NEWS ARCHIVE
May, 2026
14 May 2026
JUST SIX CURRENTLY CONTRACTED
Altrincham's contracted players for 2026-27 currently comprise just six players with a total of only 45 league starts between them for Altrincham last season. A further three players have had options to stay triggered.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 (4+5), 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
Altrincham FC has announced its "Early Bird" season ticket prices as shown below...
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
Phil Jordan informs us that in the French Ligue 1, MAXI OYEDELE was left on the Strasbourg bench as they won 1-2 at Brest.
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 final match of the non-League season is the Isuzu FA Trophy final which takes place at Wembley on Sunday.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
The NW Counties Football League announces that "Premier Division side Stockport Town have released the following statement:'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
Vauxhall Motors have "announced our pre-season fixtures for the 2026/27 season".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
Phill Jordan reports...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!
Between the end of the 2024-25 season and the end of the 2025-26 campaign, 25 National League managers left their posts, mainly through sackings, with only one of them moving to a manager's role at a higher-ranked club..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.
'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'".
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.'"
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'".
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".
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'".
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
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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".
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.
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.
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.
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...
10 May 2026
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.
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 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.
National League North:
National League South:
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"
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)"
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
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.'"
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
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
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.
National League North:
National League South:
Sunday 10 May
National League:
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".
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
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">
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".
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 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".
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."
The following players will leave the club this summer upon the expiry of their contracts:
The following players have been offered new deals in advance of the expiry of their current contracts:
The following players remain under contract with the Club:
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'".
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".
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
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, 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.
"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
Areas covered include attendances and player discipline.
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.
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."
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@".
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".
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Rochdale finished 16 points ahead of Boreham Wood in the regular season.
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:
National League South:
NPL Premier Play-Off Final
Monday 4 May 2026
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
NPL East Play-Off Final
NPL Midlands Play-Off Final
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.
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.
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
Part Four will follow in due course.
Right: Isaac Marriott was Altrincham's leading appearance maker in 2025-26.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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".
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'".
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...
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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
Congratulations to all of the winners.
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.
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.
National League North Promotion Semi-Finals
National League South Promotion Semi-Finals
Saturday 2 May
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.
We apologise for this late decision, there will be a further fans event during pre-season.
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"
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".
"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".
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
Part Three will follow in due course.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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".
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'".
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
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.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS
Before his resignation from Kidderminster Harriers was announced, Adam Murry told the BBC that "he had to put up with 'vicious' online abuse and terrace taunts during a 'tough' promotion-winning campaign...
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.
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.
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!
"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.
AFTER JUST 5 YEARS...
The National League is a rapidly changing landscape...
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.
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!
Curiously all six of those relegated clubs are southern clubs (although King's Lynn have in recent years been shoe-horned into National North).
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.
However, all six of the above clubs, except Wealdstone, have competed at least once in the promotion play-offs between 2021 and 2025!
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that Bootle have announced that "TEveryone at Bootle Football Club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Tony Thompson (left) following his departure from the Bucks.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
York City "confirm which players are under contract ahead of the 2026/27 season and those who will be departing the Minstermen.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL
Sunday, 10 May 2026
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.
NL COMPOSITION CONFIRMED
The regional play-off finals on Saturday confirmed that Kidderminster Harriers and Hornchurch would join AFC Fylde and Worthing in being promoted to the National League for 2026-27, whilst Rochdale's win on Sunday left Boreham wood in the National League.
NATIONAL LEAGUE JOURNEYS
The National League in 2026-27 will provide Altrincham with three "new" trips to the north of Altrincham as Barrow and Harrogate Town join from EFL2 and AFC Fylde arrive from National North. All are destinations at which the Robins have played previously.
PARKY'S "BRILLIANT TIME AT ALTY"
The NL Paper has an interview with former Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson following his appointment as the new manager of Chester FC.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports...
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL
Sunday, 10 May 2026
PROMOTIONS CONFIRMED
The regional play-off finals on Saturday confirmed that Kidderminster Harriers and Hornchurch would join AFC Fylde an Worthing in being promoted to the National League for 2026-27
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports on Saturday's action...
