31 August 2026

MONDAY FIXURES

• Boston United 2-3 Hornchurch
• Carlisle United 4-2 Scunthorpe United
• Eastleigh 1-1 Aldershot Town
• Forest Green Rovers 1-2 Altrincham
• Harrogate Town 2-1 Gateshead
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-1 Barrow
• Solihull Moors 1-3 AFC Fylde
• Sutton United 0-2 Wealdstone
• Woking 1-1 Southend United
• Worthing 2-3 Boreham Wood
• Yeovil Town 3-2 Tamworth

NEXT GAME: FOREST GREEN ROVERS

FGR first reached national level in 1998 but did not meet Altrincham until the 1999-2000 season when Alty briefly returned to the Football Conference, having been relegated in 1997.

Both matches in 1999-2000 ended in 1-1 draws.

The current FGR squad includes two former Altrincham players in ETHAN ROSS and JAMES BERRY (right).

Goalkeeper Ross (left) joined FGR in summer 2026 having missed more than a year at Altrincham with an ACL injury.

Berry (right) also joined FGR last summer, albeit as a loanee from Wycombe Wanderers.

He was hailed as a future star when Altrincham announced the signing on 5 August 2021 of former Liverpool, Wigan Athletic and (most recently) Hull City youngster.

He had made two pre-season appearances for Altrincham at that point but before the season began he hhad gone on loan to the newly formed Macclesfield FC, an arrangement that was extended in January 2022 until the end of the 2021-22 season.

But on 10 March 2022 it was announced that Berry had joined Macclesfield on a permanent basis for an "undisclosed fee", having scored 11 times in 32 appearances for the Silkmen at NW Counties Premier level (step five).

He moved to Chesterfield in 2023 and then Wycombe Wanderers in 2025. The Chairboys, for whom he made a handful of appearances, loaned him back to Chesterfield.

In June 2026 Forest Green Rovers signed him on loan from Wycombe, with manager Robbie Savage hailing him as "undoubtedly one of the best talents I have ever worked with, and his ability is unquestionable". Berry had featured under Savage at Macclesfield.

MANAGERS' VIEWS

Alty's Neil Gibson said "We have played well for long periods of our games so far but to put in that sort of professional performance across 90 minutes, we got the win that we needed.

"The fans could see tonight how hard the players are working to pull us out of the false start we've made results-wise".

In contrast the Shaymen's boss, John McGrath opined, "We were so passive in the first half. We didn't lay a glove on Altrincham and individuals didn't do their jobs, which means the structure falls apart.

"The first goal is on us [management], we're encouraging him [Bardell] to play it back to our keeper but the second goal is criminal, we duck out of the first header and then turned our back on the strike.

"We were better in the second half".

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : Despite being booked, ALI SMITH played the whole of AFC Wimbledon's 1-0 home win over Wigan Athletic.

ALTY'S BAD TIMING

Likewise none of Alty's 17 FA Cup victories over League clubs earned the club the kind of mega-money available these days for such giant-killing matches.

And in the context of this weekend's news that Swedish club Djurgardens is to pay at least £1.5 million for Boreham Wood's Adbdul Malik, another instance of Alty being in the right place at the wrong time occurred in March 1990 when the Robins entertained Djurgardens at Moss Lane!

Back on 28 March 1990 Altrincham lost a friendly against the Swedish First Division side at Moss Lane, 0-2, but no mega-bucks offer from the Stockholm club followed for Ken McKenna or any other of Alty starts of the day.

Barry Pikesley has kindly provided details of the 1990 game which include a press report that Djurgardens became "the first ever European outfit to visit Moss Lane".

For the game, Alty fielded a team which included "new signings and promising young blood" and lost only to two second-half goals.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The deal could rise beyond that figure through add-ons, while Boreham Wood have also secured a sell-on clause.

The transfer surpasses the previous fifth-tier record, set in 2012 when Leicester City paid Fleetwood Town £1m for Jamie Vardy.

Abdulmalik completed his medical in Sweden after the deal was agreed on Sunday morning.

The forward enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2025-26, scoring 17 goals and providing 10 assists as Boreham Wood reached the National League play-off final, where he scored and set up a goal at Wembley...

Stockholm-based Djurgardens are currently fifth in the Allsvenskan... and remain in contention to qualify for Europe".

30 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 2-1 FC HALIFAX TOWN

Right: Kane Hemmings made his Altrincham debut as a late substitute on Friday night against FC Halifax Town.

FGR: THE LAST TIME

Last season Altrincham took just 15 recorded supporters to a Wednesday night clash at the New Lawn in January 2026. They missed a very creditable draw for Neil Gibson's side.

Altrincham, having made four changes to their starting eleven for the second match in a row, secured their hard-earned point as the hosts succumbed to their tenth draw of the season.

In awful swirling rain and wind, Altrincham started well and went ahead in the 11th minute. Matty Kosylo, playing at right-back, fed Jimmy Knowles to his right and he found Olly Crankshaw whose shot was curled into the net from a central position, his fifth league goal of the campaign.

Crankshaw was later to force a near post save from keeper Isted's legs (26 mins) as Robbie Savage's men faltered. The FGR boss responded to his team's lacklustre showing with a triple change at the interval and a fourth substitution within ten minutes of the second half resuming.

An improved Rovers dominated the second half, especially up their left flank, and they levelled in the 58th minute with a low shot from 20 yards by substitute Jayden Clarke.

Alty defended for much of the rest of the game and barely threatened at the other end as FGR increased the corner count which finally amounted to sixteen against Altrincham's six, with the shots' count reflecting similar numbers, 17 v 5.

NEXT: FOREST GREEN ROVERS

On Friday they lost 2-0 at Mill Farm against AFC Fylde.

Forest Green Rovers admitted that "It was a difficult evening in West Lancashire, as Harvey Broard’s brace saw Rovers fall to a 2-0 defeat against AFC Fylde. The first half saw both sides have chances, but neither could break the deadlock.

Broard and Fylde scored twice in three second-half minutes, which secured the points for the home side...

The first half was a good watch despite the 0-0 scoreline, and both teams will have felt they could have gone in at the break ahead. Half Time - AFC Fylde 0-0 FGR

The second half started as the first finished, and Rovers played well until a crazy few minutes changed the game completely...

The home side took the lead in the 65th minute, with Harvey Broard beating ETHAN ROSS from close range.

The Coasters doubled their lead just three minutes later as Broard got his second of the game, volleying home Aaron Drewe’s cross.

The goals, unsurprisingly, knocked the wind out of the lads, and despite a few flurries forward they couldn't break down a well-drilled Fylde side...

FGR: Ross, Clarke, Campbell, McAllister, Haughton (Kelly 63’), Rees (Mellor 63’), Berry (Etaluku 49’), Patrick, Agina, Mabete, Sass (Osude 74’) Subs not used - McNicholas, Ajayi, Ewing".

THROUGH THE YEARS: 31 AUGUST

That fifth game on 31 August 2002 was a 2-0 away win in Northumberland against Blyth Spartans.

Right: A fine performance from Altrincham deservedly resulted in a win away at Blyth Spartans in a match in which both sides were reduced to ten men and Rod Thornley scored twice but missed a penalty, as shown.

For details of all of Altrincham's fixtures on 31 August we are indebted to the Through the Years records of Howard Watts and Mike Garnett

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : Peterborough United left CHRIS CONN-CLARKE on the bench at Blackpool, where they were beaten 4-0.

Right: Altrincham face FGR at Nailsworth on Monday. Back in 2011 in the corresponding fixture, CARL PIERGIANNI is seen closing down a Rovers player as Alty lost 1-0.

CARL PIERGIANNI (right) played the whole game for Stevenage, who opened the scoring against visitors Doncaster Rovers, but had to come from behind to draw 2-2.

By the time JUNIOR QUITIRNA came off the Wycombe Wanderers bench at Edgeley Park in the 71st minute, they were 4-1 down to Stockport County, who added a fifth late on.

League Two : Cheltenham Town had come from behind at Barnet to lead 1-2 when JAKE BICKERSTAFF came off the bench after 68 minutes, but they couldn't hold on to their advantage and the game ended 2-2.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR was substituted at half time as Grimsby Town were held 2-2 by visitors Fleetwood Town.

Newport County brought DAN SASSI on for the second half at home to Tranmere Rovers. They led at the time, but after JOEL SENIOR (left) assisted the equaliser they found themselves 1-2 down as time was running out. However they snatched a 2-2 draw in the 90th minute.

KEVIN BERKOE played the full game for Shrewsbury Town as they won 1-0 at home against his old club Salford City.

ALEX NEWBY put York City ahead in the 7th minute at home to Exeter City, and after JEFF KING came off the bench midway through the second half they increased their advantage. Alex came off in the 91st minute, and the Devon side scored a late consolation goal.

Scottish Premiership : All JOE HUGILL had to show for a full stint in Kilmarnock's home game against Dundee United was a yellow card as they lost 0-4.

Scottish Championship : Livingston lost by the only goal at Arbroath, and it had already been scored before TYRESE SINCLAIR came off the bench after 69 minutes.

Scottish League One : KIAN TAYLOR was a 74th minute substitute for Airdrieonians as they were held to a goalless draw at home by East Fife

National North : Macclesfield trailed at the break at Darlington, but came back to win 1-2. ELLIOTT OSBORNE, SAM HEATHCOTE, and GEORGE WILSON all started, but George limped off on the stroke of half time, while Sam picked up a booking.

Although BILLY WATERS equalised for them at Hereford, Chester lost their 100% record with a 1-1 draw. TOM PEERS was withdrawn by PHIL PARKINSON after 69 minutes, but Billy played the full game.

Captained by JORDAN HULME, and with BRAD JACKSON also starting, Radcliffe suffered a hammer blow at Marine when the hosts scored inside 10 seconds. Jordan was withdrawn at half time, and Brad gave way to JUDE OYIBO after 75 minutes, by which time Marine had sealed a 2-0 win.

Southport's journey to the opposite coast ended badly, as Scarborough Athletic hammered them 5-1. REGAN GRIFFITHS joined the game for the second half, and HARRY PERRITT came on after 61 minutes. Captain LUKE BURGESS might have played the whole game but for a 95th minute red card.

Bart Cybulski's hat trick ensured that Spalding United didn't miss the injured YUSIFU CEESAY (right) as they beat visitors Worksop Town 3-1.

National South : One goal was enough to see off Maidenhead United at Chelmsford City. They weren't helped by a 41st minute red card. MILES WELCH-HAYES was an unused substitute.

NPL Premier Division : This was the place to watch goals today, as the 8 matches provided 49 of them. There were 8 at Avro as DAVID FITZPATRICK played the whole of their 5-3 win over Stockton Town.

They were more evenly apportioned at Bamber Bridge where Hyde United drew 4-4. Skipper JACK REDSHAW opened the scoring, but left the action after 74 minutes. WILL HALL and DONTAI GABIDON played throughout.

Warrington Rylands captain DEAN FURMAN returned to play the full game as they won 1-2 at Alfreton Town.

FC United were again without the injured GEZ SITHOLE as they lost 3-2 at high-flying Redcar Athletic.

Warrington Town shared 4 goals with visitors Emley. BEN ELLIOTT played for 93 minutes.

Although HAYDEN CAMPBELL played the full game for Leek Town, they lost 3-2 at Workington. ADAM PORTER remains on the injured list.

FA Trophy Qualifying Round : MAX BEDDOW was beaten twice in the opening 25 minutes at Croft Park as Blyth Spartans knocked out 1874 Northwich 2-0.

TOLANI OMOTOLA (left) was withdrawn by Boldmere St.Michaels after 77 minutes. Visitors St.Ives Town forced a goalless draw, but lost the shootout 5-4.

Nantwich Town travelled to the "other" Boston club, Boston Town. Captained by JOE PIGGOTT, they led before being pegged back just after the hour. However AIDY ROXBURGH picked up Joe's through ball after 66 minutes to send the Dabbers through 2-1

There was no clean sheet for Congleton Town's keeper DAVE PARTON, but it made little difference as they eliminated visitors Atherton Collieries 4-1. Collieries captain SAM SHERIDAN (right) played the whole match, while AARON BENNETT was a 61st minute substitute.

Mickleover travelled to Grantham, where Altrincham were crowned NPL champions in 2018. ANDY DALES played the full game as they went through 1-3.

JAMES WALSHAW took his Ossett United side to Guisborough Town, where they lost 3-2.

Mossley crossed the Pennines to the Sheffield suburb of Crosspool to take on Hallam FC.

Captained by MARK LEES, they also started MASON FAWNS. It didn't go well, and they trailed 3-0 at the break. However a battling second half performance saw normal time end 3-3, and the tie went to penalties. Unfortunately the Lilywhites lost that 5-4 so they won't be repeating their 1980 run to the Wembley final when they were runners up to Dagenham.

Captained by DARIUS PALMA, but without JEROME WRIGHT, Wythenshawe FC travelled to Geordieland where they beat Heaton Stannington by the only goal of the game.

Matlock Town's ZAK GOODSON scored before being substituted after 76 minutes as they eased through 0-5 at Lichfield City.

Still without TOM HANNIGAN, Bootle cruised through 0-5 at Liversedge.

Witton Albion made the 376 mile round trip to Morpeth Town, but returned home defeated 2-0. BEN HARRISON started JAMES LAWRIE, while JOEL BEMBO-LETA was on the bench.

KYLE BROWNHILL started for Stalybridge Celtic at home to Bradford (Park Avenue), where they were behind in 9 minutes, but were level at half time. It was still 1-1 when GREG WILKINSON joined the action after 76 minutes, but Celtic scored 5 minutes later to win 2-1.

NWCL Premier Division : A single goal from RYAN BROOKE was enough to give Trafford the win at home to FC Isle of Man.

CRAIG ELLISON wasn't involved for struggling Widnes Town, who were only able to name 2 substitutes at Sandbach United, and lost 6-0.

Midlands League : West Didsbury & Chorlton won comfortably 0-4 at Darlaston Town. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY was brought down in the penalty area to allow Joe Berks to open the scoring from the spot, and added the third goal himself. Berks went onto complete his hat trick.

ELLIOTT ROKKA scored twice, and won the Man of the Match award as Northwich Victoria beat visitors Abbey Hulton United 5-3, having earlier been behind.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Coming through the youth setup with Chesterfield, Wainman progressed to the under 18s. Whilst with Chesterfield, the midfielder spent last season at Dearne & District in the Northern Counties East Football League Division One. Dearne & District were crowned champions last season, with Wainman being named young player of the season having made 32 appearances and scored three.

The midfielder joins having impressed on trial throughout pre-season".

29 August 2026

AFTER THE GAME: NEIL GIBSON

He described the match as "a wide-open game" as Halifax went "man for man all over the pitch", a tactic which Neil saluted as very brave as he personally likes to have "more control" on proceedings.

Right: Alty's opening goal came from Jimmy Knowles, who is pictured here during the game.

The manager also pointed out that Halifax, 2-0 down at the interval, "changed their wingers and went even more on the front foot". Given Alty's poor start to the season he admitted that his team showed some nervousness as a consequence.

Overall, however, he paid tribute to the players as they "have not felt sorry for themselves after the first few results".

He considered that "Kirky and Humbles ran themselves into the ground" which led to Breckin and Reddin coming on. Breckin he feels has deserved more minutes this season.

Overall, the "players' data output was through the roof" so they will have a day off today (Saturday) before coming in on Sunday to work on the game-plan for Monday's fixture at Forest Green Rovers. Neil added that he is likely "to freshen it up in one or two positions" for the match at the New Lawn.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Boston United v Hornchurch
• Carlisle United v Scunthorpe United
• Eastleigh v Aldershot Town
• Forest Green Rovers v Altrincham
• Harrogate Town v Gateshead
• Kidderminster Harriers v Barrow
• Solihull Moors v AFC Fylde
• Sutton United v Wealdstone
• Woking v Southend United
• Worthing v Boreham Wood
• Yeovil Town v Tamworth

ALTRINCHAM 2-1 FC HALIFAX TOWN

The Robins took a sixteenth-minute lead when Knowles took advantage of a Halifax lapse to finish impressively past the keeper.

Altrincham doubled their lead in first-half added time as Crawford volleyed home after Kirk's freekick had come out to him from Lopata-White (pictured, right). It was fitting that Alty's captain scored as it was he who had been fouled to earn the freekick from the right.

Halifax made two changes at the interval and soon had a goal disallowed for offside before they went on to keep Altrincham penned back for a period.

However, Alty seemed to have weathered the pressure until Bray got forward on the right. His cross was inadvertently powered into the net by Matty Kosylo as he and David Kawa went for the same ball (81 mins).

Altrincham had a third goal disallowed (85 mins) and retained their lead without two many alarms in the closing stages.

Match report here.

ALTY OLD BOYS

They did manage to pull one goal back late on. They were crowned "Premiers" last weekend, so there was nothing at stake - and they finished 5 points clear as Hume City also lost.

They will now have a 2 week break before they play their Championship semifinal.

Earlier, Phil surveyed the activities of former Altrincham players and loanees on Friday...

South Korea K League 2 : A goal down at the break at Ansan Greeners, Daegu brought on MARCUS DACKERS for the second half, and went ahead on the hour. Marcus missed the last penalty he took, so he wasn't entrusted with the one they earned on 70 minutes, especially since it offered his Brazilian teammate Cesinha the chance of a hat trick - however he missed too. Marcus was booked late on, as his team hung on to win 1-2 and move up to 2nd, although two teams behind them have games in hand.

National League : Following a goalless first half at AFC Fylde, Forest Green Rovers withdrew JAMES BERRY only 3 minutes into the second half. However it was CRAIG MAHON's team who stepped up the pressure, and, with CHRIS MERRIE (left) putting in a full stint in their midfield, they beat ETHAN ROSS twice in 4 minutes midway through the half and held on to win 2-0. Rovers managed only a single attempt on target.

Harrogate Town also suffered a reality check in Hampshire. MARCUS DINANGA set up the first goal for Tristan Abrahams, who scored a first half hat trick. Marcus went off after 79 minutes as Shots won 3-1.

Barrow's miserable start to the season continued as they went down 1-2 at home to Yeovil Town, whose squad included neither JACK KINGDON nor MATT GOULD. Barrow gave a full game to both ISAAC MARRIOTT and KENNEDY DIGIE, while KEATON WARD (right) came on after 72 minutes and opened the scoring 7 minutes later. The Cumbrians had 15(9) shots to Yeovil's 7(4), but the Glovers provided the sting in the tail courtesy of an 87th minute penalty, and a 94th minute winner. Barrow left OLLY CRANKSHAW on the bench.

Despite KYLE FERGUSON putting in a full shift, and facing 10 men from the 57th minute onwards, Gateshead lost 0-1 to visitors Sutton United, who scored their goal after they'd lost Noah Nzuzi to that red card. The London club now have the only 100% record in the league after 4 games.

After a goalless first half at Hartlepool United, the hosts found themselves down to 10 men only a minute after the restart when Neo Eccleston picked up a second yellow card. There were still no goals when visitors Eastleigh withdrew JOSH LUNDSTRAM after 86 minutes, but they scored the only goal of the match after 97 minutes.

Solihull Moors took the lead at Scunthorpe United, but the Iron were level at the break, and JAMES GALE (left) put them in front after 56 minutes before being substituted 15 minutes later. ROSS BARROWS played the full game as Scunthorpe won 3-1, while DECLAN HOWE was a 64th minute substitute. However REAGAN OGLE missed out. Solihull are now the only team without a point after 4 matches.

When Southend United went in front after 10 minutes, most people would have expected visitors Kidderminster Harriers to have an uphill struggle, but it wasn't the case. They equalised on the hour, and then went on to win 1-3 with CALLUM DOLAN playing the full game.

Carlisle United lost TOBY MULLARKEY to injury after 22 minutes at Wealdstone, while REGAN LINNEY was withdrawn after 58 minutes. The Cumbrians led by the only goal at that stage, but Wealdstone equalised in the 90th minute to save a point.

National North : Hednesford Town, with DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY (right) in their starting lineup, came from behind to beat visitors Harborough Town 2-1.

LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOT NEWBY started for Morecambe at home to AFC Telford United. They led 2-0 at the break, and although JAKE MOULT's brother Louis gave them a late scare they held on to win for the first time this season 2-1.

LIAM BROCKBANK was a 61st minute substitute for Buxton, who won 2-3 at Oxford City.

Irish Premier League : St.Patrick's left BARRY BAGGLEY on the bench for their home game against his previous club Waterford, who struck twice without reply to further dim their hopes of finishing top.

Welsh Premier League : It was a difficult night for LOUIE FALLON as Airbus lost 4-2 at league leaders Barry, who have the only 100% record in the league after 5 games.

JOEL TORRANCE, on the other hand, kept a clean sheet as Llandudno won 2-0 at home to Haverfordwest, who played with 10 men from the 41st minute.

