fifth Chester manager this millennium who has also managed or played for Altrincham.

Those predecessors since 2000 have been Graham Barrow, Tim Ryan, Jim Harvey and Neil Young.

Parkinson has indicated that promotion is his goal in 2026-27. Coincidentally, in 2025-26, former Altrincham player, Craig Mahon, has been the manager of National North's champions, AFC Fylde.

Unfortunately, Mahon's previous club, Curzon Ashton were relegated from National Morth this season, going down on goal difference after three teams had finished on 52 points; the other two clubs, Hereford FC and King's Lynn Town both survived in the division.

ALTY OLD BOYS

NPL Premier Division Play-Off Final : Warrington Rylands were without skipper DEAN FURMAN at Hednesford Town, where they led from soon after the restart until the 91st minute.

The Pitmen withdrew MONTEL GIBSON (right) in the 120th minute as penalties loomed. Rylands missed their final kick, so lost the shootout 5-4, allowing Hednesford to return to National North 10 years after their last spell at that level.

Southern Premier Central Play-Off Final : YUSIFU CEESAY gave Spalding United a half time lead, but visitors Real Bedford turned things around and the Tulips only forced extra time with a 92nd minute penalty. However, they struck twice in that extra period to win 4-2 and earn a place in National North for the first time in their history.

In the Southern Premier South Play-Off Final, Farnham beat Gloucester City 5-1.

The fourth promoted club, is Billericay Town who, in the Isthmian Premier Play-Off Final, won 2-1 at home to Brentwood.

Three of the four clubs promoted to National North or South via the play-offs were the runners-up in their regular season; the exception is Billericay Town who finished third in the Isthmian Premier as second-placed Aveley missed out.

Irish Premier Division : St.Patrick's fell further behind leaders Shamrock Rovers after being surprisingly held 1-1 at struggling Sligo Rovers. BARRY BAGGLEY played the full game.

Premier League 2 : Captained by SONNY ALJOFREE, Manchester United U21 won 0-2 in their playoff quarter final at Crystal Palace U21 to set up a "derby" semi final away to Manchester City U21.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Having joined the Minstermen as manager from Sussex club Worthing, Hinshelwood took York City to the runners-up place in the National League in 2024-25 but they lost out in the play-offs as Oldham Athletic gained promotion from that process.

However, in late August 2025, York City surprisingly announced that Hinshelwood would be leaving the club with immediate effect.

Whilst managing the Minstermen he had brought in striker Ollie Pearce from Worthing and he was the National League's leading scorer by a considerable margin in 2025-26.

After his departure from York, Hinshelwood returned to manage Worthing and has led them to promotion from National South this season to play in the National League for the first time in their history in 2026-27.

At the other end of the table, Braintree Town "have agreed their matchday and season ticket prices for the 2026/27 campaign. Matchday prices for next season will reduce to: Adults £18, OAPs £14, Under 18s £8 and Under 12s FREE if accompanied by an adult, or just £4 if unaccompanied.

To reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by Sunday, 31st May will be reduced to: Adults - £320, OAPs - £250, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40.

Chairman Lee Harding said of the prices for next season 'We are confident that our matchday prices remain competitive and offer value for money. Free entry for our youngest fans is something we've aspired to for many years and I'm delighted we've been able to afford that deal...

'The Adult ticket offers 23% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and unaccompanied Under 12s are over half the cost of the 23 matches - a cracking deal! "Like every other business we are facing increases to our costs. Our overheads as a business continue to climb, but we are also looking to provide the side with a competitive playing budget.'"

4 May 2026

PARKY'S NEW JOB

"confirm the appointment of Phil Parkinson as the club’s new First Team Manager!

The 45-year-old joins the Blues on a two-year-deal alongside long-term Assistant Manager Neil Sorvel, (both pictured, right) who worked with Parkinson at both Nantwich Town and Altrincham.

Phil arrives at the Deva Stadium with pedigree at this level after a lengthy stint at Altrincham, where he earned widespread recognition for his leadership, tactical approach, and ability to build promotion-winning squads...