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.
REGIONAL PLAY-OFF FINALS
Saturday 9 May
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
Boreham Wood "confirm that we are approaching 6,000 tickets sold for Sunday’s Enterprise National League Promotion Final at Wembley Stadium, including 150 in the Bobby Moore Suite and 80 within the stadium’s Royal Box.
Rochdale "announce that "Oliver Whatmuff, Kyron Gordon and Mani Dieseruvwe have all been named in the Enterprise National League Team of the Season.
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.
Carlisle United "confirm the retained and released list...
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.
Released: Charlie Jolley, LIAM BROCKBANK (right), Kieran Coates, Jesse Hailwood, Luke Hunter, Lincoln McFayden, Taelor O'Kane, GEORGE WILSON"
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria, Oakleigh Cannons, with CONNOR HAMPSON playing the full game, were made to struggle by visitors Dandenong Thunder but stay 3 points clear at the top of the league after securing a 2-0 win with goals after 93 and 95 minutes.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINALS
Saturday 9 May
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
Forest Green Rovers "confirm that Jordan Moore-Taylor and Harry Isted will not be offered a new contract following the conclusion of the 25/26 season.
Scunthorpe United "can confirm its retained list following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign.
UNDER CONTRACT: Alfie Beestin, Jean Belehouan, DECLAN HOWE (right), Pat Jones, Oli Rose, Joe Rowley, Connor Smith, Joe Starbuck, Danny Whitehall".
Relegated Truro City "can confirm its retained and released list after the conclusion of the club’s 2025/26 National League campaign.
A fourth arrival of summer has been announnced at Aldershot Town with "the signing of midfielder Dominic Odusanya.
GED'S SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISER
The Sale & Altrincham Messenger confirms that "A former Altrincham FC player has completed an epic 215-mile coast to coast challenge to raise money for a good cause.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that in the Europa Conference League, a first-half goal from Rayo Vallecano's Brazilian forward Alemao was enough for them to win at Strasbourg by an aggregate score of 2-0 and earn a place in the final against Crystal Palace. The French club left MAXI OYEDELE on the bench, and even missed a penalty in added time at the end of the game.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
"Following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, Woking FC "can confirm its retained and released list.
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.
Aldershot Towna one-year contract extension to our longest serving player, Ollie Harfield.
BRIAN NEWHALL R.I.P.
Press and media officer Brian Flynn announces on the Altrincham FC website that "The funeral of Brian Newhall will take place on Thursday 21st May at 2pm at Altrincham Crematorium.
DAN SASSI RELEASED
Centre-back Dan Sassi (left) made 41(+5) appearances for Altrincham last season, on loan from Blackpool who have now announced his release from the League One club.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that MITCH HANCOX (right) played 32 times for Spennymoor Town in 2025-26 but the Moors now announce that "The following players have now been released following the expiry of their contracts: Tom Broadbent, MITCH HANCOX, Ryan Johnson, Frank Nouble and Luke Williams".
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
Their names may not be familiar to Altrincham supporters yet, but newly promoted Worthing have issued their retained list...
STATISTICAL REVIEW OF ALTRINCHAM'S SEASON: PART FOUR
The final part of the 2025-26 season's statistical review is here in MS Word format.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Chester FC has the club's first interview with newly appointed manager PHIL PARKINSON.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS
Two players to have worn the Altrincham shirt a a trialist and loanee respectively are the subject of a statement from FC Halifax Town who "confirm that the following players will leave The Shaymen upon the expiry of their contracts:
Having already made on close-season signing, John Gilbert from Maidstone United, Aldershot Town "announce the signing of Nino Adom-Maliki.
Hartlepool United "confirm its retained list following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season...
*Adam Smith – discussions are ongoing regarding his future role, with a number of options under consideration.
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...
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...
CHESTER APPOINT PARKINSON
As reported here yesterday, former Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson has been appointed as the new manager of Chester FC, who have been unable to get past the promotion play-offs from National North as the 2025-26 season moves towards its finale.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports
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.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
With York City lifting the National League title and Worthing triumphing in the National League South, Adam Hinshelwood can bask in his role in two title-winning campaigns this season.