JAMES JONES played the full game, while MIKEY STONE was withdrawn after 70 minutes, as Connah's Quay Nomads beat league newcomers Cambrian United 3-0. It was the 4th consecutive win for JOHN DISNEY'S men who climbed to 3rd in the table.

FA Trophy Qualifying Round : TONY THOMPSON played the whole game for Prescot Cables, while SHARIF DEANS was a second half substitute, as they knocked out visitors Vauxhall Motors 4-1. KEVIN ELLISON wasn't in Motors' squad.

NPL Premier Division : Although Ashton United's JAMES HARDY played the full game, they were beaten 1-2 by visitors Gainsborough Trinity.

Cleethorpes Town had been unbeaten in their first 6 games, and are still top of the league despite losing 1-3 at home to Curzon Ashton, captained by DANNY WHITEHEAD. JOSH OLLERENSHAW wasn't in the Curzon squad.

28 August 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• Boreham Wood 2-1 Boston United

Friday 28th August 2026, 7.45pm

• AFC Fylde 2-0 Forest Green Rovers
• Aldershot Town 3-1 Harrogate Town
• Altrincham 2-1 FC Halifax Town
• Barrow 1-2 Yeovil Town
• Gateshead 0-1 Sutton United
• Hartlepool United 0-1 Eastleigh
• Hornchurch 1-0 Woking
• Scunthorpe United 3-1 Solihull Moors
• Southend United 1-3 Kidderminster Harriers
• Tamworth 3-2 Worthing
• Wealdstone 1-1 Carlisle United

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

Back in summer 1999 Kane's father Tony signed for Altrincham and turned out for the Robins in August of that year. He made two substitute appearances in that month when Alty were playing in the Football Conference but left on 22 August.

NINTH NEW SIGNING FOR ALTY

The 34-year-old moves to The J.Davidson Stadium after spending last season in League Two with Barrow, and goes straight into contention for this evening's home game against FC Halifax Town...

Neil Gibson [stated] 'Kane's a player I've watched for a long time and he has great experience both in the EFL and the top levels in Scotland.

'We've been looking to add to the squad to help the players at the top end of the pitch. After meeting Kane it was clear he has the desire to come and help drive the team forward.

'He's someone who, in and around the box, has a good eye for goal, he's given the players a lift in training already, he's looked quite sharp and we'll [be?] excited to add him to the squad.'"

Footnote: Kane, who will wear shirt number 28, is the ninth newly contracted player of the summer but is the tenth signing at the J. Davidson Stadium since the end of last season, if loanee signing, Reuben LOPATA-WHITE is included.

The eight players previously contracted this summer are Aidan BARLOW, Sam BARNES, Kristian DENNIS, Owen EVANS, Andy FIRTH, Liam HUMBLES, Charlie OLSON and Sam TAYLOR.

Sadly, four of the contracted players have yet to start a match this season, these being Barnes, Dennis, Firth and Olson, with three of them (Barnes, Dennis and Olson) being sidelined by injury.

As for Kane Hemmings (d.o.b. 8 April, 1992 in Burton upon Trent) the six feet one inch tall forward has twelve previous clubs in his C.V..

Three of those clubs are in Scotland, where he started his professional career at Glasgow Rangers in 2011. He made 9 appearances for the Ibrox club and in two spells at Cowdenbeath (2013-14) and Dundee (2019-20) he made more than a hundred appearances in total.

His first club south of the Border was Barnsley (23 appearances 2014-15), followed by Oxford United (2016-18 40 apps), Mansfield Town (37 apps on loan in 2017-18) and Notts County (38 apps in 2018-19).

Subsequent spells at Burton Albion (2020-22), Tranmere Rovers (2022-23), Stevenage (2023-24), Crewe Alexandra (2024-25) and Barrow (2025-26) saw him amass more than 180 further appearances in which he scored 44 goals.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Tonight's game is part one of a double bill for August Bank Holiday with part two comprising a trip to Forest Green Rovers for a Monday 3pm start on 3 August.

Altrincham will be seeking a first win of the season whereas The Shaymen ended their pointless start to the season with a 4-1 home win last time out at home to Tamworth.

Whether Altrincham's injured list has grown or diminished remains to be seen but last time out they were missing six first-team squad members. They were Charlie Olson (hamstring), Eddie Jones (hamstring), Owen German (ruptured achilles) and a trio of players with unspecified injuries in Tom Crawford, Sam Barnes and Kristian Dennis.

In addition, the fitness of Anthony Forde must be in doubt as he has yet to kick a ball in competitive action this season, despite being named on the bench in each game so far.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 28 AUGUST

An injury to Geprge Wilson (right) left Altrincham to complete the game with ten men.

Back then, in a strange first half, Alty's much-changed side struggled for half an hour to produce anything in the way of impressive football against a Coasters' side which dominated possession without really testing Ethan Ross. Then Alty scored twice in as many minutes.

They took the lead on 33 minutes when the home keeper failed to hold an Angus shot from the right and Linney tapped the ball home.

Then, a good ball from Osborne gave Linney possession on the left and he fed an unmarked Angus in the central, outer reaches of the box and he beat the keeper with a fine shot, his third goal in 48 hours. So Alty led 2-0 at the break.

After 57 minutes Fylde won a clear penalty when James Jones brought down Haughton left of goal. Haughton's penalty was well saved by Ross to his right but as the ball bounced away in the box from Ross's save, debutant starter George Wilson went to hook it clear. From behind him Whitehead went for the ball too and the referee construed the incident as a second penalty, just seconds after the earlier spot kick. This time Houghton converted confidently to make it 1-2 (58 mins).

Substitute Omatayo headed in an equaliser from a cross from the Fylde right (79 mins). But despite not threatening at all from open play in the second half, Alty sub Amaluzor wrestled with Obi on the byline, left of goal, and the referee pointed to the spot. Conn-Clarke's hop-skip-and-jump penalty kick fooled the keeper to put Alty ahead again (88 mins).

But as ninety minutes approached, George Wilson was injured and, though he resumed after lengthy treatment, he had to go off soon afterwards leaving Alty to negotiate what turned into more than ten added minutes.

Fylde pressed forward against the ten men and got a very late corner on the left which was taken short to Whitehead, whose cross was headed in at the back post by Obi to leave the result 3-3 (90+10 mins).

ALTY OLD BOYS

Carabao Cup : ALI SMITH played the full game for AFC Wimbledon at Craven Cottage, but they were no match for Fulham and lost 3-0.

Europa Conference League Qualifier : Larne were firm favourites to progress, given they commenced their home second leg against Lincoln Red Imps with a two goal advantage, but the team from Gibraltar struck twice in the last 8 minutes of normal time, and then snatched the win with a penalty after a minute of added time in extra time.

To make matters worse for the team from Northern Ireland, MONTEL GIBSON (right) came on as a 69th minute substitute, was booked inside 2 minutes, and was then sent off for a second yellow card having played for only 18 minutes.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Armed Forces Covenant is a commitment to recognise and support those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families...

Yeovil has a particularly strong connection with the Armed Forces, with RNAS Yeovilton playing an important role within the local community. Yeovil Town are proud to recognise that connection and the contribution made by members of the Armed Forces and their families across Somerset.

The club already has a history of recognising the Armed Forces community through our annual Remembrance and Armistice activities at Huish Park...

Yeovil Town will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen our links with local service personnel, veterans and military families, while supporting relevant Armed Forces initiatives and events within our community...

Yeovil Town Football Club are proud to recognise and support those who serve, those who have served and the families who support them".

At the other end of the country, Carlisle United report that goalkeeper "Adam Desbois says he is confident in his ability to make a positive impact at Carlisle United after impressing in his home debut against Hornchurch last Saturday...

Despite a first clean sheet evading him, Desbois is happy with his early work...

He said 'I'm hungry to do well; I haven't arrived somewhere and thought, "Oh, here we go, this is the life, I'm here, I'm happy now".

'It's work, work, work, keep pushing on, and whatever happens, happens, so that's the main focus... The season before [last] I was out the whole year with an ACL (injury)'.

Desbois has also received plenty of praise from Head Coach Rob Elliot, who described him as one of the best goalkeepers in the league following Saturday's performance... 'When he says I'm the best goalie in the league, I've got to believe it. Because if I don't believe it, who else is going to believe it? So you have to believe it. So I believe I'm one of the best at whatever I do. If I am or not, who knows? But I've got to have that belief.'".

The Friday night assignment for Sutton United sees the "U"s having to make a 600-mile round trip to face Gateshead.

The head coach of Sutton United "has called for full focus on Gateshead as Sutton look to maintain their 100 per cent record in their longest away trip of the 2026/27 season".

After a perfect start to the season, Agutter said, "It’s a game at a time – just focus on the next game. Genuinely, I haven’t even thought beyond that... It’s just been 100 per cent focus on Gateshead".

"The opposition are expected to provide a possession-based challenge... 'Typical Gateshead, I’d say, in terms of wanting to dominate the football. They’ve got a young, talented group with a sprinkling of experience. That’s very much the club’s identity, which I think has been consistent over a period of time, irrespective of the manager in charge. They try to dominate the football and control the centre of the pitch...

'You only hear positives about Lee Cattermole and the work he does on the training pitch.... We’re really pleased it’s midweek, and I think under the lights there’s always a bit more atmosphere,' he explained.

'I know a few people have moaned a little bit about it being on a Friday night, but for us, actually, it suits us. Gateshead don’t have the biggest crowds in the world and it’s an open ground. Sometimes on a Saturday at 3pm, I think it can lose a little bit of atmosphere. That certainly won’t be the case under the lights, so we’re really happy with that'".

Tamworth "announce the launch of a new Supporter Services account, designed to assist all of our followers with any queries related to club matters, both on and off of matchday.

Located on X with the handle @TFCSupporterHub and Facebook with the handle TFC Supporter Hub, the account aims to provide fans with consistent and reliable information relating specifically to event information, such as ticket news, specific club events, club shop operations and much more.

Any questions that supporters may have can be sent to that account and will be answered as quickly as possible by our team. Responses may also be reposted to our main Tamworth FC X feed".

Kidderminster Harriers' "boss Paul Wotton wants his players to embrace the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend which begins in Southend on Friday night.

A crowd of over 8,000 is expected...

That’s followed by Monday’s visit of Barrow to Aggborough and, while the gaffer is keen to take one game at a time, he’s relishing the size of the two clashes ahead of his charges over the weekend.

'That’s terrific. That’s great. That’s what you’re in football for,' he said.

'You work hard to be a professional footballer all your life, and you don’t do it to play in small games. You do it to play in these sorts of games'...

'I’ve played against Southend multiple times in the Football League, and it gets a good atmosphere there,' he added".

Wealdstone "centre=half Dion Conroy believes wins aren't far away for his new club, given what he's seen in the early weeks of the Wealdstone campaign.

But it didn't happen for the defender and his Stones' colleagues at Worthing, a single goal from a quickly-taken free-kick just before the break enough to separate the teams.

'Today was a matter of we started too slowly and switched off for the goal,' explained the 30-year-old,,, 'Second half, we were the better team - even once we go down to 10 men.

'We've spoke about it inside; we've got to start games better because in the three [league] games so far we've shown we're the better side for large parts and we should probably at least have three draws in a row...

'We know we're a good team and it's quite obvious we've got to start the games better'...

Conroy featured on loan under Gary Waddock at Aldershot Town 10 seasons ago, and... 'It [Gary Waddock being manager] was the main attraction for me joining,' he said. 'I wanted to get back to enjoying football. I had a period at Crawley where I didn't play...

'To play for a manager I admire, I think he's a top man, means I'm grateful to have the opportunity to play here'".

Harrogate Town "confirm Cathal Heffernan has joined Cambridge United for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old centre back signed for Town in January 2026 and made 24 appearances for the club, scoring two goals.

Heffernan would Captain the club for the first time in his last appearance for the club, during our 2-2 draw with Barrow on 22nd August.

'He was the ultimate young professional and has been since the day he joined', Simon Weaver explained.

'The deal was done in the right way, Neil Harris gave me a call and our valuation was met, it’s a good club for Cathal to go to at a good level.

'We firmly believe we are identifying and recruiting young talent that can really develop here and our challenge is to continue finding these players, while being a winning team in the process.'".

27 August 2026

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

This is the seventh league meeting between the teams at the J. Davidson Stadium since Altrincham returned to the National League in 2020.

Altrincham have only won one of the previous six league meetings at the JDS, which have all been close affairs, with goals at a premium.

• 2020-21 Altrincham 0 FC Halifax Town 1
• 2021-22 Altrincham 1 FC Halifax Town 1
• 2022-23 Altrincham 2 FC Halifax Town 1
• 2023-24 Altrincham 1 FC Halifax Town 2
• 2024-25 Altrincham 0 FC Halifax Town 0
• 2025-26 Altrincham 0 FC Halifax Town 1

ALTY'S MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY

The Altrincham FC website lists two options, as described below.

In the John King Lounge, under the brand "Club Alty 1891", the offering for £120 is:

• Lounge access
• Dining experience
• Private matchday concierge
• Pre-match manager & player talks
• Half-time refreshments
• Post-match player presentation
• Reserved private padded seats
• Premium wines, champagne & spirits - Cash bar
• Matchday programme & team-sheet

Above: The John King Lounge is sited within the Family Stand complex.

Alternatively, from the Hornchurch game in September, in what is currently the Vice-Presidents' Lounge, the offering is branded "Robins Nest" where, for £45, guests will be provided with...

• Robins Nest Lounge access (VP Lounge under Main Stand)
• Table Service
• One-course lunch
• Half-time refreshments (tea, coffee & sweet treats)
• Cash Bar available (Bottled beers and [other] alcohol)
• Matchday programme & team-sheet
• Includes Matchday Ticket
• Exclusively for Altrincham Fans

It is understood that the Vice-Presidents' Lounge is being replaced by a designated area in the Community Sports Hall but this is yet to be confirmed.

RONNIE SMITH R.I.P.

Altrincham FC has now penned a tribute to the former winger, which concludes with the following summary of his career...

"Ronnie will be remembered by Alty supporters of that era for his relentless pace, outstanding technical skill, and vital contributions during a transformative chapter in the club’s history".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Avro pulled a goal back to go in level 2-2 at the break. Already without the injured ADAM PORTER, Leek had to substitute Hayden only 2 minutes after the restart. However by the 54th minute they'd gone 2 goals up. Avro, who were without MAX HARROP, weren't going down without a fight, and struck late in the 95th minute to force a 4-4 draw.

FA Cup Preliminary Round : It had also been 4-4 on Sunday in a game that passed under the radar between Northwich Victoria and Bootle. ELLIOTT ROKKA had scored two of the Vics goals. The replay at Bootle tonight was rather less frenetic, and a single goal for Vics after 14 minutes settled it. Elliott was withdrawn at half time, while TOM HANNIGAN didn't play in either game. Vics will entertain Atherton Collieries in the 1st Qualifying Round.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 25-year-old defender joins Rovers after making 31 appearances last season for Stanley, scoring one and assisting one.

When asked about coming to FGR, Freddie said 'I'm really excited to be here; it's a great challenge, and I can't wait to get started.'

The gaffer [Robbie Savage] had this to say... 'He’s a terrific player who will add strength to our defence. He's full of potential and a great guy from a good family'".

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of striker Manny Duku, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal.

The 33-year-old striker joins the Spitfires, after spending time with Tamworth and Rochdale during the 2025/26 National League campaign.

He started the season with Tamworth, scoring six goals and assisting two in the 25 league games that he played for the Lambs.

The striker has played for other clubs at this level such as York City, Wealdstone and Solihull Moors...

Duku was born and raised in the Netherlands... before moving to England in 2015 to play for Chesham United. <> Upon joining the Spitfires, Duku said 'The place looks amazing'".

26 August 2026

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Both teams started the current season with two successive defeats but the Shaymen recorded an emphatic 4-1 win over Tamworth last Saturday, whereas Alty suffered a third defeat at Boston United.

The West Yorkshire side's opening two games pitted them against two of last season's play-off contestants in Forest Green Rovers (away, lost 3-2) and at home to Boreham Wood (lost 1-3). Halifax have also played a National League Cup match, hammering Derby County under-21s 6-2

So their four games so far have involved 22 goals!

WOMEN BOW OUT OF FA CUP

Alty... started brightly and Georgia McKnight capitalised on a misplaced sixth minute pass to fire impressively into the top corner from about 15 yards...

Morecambe equalised seven minutes later when Rianna McGonnell reacted first to a superbly delivered Yasmine Carswell right wing free kick to calmly volley past the exposed Carmen Stephens...

The Robins started the second half brightly but conceded from a second set piece on the hour...

Charlotte Gray made it 3-1 with a speculative effort from over thirty yards out that sailed over Stephens...

Daryll Abrahams’s side missed the experience, drive and leadership of skipper, Nat Lowe, who was unavailable due to holiday...

Altrincham: Stephens (GK), Gilmore, Locke, Morrison, McKnight, Culbert, E. Jones, Kullu, A. Jones, Walsh (c), Tickner. Subs: Williams (GK), M. Whitehead, Underwood, Munt, Unwin, Paulley

ALTY OLD BOYS

Carabao Cup : Shrewsbury Town found themselves 3-0 down in 35 minutes at Fleetwood Town, and, although they had more of the game after that, they were unable to force their way back into the tie. Fleetwood struck again in the last minute to win 4-0. KEVIN BERKOE picked up a booking, and Shrewsbury withdrew him after 78 minutes.

Stevenage rested CARL PIERGIANNI (right) for the visit of Reading, but he came off the bench for the second half with his side 2 goals down. He was booked in the last minute as Reading went through 0-3.

If Watford thought that their second string could cope with lower division opponents, Peterborough United firmly disespoused them of that theory. By the time Posh brought CHRIS CONN-CLARKE off the bench in the 66th minute they were 5 goals up. Watford did pull one goal back, but were eliminated 1-5.

Scottish Challenge Cup : Airdrieonians brought KIAN TAYLOR off the bench just before the hour with the game level a 1-1, but visitors Stirling Albion won 1-3.

NPL Premier Division : Hyde United captain WILL HALL, and DONTAI GABIDON, who was booked, played the whole of their 4-0 defeat at Alfreton Town, while JACK REDSHAW was a 61st minute substitute.

JAMES HARDY played throughout Ashton United's 1-1 home draw with Ilkeston Town.

Curzon Ashton skipper DANNY WHITEHEAD (left) played the whole of their 0-4 win at Warrington Town, while JOSH OLLERENSHAW watched from the bench. Town withdrew BEN ELLIOTT after 73 minutes.

Things were no better for Town's neighbours. Even without DEAN FURMAN, Warrington Rylands looked set for a win Workington, where they were 0-2 up at the break. However, George Waring saw a red card in the opening minute of the second period, and, by the time his teammate Ben Hardcastle emulated him in the 95th minute, the Cumbrians had turned things round to win 3-2.

NPL Division 1 East : ZAK GOODSON played the first 73 minutes of Matlock Town's 3-1 home win over Pontefract Collieries. Conor Washington won 43 caps for Northern Ireland during a long career higher up the pyramid, and tonight he put away 2 of the Gladiators' goals.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : TOLANI OMOTOLA (right) opened the scoring in a 2-1 home win for Boldmere St.Michaels against Barwell, before going off after 79 minutes.

NPL Division 1 West : Atherton Collieries brought both SAM SHERIDAN and AARON BENNETT off the bench after 66 minutes, but were unable to claw back the only goal of the game scored by Padiham.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the whole game for Stalybridge Celtic at Clitheroe, but they lost 2-1. GREG WILKINSON (left) was an unused substitute.

Wythenshawe FC captain DARIUS PALMA was withdrawn after 83 minutes at Congleton Town, for whom DAVE PARTON kept a clean sheet in the goalless draw.

There was a full shift from Newcastle Town's SEAN LAWTON in their 1-1 home draw with Chasetown.

KEVIN ELLISON wasn't in the Vauxhall Motors squad that drew 3-3 with visitors Nantwich Town.

AIDY ROXBURGH was among the Dabbers' scorers, and played the full match, as did JOE PIGGOTT, while JOSH HANCOCK went off after 86 minutes.

There was a yellow card for JAMES LAWRIE (right), as he and JOEL BEMBO-LETA played throughout a 2-0 home win for BEN HARRISON'S Witton Albion against Kidsgrove Athletic.

FA Cup Preliminary Round Replays : Horbury Town put the only goal of the game past MAX BEDDOW to end 1874 Northwich's interest in this year's competition. Their reward is a 1st Qualifying Round trip to Prescot Cables, who beat Litherland REMYCA 1-0, largely thanks to TONY THOMPSON saving a penalty. SHARIF DEANS also played the whole game.