CFU Chair Nick Phillipson said 'Today we open a new and exciting chapter in the recent history of Chester FC with the appointment of Phil Parkinson as First Team Manager, with Neil Sorvel as his Assistant.

'Phil was our preferred choice from the start. He brings a wealth of experience from his time resurrecting and consolidating Altrincham back into the National League. He developed their Academy and produced a pathway for players to further their careers and brought both value and financial benefits to their club. This aligns with our values and thinking as a fan-owned club.

'The Board are confident that Phil will be able to bring us the success we all want: promotion back to the National League'...

Phil said 'I’m delighted to be here. It feels like the perfect fit for me right now. It’s an exciting prospect. Supporters can expect a real modern-day approach to football. We have a set way of going about things, an identity that we won’t deviate from.

'We’re going to have to bring our A-game, and if we do, which we will, we’ll get this right and give everybody something to be really excited about come the summer.'”

Footnote: For Chester's TOM PEERS it will be a return to playing under Phil Parkinson, whilst DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY is also a former Alty player albeit from before Phil's era at Moss Lane.

ALTY SUPPORTERS VICTORIOUS

The game - played in memory of huge Alty fan Mark Eckersall, who passed away in 2020 - was one of a number of activities that made up a Family Fun Day event on Moss Lane...

Right: The late Mark Eckersall oversees a Supporters' XI in a previous summer clash with Altrincham FC Staff & Volunteers.

We now head into the pitch renovation part of the summer, ahead of football returning to The J.Davidson Stadium towards the end of July.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF SEMI-FINALS

• Carlisle United 1-2 Boreham Wood (aet)
• Rochdale 2-1 Scunthorpe United

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL

• Rochdale [2nd] v Boreham Wood [4th], at Wembley, 3pm

Rochdale finished 16 points ahead of Boreham Wood in the regular season.

ENL REGIONAL PLAY-OFF FINALS

Both play-off finals (North and South) feature a higher-finishing club who have never played in the National League playing at home against a former EFL and National League club.

National League North:

• South Shields [2nd] v Kidderminster Harriers [3rd]

National League South:

• Hornchurch [2nd] v Torquay United [3rd]

NPL PLAY-OFFS

NPL Premier Play-Off Final

Monday 4 May 2026

• Hednesford Town [2nd] v Warrington Rylands [4th]

The winners of all three NPL First Division (West, East and Central) finals have never previously played in the NPL's Premier league whereas all three defeated teams have previously played in the Premier.

NPL West Play-Off Final

• Avro [2nd] 4-2 Stalybridge Celtic [3rd]

NPL East Play-Off Final

• Emley AFC [3rd] 0-0 Bradford (Park Avenue) [5th] (Emley won 5-4 on pens)

NPL Midlands Play-Off Final

• Belper Town [4th] 1-1 Racing Club Warwick [5th] (RCW won 7-6 on pens)

ALTY OLD BOYS

USL League One : It's become readily apparent that, while SAM ROSCOE is part of a reasonably efficient defensive unit at Corpus Christi, the team have serious need of a decent striker.

Their home league campaign opened with a goalless draw against Spokane Velocity, in which Sam gave way to an attacking midfielder after 79 minutes, yet they still failed to register a single shot on target from 9 attempts. They remain bottom of the league, having scored a mere 5 goals in 6 games.

South Korea K League 2 : MARCUS DACKERS (above, right) was an unused substitute as Daegu beat visitors Gyeongnam 2-0, enabling them to remain in the playoff places with a quarter of the season completed.

National League : Bookmakers' favourites Rochdale will meet Boreham Wood in the final at Wembley, after seeing off the challenge of Scunthorpe United at the Crown Oil Arena. Dale were off to a dream start when they were gifted a 3rd minute own goal, and went 2-0 up after 57 minutes.

DECLAN HOWE (left), who was pressed into action from the bench after 42 minutes, and had earlier been booked, struck after 81 minutes to reduce the arrears, but the Iron couldn't finish the job. ROSS BARROWS also came off the Scunthorpe bench after 66 minutes.

At Brunton Park, Carlisle United laboured in vain against Boreham Wood, who won 1-2 after extra time. REGAN LINNEY played the full game, while CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was a 79th minute substitute. Carlisle's cause wasn't helped by a red card for substitute Junior Luamba 6 minutes into extra time.