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.
PARKY'S NEW JOB
Former Altrincham manager who lost his job at the end of October, has been working in a coaching capacity at Fleetwood Town recently. But now Chester FC
"confirm the appointment of Phil Parkinson as the club’s new First Team Manager!
ALTY SUPPORTERS VICTORIOUS
Altrincham FC reports that the team put out by "Union Golf Road Supporters secured a resounding victory on Saturday as they beat Altrincham FC Staff/Volunteers 10-4 to secure the Mark Eckersall Trophy.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF SEMI-FINALS
Sunday 3 May
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FINAL
Sunday 10 May
ENL REGIONAL PLAY-OFF FINALS
Saturday 9 May
NPL PLAY-OFFS
The Northern Premier League play-offs could see a new face at National North level if Warrington Rylands overcome Hednesford Town today.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports...
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.
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.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS NEWS
Cumbria's News & Star reports that "Mark Hughes declined to be drawn on his future at Carlisle United after the Blues’ play-off defeat.
ALTY 2025-26: STATISTICAL REVIEW: PART 3
Part Three of the
statistical review of Altrincham's 2025-26 season, which addresses player appearances, is available via the above link.
ALTY ATTENDANCES
According to the NL Bible Altrincham finished sixteenth of the 24 clubs in the National League last season in terms of average home attendance.
ALTY TO MEET OLD FOES
Saturday's EFL2 games confirmed that it would be two northern clubs relegated from that level to the National League for seaspn 2026-27.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports on Saturday's action...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Former Chesterfield winger Ryan Colclough (left) was this week due to face trial for causing grievous bodily harm on the alleged victim.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
Carlisle United "have confirmed that the newly introduced singing section will return on Sunday following a successful trial during the club’s final home fixture of the regular season.
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.
ALTY MONTHLY DRAW
The Altrincham FC Monthly Draw for April has produced the following outcome:
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria, overnight leaders South Melbourne were surprisingly beaten 1-2 by visitors Melbourne City U21, and Oakleigh Cannons took full advantage of the lapse with a 0-5 victory at bottom club Green Gully to go top of the league.
ALTRINCHAM FC COMMUNITY SPORTS FUNDRAISER
Altrincham FC Community Sports announces that it is "taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise vital funds that help transform lives through sport, education, and wellbeing across our local communities.
PLAY-OFF FIXTURES
Saturday 2 May
The National League North Promotion Final at South Shields is on Saturday 9 May.
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
FC Halifax Town announce that "Following yesterday’s news [of manager Adam Lakeland's move to Morecambe], and discussions with some of the senior players along with the supporters’ club, it’s felt that on balance the right decision, regrettably, is to cancel tonight’s awards.
At Forest Green Rovers "following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, we can now confirm the retained & released list...
Aldershot Town "announce Scott Davies first signing as Shots manager, 25-year-old John Gilbert!
Yeovil Town have also issued a retained list.
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...
ALTY 2025-26: STATISTICAL REVIEW: PART 2
Part Two of the
statistical review of Altrincham's 2025-26 season, which addresses Points Accrued, Biggest Wins, Heaviest Losses, Draws and Aggregate Scores, is available via the above link.
ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER MANAGER GOES
With the National League season continuing into is play-off phase, the managerial changes keep on coming.
ACADEMY'S MIXED FORTUNES
On 20 April, Altrincham's academy team which competes in the National League U19 Alliance, NLFA North Division travelled to the North East where they lost 4-3 to South Shields.
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.
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.
ALTY OLD BOYS
Phil Jordan reports that in the Europa Conference League, Strasbourg travelled to Madrid to take on Rayo Vallecano, and will start 0-1 behind in next week's second leg in Alsace.
The 29-year-old Bermuda winger joined the Enterprise National League North side in January after his release from Brackley Town...
ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS
Relegated Morecambe have "reached an agreement with FC Halifax Town after meeting the terms of Lakeland’s release clause, allowing him to make the move to Morecambe on a new 3-year contract.
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.
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