ALTY OLD FOES

Abdul al-Humaidi, who was bankrupted after the collapse of plans for one of Europe's largest theme parks, paid funds via Ebbsfleet United that were proceeds of what the court said were from a "criminal source".

The football club, sold by al-Humaidi's family company last week, is currently suspended by the National League amid concerns about its finances".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Bunker has made a positive first impression at United, picking up 3 goals and 2 assists in his first month at the club.

Having failed to win in his opening two games, he believes that the team need to build on today’s victory and push for more success.

He said... 'I can’t be much happier, overall, it was a really good performance'...

“The gaffer spoke to me during the week and talked about playing the 8-10 role, which is why I got my goals today because I was further forward'".

AFC Fylde have issued an Official Club Statement which includes the following...

"AFC Fylde can confirm that the Club has received a number of formal offers for striker Danny Ormerod, including more than one offer from clubs currently competing in League One.

The Club has rejected all formal offers received for Danny, including those with a total value of up to £500,000... We can confirm that no agreement has been reached with any club for Danny’s transfer. The offers received to date have been rejected because, both in terms of their overall structure and financial value, they do not reflect the Club’s valuation of a player we consider to be an important part of our team and a significant long-term prospect for AFC Fylde.

Danny has made an excellent start to the new National League season, scoring twice in his opening three appearances, and remains an important part of our plans as we look to build a successful team and achieve our ambitions this season.

AFC Fylde is an ambitious club and, as with any player, we will always consider an appropriate proposal should one be received. Equally, we will not be pressured into accepting an offer that does not reflect the value we place on Danny.

Until an appropriate offer is received, we consider the matter closed".

Announcing a Season Ticket-Holder Appreciation Matchday, Forest Green Rovers state that "To show our appreciation for your support, we have some exclusive offers for season ticket holders on Saturday 12th September...

Here are the highlights!

• Bring a friend to the game for FREE!
• 20% off in The Gym Bar and Green Man between 12pm and 1pm.
• 10% off all training wear in the club shop.
• Upgrade to the Carol Embrey suite for £25 and bring a friend for the same price.

"Olly Dyson was disappointed with Tamworth’s performance on Saturday afternoon as they fell to defeat on the road at FC Halifax Town.

TJ Bramble’s late goal was not enough to come back from four goals down, and the Lambs walked away empty handed. Dyson expressed his frustration.

He said 'Tough game. Individual errors. We set up well, good training, and just not good enough. We all know what we’ve done wrong, we just have to put it right...

'We’ve given three mistakes away, and it’s been four goals. We need to be better in both boxes, which we will be, but sooner rather than later...

'We need to... be a bit more smart with the way we play. The mistakes we made, could we have been a bit more direct, hit better balls, but just learn from it'".

The BBC reports that "Boreham Wood forward Abdul Abdulmalik said he is 'capable of reaching the top' after the National League side rejected a £1.5m offer from Swedish club Djurgarden.

The 23-year-old has been the subject of serious interest from the Swedish top-flight side...

Boreham Wood do not want to sell Abdulmalik, with manager Luke Garrard saying 'he is our player' after the forward was left out of the London club's 3-0 victory over Forest Green on Saturday...

'I'm ready for the next challenge'...

'Through sheer hard work and perseverance, the opportunity to progress has come around. This is my chance to push myself as a footballer, elevate my game and most importantly fulfil my promise to the ones around me,' Abdulmalik continued..

'I owe it to myself and the kids growing up just like me to fight for this one I've been offered'...

Abdulmalik was released [by Millwall] in 2024, before Boreham Wood signed him as a free agent".

Meanwhile "Boreham Wood midfielders Tom White and Zak Brunt have signed new contracts with the National League club".

25 August 2026

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Right: Against FC Halifax Town in April 2026, Dan Sassi heads clear, with Tom Crawford grounded and Charlie Kirk in the background.

Following two successive 1-0 defeats on the road (at Sutton and Boston), Altrincham will be hoping that there is no repeat of last April's visit to the J. Davidson Stadium by FC Halifax Town when the Shaymen won 0-1 thanks to a 94th minute goal.

Last season's defeat was the fifth time that season that Altrincham had lost to a goal scored in added time.

The winner came after Jimmy Knowles had rattled the underside of the bar in the 72nd minute.

Just as is likely this Friday, it was a much weakened Altrincham who took to the field. With Barnes and Reddin out through suspension, they also missed five injured players (Ross, Banks, Sass-Davies, Olson and Forde).

BOSTON MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Wood produced a dominant display to seal their first victory at The New Lawn as Zak Brunt opened the scoring with just 62 seconds on the clock, before Lewis Richardson and Matt Rush got in on the act...

'They are a brilliant side,' he said. 'Let’s be fair, they were 30 seconds away from getting out of the National League (last season after losing to Rochdale in the play-off final...

'We've got to aspire to be like them. We have lost against a team who are arguably the favourites to win the league and it could have been more - there is no doubt about that.

'It’s not a tough one to take as the better team deservedly won'.

The omission of Abdul Abdulmalik, who is linked with a seven-figure move to Swedish outfit Djurgardens, appeared to be a major blow for the Wood but they flourished without their star forward...

'That is without arguably the best player in the league (Abdul Abdulmalik) and they were by far the superior side.'”

Scunthorpe United "is inviting supporters to the Attis Arena on Tuesday, August 25th for a special open training session, followed by a unique Lunch with the Players experience.

With the summer holidays drawing to a close, the club is putting on the event with our younger supporters in mind, providing children with a fun activity and the opportunity to get closer to their Iron heroes ahead of the new school term.

The Attis Arena will open from 10.30am... with supporters able to watch the first team continue their preparations for Friday's home league encounter against Solihull Moors from around 10.45am...

Admission to the open training session is FREE, although supporters must book a ticket...

Following training, Junior Iron supporters can take part in the special Lunch with the Players experience, giving youngsters the opportunity to sit down and enjoy lunch alongside members of the first-team squad.

Priced at just £12 per child, the package includes the same food being served to the players (chicken pasta bake), free squash, and a team poster to take away and get signed by the squad.

Adults accompanying children are also welcome to join the lunch, with adult tickets priced at £10, including the food only".

24 August 2026

NEXT GAME: FC HALIFAX TOWN

FC Halifax Town tell us that "The Shaymen produced a dominant performance against Tamworth, securing a convincing 4-1 victory after a blistering first-half display saw Halifax race into a four-goal lead...

The Shaymen broke the deadlock... Carty intercepted a loose back pass before racing through on goal. Showing composure with his first touch, he calmly finished past the goalkeeper to register his second goal of the season and give Halifax the lead [18 mins]...

The Shaymen did double their advantage in the 41st minute through Gilsenan. The winger exchanged passes with Ben Tollit before receiving the ball back and brilliantly skipping past two Tamworth players with a drop of the shoulder. Gilsenan then entered the penalty area and fired beyond the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.

Gilsenan struck again just four minutes later. He won possession from Teo Kurtaran before showing excellent skill to work his way past two Tamworth defenders and calmly slot the ball into the bottom-right corner...

Halifax began the second half more cautiously, retaining possession and controlling the tempo rather than immediately looking for another goal.

However, their patience paid off in the 49th minute when Tollit made it 4-0 with a rocket of a strike from 35 yards away from goal... ensuring a memorable afternoon for the Shaymen.

FC Halifax Town: 33 True Grant, 2 Max Bardell, 8 Will Flint, 5 Shane Hobson, 3 Raheem Conte, 4 Will Hugill, 30 Cody Johnson ( c), 17 Ben Tollitt (18 Arian Allen 66) , 10 Zak Gilsenan (20 Tayt Trusty 85), 11 Connor Douglas (23 Dylan Crowe 85), 9 Connor Carty (14 Amari Morgan-Smith 75). Subs: 1 Sam Johnson, 7 Owen Bray, 22 David Kawa".

THE VIEW FROM BOSTON

Aboh's 58th minute lob settled a tight encounter in the favour of the Pilgrims - after visitors Altrincham had rattled the post inside the opening minute of the second half through Liam Humbles.

The Pilgrims were otherwise good value for their victory - with Aboh and Sai Sachdev close to extending United's lead in the second half...

Ex-Pilgrim Jimmy Knowles cracked an early effort too high for the visitors, before Altrincham keeper Owen Evans denied Lennon Wheeldon from long-range...

United needed a terrific Sachdev block at the back post to deny Charlie Kirk a near certain goal.

Kirk's forceful run into the box at the start of the second period saw Humbles crash a low drive off the post"

ALTY OLD BOYS

Elsewhere, in a lengthy article on the BBC Sport website, Neil Johnston writes, "'I had four touches and I fouled Paul Scholes', says KEVIN ELLISON about his one and only Premier League appearance for Leicester City at Manchester United in 2001.

The forward had been rejected by his hometown team Liverpool and was working on a building site as well as delivering furniture, while playing for non-league Altrincham, before landing a dream £50,000 move to Leicester 25 years ago.

A month later Ellison, then aged 22, was sharing a pitch with Roy Keane, Ole Gunnar-Solskjaer and Scholes after being sent on as an 84th-minute substitute at Old Trafford.

Leicester lost 2-0. Ellison never played in the Premier League again.

A few years later depression took over as he struggled with family problems, while he had gone from signing a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Foxes to dropping back down the leagues and worrying about finances.

'The darkest moment was when I was driving on the M6,' Ellison recalls 'My thoughts back then were: "would people's lives around me be better if I smashed my car into the central reservation at 100mph?" That's how deep it got.

Right: Kevin Ellison playing for Altrincham at Hednesford in 1999/2000 season.

'Speaking out to those around me and seeking help [counselling] is the only way I got through those dark clouds that came over me'...

Now aged 47, Ellison is healthier and happier.

Incredibly, he is still playing for Cheshire-based non-league club Vauxhall Motors...

'Everyone says I should be in a nursing home,' laughs Ellison, who has played in all top eight tiers of English football and is one of the few players to reach the 1,000-game milestone in a memorable career spanning 29 years and 18 different clubs".

After being released by Liverpool and a playing at Southport, "He started getting noticed for the amount of goals he was scoring at Altrincham - 23 in 54 league games..

Ellison adds 'I was playing part-time and working full-time on a building site and delivering furniture - three-piece suites, beds, wardrobes, the lot'...

These days Ellison balances working in a safeguarding role at a secondary school in Liverpool with turning out for part-time Vauxhall Motors, who play in the Northern Premier League Division One West in the eighth tier of English football...

In 2020, Ellison took part in a campaign involving the Football Association, external aimed at encouraging football fans to look after their mental health...

Ellison helped the Three Lions bring one trophy home this summer. He was part of the England team that won the Seniors' World Cup after beating France 4-0 in the final in Thailand in June.

In Northern Ireland, Glenavon Football Club "wishes to announce a number of board changes with immediate effect.

Left: Lawrence Looney.

Stephen Best will move into an Honorary Chair role, recognising his long‑standing service and commitment to the Club.

LAWRENCE LOONEY will continue as Club Chairman.

CATHAL MORRISON will continue as Vice Chairman, and Frazer Follis will also move into a Vice Chairman role.

Previously, in a post on "X", Looney had stated "Delighted to have started a new venture at Glenavon and now to be taking over as chairman.

Unfortunately we never got to quite finish the job at Alty but had an incredible, successful 7 years and delighted to be at Glenavon with the same talented group that made that happen. Target is European football, one step at a time!"

Footnote: Lawrence Looney was formerly co-chairman at Altrincham whilst Cathal Morrison also served on the club's Board of Directors.

FA TROPHY SPONSORS QUIT

The decision brings an end to the title partnership, which began at the start of the 2022-23 season and covered the two major national Non-League cup competitions".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

On Saturday's matchday

The 26-year-old midfielder arrives at the club with broad experience of the National League with spells at Boston United, Altrincham and most recently Gateshead.

Ward signed for the Heed in January and during his short time with the club made 14 times and scored four goals, contributing to their incredible escape from relegation, clawing back 11 points to safety in just two months.

He has become a proven goalscorer at this level and is a player Adam Murray has worked with in the past, as Ward climbed through the ranks at the Mansfield Academy".

Footnote: In 26 appearances for Altrincham, Ward scored twice. At Barrow he joins former Alty team-mates Isaac Marriott and Olly Crankshaw, as well as Kennedy Digie who was also previously an Altrincham player.

AFC Fylde "announce the signing of attacking midfielder Theo Upton on a season long loan from Blackpool.

The highly-rated 18-year-old... Blackpool-born Upton came through the Seasiders' academy before signing his first professional contract with the club in February 2025...

The talented midfielder has already... made senior appearances for the club... Upton also spent the second half of the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Matlock Town, initially joining the Gladiators in February before extending his stay until the end of the season...

Upton said 'I’ve come here with ambition, hunger and a real desire to help the team be successful.'

Head Coach CRAIG MAHON was full of praise for the new signing saying 'Having played against Theo in pre-season, he really impressed us with his ability and the way he approached the game. We felt he would fit our style really well,'".

Carlisle United "Head Coach Rob Elliot says he is pleased that his side picked up their first win of the season but acknowledges that there is still room for improvement as United beat Hornhurch at Brunton Park... with goals from Miguel Azeez, REGAN LINNEY, and a brace from Harvey Bunker...

He said, 'We need to make sure to keep the momentum from today and understand what got us this victory... I think there was a lot we could have been better; the ironic thing is that I thought our performance was leaner against Worthing.

'The only criticism I have today is that we should have scored more than we did, at half-time the game should have been done'...

Miguel Azeez opened the scoring against Hornchurch... 'He's an extremely talented boy, I don’t think there’s any limits on Miguel’s (Azeez) ability. His mindset’s superb, we played him a little bit deeper today because we knew it would be congested'...

Bunker....'was incredible and he’s got a knack for that (box-crashing), he’s got three goals and two assists in three games. The talent that he has is unmatched, he’s got the physicality of a player three or four leagues higher'" said the manager.

The two clubs who beat Altrincham in the first two fixtures of the season are now the top two in the nascent National League table. One of those clubs is Sutton United who report that "Alex Kirk described his return to competitive action as a hugely rewarding moment after making his first appearance since February 2025 in Sutton United’s 2–1 victory over Hartlepool United.

The defender has worked hard to return to full fitness from a back injury sustained almost 18 months ago and, after missing the opening two games of the season with a slight knock, was delighted to finally get back onto the pitch...

Kirk said... 'Obviously, it probably wasn’t in the prettiest game of football you’ve ever seen, but in a sense, for me personally, that was good'...

The victory was Sutton’s fourth in a row in all competitions, and Kirk felt the U’s were deserving winners despite the contest not always being easy on the eye.

'I think they didn’t really, with respect, look like scoring unless it was kind of us giving them the opportunities'... he added...

Kirk’s return comes against the backdrop of a dramatically different Sutton defence to the one he was part of during the 2024/25 campaign, and he believes the improvements extend beyond the back four, with greater experience and resilience now evident throughout the team">

23 August 2026

BOSTON UNITED 1-0 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here.

Right: At Boston, Altrincham fell foul of TWO of the new football measures to stop timewasting. Captain Lewis Banks had to go off the pitch for a minute after goalkeeper Owen Evans needed treatment for a genuine injury, whilst substitute Kahrel Reddin was not allowed to come on as a substitute for a minute after the player who he was replacing (Charlie Kirk) was too slow in leaving the pitch.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

The BBC reports that on Saturday "Halifax got their first National League win of the season at the third attempt, blowing Tamworth away in the first half on their way to a 4-1 home victory.

The hosts were 3-0 up by half-time. Conor Carty opened the scoring after 18 minutes before Zak Gilsenan stunned Tamworth with two goals in three minutes at the end of the half.

Ben Tollitt ended any lingering hopes of a fightback by the visitors, grabbing a fourth after the restart.

TJ Bramble's goal 14 minutes from time came far too late for Tamworth to recover as they were left still in search of a first win".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Half time lasted 45 minutes, with Cannons now 0-2 up, due to a power outage. A generator was brought in to provide good enough lighting to eventually play the second half, and CONNOR HAMPSON and his teammates cruised home. The actual championship is decided on a playoff basis, but Cannons will not have to play the opening round, going straight into the semi finals.

League One: ALI SMITH (right) played the whole of AFC Wimbledon's goalless home draw with Reading.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was a 71st minute substitute for Peterborough United at home to Mansfield Town with the match balanced at 1-1. Posh pinched it 2-1 in the 93rd minute.

Despite a full shift from CARL PIERGIANNI, Stevenage managed only a 98th minute consolation against visitors Oxford United, who won 1-2.

Wycombe Wanderers were a goal down at half time to visitors Plymouth Argyle, and withdrew JUNIOR QUITIRNA. They eventually salvaged a 1-1 draw.

League Two: Although JUSTIN AMALUZOR (left) played the full game, Grimsby Town could only manage a goalless draw at Walsall.

On the other hand there was a veritable goalfest at the Memorial Stadium. Newport County had scored in the first minute, but Bristol Rovers, having levelled in first half added time, scored twice in the first 12 minutes of the second half.

Although the Welsh side got back to 3-2, DAN SASSI had barely got onto the pitch when Rovers struck again in the 74th minute. County again reduced the arrears at the start of added time, but Rovers had the last word, clinching a 5-3 win in the 99th minute.

With JOEL SENIOR playing throughout, Tranmere Rovers came from behind to draw 1-1 at Port Vale.

York City were also behind at Rotherham United, but ALEX NEWBY earned them a 1-1 draw. JEFF KING was a 72nd minute substitute.

KEVIN BERKOE played the whole of Shrewsbury Town's 1-3 home defeat by Barnet.

Cheltenham Town were already 2-0 down at Swindon Town when they brought on JAKE BICKERSTAFF (right) after 71 minutes, but all he had show for his efforts was a yellow card. The Gloucestershire Robins did manage to score, but lost 2-1.

National League No sooner had REGAN LINNEY rounded off the scoring in Carlisle United's 4-1 home win over Hornchurch with a 75th minute goal, than he was substituted. TOBY MULLARKEY played the full game.

Yeovil Town had 16(12 on target)) goal attempts to only 1(1) by visitors Gateshead, so it was no surprise that they won 3-0. MATT GOULD would probably have had little more to on the field than he did alongside JACK KINGDON on the bench.

Barrow avoided joining Altrincham and Solihull Moors with nul pointes by the skin of their teeth, coming from behind for a second time in the 96th minute to earn a 2-2 draw. ISAAC MARRIOTT played the whole game, and KENNEDY DIGIE came on at the start of the second half. New signing from Gateshead, KEATON WARD, joined the action after 68 minutes, leaving OLLY CRANKSHAW as the only Old Boy to play no active part.

Scunthorpe United were without ROSS BARROWS at Eastleigh, while REAGAN OGLE was pressed into action after only 18 minutes. DECLAN HOWE started, but was withdrawn after 61 minutes in favour of JAMES GALE, who scored the Iron's second equaliser 10 minutes later. Alas it wasn't enough - only 2 minutes later JOSH LUNDSTRAM (lwft) clinched a 3-2 win for the Spitfires, before being substituted after 88 minutes.

Boreham Wood totally dominated proceedings at Forest Green Rovers putting the ball past ETHAN ROSS 3 times without reply. Indeed the Gloucestershire side shared with Altrincham the "distinction" of not mustering a single shot on target, something JAMES BERRY was powerless to affect as he was left on the bench. TYLOR GOLDEN played the full game for Wood, while DANNY CASHMAN was withdrawn after an hour.

CALLUM DOLAN was withdrawn by Kidderminster Harriers after 63 minutes, having been booked earlier. Kiddy were a goal up against visitors Aldershot, who had been down to 10 men after 39 minutes, at the time. Shots had withdrawn MARCUS DINANGA in the reshuffle after that red card, and had missed a penalty into the bargain. When they went down to 9 men in the 74th minute one would not have given them much chance of getting anything out of the match, but they managed to force a 1-1 draw after 87 minutes.

CHRIS MERRIE put in a full shift for AFC Fylde at Woking, where they led twice - but CRAIG MAHON'S team were undone by goals after 90 and 93 minutes, losing 3-2.

National League North : DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY was booked as Hednesford Town drew 1-1 at AFC Telford United.

TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS started for Chester, who left it late to beat visitors Spalding United, for whom YUSIFU CEESAY (right) was booked, 1-0.

Brackley Town finished with 9 men at Macclesfield, for whom ELLIOTT OSBORNE, GEORGE WILSON, and SAM HEATHCOTE all started. They had gone ahead in added time at the end of the first half, but had a man sent off almost immediately. Macc were themselves reduced to 10 men in the 83rd minute, but had turned the game round by then to win 2-1.

Radcliffe started BRAD JACKSON for the visit of struggling Morecambe, while JORDAN HULME and JUDE OYIBO were on the bench. ELLIOT NEWBY started for the Shrimps, while LEWIS BAINES was again on the bench as they lost 2-1.