French Ligue 1 : MAXI OYEDELE played the whole game for Strasbourg as, having scored first, they eventually lost 1-2 to visitors Toulouse. Their chance of qualifying for European competition through league position has as good as gone, but, if they can turn around a one goal deficit against Rayo Vallecano on Thursday, they will be in the Europa Conference League final - and will probably face Crystal Palace.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS NEWS

Hughes said the next few days should offer 'clarity' on the situation.

The head coach was speaking after United’s 2-1 extra-time defeat to Boreham Wood in the National League semi-final at Brunton Park.

'But I've enjoyed everything that we've done here as a group. I think the staff have been outstanding, and the players have responded to that. So I'm grateful for that. The next few days will give everybody a bit of clarity, I'm sure.'...

Hughes said... 'I haven't had conversations with anybody in terms of my future. My understanding is there probably will be in the next couple of weeks.'”

3 May 2026

ALTY 2025-26: STATISTICAL REVIEW: PART 3

Part Four will follow in due course.

Right: Isaac Marriott was Altrincham's leading appearance maker in 2025-26.

ALTY ATTENDANCES

Their stats record average league gates of 1,961. Top of the charts were Southend United with average gates of 8,103, followed by Carlisle United (7,342), York City (6,657) and Scunthorpe United (4,762).

The eight teams below Altrincham were FC Halifax Town (1,580), Wealdstone (1,467), Boreham Wood (1,201) Tamworth (1,193), Solihull Moors (1,146), Gateshead (1,093), Braintree town (1,069) and Brackley Town (1,034).

In National North five teams also had higher average gates than Altrincham. They were Macclesfield FC (3,138), Kidderminster Harriers (2,677) Hereford FC (2,611), Chester FC (2,319) and South Shields (2,008).

Three teams in National South also had higher average gates than Altrincham; Torquay United (3,453), Worthing (2,338), Maidstone United (2,128).

Last season, Altrincham's average league gate was 2,085.

ALTY TO MEET OLD FOES

Although Harrogate Town spent a chunk of the afternoon outside the bottom two, they finally lost their own match and saw results elsewhere confirm their demotion. For their part Barrow finished bottom of the division.

Coincidentally, both demoted clubs played against Altrincham at the same level in seasons when the Robins themselves were destined to be relegated.

As for Harrogate Town, the last encounter with Altrincham was in 2016-17 season when Alty were to end up bottom of the National North.

Although the Sulphurites finished in mid-table that season, they were one of just two teams who failed to beat the hapless Robins in that campaign, both fixtures ending in draws. The sides have never met at national league level.

In the case of Barrow, the last league clash was in 2015/16 in the national level of non-League when Lee Sinnott's team was sinking towards relegation back to the regional level. Alty actually beat Barrow that season at Moss Lane, 1-0, but lost 2-3 at Holker Street.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Professional Development League : Having finished his loan at Braintree Town, CALEB ANSEN might have hoped to be involved for Norwich City U21 as they started their playoff campaign. However, he wasn't in their squad as they won 1-0 at home against Swansea City U21 to clinch a semi final spot. It would be no surprise were he to released once the season is over.

League One : ALI SMITH (right) wasn't in AFC Wimbledon's squad for the visit of Huddersfield Town - only the second league game he's missed this season. In his absence, the Terriers clicked into gear and hit 4 without reply.

Plymouth Argyle were 2-0 down after 18 minutes at relegated Northampton Town, but fought back to win 2-3. OWEN DALE had been booked in the first half, and was withdrawn in the 55th minute.

CARL PIERGIANNI captained Stevenage to a 1-0 home win over Wigan Athletic, which secured them the last playoff spot. They will travel to Stockport County.

Rotherham United, already relegated and still without the injured DUNCAN WATMORE, travelled to Wycombe Wanderers. They came from behind to lead, but within 3 minutes JUNIOR QUITIRNA set up the Chairboys' equaliser. He was substituted after 78 minutes, and his team struck in added time to win 3-2.