Two first half goals from LUKE BURGESS put Southport on the way to a 4-1 home victory over Bedford Town. REGAN GRIFFITHS and HARRY PERRITT were among the Southport substitutes.

National League South : MILES WELCH-HAYES was an unused substitute as Maidenhead United drew 1-1 at home to Farnborough Town.

NPL Premier Division: Curzon Ashton Skipper DANNY WHITEHEAD put in a full shift at home to Guiseley, but they lost 1-2. JOSH OLLERENSHAW was an unused substitute.

JAMES HARDY played the full game for Ashton United, who drew 1-1 at Emley.

WILL HALL surrendered the armband to JACK REDSHAW as Hyde United entertained Avro. DONTAI GABIDON came off the bench for the second half, as did Avro's MAX HARROP against his most recent former club. DAVID FITZPATRICK played the full game for the team from Oldham, who won by the only goal.

Leek Town were without ADAM PORTER (left) following last week's injury, but HAYDEN CAMPBELL played the first 87 minutes of their 4-1 home win over Bamber Bridge.

Warrington Rylands were no match for newly promoted visitors Redcar Athletic, who hit 5 without reply. Captain DEAN FURMAN was withdrawn after 61 minutes shortly after being booked.

Neighbours Warrington Town produced exactly the reverse of that result at Whitby Town, where they were 3 up in 20 minutes and won 0-5. BEN ELLIOTT was withdrawn after 62 minutes.

Midland League Premier Division : West Didsbury & Chorlton were held 3-3 at home by Dudley Town after leading 3-0 at half time. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY played the full game, as both sides finished with 10 men.

Southern Premier Central: HARVEY RANDLE, having been signed as emergency cover, may have played his only game for Worcester City, as he wasn't in the squad for today's 1-0 home win against Stamford.

NWCL Division 1 North: DAVID LYNCH was a second half substitute for Flixton, who beat visitors AFC Blackpool 3-1.

NWCL Division 1 South: CRAIG ELLISON wasn't in Widnes Town's squad at Allscott Heath, where they were thrashed 7-0.

FA Cup Preliminary Round : JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam, with BILLY HASLER-CREGG in their starting lineup, and ELLIOTT WYNNE on the bench, were no match for hosts Atherton Collieries, who gave a first start to AARON BENNETT. Aaron lasted an hour before going off with his team a goal up. SAM SHERIDAN came on after 73 minutes, by which time Collieries had wrapped up a 3-0 win.

TONY THOMPSON and SHARIF DEANS started for Prescot Cables, who were surprisingly held 1-1 at Litherland REMYCA and must replay on Tuesday.

RYAN BROOKE (right) opened the scoring for Trafford at his most recent club, Runcorn Linnets. They were 0-3 up early in the second half, and held on to win 2-3.

BEN HARRISON had no Old Boys in his Witton Albion starting XI, although JOEL BEMBO-LETA was on the bench. They beat visitors Nelson 1-0.

HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS came off Cheadle Town's bench at Stocksbridge Park Steels after 30 minutes with the tie goalless, but Steels went on to win 1-0.

1874 Northwich had MAX BEDDOW in goal against visitors Horbury Town, but let their lead slip. The game ended 1-1, and they must travel to West Yorkshire on Tuesday evening.

Mickleover were already ahead at Barwell when ANDY DALES was withdrawn after 66 minutes, but were pegged back 15 minutes later - however, they found a 90th minute winner to go through 1-2

TOLANI OMOTOLA was an 87th minute substitute for Boldmere St.Michaels, who beat visitors Chasetown 1-0.

Captain MARK LEES (left) and MASON FAWNS started for Mossley at home to Bradford (Park Avenue). Mossley were already 2 down when they won a penalty, which Mason took. He hit the bar, and put the rebound away, but as nobody else had touched it the referee rightly disallowed the goal. The West Yorkshire club had scored the final goal in their 0-4 victory before Mason was substituted late in the game.

Despite a full shift from KYLE BROWNHILL, Stalybridge Celtic were knocked out 2-1 at Tadcaster Albion.

KEVIN ELLISON wasn't in the Vauxhall Motors squad that went through 3-2 at home to Thackley.

Scottish Championship: TYRESE SINCLAIR was a 74th minute Livingston substitute in a 2-0 home win against Dunfermline Athletic.

Scottish League 1: KIAN TAYLOR was pressed into action from the bench after only 12 minutes as Airdrieonians were beaten 1-3 by visitors Ross County. Kian was credited with the assist for his team's goal.

Welsh Premier League: By the time JOHN DISNEY (right) withdrew MIKEY STONE after 93 minutes, Connah's Quay Nomads had wrapped up a 0-2 win at Ammanford. JAMES JONES played throughout.

South Korea K League 2: MARCUS DACKERS came off the Daegu bench with the match goalless after 61 minutes, and although visitors Busan took the lead soon afterwards, it was he who equalised in the 93rd minute to earn a point.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The visitors took the lead inside the first two minutes as Zak Brunt finished off a clinical counter-attack.

Lewis Richardson later converted a clever dink over Ethan Ross to score his first of the season, doubling his side's lead 18 minutes in.

Prolific striker Rush, who scored a hat-trick in the draw with Tamworth and two goals against FC Halifax, continued his fine form with a powerful first-time finish after 55 minutes.

Things got even worse for the hosts as Tre Pemberton saw red three minutes from time to end a poor afternoon for Forest Green".

22 August 2026

POST-MATCH: NEIL GIBSON

As regards the game at Boston, Neil said "We didn't deserve to lose that game.. We haven't deserved to lose any of the three games this season".

He judged that his team had "played well for large parts of the game" at Boston. But he underlined that he has been saying "since my Day 1 at the club" that we need "either numbers or more quality in the final third... We need to keep improving at the top end of the pitch".

In short we have "got to get a player or two into the building this week", he believes.

BOSTON UNITED 1-0 ALTRINCHAM

In a goalless first half the hosts saw more of the ball but Altrincham created the two best chances with Knowles skying an early effort and, later, Jimmy Knowles swivelling inside the box but directing his shot narrowly wide.

Moments after the interval Alty went even closer as Humbles hit the post after a Kirk effort had been blocked.

But the Pilgrims took a 58th minute lead when Grimes's long ball from the left caused hesitation from Hinchy as Evans came out of his goal and Aboh got between them on the edge of the box to poke the ball into the net.

Match report here

SATURDAY FIXTURES

ALL matches 12.30pm kick-offs

• Boston United 1-0 Altrincham
• Carlisle United 4-1 Hornchurch
• Eastleigh 3-2 Scunthorpe United
• FC Halifax Town 4-1 Tamworth
• Forest Green Rovers 0-3 Boreham Wood
• Harrogate Town 1-1 Barrow
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-1 Aldershot Town
• Solihull Moors 1-3 Southend United
• Sutton United 2-1 Hartlepool United
• Woking 3-2 AFC Fylde
• Worthing 1-0 Wealdstone
• Yeovil Town 3-0 Gateshead

BEFORE THE GAME: BOSTON UNITED v ALTRINCHAM

Almost certainly out of contention through injury are Sam Barnes, Owen German, Charlie Olson, Kahrel Reddin and Eddy Jones. Additionally, striker Kristian Dennis was unfit to play last Saturday and is believed to out of action for some time. Jimmy Knowles was unable to start at Sutton last time out but, hopefully, he may now have regained fitnes whilst Matty Kosylo has completed his suspension so should be available after missing last week's game.

Meanwhile, Boston United "will be looking to chalk up their first home victory of the National League season on Saturday afternoon... following an opening day defeat to Aldershot Town on home turf.

Paul Hurst’s side responded positively to win 2-0 at Solihull Moors last time out, courtesy of goals either side of half-time from Lennon Wheeldon and Ken Aboh...

United will welcome defender Jake Rooney back from his one-match suspension, following his red card against Aldershot on the opening day.

The match will be shown live on National League TV (ko 12.30pm).

BBC Radio Lincolnshire's full-match commentary, courtesy of Dale Storey and Neil Cox, is available online.

Updates on X will be available via @bostonunited throughout the afternoon...

An enhanced transport option will be available from the Len Medlock Voluntary Centre in the town centre, with further in-town pick-ups available (£1.50 per journey)".

JACK HINCHY INTERVIEWED

The midfielder stated that "It is great to be back" having spent a spell on loan at Alty last season. As for Neil Gibson and himself, Jack said that "We struck up a good understabnding last season" which encouraged him to return.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Welsh Premier League: Despite having a staggering 84% of the possession, Llandudno lost their 100% record at Penybont, JOEL TORRANCE conceding twice as they lost 2-1.

It was no better for LOUIE FALLON, who only conceded once for Airbus at Colwyn Bay, but it was the only goal of the game.

FA Cup Preliminary Round : JAMES WALSHAW'S Ossett United progressed at Liversedge, where they scored the only goal.

BBC Sport Cumbria has a video interview with National League Carlisle United's loanee from Fleetwood Town, TOBY MULLARKEY.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Ethan explained that a concussion injury in training had slightly delayed that debut.

Ethan paid tribute to former top-flight keeper Jonathan Gould who is his coach at FGR and was also his coach at WBA "I've got massive respect" for him, said Ross.

Of course whilst at Alty, Ethan had worked with Jonathan's son, Matt Gould.

Ross admitted that with his long-term injury suffered playing for Altrincham, the long period of recovery had "taken him to new places as a person and athlete".

The Chief Operating Officer, Nicholas Brayne, at Yeovil Town has issued "An Open Letter to Glovers Supporters "to thank you for the tremendous backing you gave the team at Huish Park on Saturday. In my time at the club, I cannot remember an atmosphere quite like the one generated during the match with Carlisle United. It was one of the largest home crowds of our ownership, but more importantly, the noise, energy and encouragement from the stands made a genuine difference...

We have a responsibility to put a team on the pitch that people can identify with, give supporters something to believe in and demonstrate a clear sense of direction.

In Billy [Rowley], we have a manager who understands fans and understands this football club. In the dressing room, we have a group of players who are giving supporters something to get behind... I hope we are beginning to see the first signs of something progressive taking shape.

That makes this Saturday another important afternoon for us. The 12.30pm kick-off is earlier than we would traditionally choose. I have previously been open about my concerns around displaced kick-off times in lower-league football because they can affect attendances and matchday revenues without clubs necessarily being fully compensated for that impact...

So once again, I am asking you to come out in numbers on Saturday and get behind Billy and the players...

One thing I hope we are demonstrating through this ownership is that when supporters offer feedback, we listen. We will not always get everything right first time, but where changes can be made, we will try to make them...

Since I arrived at Yeovil Town, the warmth and support I have personally received from so many of you has meant a great deal. More importantly, there is a growing sense around Huish Park that the team, the club and the supporters are beginning to pull in the same direction".

Harrogate Town "announce the signing of Burnley’s Oliver Pimlott on a one-month loan deal.

The 19-year-old left wing back joined the Clarets at U14 level and has since earned a professional deal with the Lancashire club and been named in their senior matchday squad...

Pimlott said shortly after signing, 'I’m high energy, tenacious and love bombing on so, when I heard about the interest, I couldn’t wait to get here and all the lads have been great so far.'

Pimlott... made over 30 appearances for The Clarets’ U21s last season".

Southend United have launched a "Third Kit; a shirt that brings together the culture of our city, the memories of our past and the innovation of the future.

Taking inspiration from both the iconic Southend Pier Culture Centre, this season's third kit captures the colour, energy and personality that makes our city unique. The striking pink and purple colourway with the contrasting yellow detailing comes together to create a design made to stand out both on and off the pitch.

Look closer and you'll find a modern interpretation of a much-loved piece of Shrimper history. The shirt draws inspiration from the legendary 1996-98 ‘Custard Splat’ kit, bringing elements of that unforgettable design into a completely new look for a new generation of Southend supporters. It's a nod to the shirts, players and memories that came before us, while creating something that is entirely its own.

Designed by Erreà’s Creative Lab, the design strips back both iconic crests to the symbols that make them recognisable across the globe. Inside the collar, you will see the two phrases consistent with our ranges this year: ‘WE ARE SOUTHEND’ and ‘NEVER GIVE UP’.

Sponsored by c2c, BTMK, D2 Design & Build and NuDev, it's not just the design that makes this shirt special.

The 2026/27 Third Kit features advanced nanotech material, adding performance technology to a stunning kit. The innovative fabric is designed to help water bead up and roll away from the surface, meaning moisture is less likely to soak into the material. It's a subtle piece of technology that makes a big difference, helping the shirt remain lighter and more comfortable when conditions turn wet".

Woking’s "much-loved mascots, KC Kat and KC Kitten, are preparing to swap pitchside for the racetrack after accepting an invitation to take part in this year’s Epsom Mascot Derby on Bank Holiday Monday, 31st August.

The annual Mascot Derby brings together sporting mascots for a fun-filled race, all while raising vital funds for charity. This year’s event will support The Children’s Trust, helping children with complex health needs and disabilities, while Woking FC will also be encouraging supporters to donate in aid of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, continuing the Club’s commitment to supporting causes within the local community.

Supporters can look forward to following KC Kat and KC Kitten’s journey over the coming weeks, with plenty of exclusive content across the Club’s social media channels. From training sessions and behind-the-scenes footage to challenges, interviews and race-day updates, there will be plenty of opportunities for fans to get behind the Cardinals’ furry duo ahead of the big event".

21 August 2026

NEXT: BOSTON UNITED

However, that was at the former Boston ground at York Street not at their current Jakeman's Community Stadium. This was the final competitive match played at York Street

Boston were reunited with Altrincham in the National League when they gained promotion from National North in 2024.

In 2025/26 Boston won the fixture in Lincolnshire 1-0 before drawing 2-2 with Alty in March 2026, thanks to the Pilgrims' 94th minute equaliser.

ALTY OLD BOYS

To add insult to injury SAM ROSCOE picked up a yellow card. This was his ninth booking of the season, but he has avoided suspension so far.

Europa Conference League Qualifier: Larne found themselves with a man advantage in Gibraltar, as Lincoln Red Imps had Spanish defender Yussef Flalhi Idrissi sent off after 29 minutes.

MONTEL GIBSON was booked 12 minutes into the second half, and he was immediately substituted. Larne finally scored after 84 minutes, then struck again in added time to take a 2 goal advantage into next week's second leg in Northern Ireland.

RON SMITH R.I.P.

Terry Rowley's profile of Ron is here.

Ron spent 3 seasons at Moss Lane as Altrincham made the transition from the Cheshire County League, to the Northern Premier League.

ALTY WOMEN WIN

The fourteen-player squad featured seven debutants, three new signings, four players from the Under 18 Elite Development Squad and five players who have come through from Altrincham FC Juniors.

Nat Lowe’s sweet first half strike proved to be the difference in a tight encounter as Altrincham FC Women opened their season by taking all three points at Stockport Sports Village...

The only goal of the game arrived in the 36th minute. Ashley Jones launched a throw which was headed clear of the penalty area and Nat Lowe showed great tenacity and awareness to bring the ball under control with her right foot before unleashing a left foot half volley from the edge of the penalty area to give Alty a lead that they would not relinquish.

Altrincham: Stephens, Locke, Morrison, Culbert, Rutter, Lowe (c), Kullu, A. Jones, Paulley, Tickner, Unwin. Substitutes: Bradley, Underwood, Munt...

Victory will help build confidence for Alty’s exciting young squad, who travel to the Lancashire coast on Sunday for a Preliminary Round FA Cup tie at Morecambe".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The east of England's number one supplier of specialist vehicles to funeral directors have stepped forward to cover the cost of United's new addition – which has been fitted to the exterior of the South Stand and Sports Hub building...

The contents of the screen on matchdays will continue to be developed over the coming weeks, as the Pilgrims gear up to play in a completed Jakemans Community Stadium for the first time".

Barrow "confirm the departure of Charlie Raglan following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.

The 33-year-old signed for the Bluebirds in June 2025 and made 34 appearances in the 2025/26 campaign".

Carlisle United's supporters' group refer to a "written club update circulated... and highlighted the following:

• Kit sales were performing strongly, with more than 4,400 home and away shirts sold...
• The new shop EPOS and online retail system had launched alongside the new kit...
• The first home fixture had gone well operationally off the pitch, with a strong attendance, busy retail and Fan Zone activity, and positive feedback regarding visiting Worthing supporters...
• The Family Fun Day was considered a success, with good attendance and positive feedback. The club hoped it could once again become an annual summer event. =

Matters Arising from the Club update:

• Stadium Perimeter Guidance... Suzanne Kidd explained that the guidance had been released late on the evening before the first game of the season. The club needed time to review the rules and compare them with the existing arrangements at Brunton Park. Once this had been completed, including any necessary measurements, the club would be in a better position to determine whether any work was required.

  Tom Lawrence added that he believed the stadium would be compliant, as mitigation was required where a wall was less than 2.5 metres from the edge of the pitch, and he believed the walls at Brunton Park were more than 2.5 metres away.

• Suzanne Kidd confirmed that Carlisle United no longer held any financial interest in James Trafford following his previous sale back to Manchester City.

Hartlepool United report that manager "Lee Clark has called on [his team] to show the same mentality, desire and work ethic that have underpinned their perfect start when they face Sutton United on Saturday.

Pools travel to the VMS having recorded successive victories and clean sheets against Barrow and Aldershot Town...

. 'What has pleased me most has been the desire, application and attitude of everybody,' said Clark... 'The substitutions we’ve made have had a real impact on the results, and I’ve been delighted with that... We can change things tactically during games to try to get a result and that is a massive asset for us as a coaching team'...

Pools welcomed a number of new players during the summer, but Clark has been encouraged by how quickly the squad has come together...

'Sutton have made a similar start to us with two wins and two clean sheets, so they’ve obviously been very impressive,' he said."

At Tamworth "Andy Peaks was delighted for his squad to have picked up a victory in the opening game of the National League Cup against Newcastle United PL2.

Academy player Vanylson Silva managed to get onto the scoresheet too, along with Tom McGlinchey, Nathan Tshikuna and a brace from Jake Hutchinson.

Peaks said 'First and foremost, really pleased to win a game of football. We did well in this competition last year and want to do well again this year. For the fans, it was probably an exciting game. For us, there was a lot of positives. Disappointing to concede three goals... Overall, I think it was a really good workout'...

Peaks said 'We’ve got some good academy lads, and we’d like to have probably got others on if we could. At 3-0 we perhaps thought we were going to get more on than we managed in the end. It was about winning the game...

'Just like the Birmingham Senior Cup last year, if we’re in something, we want to win it. This is a good competition because you get a good workout and they’d got some good players... It’s a good challenge, and it gives people who are not playing the chance to get minutes'".

Yeovil Town joint owner Prabhu produced programme notes for their recent home draw against Crlisle.

"It is now just over a year since my family and I decided to invest in this fantastic football club... In many ways, last season was Project Cleanup. This season is about Project Growth...

You will have heard us talk about our three Cs: Calm, Community and Competitive. I hope you can see all three in the work taking place.

This summer we have been focused on backing Billy Rowley. Rebuilding the First Team and coaching staff so that we can be genuinely competitive...

Most importantly, thank you to you, our supporters. Your loyalty, humour and passion make this club what it is, and I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many of you over the past year..

I am delighted to be back in Somerset for my second summer".

Harrogate Town "are excited to announce the arrival of Middlesbrough midfielder Brayden Johnson on a season-long loan.

'He’s an athletic, ball-winning type, an all action midfielder who will bring a lot of energy', revealed Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry.

'His style of play is something we need in the middle of the park, he played 60 minutes for Middlesbrough’s 21s this week so he’s fit, ready to go and we think he’ll hit the ground running.'

The 20-year-old caught the eye of current club Boro after a breakout season with Eastbourne Borough...

After signing for the Championship side in January 2025, Johnson would gain more first team experience out on loan at Gateshead and Kidderminster".

There has been a new signing at Gateshead on which the BBC comments that "Irish striker David Eguaibor has joined Lee Cattermole's Gateshead on a two-year deal from Scottish League One side Cove Rangers.

Eguaibor, 22, scored 11 goals in his one season with Cove following his move from Irish side Cobh Ramblers.

He told the National League club website, 'When I went to Scotland, I learned a lot. I learned fast as well and hopefully I can bring that here, score goals and get regular game time as well@".

20 August 2026

NEXT: BOSTON UNITED

Paul Hurst’s side bounced back from an opening-day defeat against Aldershot Town to pick up a 2-0 victory on the road against Solihull Moors.

Altrincham will be boosted by the return of Kosylo (right) and Barnes from suspension, though the latter is a doubt having suffered a setback in training".

ALTY OLD BOYS

ALTY WOMEN PREPARE

It begins a big opening week for Alty Women, who kick off their Women's FA Cup campaign with a trip to Morecambe FC Women on Sunday.

Abrahams has retained the majority of his squad, losing just five players in Francesca Boyle, Ireyimika Bamigboye, Olivia Kaleta, Sophie Hall and Kira Saycell.

A number of players, whilst available initially, will depart for university, such as Ash Gilmore, Elise Jones and Emily Rutter.

Six players have been brought in to strengthen the group, the first of which was... Brogan Walsh. A club legend and part of the first ever Altrincham Women team, Walsh left the club in November but adds needed experience to the squad this campaign.

Other additions include central defenders Amy Tickner and Isla Paulley from Huddersfield Town Women and Chester FC Women, and midfielders Macy Price and Saffron Tilston from Ashton Town Ladies and Runcorn Linnets Ladies.

The marquee signing of the summer is goalkeeper Carmen Stephens, joining on a season-long loan from Liverpool FC Women".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The forward joined United on a month's loan from Bristol City last Friday before being introduced in Somerset the following day, having had just one training session with his new teammates...

He said 'It was a delight to be here, a brilliant opportunity for me to try and help this club. On Saturday it was a bit disappointing we only got the one point...

'Feeling trusted from the manager, obviously looking at the bench and picking me out of everyone to come on and try and make an impact...

The 18-year-old had little time to learn his new teammates, the manager's style and the demands of his new surroundings....

'It's very difficult. I mean, like you said, it's difficult to learn names in less than 24 hours. So it's a really difficult situation to be put in, but I like it. I like being challenged and, like last season, I've done it a few times, so it's not a new experience for me and I really enjoyed it...

'If it gets extended, I'll be happy with it... When I get on the ball, they [the fans] expect something to happen. They expect me to take on my man, to just be electric on the pitch. It's something I always bring, energy'".

Hornchurch "and Mark Hammond have mutually agreed that Mark will step down from his position as Chief Executive Officer with effect from 19 August 2026. The Club would like to thank Mark for his contribution during his time with Hornchurch Football Club and wishes him every success for the future.

The Club will make further announcements regarding the future structure of the Club in due course.

Mark Hammond has today confirmed that he has stepped down from his position as Chief Executive Officer and Co-Owner of Hornchurch Football Club with immediate effect due to personal and family reasons.

Mark said... 'I have made the extremely difficult decision to step down from my role as CEO and Co-Owner of Hornchurch Football Club... At this point in my life, I need to prioritise my family and personal circumstances, and I believe stepping away from my position is the right decision for both myself and those closest to me.

Although my time at Hornchurch has been shorter than I originally anticipated, I am proud to have played a part in an important period for the club as it prepares for the opportunities ahead.

I would like to personally thank Chairman and Owner Alex Sharp who has been so supportive and understanding from when we first met and up until now, Daryl McMahon, who I think is an incredibly talented manager, the management team, players, staff, volunteers, sponsors and particularly the supporters association for their welcome and support they have given me'".

19 August 2026

NEXT: BOSTON UNITED

The Pilgrims' team, which showed seven changes to their league starting line-up at Solihull last Saturday, comprised 1, Faxon, 7, Holmes, 2, Sachdev, 5, Ward, 8, Holohan, 27, Mauro, 11, Aboh, 20, Rooney, 22, Hammond, 18, Wheeldon, 4, CONNOR TEALE. Subs: 13, Chadwick, 29, Clayton, 14, John-Lewis, 34, McBride, 33, Pereira, 3, Shipley, 21, Raikhy .

Sachdev, Teale, Aboh and Wheeldon were the only players to be retained from Saturday's starting eleven.

ALTY OLD BOYS

National League Cup : Maybe Leeds United U21 were missing new Alty loanee REUBEN LOPATA-WHITE, but they certainly wouldn't have expected to go in 5-0 down at the break at Boreham Wood.

DANNY CASHMAN (left) assisted 2 of those goals. TYLOR GOLDEN came on for the second half, when the Yorkshire club recovered a vestige of their pride, finally losing 5-2.

Boston United didn't fare as well, despite being 2-0 up when CONNOR TEALE was withdrawn after 67 minutes. Birmingham City U21 turned things around to win 2-3.

Scunthorpe United entertained Stoke City U21, and ROSS BARROWS put in a full shift. They were a goal up when REAGAN OGLE and JAMES GALE (right) came off the bench after 63 minutes, and James set up their second goal, and then added the last 2 himself as the Iron won 4-0 without having to bring DECLAN HOWE off the bench.

MARCUS DINANGA wasn't in the Aldershot Town squad which drew 2-2 with visitors Fulham U21 to take the game to penalties. The Premier League youngsters won the shootout 2-4.

EFL Trophy : ALI SMITH was an 83rd minute substitute for AFC Wimbledon at Leyton Orient. 6 minutes later Orient wiped out the Dons' early lead to take the game to penalties. Although Ali converted his kick, Orient won in sudden death 6-5.

JUNIOR QUITIRNA (left) gave Wycombe Wanderers the lead after 71 minutes at Reading before leaving the action just a minute later, but they too conceded to end up with a 1-1 draw, and missed 3 of their 4 spot kicks to lose the shootout 3-1.

National North : It took Buxton only 2 minutes to go ahead at Bedford Town, but they conceded before the break, and were reduced to 10 men only 8 minutes after the restart. The introduction of LIAM BROCKBANK after 63 minutes couldn't ultimately save them from a 2-1 defeat. CONNOR KIRBY will probably not play for them again this season after breaking his leg in two places. MICHAEL GYASI wasn't in Bedford's squad.

A single goal was enough for PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester to win at Darlington and retain their 100% record and the league leadership. TOM PEERS started, with BILLY WATERS (right) on the bench.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY opened the scoring for Hednesford Town, but although they went 2 up they eventually had to settle for a 2-2 draw with visitors Southport, who scored after 90 minutes, then again in added time. REGAN GRIFFITHS started for the Sandgrounders, while LUKE BURGESS was a 70th minute substitute.

Despite going down to 10 men in the 73rd minute, Hereford added to the one goal lead they had at the time to see off Radcliffe 3-0. BRAD JACKSON was a 65th minute substitute for Boro, and he was joined 11 minutes later by JORDAN HULME.

Morecambe remain in the relegation zone after losing 0-1 to South Shields, the only other side besides Chester to have a 100% record after 3 games. ELLIOTT NEWBY started, while LEWIS BAINES only came off the bench after 89 minutes.

GEORGE WILSON and SAM HEATHCOTE started for Macclesfield at Spalding United. Although ELLIOTT OSBORNE was dropped to the bench, he came on after a 27th minute injury to PADDY LACEY'S brother Luis. YUSIFU CEESAY put in a full shift for the hosts, but the match ended goalless.

National South : Maidenhead United had scored the only goal at Hemel Hempstead long before MILES WELCH-HAYES joined the action after 81 minutes.

NPL Premier Division : JAMES HARDY struck twice inside the first 14 minutes to set up Ashton United's 2-0 home win over Whitby Town, before leaving the action after 80 minutes.

Hyde United scored the only goal in added time to leave visitors FC United anchored at the foot of the table. Captain WILL HALL was booked, as was 55th minute substitute JACK REDSHAW. DONTAI GABIDON (left) came off the bench after 68 minutes.

There was a full shift from BEN ELLIOTT as Warrington Town won 1-2 at Ilkeston Town.

ADAM PORTER went off injured for Leek Town after 22 minutes of their 1-2 home defeat by Emley. HAYDEN CAMPBELL lasted longer, exiting the action after 74 minutes.

DEAN FURMAN came off the Warrington Rylands bench after 74 minutes, as a single goal was enough to seal the points against visitors Quorn.

NPL Division 1 East : JAMES WALSHAW'S Ossett Town scored the only goal against visitors Matlock Town, who didn't select new signing ZAK GOODSON.

NPL Division 1 Midlands : Having come off the bench after 52 minutes, ANDY DALES scored the 95th minute goal that earned his team a 1-1 draw with visitors Barwell.

NPL Division 1 West : Northwich 1874 were beaten by the only goal conceded by MAX BEDDOW against visitors Prescot Cables - so there was a clean sheet for TONY THOMPSON, and SHARIF DEANS played throughout.

Atherton Collieries took just 5 minutes to score the only goal against visitors Hanley Town. Captain SAM SHERIDAN was withdrawn after 64 minutes, while AARON BENNETT was an unused substitute.

JOE PIGGOTT opened the scoring for Nantwich Town before being withdrawn after 66 minutes. Visitors Chasetown turned the game on its head, but the Dabbers, with a full shift from AIDY ROXBURGH, secured a 2-2 draw in added time.

KYLE BROWNHILL doesn't score many goals, but the one he beat Congleton Town keeper DAVE PARTON (left) with was enough for Stalybridge Celtic to win 1-0.

With MARK LEES missing, MASON FAWNS captained Mossley at Vauxhall Motors, where they lost 2-1 in added time despite Motors being a man short from the 72nd minute. KEVIN ELLISON played the first 31 minutes for the hosts.

JAMES LAWRIE was a 54th minute substitute for Witton Albion, while JOEL BEMBO-LETA played the first 68 minutes. However, despite having TOM HANNIGAN sent off immediately after the restart, visitors Bootle won 2-4.

JEROME WRIGHT played the whole of Wythenshawe's 4-3 home win over Newcastle Town, while DARIUS PALMA was withdrawn after 85 minutes. SEAN LAWTON put in a full shift for the visitors.

NWCL Premier Division : SEAN HIGGINS came off Trafford's bench as they won 0-3 at Abbey Hey.

JOHN JOHNSTON started BILLY HASLER-CREGG for Irlam at FC St.Helens, but a single goal defeated them.

Midland League Premier Division : LEWIS BILLINGSLEY started for West Didsbury & Chorlton, who were 3 goals up inside 21 minutes against visitors Stockport Georgians.

The visitors pulled one back in first half added time, but if the 500 spectators hoped for more goals in the second half they were to be denied. WD&C were reduced to 10 men just after the hour, and Lewis went off after 71 minutes.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND (right) started himself for Wythenshawe Town, while HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS was a 66th minute substitute for visitors Cheadle Town. The game ended 1-1.

Meanwhile in the world of Cricket, Ian Wilkinson advises us that NATHAN WATERSTON was on the winning side as his Cumbria team won by 37 runs at home to Befordshire in the NCCA Championship.

In the three-day match, the Cumbrians batted first and hit 389/6. As reported earlier, opening bat Nathan hit 79 runs.

In an attempt to get a result, the Bedfordshire side declared their first innings at 80/0 after just six overs before Cumbria forfeited their second innings.

In the visitors' second innings, Nathan took a couple of catches as the visitors mustered a score of 272 all out, to fall short of their target.

NATIONAL LEAGUE CUP RESULTS

Group A

• Gateshead 1-1 Nottingham Forest U21 (Forest won 5-4 on pens)
• FC Halifax Town 6-2 Derby County U21
• Scunthorpe United 4-0 Stoke City U21
• Wealdstone 1-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers U21

Group B

• Hornchurch 1-2 Norwich City U21
• Braintree Town 1-1 Ipswich Town U21 (Ipswich won 4-3 on pens)
• Worthing 1-2 West Ham United U21

Group C

• Boreham Wood 5-2 Leeds United U21
• Solihull Moors 1-3 Middlesbrough U21
• Tamworth 5-3 Newcastle United U21

Group D

• Boston United 2-3 Birmingham City U21
• Sutton United 0-0 Leicester City U21 (Sutton won 3-1 on pens)
• Truro City 2-1 Southampton U21
• Woking 0-0 West Bromwich Albion U21 (WBA won 4-1 on pens)

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The 30-year-old joins the Coasters from York City, having helped the Minstermen secure promotion to the EFL...

Olley began his footballing journey in the Newcastle United academy before moving to Hull City in 2015... before departing the club in 2018.

The midfielder then joined Gateshead, where he would go on to spend seven seasons and establish himself as one of the club's key players...

He departed the club at the end of the 2024/25 campaign having made close to 200 appearances.

A move to York City followed in July 2025, with Olley going on to make 25 appearances during the 2025/26 National League campaign as York were crowned champions...

Olley said, 'Along with my experience of last season, getting out of the league, the managers mentality and the club’s ambition, it should be an exciting year!'

Head Coach CRAIG MAHON added... 'He suits the way we want to play, is technically very good and has the versatility to play in a number of positions'".

At Kidderminster Harriers "Callum Stewart has quickly impressed boss Paul Wotton with an 'infectious' energy around the Harriers camp.

Stewart joined the Reds on the eve of the new season, penning loan terms from Shrewsbury Town...

He was handed his first start in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Eastleigh and was busy throughout...

Wotton said 'Cally Stewart showed a bit of quality, very calm. We got into that area in the game a few times and we didn't show that calmness, and he did a nice little cutback and an easy finish for Levi.

'He was bright... What I like about him is he's very infectious. He's a good character, a bubbly character...

'Callum's always smiling and he's bouncing around. He's quite an infectious character, which is lovely around the group because, like any group of men, you've got your miserable ones and your happy ones and your bright ones and the ones who are not so bright!

'Callum is bright'...

Stewart faces former club Aldershot on Saturday - he spent a loan stint with the Shots last season, featuring ten times and scoring once".

In a single sentence Woking announce that "Left-back, Anthony Georgiou has joined Woking on a short-term deal".

What Woking did not say is that in summer 2024 Georgiou signed for Wealdstone and made 41 appearances that season, before agreeing to extend his stay for a further season.

He left Wealdstone in summer 2026 after playing in the Stones' FA Trophy final defeat.

18 August 2026

NEXT: BOSTON UNITED

Defeats by Southend United and Sutton United have left Altrincham in the bottom four

Last season, Altrincham drew 2-2 in the corresponding game against Boston at the Jakeman's Stadium, with the Robins conceding a 94th minute equaliser.

Pre-match history will repeat itself this Saturday as Altrincham will again arrive in Lincolnshire with a squad badly hit by injury. Last season Altrincham had nine players out injured (Ross, Banks, Sass-Davies, Breckin, Khan, Olson, Kosylo, Crankshaw and Forde) but Sassi returned to the squad after serving a four-match suspension.

Left: Tom Crawford and, right, Liam Humbles, could be the only two players in Altrincham's starting eleven on Saturday who also started last season at Boston.

Coincidentally, Alty should have had two players back from suspension this Saturday, with Sam Barnes having completed his two-match supplementary ban for his red card at Woking, and Matty Kosylo having served his ban for his red card against Southend.

But Barnes has now suffered a training ground injury and seems likely to miss the game on Saturday.

Alty's squad back in March when they last visited Boston comprised 30. Luke Hutchinson, 23. Tylor Golden, 24. Sam Barnes, 6. Josh Grant, 33. Eddy Jones, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 28. Liam Humbles, 8. Isaac Marriott, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. Declan Howe. Subs: 3. Sam Reed, 5. Jake Cooper, 17. Lucas Weaver, 27. Louie Fallon (gk), 18. Owen German, 34. Dan Sassi, 40. Charlie Kirk

Only two of that starting eleven seem likely to start again this season against the Pilgrims (Crawford, Humbles), with five men (Hutchinson, Golden, Grant, Marriott and Howe) all no longer with the Robins and four more (Jones, Barnes, Reddin and Knowles) all unfit to start last Saturday.

Also ruled out this Saturday by long-term injuries will be Olson, Dennis and German.

Meanwhile, Boston United "begin their third National League Cup adventure on Tuesday evening with the visit of Birmingham City...

Manager Paul Hurst is likely to shuffle his pack, with the likes of Luke Faxon and George Ward looking for their first competitive action of the season.

Hurst will check on the fitness of midfielder Nicholas Pozo, who was forced off at the end of the first half against Solihull Moors on Saturday".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Elsewhere, in the NPL Division One East, Matlock Town "announce the signing of exciting forward ZAK GOODSON (right) from Quorn FC.

The forward arrives at the Proctor Cars Stadium following a sensational campaign with the Methodists, finishing last season with an outstanding 23 goals in 39 appearances, while also picking up a host of individual accolades, including Players’ Player of the Season and multiple Man of the Match awards.

Goodson’s prolific campaign has established him as one of the most exciting forwards at Step 3, and his arrival represents a major coup for the Gladiators.

Zak is no stranger to playing a starring role in a promotion-winning side. Four years ago, he helped Ilkeston Town under our current Chairman secure the NPL Midlands title, finding the net 22 times in 42 appearances...

His outstanding form earned him a move to the National League with Altrincham, where he also enjoyed loan spells with Boston United and Spennymoor Town, before subsequently moving to Chester.

His combination of pace, movement and proven goalscoring pedigree is sure to make Goodson an exciting addition to Ricky Ravenhill’s squad".

ALTY APPOINT "LEAD BROADCASTER"

After 3 seasons volunteering for the club, this season I’ll be covering the Robins, home and away, for @DAZN_NationalLg and @RadioAlty.

A huge thank you to the club and let’s go!".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We are, though, a well-run and settled club, and as such we enter this season in good spirits and in good health, both on and off the field of play. Once again, I consider us to be an underdog club based on our support base, but one with a burning ambition and desire to go one better than we did last season – and for that to happen, many things have to align...

The ground, pitch and facilities have, in my opinion, never looked better. The squad has never had this type of quality and therein lies my optimism and hope for a more than successful campaign...

The next stage of building my dream of a four-sided EFL stadium is already underway. That spade in the ground began in earnest during the post-season, and I’ll complete the project before the start of next season...

My vision is to one day deliver to my Club, Town and Community the chance to watch a Football League game here at Meadow Park. I hope I can achieve that in my lifetime".

Carlisle United drew 1-1 at Yeovil last Saturday and defender Brad Nicholson "played his first 90 minutes for the Blues and delivered a pinpoint cross for Harvey Bunker to head home and salvage a result in Somerset.

Having arrived in the summer, Nicholson is still settling in at United alongside several others and believes there are better days ahead for the team.

He said... 'Just stick with us through it all and there'll be a positive outcome come the end of the season'...

Chances were few and far between for the Blues despite plenty of possession, and the challenge of breaking down the Glovers defence was made harder when Joe Gubbins was sent off for the hosts...

United welcome Hornchurch to Brunton Park next Saturday, who have won their opening two games, but Nicholson [stated]... 'There won't be no pushovers. Everyone obviously comes to Carlisle; they get an extra 10 yards in the running, and that's just how it is. It's everyone's biggest day'".

"Tyler Lyttle expressed his frustration with the performance on Saturday as Tamworth lost their opening home game to AFC Fylde.

The Lambs took the lead through Kieren Donnelly but were unable to hold on before the break as the visitors managed to turn the game around to win 2-1.

Lyttle said 'After coming off the back of a good result last week at Boreham Wood, we felt like the first game at home this season, we wanted to set our standard here. We talk about making it a fortress, and even though we didn’t play well first half, we took the lead, had a few more chances there, and a bit disappointing to concede two before half time...

'I think there was 22 chances we had in the 90 minutes. Like I said, that’s enough to win two or three games. If you flip it, and create a positive, we are creating those chances@".

17 August 2026

UNWANTED START

Right: Midfielder Kian Breckin is one of Alty's first-team squad players yet to make a start for the club. However, he has come off the bench in both NL fixtures played so far this season.

It is the first time since 2015 that the Robins have lost their opening two league fixtures of a season. Back in 2015, Lee Sinnott's Altrincham lost their first three games before picking up a win on matchday 4.

The opening fixture on 8 August against Southend United was the eleventh of the last twelve seasons in which the opening-day fixture for Altrincham had been played at Moss Lane.

It was also the seventh successive season that Alty had met a south of England team from more than 200 miles away on the opening day of a season.

The last time Alty started a season with three successive league defeats was in 2002 in the Northern Premier League. The most recent instance of losing the opening three league games at national level was in 1999.

NEXT GAME: BOSTON UNITED

On Saturday, Altrincham travel to Boston to face a Boston United side which has won one and lost one of its two opening games. Their win came on Saturday, 0-2 at Damson PArk from where oponents

"On the 28th minute, Boston United took the lead. A poor headed clearance on the right hand side dropped to Lennon Wheeldon, who advanced onto the edge of the box and curled it with his right foot, delightfully into the bottom left corner going in off the post. Solihull 0 - 1 Boston.

Boston United doubled their lead on the 48th minute. After some great hold up play from Tom Cursons, the Boston forward played a cutting through ball in search of Kenneth Aboh. Aboh was one on one with the on rushing goalkeeper and slotted the ball into the right corner. Solihull 0- 2 Boston.

After losing possession of the ball on the right hand side, Boston were awarded a penalty on the 80th minute. The referee judged Lennon Wheeldon was nudged in the back. The resulting penalty was taken by Tom Cursons and was saved brilliantly with his feet by Max Metcalfe who then instinctively reacted to stop the second effort off the line. The score remained Solihull 0 - 2 Boston... Boston United climbing to 10th".