League Two : Congratulations to Bromley, whose 3-1 home win over Walsall confirmed them as champions. MARCUS DINANGA (left) wasn't involved. The win would not have been enough to clinch the title had MK Dons won at Fleetwood Town, but HARRISON HOLGATE and his colleagues held them 1-1.

Chesterfield will travel to Notts County in the playoffs after winning 1-2 at Swindon Town. The scoring had been completed before JAMES BERRY joined the action in the 3rd added minute.

In the other semi final Salford City will entertain Grimsby Town, who led at Tranmere Rovers through JUSTIN AMALUZOR, who was substituted after 84 minutes. By that time the Birkenhead club had levelled, and the point confirmed their EFL status for next season.

Altrincham will renew rivalries with Harrogate Town, beaten 1-2 at home by Barnet, and with Barrow. The Cumbrian club had led at the break, but, after ELLIOT NEWBY (right) joined the game in the 66th minute, visitors Newport County scored twice in 7 minutes to save themselves and doom Barrow to finish bottom.

JAKE BICKERSTAFF was withdrawn by Cheltenham Town after 62 minutes as they lost 1-4 to visitors Colchester United.

KEVIN BERKOE played the whole of Shrewsbury Town's 0-1 defeat at Gillingham.

As mentioned above, Notts County face Chesterfield in the playoffs. Today they drew 1-1 at home to Bristol Rovers, for whom JOEL SENIOR played the full game.

With his team a goal up, REAGAN OGLE came off the Oldham Athletic bench at home to his old club, Accrington Stanley, and they went on to win 3-0.

Scottish Premiership : JOE HUGILL rounded off the scoring as Kilmarnock leapfrogged visitors St.Mirren with a 3-0 win. With 3 games left, Livingston are already relegated, while either St.Mirren or Killie are favourites to be involved in the relegation playoff against Partick Thistle.

NPL Division 1 West : Although Stalybridge Celtic led 1-2 at Avro, they eventually lost 4-2, so the Oldham club, for whom DAVID FITZPATRICK (right) played the full game, will be in the Premier Division next season - the highest level at which they have ever completed. KYLE BROWNHILL played throughout for Celtic, but GREG WILKINSON remained on the bench.

National North Playoff Semi Finals : Macclesfield started SAM HEATHCOTE and ELLIOTT OSBORNE at Kidderminster Harriers, while JAMES GALE came off their bench after an hour, but their season ended with a whimper as they lost 3-1. Harriers will travel to South Shields, who beat Buxton, captained by CONNOR KIRBY, 1-0.

National South Playoff Semi Finals : Torquay United were already 4-0 up against visitors Dorking Wanderers when they introduced CALLUM DOLAN after 70 minutes. His contribution could hardly be described as positive, as he was booked within a minute, and the Surrey side then fought back, but the 2 goals they added were to no avail. The Gulls will now travel to Hornchurch in the final after the Essex club enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Weston-super-Mare.

Off the field, the Derby Telegraph reports that "A footballer has appeared at Derby Crown Court on a pub assault charge.

Former Chesterfield winger Ryan Colclough (left) was this week due to face trial for causing grievous bodily harm on the alleged victim.

But issues have arisen and so a new trial date has been set to May 13.

Handing the accused conditional bail, Judge Shaun Smith KC said 'I am sorry we can't do your case today. We have had issues, I have a complainant from 2024 and this case is over two years old now.'

The 31-year-old midfielder is alleged to have assaulted another male at the Red Lion in Brimington, Chesterfield, on January 27, 2024.

He has previously entered a not guilty plea to the accusation".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Situated in Section 3 of the East Stand for the clash against Brackley Town, the fan-led initiative was designed to enhance atmosphere and supporter engagement, with this now relocated to Section 4 ahead of the upcoming play-off semi-final.

Director Jenna DeMasi said 'The singing section in the East Stand was brilliant today. Nick [DeMasi] and I were blown away with how loud and energised it made the atmosphere'...

Supporter, and away SLO, Claire Burgess continued... 'The dancers on the pitch have been amazing in the second half of the season. The smiles and excitement to perform on the pitch have been outstanding'".