Before they welcome Altrincham next Saturday, the Pilgrims have a National League Cup match on Tuesday night at home to Birmingham City under-21s.

THE VIEW FROM SUTTON

The manager admitted it was 'not one for the purists' in terms of Sutton’s performance in possession, but was delighted with the way his side defended their lead against an Altrincham team that dominated the ball.

The Robins followed the possession-based approach Agutter had anticipated before the game, looking to dominate the football and play through Sutton, however, the boss felt that control of possession also created opportunities for his side to attack on the counter, with the winning goal ultimately coming from that approach.

'I think that’s two wins from two where, on the ball and in possession, we’ve been probably not even average in terms of what we can do and what we will be. Altrincham, like we said in the pre-match, are a good side, possession-based,' he said. 'They want to play three-thirds. They want to dominate the football.

'But we felt them having possession of the ball would give us opportunities to counter, to score, and similar to Woking, actually. And obviously we got the winner off the back of that, which is great.

'But just in terms of their threat or how nervous we were defending our goal, it was not straightforward, because that’d be borderline disrespectful, but I thought we were really solid'...

The manager then said that 'Last year we were carrying people. We had lads up the other end of the pitch having a rest, trying to produce a bit of magic for their 15-minute highlight reel. Whereas that doesn’t win you anything.

'So what we’ve now got is a group of players across the board, whether they’re starting games or coming on, that they’re competing and fighting and getting that goal side and getting as many bodies between the opposition and the goal...

'The team is not individuals. So I think that’s been a big change.”

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Trophy Qualifying Round : Congleton Town progressed with a 1-0 home win over Beverley. DAVE PARTON enhanced his clean sheet by saving a penalty.

USL League One : The prospect of a 4,340 mile round trip for a league match is a daunting one, but Corpus Christi's visit to Spokane Velocity in Washington State was well worth their while. Twice behind, they eventually won 2-3 in the 96th minute, stretching their unbeaten league run to 6 matches, and going up to 9th in the table. SAM ROSCOE played the full game.

Chronologically the first match played on Sunday to involve "old boys" was in South Korea's K League 2, where, after 7 consecutive substitute appearances totalling only 67 minutes, MARCUS DACKERS returned to Daegu's starting lineup at home to Asan. However he was substituted after 71 minutes with his side a goal up, and they went on to win 2-0. The win lifts them to 3rd, 3 points behind leaders Suwon Bluewings.

Irish FA Cup : St.Patrick's made quite heavy weather of reaching the last 16, scraping home 2-1 against second tier Wexford in the 90th minute last month. They seem to be making a habit of it, having to come back from a two goal half time deficit against visitors Shamrock Rovers.

A 94th minute penalty propelled the game into extra time, and St.Patrick's finally went through 3-2 without needing to bring BARRY BAGGLEY off the bench.

Off the pitch, Worcester City report that goalkeeper "HARVEY RANDLE (right) joins us between the sticks this afternoon, replacing Cristiano Dzialuk, who has picked up a hand injury during the week.

Harvey, previously of Altrincham, Telford and Bracknell has been training with Derby County as a free agent".

And in Cricket's NCCA Eastern Division 2, Ian Wilkinson informs us that on day one of the three-day match between Cumbria CCC an Bedfordshire CCC, NATHAN WATERSTON was again in the runs on a day interrupted by the weather (rain). The former football striker scored 79 in a score of 175-4 at the close.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Blues left it late, with Harvey Bunker rising highest to head Brad Nicholson's cross into the back of the net, salvaging a draw on the road...

He said 'On reflection, I think it's going to be a very good point down here; they're a very good team. It's always a tough place to come... but just obviously [we've] got to stop shooting ourselves in the foot'...

'I know the journey we're on, and it's not going to be a quick one... We're working with young players; we're working with players that need to develop'...

'I think we could see today, it was a bit of an edgy contest between the two teams and then when the sending-off comes, you know how tough it is to play in that situation, but the fans kept with us'".

16 August 2026

SUTTON UNITED 1-0 ALTRINCHAM

Match report here.

Altrincham find themselves in 21st place in the National League after defeats in their two opening matches of the campaign.

NEXT: BOSTON UNITED

The Pilgrims won 2-0 on Saturday at Solihull Moors.

TOM'S CENTURY

Since joining in summer 2024, and following the game at Sutton, he has now made 96(+5) appearances and netted ten goals.

NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

ALL matches are 12.30pm kick-offs

• Boston United v Altrincham
• Carlisle United v Hornchurch
• Eastleigh v Scunthorpe United
• FC Halifax Town v Tamworth
• Forest Green Rovers v Boreham Wood
• Harrogate Town v Barrow
• Kidderminster Harriers v Aldershot Town
• Solihull Moors v Southend United
• Sutton United v Hartlepool United
• Woking v AFC Fylde
• Worthing v Wealdstone
• Yeovil Town v Gateshead

ALTY OLD BOYS

League One : Wycombe Wanderers were a goal up when JUNIOR QUITIRNA came off the bench after 54 minutes at Blackpool, but eventually had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Peterborough United were already 2-0 at Bradford City when CHRIS CONN-CLARKE joined the action after 76 minutes, but they were soon down to 10 men, and there were no more goals.

CARL PIERGIANNI (right, in his Alty days) put in a full shift as Stevenage drew 1-1 at Burton Albion.

ALI SMITH lasted 79 minutes for AFC Wimbledon at Huddersfield Town, being withdrawn immediately after the Terriers, down to 10 men after 29 minutes, scored their third unanswered goal.

League Two : Rochdale made a nightmare start on their return to the EFL, losing 3-0 at Newport County and finishing with 10 men. DAN SASSI (who had a loan spell at the Crown Oil Stadium) was an unused substitute for the Welsh team

JAKE BICKERSTAFF was a 58th minute substitute for Cheltenham Town as they beat visitors Rotherham United 2-1.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR left the action after 68 minutes at Blundell Park. Grimsby Town had already scored the only goal against Exeter City.

JOEL SENIOR played the whole of Tranmere Rovers 2-0 home win over Shrewsbury Town, although he picked up a yellow card. KEVIN BERKOE also put in a full shift for the visitors.

Trailing 0-1 to visitors Bristol Rovers, York City brought on ALEX NEWBY just before the break. On the hour mark he scored the equaliser. With 10 minutes left he assisted the goal by which the Minstermens won 3-2.

National League : Hartlepool United won by the only goal at Aldershot, for whom MARCUS DINANGA failed to convert a 90th minute penalty.

Barrow were already 2 goals down to visitors Hornchurch when they brought on ISAAC MARRIOTT after 65 minutes, then took off OLLY CRANKSHAW 4 minutes later. Although they converted a penalty, they lost 1-2.

Boreham Wood won 1-3 at Halifax. TYLOR GOLDEN played the full game at his old club, while DANNY CASHMAN was a 67th minute substitute.

Kidderminster Harriers withdrew CALLUM DOLAN after 62 minutes, with their home game against Eastleigh still goalless. They went on to win 1-0. JOSH LUNDSTRAM played the whole game for the visitors.

CONNOR TEALE played the whole of Boston United's 0-2 win at Solihull Moors.

Southend United had already scored the only goal of the game when they introduced RYAN COLCLOUGH after 63 minutes. Visitors Scunthorpe United withdrew JAMES GALE 4 minutes after his 54th minute yellow card, and REAGAN OGLE left the action after 67 minutes. Although DECLAN HOWE (right) played the full game, ROSS BARROWS was an unused substitute.

CHRIS MERRIE played the full game as CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde won 1-2 at Tamworth.

ETHAN ROSS conceded after only 2 minutes at Worthing, and Forest Green Rovers trailed at the break. JAMES BERRY didn't come out for the second half, and Rovers turned things around to win 1-2.

REGAN LINNEY played the full game for Carlisle United at Yeovil Town, where he picked up a yellow card. Yeovil were ahead in 18 minutes, but they had Joe Gubbins sent off after 65 minutes, and the Cumbrians salvaged a 1-1 draw in the 96th minute.

National North : TOM PEERS opened the scoring as PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester beat visitors King's Lynn 2-0. Both he and BILLY WATERS were withdrawn after 85 minutes. Former Robins trialist ZAK MILLS played the full game for the visitors.

LEWIS BAINES (left) and ELLIOT NEWBY started for Morecambe at Harborough Town, where they lost to a penalty early in the second half. Lewis lasted 62 minutes, but Elliott played throughout.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY was substituted after 62 minutes, with his Hednesford Town side 2-1 up against Scarborough Athletic, but the North Yorkshire side went on to win 3-4 despite finishing with 10 men.

ELLIOTT OSBORNE, GEORGE WILSON and SAM HEATHCOTE all started for Macclesfield at home to Radcliffe, for whom JORDAN HULME had the armband. BRAD JACKSON came off their bench after 26 minutes. After Elliott had hit the post, Jordan's shot was parried to Jon Taylor who gave Boro a 78th minute lead, but they didn't have it for long, and the Silkmen recovered to win 2-1. JUDE OYIBO replaced Jordan after 84 minutes.

MAX HARROP picked up a yellow card as he and DAVID FITZPATRICK played throughout Avro's 3-0 defeat at Alfreton Town.

Having been booked, JAMES HARDY was withdrawn after 63 minutes as Ashton United lost 1-0 at Bamber Bridge.

DEAN FURMAN (right) put in a full shift as captain of Warrington Rylands, but they lost 1-0 at Bury.

Captained by WILL HALL, Hyde United won 1-2 at Lancaster City. DONTAI GABIDON came on after 73 minutes, and JACK REDSHAW 10 minutes later.

ADAM PORTER equalised for Leek Town at Stockton Town. HAYDEN CAMPBELL was a 73rd minute substitute for the Staffordshire side, who held on to draw 1-1.

BEN ELLIOTT put in a full shift for Warrington Town, who drew with visitors Cleethorpes Town 1-1 after conceding in added time.

Scottish League One : KIAN TAYLOR wasn't in the Airdrieonians squad at Hamilton Academicals, where they lost 4-0.

NPL Division 1 West : MAX BEDDOW kept a clean sheet for 1874 Northwich as they enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Chasetown.

SAM SHERIDAN was captain for the first 68 minutes, but Atherton Collieries were 2-3 down when he came off. Opposing skipper MARK LEES put in a full shift for Mossley despite being booked - a fate which also befell MASON FAWNS, although by the time he went off in the 89th minute he'd scored twice as the Lilywhites won 2-4.

AARON BENNETT was an 81st minute substitute for Collieries

TOM HANNIGAN (left) put in a full shift for Bootle, who beat visitors Newcastle Town 4-2.

BEN HARRISON'S Witton Albion side hit top gear at Lichfield City, winning 1-6. There were no Old Boys on at the start, but JOEL BEMBO-LETA joined the action after 36 minutes, and JAMES LAWRIE after 61 minutes.

TONY THOMPSON played the full game for Prescot Cables, who won 1-3 at Nantwich Town, with SHARIF DEANS coming on for the second half. AIDY ROXBURGH played the full game for the Dabbers, but JOE PIGGOTT, having been booked, was withdrawn after 76 minutes, and JOSH HANCOCK followed him 4 minutes later.

KYLE BROWNHILL put in his customary full shift for Stalybridge Celtic as they drew 1-1 at Bower Fold against Hanley Town.

KEVIN ELLISON was a 61st minute substitute for Vauxhall Motors, but they went down 0-2 to visitors Stafford Rangers.

Wythenshawe beat visitors Runcorn Linnets 1-0, with JEROME WRIGHT completing the full game, and DARIUS PALMA playing the first 72 minutes.

FA Vase : Trafford travelled to Armthorpe Welfare where they progressed comfortably 0-4 with RYAN BROOKE playing from the start.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND'S Wythenshawe Town shook off their poor form to win 0-3 at Cheadle Heath Nomads.

JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam lost 1-3 at home to Barnton.

NWCL Division 1 South : Widnes Town's CRAIG ELLISON was on the the wrong end of a 3-2 defeat at Shawbury United.

Midland League Premier Division : LEWIS BILLINGSLEY played the first 68 minutes for West Didsbury & Chorlton as they won 1-2 at Stoke Old Alleynians.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"Goals from Lennon Wheeldon and Ken Aboh got Boston United up-and-running in the National League.

The Pilgrims' most recent pre-season recruits struck the all-important goals to sink Solihull Moors at Damson Park - and it could have been many more had it not been for the second half heroics of home goalkeeper Max Metcalfe, who denied Tom Cursons from the penalty spot.

Wheeldon handed the Pilgrims a 29th minute lead with a rasping effort off the inside of the post and Aboh wrapped up the points three minutes after the break following Cursons' brilliant assist.

Boston (3-4-2-1): Louis Chadwick; Connor Teale, Niall Canavan, Jamie Grimes; Sai Sachdev, Nicholas Pozo (Gavan Holohan 45), Terrell Agyemang (Ben Hammond 90); Lewis Shipley; Ken Aboh (Jack Holmes 85), Lennon Wheeldon (Kai Mauro 85); Tom Cursons. Subs (not used): George Ward, Stephen Pereira, Luke Faxon (gk)".

15 August 2026

SUTTON UNITED 1-0 ALTRINCHAM

Having made a good stop from Ogbonna, Evans played a ball out to Hinchy, on the edge of the box, and the midfielder returned it safely to the keeper who then kicked the ball straight to Sutton's Babalola. He played the ball to his left, from where Ogbonna slotted a low shot into the net.

For all their possession Alty mustered just one shot on target and looked toothless despite flashes of decent approach play.

Report to follow

POST-MATCH NEIL GIBSON

The manager started off by telling Tom Jolley that it had been a "really good, really strong performance" from "a team that gave absolutely averything".

After alluding to his side's 60% possession" at Sutton, Neil adnitted, however, that Alty "were very good upto the final third" but need improvement further forward.

As regards individual players, the manager praised new loan signing Reuben Lopato-White against the combataitve Sutton forward Babalola.

However, fellow centre-back Sam Barnes who has missed both games this season through suspension is now sidelined by an injury picked up on the training pitch at Egerton which has now claimed "five or six" players owing to the hot, dry summer rendering the surface difficult.

As for Kahrel Reddin he picked up a "contact injury against Macclesfield" in pre-season and, though the staff are "struggling" to identify its nature, Kahrel has found it too painful to train until recently. The wingman is, in Neil's view "not too far away" from being fit to play.

In addition, at Sutton, "Jake Cooper was playing with an injury" and Jimmy Knowles had a scan on Thursday so was unfit to start today.

SATURDAY FIXTURES

• Aldershot Town 0-1 Hartlepool United
• Barrow 1-2 Hornchurch
• FC Halifax Town 1-3 Boreham Wood
• Gateshead 2-0 Woking
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-0 Eastleigh
• Solihull Moors 0-2 Boston United
• Southend United 1-0 Scunthorpe United
• Sutton United 1-0 Altrincham
• Tamworth 1-2 AFC Fylde
• Wealdstone 1-3 Harrogate Town
• Worthing 1-2 Forest Green Rovers
• Yeovil Town 1-1 Carlisle United

TODAY: SUTTON UNITED v ALTRINCHAM

Two players are certainly out of contention through suspension; the suspended defensive duo of right-back Matty Kosylo and centre-back Sam Barnes. Also certainly out of contention through injury are Owen German, Charlie Olson and Eddy Jones. Additionally, striker Kristian Dennis (left) was unfit to play last Saturday and is believed to out of action for some time, whilst Kahrel Reddin was also not in the matchday squad against Southend last week.

Goalkeeper Owen Evans went off injured last Saturday and with very recent goalkeeper/coach signing Andy Firth lacking in recent game time and Alty's two other keepers out on loan, there is a potential headache for Neil Gibson in that area too.

On the eve of today's game, Neil Gibson signed 20 year-old centre-back Reuben Lopato-White on loan from Leeds United.

Meanwhile at Sutton United, the club "confirm the departure of Dubem Eze, who leaves the club by mutual consent.

The former Chelsea, Derby County and Norwich City youth midfielder joined the club from Bolton Wanderers in January 2026 following loan spells in the National League at FC Halifax Town and Scunthorpe United...

He subsequently returned to South London, having grown up in nearby Morden, to make a permanent transfer to Sutton, going on to appear ten times in all competitions".

OTIS KHAN INTERVIEWED

Otis stated that "we're in good spirits" though he admitted that "we are still a new team gelling".

JUST THREE 3PM HOME STARTS BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Over the 21-week period, from 8 August to 25 December, Altrincham will have played just four of their eleven home league fixtures with a 3pm kick-off.

Altrincham kicked off their league season on Saturday, 8 August at 3pm with a match against Southend United.

From that date till their next 3pm kick off it will have been a full SEVEN WEEKS before their next home game with a 3pm start, when Hornchurch visit the JDS on 26 September.

In those seven weeks, all three home games are 7.45pm kick-offs, two on Fridays and one on a Wednesday.

After Hornchurch's daytime visit, The following two home games are, respectively, at 12.30pm and 7.45pm before only Altrincham's third 3pm kick off of the season takes place when Carlisle United visit on 31 October.

It is then four more weeks before Worthing's visit on 28 November which becomes the fourth and final 3pm home match of the 2026 portion of the 2026-27 season.

The four 3pm visits in those first 24 league fixtures do not include any remotely local opposition with Carlisle United (256 mile round-trip) being the nearest visitors.

Southend United (444 miles), Hornchurch (414 miles) and Worthing (514 miles) are the other three opponents in question.

Parents of young supporters will be particularly disadvantaged by these changes but non-attending older supporters can benefit from live streaming of those evening games, provided they subscribe to DAZN.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Next week they travel to another relegated club in Dandenong Thunder, and a single point would confirm their table topping finish with one game remaining. Even that would prove unnecessary should Hume City fail to win at Heidelberg tomorrow.

Scottish League Cup : After their Championship visitors Ayr United had gone ahead in the 5th minute, JOE HUGILL (right) levelled for Kilmarnock just before the break.

Ayr regained the lead within 3 minutes of the restart, but Killie went on to win 3-2 and earn their place in the last 8.

Welsh Premier League : LOUIE FALLON kept a clean sheet as Airbus beat visitors Ammanford 2-0.

Llandudno keeper JOEL TORRANCE conceded just before half time, but visitors Holywell, who were 1-1 at the time, were reduced to 10 men in the added time. Llandudno made their man advantage count, winning 3-1.

Trefelin had started badly in their first season at this level, and JOHN DISNEY'S Connah's Quay Nomads only made life worse for them, as skipper JAMES JONES and his colleagues easily won 6-0.

They had 27(16) shots to Trefelin's 5(2). The new boys have now lost all 3 games, have conceded 12 goals, and have yet to score themselves.

MIKEY STONE was withdrawn by Nomads after 85 minutes.

NPL Premier Division : JOSH OLLERENSHAW could only watch from the bench as Curzon Ashton, captained by new signing DANNY WHITEHEAD (right), were beaten 2-1 at Emley.

FA Vase : Cheadle Town trailed at the break at Daisy Hill, but recovered to progress 1-3. HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS came on in the 76th minute when it was still 1-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

It states "Following the recent changes to The FA’s Stadium Accreditation Criteria, Barrow AFC can confirm that the Club is in ongoing dialogue with The FA regarding the updated requirements at Holker Street...

Changes will be made at Holker Street where required to meet the updated criteria, in accordance with The FA’s process and advised timescales.

There is currently no confirmed timeline for completion. Further details will be shared once plans have been established through the appropriate process".

Footnote: Altrincham supporters will already be aware that one such measure required by the FA is for the gap between the field of play" and perimeter fencing.

Subject to confirmation, The FA requires a "Permanent, fixed barrier. Must prevent ball passing through or under" with a "minimum setback of 2,250mm (ideal 2,750mm)".

Wealdstone "announce the signing of Wilson Waweru, who joins on a permanent deal.

The 25-year-old has spent most of his career playing in the League of Ireland where he boasts Premier Division experience with Sligo Rovers...

He began his career at Galway United... going on to make over 80 league appearances.

His time at Sligo Rovers is bookended by spells with Cobh Ramblers, the first, a successful loan that saw him score 13 times in 30 league matches. In his second spell this season, Waweru has added a further four league goals to his tally in County Cork.

The striker spent the last few weeks of pre-season training with the squad".

Carlisle United "confirm that the required regulatory approval for the appointment of Tom Lawrence as Chief Executive Officer has now been received.

Tom will now formally take up the role, having already spent recent weeks working closely with the Club’s ownership, staff and Football Department during the approval process...

Tom will also join the Carlisle United Board of Directors as part of his appointment...

Tom Lawrence said.. 'The time I’ve already spent at Carlisle United has been extremely valuable. I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the people within the Club, understand more about how it operates and listen to supporters who care deeply about its future...

'Our clear football priority is to return Carlisle United to the EFL... That means improving our financial and commercial performance, communicating openly with supporters and maintaining high standards and accountability throughout the organisation'...

Tom brings extensive football, legal and business experience, having previously served as Chief Executive at Southend United and Gillingham".

Scunthorpe United "confirm the signing of Hull City forward Hugh Parker, who joins the Iron on an initial six-month loan.

Starting his career in his native Ireland with the University College Dublin, Parker would begin to make a name for himself in Irish football at the age of just 18, making 34 appearances...

Following a successful start to his senior career, Parker would make the switch to Humberside when he joined... Hull City, on a two-and-a-half-year deal in February 2025...

After a promising first half of the season in the Professional Development League, Parker would be allowed to venture out on loan, joining fellow Enterprise National League side Carlisle United, although he would be largely underutilised by Manager Mark Hughes, with 11 of his 13 appearances coming off the bench in the latter stages of games.

Parker would be sidelined with an minor injury, delaying the loan deal until he regained full fitness".

14 August 2026

ALTY SIGN DEFENSIVE COVER

The 20-year-old will be at The J.Davidson Stadium till January and is in contention for Saturday's opening away game of the new Enterprise National League season at Sutton United.

A product of the Leeds United academy, a setup our new number 21 joined when he was 10, Reuben gained senior first team experience during 2025/26 with Scottish Championship side Greenock Morton, while also featuring prominently over the last two years in Premier League 2 for Leeds United's u21 squad...

Neil Gibson, on Reuben's arrival, [said] 'We're really excited to get Reuben into the building, he's come highly recommended to us as a player who fits the profile of defenders we want at Alty.

'He's quick, athletic, competitive and looks to defend on the front foot. He's got a lot of potential and we're really looking forward to work with him'".

Footnote: Reuben was not in the Leeds United under-21 squad which defeated Altrincham last April in the National League Cup semi-final.

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Right: Liam Humbles was named Alty's man of the match last Saturday.

Sutton remind us that "Supporters can choose from a range of flexible viewing options for the 2026/27 National League season.

The Season Pass is available for £129.99, offering live access to every National League match throughout the campaign (or on demand where blackout restrictions apply), with more than 400 exclusive live matches, every play-off fixture and final across all three divisions, full match replays and highlights, plus a selection of live National League North and South matches".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The BBC adds that "summer signing Emeka Obi is likely to miss the rest of the season after suffering an anterior cruciate knee ligament (ACL) injury.

Defender Obi, 25, joined Rovers only last month from Kidderminster Harriers, but went down clutching his knee 37 minutes into his debut in their opening National League game against FC Halifax Town on Saturday.

'Our worst fears have come to fruition, it's going to be six to nine months,' Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage told BBC Radio Gloucestershire".

Eastleigh report that "Following consultation with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and The Safety Advisory Group, we have taken the decision to close the South Stand to home supporters for our fixture against Aldershot Town on Monday 31 August 2026.

As part of the planning process for this fixture, the club was presented with a substantial police bill. This was a significant, unbudgeted expense that the club cannot reasonably absorb.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable matchday for everyone, we will instead introduce enhanced stewarding and additional SIA-qualified security personnel throughout the stadium. These measures are designed to provide a robust safety operation while reducing the need for police resources within the stadium footprint..

We have also concluded that it makes operational and financial sense for the South Stand to remain closed to home supporters following the Aldershot fixture.

Home supporters will continue to have access to the West, North and East stands. Where anticipated demand for a particular fixture justifies additional capacity, the club will review the reopening of the South Stand.

The South Stand will remain open as normal for our next home fixture against Scunthorpe United, with these changes taking effect from the Aldershot Town fixture onwards.

All season ticket holders and supporters who have already purchased tickets in the South Stand will be contacted directly to discuss their relocation options".

Stadium issues are also at the forefront in Surrey where a club statement regarding the Laithwaite Community Stadium has been issued by Woking which tells us that "Surrey County Council has lifted the restriction placed on Woking Football Club, which limited the capacity of attendees below national football league level in relation to safety measures.

The restriction was put in place... following several health and safety related issues raised at fixtures earlier this year.

However, following extensive work to improve health and safety at the ground and testing of such at the Woking v Sutton United match on Saturday 8 August, the ban has been lifted.

The decision follows significant work by the club to strengthen safety arrangements at the Laithwaite Community Stadium, including:

• The installation of thorough CCTV coverage.
• The appointment of a security company with football industry experience.
• Improvements to the club’s safety culture.
• Retraining of stewards.
• Safety improvements around the stadium.

The Club looks forward to welcoming supporters back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium and continuing to work with all relevant partners to ensure safe, enjoyable and well-managed matchdays for everyone".

The Sunderland Echo reports that "Gateshead have added another former Sunderland youngster to their squad...

Former Sunderland youngster Michael Spellman has returned to the North East after agreeing to join Lee Cattermole’s Gateshead on a one-year deal.

The versatile forward spent two years within the Academy of Light setup... Spellman had joined the Black Cats from Northern League side Chester-le-Street United after a successful trial period and went on to earn valuable senior experience during loan spells with Blyth Spartans and Whitby Town.

After making one senior appearance as a substitute in a Carabao Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday and becoming a regular in the Black Cats Under-21s, Spellman left Sunderland during the summer of 2024 and penned a two-year deal with League Two club Newport County... but left the Exiles when his contract came to an end earlier this summer. The 23-year-old will now return to his native North East as he joins former Academy of Light team-mate Tommy Lavery at Gateshead...

He told the club website 'It was a big decision for me [moving to Newport], but it was something I needed at the time and I'm so glad I did that because it helped me become the player I am today. I'm a lot more confident, I believe in myself a lot more, and I just want to play football and score goals'".

Lee Clark has challenged Hartlepool United to carry the qualities shown on the opening weekend into Saturday’s first away fixture of the Enterprise National League season against Aldershot Town.

Pools began the campaign with a 2-0 victory over Barrow at Victoria Park...

'It was really important to get that first win under our belts, but we’ve drawn a line under it and our focus is now entirely on Aldershot,' said Clark. 'This is our first away game in the league and we want to put down a marker. We can’t be a team that only performs at home...

'The performance showed that the players can play good football, but also that they can deal with the physical demands of this league,' he explained... 'I thought some of our defending was of the highest order, so I was delighted with that. Going forward, we want to impose our football on teams more consistently'...

Clark confirmed that, aside from long-term absentees Luke Charman and Owen Hampson, he has a full-strength squad available"...

As for Aldershot Town last Saturday, Clark observed "They’ve had a significant turnover of players and it was quite unusual to see them name 11 debutants, but they produced an excellent result away from home and kept a clean sheet."

Yeovil Town "are delighted to announce a number of proposed changes to its Board of Directors...

Ian Scobbie and Sahil Prabhu will join the Board as a Director.

Ian brings significant experience from across the football industry, having previously held senior football and governance roles at clubs including Hartlepool United and Scarborough Athletic. He was part of the Hartlepool United leadership team...

The Club is also pleased to announce the appointment of Sahil Prabhu to the Board of Directors.

The son of Yeovil Town Football Club owners Prabhu Srinivasan and Bhavna Vohra, Sahil, has been involved with the Club since the initial due diligence phase ahead of the takeover. He has just completed a Sports Management degree at New York University (NYU)... Across the close season he has been working closely with Billy Rowley on the First Team rebuild and sport operations...

The Club would also like to congratulate Stuart Robins on his appointment to the National League Board of Directors."

13 August 2026

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP DRAW

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

The "U"s won the National League in 2022 and finished a commendable eighth in EFL2 in their first league campaign. A respectable 14th-placed outcome followed before 2023-24 season ended with them 23rd of the 24 clubs in the division.

Their first season back in non-League saw them finish 12th in 2025 but last season was less successful as they completed the campaign in 19th place.

When the two clubs were reunited in 2024-25, Alty won at home 1-0 but lost away 0-5. Last season, Altrincham completed a home and away double, winning each game 2-1.

Right: Pictured during last season's home game against Sutton United are Alty's two goalscorers, James Gale (left) and Jimmy Knowles.

Sutton are managed by Chris Agutter, with his assistant Dean Hammond. Agutter was appointed in October 2025, having previously managed Worthing in National South.

As they started 2026-27 season Sutton's squad comprised:

• 1 Spike Brits (goalkeeper, on loan from Manchester City), 2 Kwaku Donkor, 3 Besart Topalloj, 4 Alex Kirk, 5 Will Nightingale, 6 Charlie Bell, 7 Emmanuel Osadebe, 8 Jake Taylor, 9 Temi Babalola, 10. Charlie Carter, 11 Sam Folarin, 12 Dan Urpens, 13 Chris Haigh (goalkeeper and coach), 14 Omar Mussa, 15 Jordan Moore-Taylor, 16 Brandon Njoku, 17 Toby Byron, 18 David Ogbonna, 20 Jermaine Francis, 21 Adam Reeves, 22 Ronny Ruiz, 23 Noah Nazuzi, 24 James Fennelow, 25 Klevis Muca (goalkeeper), TBA Dubem Eze

Unlike Altrincham, Sutton United are competing in the National League Cup this season, their group comprises predominantly Midlands EFL clubs in the form of Leicester City, Birmingham City, West Bromwich Albion and Southampton.

ALTY OLD BOYS

The match went to a penalty shootout, and Dermot saved the second Leeds kick taken by Harry Wilson.

However Bruno Fernandes missed the fourth kick and it went to sudden death. Leeds hit the bar with the first additional kick, and United won 5-4 to secure the Boylesports Trophy.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Breeze, 22, departs Brunton Park after progressing through the club’s Academy and establishing himself as United’s first-choice goalkeeper...

Head Coach, Rob Elliot said 'Gabe has been brilliant to work with and has handled himself well throughout.

'When a player asks to speak to a club and an opportunity like this comes along for a young player who has come through the club, you have to recognise what it means for his career'...

Marc Tierney, Sporting Director, added... 'After Gabe made it clear he wanted to pursue the opportunity we allowed him to speak to Cambridge. We wish him the best in his future career.'”

But a replacement has already been signed as Carlisle United "announce the signing of goalkeeper Adam Desbois from Gateshead for an undisclosed fee.

Desbois, 25, arrives at Brunton Park on a two-year deal, with the option of a further year, having impressed for the Heed in the Enterprise National League during the latter stages of the previous campaign.

Desbois joined Gateshead from Slough Town in March 2026 and established himself as their number one, making 12 league appearances and keeping five clean sheets as they escaped the drop...

Desbois spent the first part of the 2025/26 campaign with Slough Town making 33 league appearances in the National League South. [He also played for Slough against Altrincham in the FA Cup]

The Reading-born goalkeeper began his career in the academies at Reading and Brighton & Hove Albion before gaining senior experience with Cheshunt and Hampton & Richmond Borough...

Marc Tierney, Sporting Director, added... 'He’s someone we’ve been monitoring since the latter part of last season'".

Also at Gateshead the Heed report that David Ferguson will be "skipper in his second season on Tyneside having racked up 45 appearances in all competitions in his debut campaign...

The 32 year-old was Sever-present throughout the 2025-26 season... beginning the season at left-back before adapting to a central role in a back three and re-establishing himself in the starting 11".

Ferguson has previously captained Blackpool and Hartlepool United.

Meanwhile the BBC reports that "Gateshead have signed defender Alex Lankshear on a one-year contract with an option for an additional year.

The 23-year-old, who is the older brother of Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear, played 35 games for Boston United last season before going on loan to Ebbsfleet...

'I'm a defender that loves to defend his goal but also attack the goal,' he told the club website, external..

'One of the reasons I wanted to come here is that I think he [Lee Cattermole] can really develop my game on that side of things.

'"At this stage in my career it's about progressing. He played at the top levels and I feel he can progress me as a player.'"

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of goalkeeper Max Metcalfe from Stockport County.

Standing at a towering 6ft 6in, Metcalfe adds further strength and presence to the Moors’ goalkeeping department.

The shot-stopper is no stranger to National League football, having gained valuable senior experience during loan spells with Spennymoor Town, AFC Fylde, Marine and Oxford City...

First Team Manager, Chris Millington said... 'He brings excellent presence and character allied with a high level of goalkeeping ability. He has integrated quickly into the group and he is itching to get started for Moors.'"

Southend United "will compete in the inaugural edition of The Next Wave Championship – an Under-21s competition made up of teams based in the south of England.

The Club have entered having established a new Under-23s squad this summer, allowing four Southend United Youth graduates to sign professional terms, with the team supplemented with players from the Under-17s and Under-19s age groups.

The Next Wave Championship has nine founding clubs, including EFL outfits MK Dons, Oxford United, Luton Town, Bromley, and Swindon Town, creating a 16-game regular season ahead of a post-season play-off series and a Final at Stadium MK...

Players can be selected from Under-16s through to Under-21s, with clubs allowed to include one over-age goalkeeper and a maximum of three over-age outfield players per fixture...

Under-18/23s Head Coach Danny Heath said 'Our ambition is to ensure that when Southend United returns to the EFL, our youth system is EFL-ready too. Entering the Next Wave Championship... gives our U23s a structured programme of competitive fixtures, including games against EFL opposition".

"David Davis will lead Kidderminster Harriers into the 2026-27 season after being named Captain.

The vastly experienced and hugely respected midfielder begins his third season at Aggborough having arrived in 2024 and made over 80 appearances in Red. It was an easy choice for Paul Wotton... to name ‘Digga’ Captain, he said 'He's a leader. He trains every day as if it's the first day he's ever trained. Does everything right. Does the warm-ups right. Does pre-hab [sic] right. Goes in the gym after training. Looks after himself.

'He's a good, good player and he's a great leader. He's still hugely influential on the pitch, and he's just a fantastic example to younger players…. he's a shining light'".

Tamworth "manager Andy Peaks expressed praise for his side’s work rate as they earnt a point on the road in the season opener at Boreham Wood.

The Lambs took the lead through Kieren Donnelly, who ended up bagging a brace, but a Matt Rush hat-trick for Boreham Wood almost looked to be too much for Tamworth before a late push in stoppage time saw Ben Milnes convert a penalty to level the scores at 3-3 and take a point back to The Lamb Ground.

Peaks said 'It had a bit of everything today. Nice to get back to competitive stuff, show everyone how much it means as opposed to friendlies which obviously serve a purpose, but that was a different ball game today...

'To come here against one of the fancied teams who were literally minutes away from being in the league above, it was always going to be tough. We had to play well, and we’ve got a point. Overall, really pleased'...

He said... 'There’s a lot of new lads in that dressing room, and they saw what an Andy Peaks/Neil Champelovier team is about. Being organised, being hard to break down. We’re disappointed with a couple of the goals that happened, but, more importantly, being in the game the last few minutes, being hard to beat, putting everything out there, and that’s what we’re all about.

'That’s all I ever ask for. I can deal with mistakes. Yes, they’re disappointing, but players make them. That’s why they’re at the level, but the level they showed, the belief they showed, to go into that extra ten minutes, still get something, that’s brilliant. That’s all I can ever ask for and I think we saw that today. It was good for the new lads to see what we’re all about...

'One thing I can guarantee is they’ll always put a shift in, they’ll all try, and I think that’s all I can ask for'".

12 August 2026

TRANSFER EMBARGO ON ALTRINCHAM LIFTED

Yesterday (Tuesday), the National League had announced the imposition of a transfer embargo on six of its top-flight clubs, one of which was Altrincham.

As well as Alty, AFC Fylde, Aldershot Town, Gateshead, Hornchurch and FC Halifax Town had an embargo imposed on 11 August for "non-compliance with League Financial Regulations".

The National League explained that it "may place a Club under embargo if it meets one of the following criteria:

• (a) where a Club has undergone an Insolvency Event;
• (b) where a Club has been served with a winding-up petition which has not been satisfied in full or to the satisfaction of the petitioning creditors as evidenced by written agreement; or
• (c) where a Club has either defaulted on such an agreement or has omitted or incorrectly reported its failure to adhere to the terms of any agreement.

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

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

Later, Altrincham stated that "Following confirmation that Altrincham FC has been placed under a temporary transfer embargo, the Club would like to reassure supporters that this relates solely to the late submission of financial budgetary information.

This is an administrative matter and does not relate to the financial position of the Club.

We are working to finalise the required information and expect the matter to be resolved shortly.".

TRAINING AT THE JDS

During the recent Fans' Forum it was explained that the grass surface at Alty's Egerton training base had been rendered unsuitable by the hot weather and that the club had booked some time at Mottram Hall where pitches were in a better condition.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Europa League Qualifier: Larne travelled to Georgia with their tie against Iberia 1999 still goalless. When they withdrew MONTEL GIBSON after 65 minutes, nothing had changed. Iberia took a 74th minute lead, but it lasted just 2 minutes and the game went to extra time. Iberia scored an extra time winner, and with the goal attempts 18(5) in their favour against 3(1) it would seem there are no hard luck stories for the Ulster club.

Scottish Challenge Cup 1st Round : Airdrieonians travelled to Dumbarton. KIAN TAYLOR was a 69th minute substitute with his side 1-2 ahead. They added another, and went on to win 1-3 despite being down to 10 men from the 87th minute when a player was forced off with injury after all the substitutes had been used.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Replays : West Didsbury & Chorlton named LEWIS BILLINGSLEY as a substitute against visitors Garforth Town, and he came on at the start of the second half with his side a goal down, but was unable to help turn things round as they lost 0-1.

Mossley, captained by MARK LEES, and with MASON FAWNS (right) also starting, entertained Silsden, winning 2-0.

Atherton Collieries also won 2-0 at home, their victims being Barnoldswick Town. Captained by SAM SHERIDAN, they were already a goal up when he gave way to AARON BENNETT.

JOE PIGGOTT and AIDY ROXBURGH both started for Nantwich Town as they faced Sporting Khalsa again. They led after 18 minutes, and Aidy was withdrawn after 65 minutes. However they conceded a stoppage time penalty (and earned a second yellow card in the process). Khalsa equalised from the spot to force extra time, and went on to win the penalty shootout 5-6. Nantwich's X feed stopped reporting during extra time, so we don't know if Joe took a spot kick.

NPL Premier Division : DAVID FITZPATRICK put in a full shift for Avro, who won 1-6 at Bamber Bridge.

JOSH OLLERENSHAW watched from the bench as Curzon Ashton, having been 1-2 up, lost 3-2 at Bury.

ADAM PORTER, who was booked, lasted 86 minutes for Leek Town at. FC United, where they drew 1-1. HAYDEN CAMPBELL (left) was a 58th minute substitute.

Quorn were already 3 goals down when ZAK GOODSON came off the bench after 61 minutes, and visitors Cleethorpes Town comfortably won 0-5.

BEN ELLIOTT was a 34th minute substitute for Warrington Town, who beat visitors Hyde United 3-0. The Tigers, captained by WILL HALL, took off DONTAI GABIDON at halftime, whilst JACK REDSHAW was a 65th minute substitute.

NPL Division 1 West : Vauxhall Motors were without KEVIN ELLISON at Congleton Town, where the drew 1-1. DAVE PARTON kept goal for The Bears.

Although DARIUS PALMA put in a full shift, and JEROME WRIGHT came on after 73 minutes, Wythenshawe lost 3-0 at Hanley Town.

MAX BEDDOW (right) was beaten just once at Newcastle Town, but that was enough to defeat 1874 Northwich.

TOM HANNIGAN opened the scoring for Bootle as they won 0-2 at Runcorn Linnets.

KYLE BROWNHILL was booked, but put in a full shift for Stalybridge Celtic as they won 2-3 at Witton Albion. Albion manager BEN HARRISON oversaw a full shift from JAMES LAWRIE, but JOEL BEMBO-LETA was an unused substitute.

NWCL Division 1 North : DAVID LYNCH was among the scorers for Flixton as they beat Halewood Apollo 5-2 at Valley Road.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

The 23-year-old, who joined the Pilgrims from Blackpool in the summer of 2025, scored three goals in 35 appearances last season.

He was made available for transfer at the end of the season and has now departed in advance of a move to a new club".

On Wednesday afternoon, there was a bizarre match in the National League Cup Group C where Hartlepool United lost 0-10 at home to Middlesbrough U21s.

As the Hartlepool Mail adds that "Hartlepool United’s youngsters were on the receiving end of a harsh lesson at Victoria Park...

It was made clear beforehand that Pools would use the competition to provide opportunities for ‘emerging talent and strengthen the pathway between the academy and first team’ but if this evidence was anything to go by, there is a great deal of work still to do. Academy Manager Alex Cross led the side at Victoria Park, in front of hundreds of fans, against the Middlesbrough Premier League 2 side.

Last season it is understood the competition forces clubs to start a minimum of four players in National League Cup matches that started for teams in either their previous league match, or start in the one that follows on from that particular National League Cup match. The Tuesday afternoon game at Victoria Park against Boro quickly descended into farce when first team players Brooklyn Ilunga, Will Harris, Chris Popov and first team captain Jack Hunter were all subbed within the opening minute".