Hartlepool United "will introduce a new ticketing system from the 2026/27 season after agreeing a multi-year partnership with TicketCo, one of the UK’s leading digital ticketing platforms.

The new platform will be in place ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, making it easier for supporters to buy, manage and access their tickets both online and on matchdays at the Prestige Group Stadium... >P> Supporters will benefit from a simpler purchasing journey and improved functionality across multiple devices, while the Club will gain greater insight into supporter engagement to support more relevant and effective communication...

Rose Stoker, Operations & Commercial Director at Hartlepool United, said 'As we look ahead to the 2026/27 season, this is about delivering a more modern and connected experience that reflects what our supporters expect from their Club'".

2 May 2026

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW

• £500 cash | 113. Linda Jackett
• £75 cash | 311. D. Scott
• Hospitality for Two | 31. Paul Brady
• £25 cash | 94. May Davis
• Bottle of Alty Gin | 19. Dianne Swindells
• Scarf & Pin Badge | 269. Alex Cauchi

Congratulations to all of the winners.

ALTY OLD BOYS

The win was built around a hat trick for Adem Duratovic, and CONNOR HAMPSON played the full match. Cannons have scored 28 goals in their 11 matches - which is 9 more than anybody else.

Irish Premier Division : St.Patrick's, having reached the top of the league last week, find themselves back down to 2nd again. Shamrock Rovers beat bottom club Waterford by a single goal, while, despite a full shift from BARRY BAGGLEY, St.Patrick's failed to push home their 2 goal halftime advantage at Galway, being held 2-2 by a 94th minute leveller.

Scottish Championship : KIAN TAYLOR was yet again left on the bench as Morton were unable to take full advantage of visitors Airdrie going down to 10 men just before the hour, drawing 1-1.

Had Morton lost, they would have had to play off to try to avoid relegation; instead that fate befell Airdrie, while Ross County finished bottom and are relegated for the second consecutive season.

ALTRINCHAM FC COMMUNITY SPORTS FUNDRAISER

Our team will tackle Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough—three of Yorkshire’s highest mountains—in a single day, covering around 24 miles with over 1,500 metres of ascent. It’s a tough physical and mental challenge, but one that reflects the resilience, teamwork, and determination we aim to instil in the people we support every day.

The funds raised will directly support Altrincham FC Community Sports’ programmes".

Contributions to this fundraising initiative can be made via Just Giving.

PLAY-OFF FIXTURES

National League North Promotion Semi-Finals

• Kidderminster Harriers 3-1 Macclesfield FC ko 12.30pm
• South Shields 1-0 Buxton ko 4pm

National League South Promotion Semi-Finals

Saturday 2 May

• Torquay United 4-2 Dorking Wanderers ko 12.30pm
• Hornchurch 2-0 Weston-super-Mare ko 4pm

The National League South Promotion Final at Hornchurch is on Saturday 9 May.

Kick-off times of North and South Promotion Finals will be confirmed in due course.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We apologise for this late decision, there will be a further fans event during pre-season.

At Forest Green Rovers "following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, we can now confirm the retained & released list...

The following [23!] players are under contract: Luke McNicholas, Neil Kengni, Cian Harries, Laurent Mendy, Nick Haughton, Jayden Clarke, Tate Campbell, Yahya Bamba, Tre Pemberton, Max Robson, Gabe Kircough, Temi Babalola, Sean Etaluku, Kairo Mitchell, Josh Osude, D’mani Mellor, Ricardo Rees, Kyle McAllister, Fiachra Pagel, Jose Marquez, Tom Knowles, Jesse Aldridge, Akai Bonnick, Will Merrett

The following [7] players will be released by the club: Sean Long, Ryan Inniss, Christian Doidge, Liam Sercombe, Harvey Bunker, Harry Cardwell, Keon Sanniola

The following players are still in discussion with the club: Jordan Moore-Taylor, Harry Isted"

Aldershot Town "announce Scott Davies first signing as Shots manager, 25-year-old John Gilbert!

The central midfielder joins the Shots pending the end of his contract from Maidstone United.

John had a successful 25/26 season at Maidstone United, featuring 42 times and scoring 10 league goals and assisting 3.

John, under the management of Scott, already once before at Slough Town, the all-action midfielder successfully stepped up to the National League South, making 46 appearances in all competitions and scoring nine goals...

Scott Davies said, “I’m delighted to get Gilbs on board with us... I know he will be a fan’s favourite. He’s full of energy, has an eye for goal, but also brings a real tenacity in how he plays".

Yeovil Town have also issued a retained list.

"The following players remain under contract with the club: Joy Mukena, Jake Wannell, Dan Ellison, James Daly, Luke McCormick, Ryan Jones

Brett McGavin has agreed a contract extension, keeping him at Huish Park until the summer of 2028.

MATT GOULD has also extended his contract and will continue in his dual role as Player/Goalkeeper Coach for a further season.

The club confirms that the following players will leave Yeovil Town upon the expiry of their contracts: Alex Whittle, Finn Cousin-Dawson, KYLE FERGUSON, Jacob Maddox, Josh Sims, Jonathon Page, Charlie Cooper, Aaron Jarvis, Harvey Greenslade, Tahvon Campbell".

The BBC reports that Southend United "doubled its revenue last season, but still ended up with a £1.34m loss... Its £5.1m revenue was boosted by £1.7m from Wembley ticket sales for last year's play-off final...

Chairman Justin Rees published a message to supporters saying... 'Whilst promotion was our primary goal this season, we now have another important opportunity ahead of us. The opportunity to win a trophy [FA Trophy], especially on the grand stage of Wembley, is something we should never take for granted'...

United's finances are forecast to be down by just over £1m for the financial year 2025-6.

The club's overheads are predicted to rise to £1.89m compared with £1.27m in the previous two seasons...

United said its focus off the pitch had been 'stabilising' the club and 'improving how we operate'".

1 May 2026

ALTY 2025-26: STATISTICAL REVIEW: PART 2

Part Three will follow in due course.

ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER MANAGER GOES

Departure number 25 since the end of the 24-25 season was announced on Thursday by FC Halifax Town who announced that "It’s with disappointment that we confirm, Manager Adam Lakeland has decided to leave FC Halifax Town and take up the role of First Team Manager at Morecambe FC.

We’d like to put on record our thanks to Adam for his hard work & professionalism this season in guiding us to an 8th place finish, narrowly missing out on the playoffs.

We wish Adam and his family every success for the future.

The Club will commence its search for a new Manager to ensure a swift but positive appointment".

A list of the preceding 24 managerial departures is here.

And there is still plenty of time for more managerial changes before the play-off final completes the season on 10 May.

ACADEMY'S MIXED FORTUNES

The Altrincham FC has a match report on the game at South Shields written by player Josh Herreaman, who scored the second goal for the visitors. The other goals ere netted by Isaac Mannion and Josh Obamwonyi.

The Altrincham squad comprised Charlie Noble, Harry St Romaine, Henry Watts, Kian Leckey, Chris Antoniades, Kian Mattison (left), Jimmy Taafe, Raion Rowe, Charlie Hough, Josh Herreaman, Will Sneyd, Harley Renshaw, Noah Lavin, Isaac Mannion and Josh Obamwonyi.

More recently, on 22 April there was another clash with a team from the North East as Altrincham beat Blyth Spartans 2-0 at Egerton Sports Club.

Altrincham FC has Jacob Martin's match report on the game.

The Altrincham squad was made up by Max Beddow, Harry St Romaine, Henry Watts, Kian Leckey, Chris Antoniades, Raion Rowe, Charlie Hough, Jimmy Taafe, Joe Weston, Josh Herreaman, Harry Watson, Harley Renshaw, Noah Lavin, Isaac Mannion, Jacob Martin and Ryan Knowles.

Altrincham lie joint bottom of the league, lying above Solihull Moors on goal difference but the Midlanders have a game in hand. Alty have won four games, drawn three and lost 14 of their 21 fixtures to date. One fixture remains to be played by the Robins.

Meanwhile the Academy team in the National League U19 Alliance have played twice recently.

On 15 April they lost 0-2 at home to the Pro Elite U19 Academy NWC Pro Elite U19 Academy NWC.

The starting eleven comprised Theo Bunting, Harry Cain, Afernee Denise (right), Callum Dakin, Daniel Farrar, John Gbolagun, Benjamn McNamara, Benjamin Mensah, William Molloy, Sammy Neville, William Sneyd. On the bench were Savior Abanwa, Connor Summerfield, Thomas Tattersall and Nathaniel Ikponmwe.

On 29 April they came from two goals down to draw 2-2 at home to Bolton Wanderers EDS NWC.

The starting eleven was Theo Bunting, Afernee Denise, Rafael Fereday, John Gbolagun, Josh Herreaman, 65 Kian Leckey, Joshua Obamwonyi, Archie Rowlands, William Sneyd, Connor Summerfield and Jimmy Taafe. The subs were Savior Abanwa, Harry Cain, Kian Mattison and Benjamin Mensa.

They now lie eighth in the twelve-team division.

ALTY OLD BOYS

MAXI OYEDELE only came off the Strasbourg bench in the 5th of 8 added minutes, but still found time to pick up a yellow card.

The shot count was 24-5 in Rayo's favour, and they had 8 attempts on target - which was 8 more than Strasbourg managed.

From Bermuda, Bernews reports that "JUSTIN DONAWA said he is grateful for his time in English football after leaving Hereford to return home for family reasons.

The 29-year-old Bermuda winger joined the Enterprise National League North side in January after his release from Brackley Town...

Donawa made 14 appearances for Hereford, scoring in a 5-2 victory over Chester.

'I didn’t exactly know when this part of my life would come to a close, but I’m so grateful to have been able to live out a dream that so many kids have of playing professionally,' Donawa wrote on social media...

'There were many ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change the past seven years for the world'...

Hereford manager Aaron Downes praised Donawa’s contribution and professionalism. 'I’ve got so much respect and admiration for Justin and the way he’s handled himself. He’s come over from a small island to fulfil a dream that he set out as a young boy, to play football in England. He achieved that and I respect him for that'...

Donawa, whose partner is Bermuda women’s national team winger Keunna Dill, played for English teams such as Darlington, Brackley Town and Solihull Moors".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Adam joins Morecambe following an impressive spell with Halifax, where he earned widespread recognition for his leadership, tactical approach, and ability to build competitive, resilient squads. His track record of developing players and fostering a strong team identity made him the standout candidate to lead the Club into a new era.

Prior to Halifax, Lakeland enjoyed successful spells at both Kings Lynn Town and Curzon Ashton and brings valuable experience at both National League and National League North levels. He has a track record of leading various teams to promotions and play-off positions and last season led Halifax to an 8th place finish in the National League.

Chairman Kuljeet Singh... said, 'Adam and his staff will have all the resources available for the first team to be successful again'...

Lakeland said... 'The project, vision and ambition of the club matches that of mine, and ultimately the opportunity to manage a club of Morecambe’s size, history and heritage was something I couldn’t turn down.

'Despite dropping down a league on a personal level, if I didn’t believe I could return to the National League quickly, I would not have considered this project... I believe I will be given the tools to build something here and that excites me'".

Brackley Town report that manager "Andy Whing has held detailed conversations with all members of the Brackley Town first-team squad as preparations begin for the upcoming campaign.

The club recognises that supporters have been eager for clarity regarding player movements, particularly following relegation and a clear shift in direction as the manager looks to build a squad aligned with his preferred style of play...

Supporters will have already seen announcements from striker Connor Hall and vice-captain Shane Byrne confirming their departures...

Contract Status Update

• Under Contract: Kyle Morrison
• Offered New Terms: Matt Lowe, Tyler Lyttle, Morgan Roberts, Scott Pollock, Zak Lilly
• Offered to Train with the Squad: Cameron Gregory
• Retiring: Gareth Dean
• Departing the Club: Jonny Maxted, Riccardo Calder, Jack Price, Zak Brown, Miracle Okafor, Michael Nottingham, Danny Waldron, Connor Hall, Shane Byrne, Ryan Haynes...

This summer represents an important reset for the club. With a new direction and a clear vision, Andy Whing is now fully focused on assembling a competitive squad capable of representing Brackley Town with pride.