Hornchurch "announce the return of Frankie Edwards, who has joined the club on a permanent deal from Colchester United.

During his loan spell last season, Frankie was in the heart of the defence during the run-in, making 33 appearances.

Speaking on the deal, manager Daryl McMahon said;

'Firstly and foremost Frankie was terrific when he came on loan to us last season. As a young player, coming into a team that won promotio... We believe he has a big future in the game and we’re delighted that he’s decided to join us.

'He is a centre-back who is aerially very dominant, fantastic on the ball and reads the game well'".

11 August 2026

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

Last season's clash provided Altrincham with a rare away win, 2-1, thanks to a brace from Olly Crankshaw.

Though five of the starting eleven back in April, (Hutchinson, Golden, Sassi, Marriott and Crankshaw), have since left Alty one thing remains the same this weekend, which is a lengthy Altrincham injury/unavailability list. Back then eight players were unavailable. Seven of them (Ross, Banks, Sass-Davies, Olson, Reed, Forde and Grant) were out of contention through injury, whilst Kahrel Reddin was suspended.

This time Altrincham travel to Surrey with not one, but two two suspended players in Sam Barnes and Matty Kosylo, whilst the injured/unavailable list last Saturday comprised five players Charlie Olson (hamstring), Eddie Jones (hamstring), Owen German (ruptured achilles), as well as Kahrel Reddin and Kristian Dennis who were also presumably injured. To that list may be added goalkeeper Owen Evans who had to be substituted last Saturday through injury.

MATTY'S RECORD

Right: Matty leaves the pitch in thoughtful mood after his red card against Southend United

So whilst Matty may have a reputation for volatility, his record of four confirmed dismissals as he starts his sixth playing-season since joining in 2020 (he missed 2022-23 through injury) is arguably better than some of his team-mates' records.

For example, Tom Crawford has seen red three times in two seasons and Kahrel Reddin has seen red twice in two campaigns, as did the recently departed Tylor Golden.

Matty has, however, racked up 44 yellow cards (excluding cases of two yellows being converted to red), a caution every four games throughout his Alty career.

• 2020-21 12 yellows
• 2021-22 5 yellows
• 2022-23 DID NOT PLAY
• 2023-24 7 yellows
• 2024-25 8 yellows
• 2025-26 12 yellows
• 2026-27 0 yellows so far

Matty's red card record at Altrincham is as follows...

1. 24 November, 2020, HOME v Bromley, red card for a foul, which was later rescinded.
2. 29 January 2022, AWAY v Solihull Moors, red card for kicking out at an opponent, which was later rescinded.
3. 1 January, 2024, AWAY v FC Halifax Town, two yellows converted into a red
4. 26 December 2024, HOME v FC Halifax Town, red after brawl in tunnel at the interval
5. 8 February 2025, HOME v Braintree Town, red card for pulling an opponent's hair
6. 8 August 2026, HOME v Southend United, two yellows converted into a red, shown for fouls committed within three minutes of each other

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Due to personal circumstances his departure has come forward from the end of October to now. Tony has an enviable reputation, highly respected by all the authorities he comes into contact with, the FA, the National League, the EFL and the other Clubs above and below our status.

Of course this respect extends to his fellow club secretaries, a list of contact names beyond belief as there is no one he doesn’t know! He will be sorely missed by his colleagues within our Football Club and he and his wife Debbie leave with our heartfelt blessings and all the best for a happy retirement and good health going forward.

That means we have a vacancy! Step up Holleigh Farrington who has agreed to join the Shaymen with immediate effect and we wish her well with her new role. Tony is doing a stepped handover with Holleigh over the next few days".

Footnote: Tony was a frequent visitor to Altrincham having held similar roles to that he held at The Shay when working for Chester FC and Runcorn.

Kidderminster Hariers "will continue to drive home the club’s commitment to sustainability during the 2026-27 season with the introduction of a fully digital match day programme.

Sustainability has been at the heart of much of what the club has strived to achieve over the last six years, with significant changes made throughout Aggborough during that time.

The club’s partnership with Bromsgrove District Council’s Commercial Waste Services has recycled a further 15 tonnes of waste during that period, while we’re proud that 100% of our non-recyclable waste continues to be converted into renewable energy.

Our playing kits, produced by Scimitar, a local manufacturer, are made from 100% recycled polyester. Each playing shirt contains the equivalent of at least seven plastic bottles, helping to divert plastic waste from landfill and our oceans.

The club is taking that commitment further in 2026-27, introducing a default digital version of our Season Ticket for the first time, encoring our supporters to ditch plastic. This has reduced the number of plastic ticket cards produced by over 60%, while the move to a digital-only match day programme will save approximately 200,000 sheets of paper across the season.

The programme will also be free to view, providing an additional saving for supporters while ensuring they can continue to enjoy a key part of the match day experience".

10 August 2026

EVANS'S MIXED FORTUNES

The others were Aidan Barlow, Sam Taylor and former loanee Liam Humbles.

Above: Both Owen Evans (right) and Matty Kosylo (left) were unable to complete the match against Southend for very different reasons. Matty was sent off whilst Owen succumbed to injury!

Evans had an unfortunate time on Saturday, losing possession to allow Southend to score their second goal and then injuring himself in making an excellent save and having, subsequently, to be substituted on his home league debut for the Robins as the Shrimpers ran out 3-1 winners.

He had first played at the J. Davidson Stadium for Barnet in an FA Trophy tie in season 2024/25. With the Bees concentrating on the league their second string fell to a 3-1 defeat. But in the subsequent league clash at the JDS, Barnet beat Altrincham 1-0 with Owen achieving a clean sheet.

His first appearance at Moss Lane in an Alty shirt was in the 2026 pre-season when five goals were conceded against Macclesfield FC.

Another clean sheet followed for Evans when Alty beat Manchester United's under-21s last month.

So in his five games at Altrincham Owen has kept two clean sheets but also had to retrieve the ball from net on eleven occasions though, clearly, collective responsibility is shared with his team-mates.

ALTY'S INEXPERIENCED BENCH

Charlie Olson (hamstring), Eddie Jones (hamstring), Owen German (ruptured achilles), Kahrel Reddin and Kristian Dennis were all missing from the squad, presumably all being injured, whilst Sam Barnes was suspended.

In addition to those six players, goalkeepers Louie Fallon and Max Beddow had gone out on loan, reducing the 26-strong squad to 18. So all 18 players were listed on the team-sheet, including Anthony Forde (right) who had previously been reported injured.

The seven-strong bench included six players with just five league starts between them all (Hinchy 1 start, Breckin 0, Firth 0, Raymond 0, Forde 4, and Bailey 0).

The seventh sub, Kirk had 17 previous league starts to his name and 20 more NL appearances from the bench though he had failed to score in his almost 1600 minutes of league playing time for Altrincham.

The situation has now potentially worsened with Matty Kosylo facing suspension and goalkeeper Evans potentially unfit to start next weekend.

THE VIEW FROM SOUTHEND

The Shrimpers had fallen behind early on when Tom Crawford (left) scored from close range after Joe Duncan had saved from Aidan Barlow.

However, Blues levelled before half-time thanks to a well-taken finish from Leon Chambers-Parillon.

Early in the second half, Southend turned the game around thanks to the skipper Oli Coker after Harry Cardwell had blocked the goalkeeper's clearance.

Altrincham were reduced to ten men with 20 minutes to go after Matty Kosylo got two yellow cards in quick succession, and the Shrimpers made the man advantage count with Harry Cardwell finding the far corner after being teed up by Sahid Kamara. A heavy touch just inside the Southend half from Charlie Kirk was pounced on by Colclough who then pinged a cross-field pass out to the ever-lively Kamara who slipped in Cardwell and he drilled an effort into the far corner to seal the three points...

A win away from home on the opening day for the second season running sees us sit fifth in the table".

NEXT GAME: SUTTON UNITED

Last Saturday the "U"s won 3-0 away at their Surrey rivals Woking.

Sutton United report that "Goals either side of the break from Will Nightingale, Omar Mussa and David Ogbonna saw Sutton start as they mean to go on, thumping Woking 3-0 away from home in a wonderful performance to start the season.

The U’s got off to the perfect start when Nightingale took advantage of Will Jääskeläinen misjudging Dan Urpens’ dangerous long throw-in, tapping Sutton into the lead with 28 minutes on the clock, before Mussa gave the visitors a two-goal cushion with a tremendous free kick ten minutes into the second half.

Despite Woking hitting back with a handful of half chances, Sutton made the win safe when David Ogbonna came off the bench to latch onto Urpens’ deep through ball and evade Chinwike Okoli before calmly slotting past the Finnish goalkeeper to secure all three points, and send Sutton to joint-top of the Enterprise National League after gameweek one.

Victory in Surrey leaves Sutton third in the division, and they will be aiming to make it two wins from two next week with the visit of Altrincham in the U’s first home game of the season...

Sutton made one change to the starting XI from last week’s final pre-season game against Southampton, with Alex Kirk and Charlie Carter pulling up late in training, and meant the former was replaced by Mussa in a re-structure of the defence which saw Spike Brits start in between the sticks behind Noah Nzuzi – making his senior competitive debut, Dan Urpens, Will Nightingale and Besart Topallaj, with the Belgian rejoins the midfield alongside Jake Taylor, Emmanuel Osadebe in midfield and Charlie Bell, while Sam Folarin and Temi Babalola led the line.

Sutton United: Brits (GK), Nzuzi (Donkor 70′), Nightingale, Urpens, Topallaj, Taylor (C), Osadebe, Mussa (Francis 78′), Bell, Folarin (Ogbonna 65′), Babalola".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish Premiership : All JOE HUGILL had to show for a full shift at Rugby Park was a yellow card. Celtic's new signing from Bodo/Glimt, the Dane Kasper Hogh, hit a first half hat trick as Celtic ran riot, going on to beat Kilmarnock 1-5. Paddy Power have already paid out on bets for Celtic to win the league on the back of a mediocre start to the season by Rangers.

USL League One : SAM ROSCOE was at the heart of Corpus Christi's defence as they travelled 2,158 miles to Maine, and beat Portland Hearts of Pine 0-2. Whilst they are now only 2 points outside the playoff zone, they've played a game more than many of their rivals.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round : BILLY HASLER-CREGG (right) opened the scoring for JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam at Hallam, and then added a last minute penalty to give them a 0-3 win.

RYAN BROOKE played the first 79 minutes for Trafford as they won 0-2 at Worsborough Bridge Athletic.

Irish Premier Division : St.Patrick's were 0-2 ahead at Shelbourne at half time, but the home side had reduced the arrears before BARRY BAGGLEY came off the bench after 76 minutes. A minute later the hosts were reduced to 10 men (their manager had been sent off earlier). Barry and his colleagues survived 6 added minutes to win 1-2. Although they remain 7 points adrift of Shamrock Rovers, they are well placed to qualify for the preliminary stages of next season's Europa Conference League.

And finally some sad news from. National North where Buxton report that "After yesterday’s game [against Hereford FC], CONNOR KIRBY was taken to Manchester Royal where a double leg break was confirmed. He is due to be transferred to Sheffield for surgery.

Kirbs is well in himself and has been in contact with us. He’s keen to let Bucks fans know he’ll be doing everything he can to get back as soon as possible! "

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Rylah signed his first professional contract with the Addicks in May 2023 before making three senior appearances during the 2023/24 campaign.

The exciting attacker spent the first half of 2026 on loan with League of Ireland Premier Division side Derry City... Rylah made 15 appearances across all competitions for the Candystripes...

Chris Millington added 'Henry is an exciting, quick, young winger. His directness will help contribute to our style of play'".

Harrogate Town "announce the signing of left wing-back Ethan Bristow.

The 24-year-old signs having spent the 2025/26 season with Tranmere Rovers...

Bristow revealed 'The Manager has a clear idea of what he wants to do and where he wants to take this team'...

'He’s quick, athletic and got a good energy about him, he’s played at a good level so we think he’ll be a good fit for us', added Lloyd Kerry.

'It was important to fill this position, we’ve been trying hard all summer so we’re delighted to have got this deal done'.

Bristow began his career at Reading, making his debut for The Royals in 2020, before signing for Tranmere Rovers for a first time in 2022.

On the back of a season in which Bristow features over 50 times for Rovers, MLS side Minnesota United swooped for the wing-back’s services.

Ethan would taste further success back in England on loan with Stockport County... before returning to Tranmere at the start of last season".

Woking "announce the signing of defender Jaiden Putman on a short-term youth loan from EFL Championship side Queens Park Rangers.

The highly rated defender joins the Cardinals for the next three months, adding further depth to Craig Ross’s defensive options..

The 19-year-old has gained valuable senior experience during loan spells with Barking, Oxford City and Bath City, where he made 25 appearances in the National League South...

Putman also made his first-team debut for QPR in the EFL Cup...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'We have a couple short-term injured, so we’ve taken the decision to add Jaiden on a short-term loan.

'He’s trained with Craig and the staff this week, which is of great advantage. They’re confident that he’s able to step in and add quality to the group'">

Also at Woking the Cards reveal "the signing of talented midfielder Steven Turner on a season-long loan from Ipswich Town.

The promising young midfielder returns to the Laithwaite Community Stadium for the 2026/27 campaign after impressing during a previous spell with the Cardinals in April...

Turner arrives having spent pre-season training with Ipswich Town’s first team...

Turner said 'I’m delighted to be back. I really enjoyed my time here in April'".

In other news, Woking "announce that Jake Forster-Caskey has been appointed as the club's captain... with defender Chinwike Okoli continuing as vice-captain...

Forster-Caskey has established himself as a key figure both on and off the pitch. His leadership, professionalism and experience have made him a natural choice to captain the side".

9 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-3 SOUTHEND UNITED

Right: Andy Firth made a sooner than expected debut for Altrincham on Saturday when he had to replace the injured Owen Evans.

Match report here

POST-MATCH VIEW OF NEIL GIBSON

The manager was pleased with much of the play for the first 52 minutes, i.e. before Southend took the lead. He took the responsibility himself for Owen Evans's mistake which gifted that goal to the visitors saying that "I'm asking Owen to play out from the back".

As for Kosylo's red card, the player has apologized to his team mates for his lapse.

NEXT: SUTTON UNITED

FORMER ALTY CEO RETURNS TO HALIFAX

Footnote: John Williams's appointment as Altrincham's first ever CEO was announced on 7 June 2023. He had previously been Commercial Director at FC Halifax Town and, before that, had been employed at Huddersfield Town.

In an unexpected announcement on 5 December 2023, John's departure from the Club was reported "with immediate effect".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Carabao Cup : Newport County were a whisker away from winning at AFC Wimbledon, but had to go to penalties when Callum Maycock equalised after 97 minutes - and that was the end for them, missing the last kick to lose the shootout 5-4. DAN SASSI (right), a 76th minute substitute for the Welsh club, didn't take a kick, while the hosts had taken ALI SMITH off after 82 minutes.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE was a 66th minute substitute for Peterborough United, who won by the only goal at Bristol Rovers.

Grimsby Town withdrew JUSTIN AMALUZOR after 61 minutes of their 1-3 home defeat by Blackpool.

It took 16 spot kicks at the Peninsular Stadium before Shrewsbury Town overcame Salford City - and NINE of them weren't converted as the Shropshire side won the shootout 4-3. The game had ended 1-1 and 10 players per side. Only 2 Shrews didn't take a kick, and one of them was KEVIN BERKOE, who put in a full shift on his return to the club where he made 32 EFL appearances over 4 seasons.

Charlton Athletic were three goals up in 37 minutes at Cheltenham Town, and, although they pulled one goal back, they were eliminated 1-3. JAKE BICKERSTAFF was a 79th minute substitute for the Gloucestershire Robins.

National League : CHRIS MERRIE put in a full shift for CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde, but visitors Wealdstone twice came from behind to draw 2-2.

A Matt Rush hat trick helped Boreham Wood to hold visitors Tamworth 3-3. TYLOR GOLDEN played the full game for Wood.

MARCUS DINANGA claimed the assist for the goal that gave Aldershot a 0-1 win at Boston United, for whom CONNOR TEALE (right) played the first 68 minutes.

Having been a goal down at the break, new boys Worthing scored 3 goals in 19 minutes, and then held firm to win 2-3 at fancied Carlisle United. REGAN LINNEY played the whole game for the Cumbrians.

Although he hadn't figured in pre-season, JOSH LUNDSTRAM put in a full shift for Eastleigh, and scored the decisive goal as they beat visitors Gateshead 2-1. KEATON WARD wasn't in Gateshead's squad.

FC Halifax had led at the break at Forest Green Rovers, but the hosts levelled within 3 minutes of the restart, going on to win 3-2. JAMES BERRY played the first 56 minutes, while ETHAN ROSS remained on the bench.

Trailing at Hartlepool United, Barrow made a triple substitution after 78 minutes, with OLLY CRANKSHAW going off, and ISAAC MARRIOTT coming on. KENNEDY DIGIE played the full game for the Bluebirds, but Hartlepool won 2-0.

CALLUM DOLAN played the full game, but was booked as Kidderminster Harriers went down 3-0 at Hornchurch, who scored all their goals in the first 34 minutes.

Trailing to visitors Yeovil Town, Scunthorpe United brought on JAMES GALE in place of DECLAN HOWE after 64 minutes, and forced a 1-1 draw in the 89th minute. ROSS BARROWS played the full game for them. Yeovil omitted MATT GOULD, going with no second keeper on their bench, but JACK KINGDON was a 70th minute substitute.

National North : CONNOR KIRBY played the full game as Buxton snatched a 2-1 win over visitors Hereford in the 98th minute. The Bulls had been down to 10 men for 34 minutes by then.

PHIL PARKINSON started both TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS for Chester at Chorley, and it was Billy who struck after 87 minutes to give them a 1-2 win.

LUKE BURGESS started for Southport at newly promoted Hebburn Town, where they lost 3-1. REGAN GRIFFITHS came on in the second half, and was booked.

Macclesfield won by the only goal at Marine. GEORGE WILSON picked up a yellow card, and ELLIOTT OSBORNE and SAM HEATHCOTE also played.

Both LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOT NEWBY started for Morecambe, who had to come from behind to hold visitors Spennymoor Town 1-1.

Radcliffe only named JORDAN HULME and BRAD JACKSON as substitutes, as visitors Spalding United, with YUSIFU CEESAY in their starting lineup, hit 2 unanswered goals.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY was on the losing side as Hednesford Town went down in the Valleys, Merthyr Town scoring the only 2 goals of the game.

National South : It was the same story for MILES WELCH-HAYES as Maidenhead United's visit to Cornwall ended in a 2-0 defeat at Truro City.

Scottish League One : KIAN TAYLOR put in a full shift as Airdrie were held 1-1 by visitors East Kilbride.

NPL Premier Division : JAMES HARDY (right) played the first 73 minutes as Ashton United beat visitors Lancaster City 4-1.

DAVID FITZPATRICK scored the 75th minute winner from the penalty spot as Avro beat Quorn 2-1. ZAK GOODSON put in a full shift for the visitors from Leicestershire.

BEN ELLIOTT made his Warrington Town debut from the bench at Guiseley after 64 minutes. His side had already scored the goals that gave them a 1-2 win by then.

WILL HALL captained Hyde United as they were held to a goalless draw by visitors Emley. After 74 minutes DONTAI GABIDON gave way to JACK REDSHAW.

It was 1-1 when Leek Town withdrew HAYDEN CAMPBELL after 65 minutes, but 3 minutes later visitors Whitby Town scored what turned out to be the winner.

GEZ SITHOLE wasn't in the FC United squad which lost 3-0 at Warrington Rylands, who were forced to bring DEAN FURMAN off the bench after only 17 minutes.

NPL Division 1 West : Vauxhall Motors drew 1-1 at Prescot Cables, with KEVIN ELLISON playing the whole of the second half. SHARIF DEANS was an unused substitute for the hosts.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game for Stalybridge Celtic, who lost 4-2 at Runcorn Linnets.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round : Witton Albion manager BEN HARRISON started JAMES LAWRIE and JOEL BEMBO-LETA, as well as former Robins trialist DAMOLO SOTONA, as his side progressed 0-2 at Chadderton.

DAVE JONES took his Atherton Laburnum Rovers side to Euxton Villa, where they crashed 6-0.

MAX BEDDOW began his loan at 1874 Northwich with a clean sheet as they beat visitors Rossington Main 3-0.

Atherton Collieries signed AARON BENNETT (right) this afternoon, and he was on the bench beside SAM SHERIDAN at Barnoldswick Town. He stayed on the bench, but Sam came on in the 90th minute. The match ended 2-2 and the replay is on Tuesday evening at Atherton's fancily named Dreams 2 Reality Stadium.

DAVID PARTON was on the wrong end of 3 goals as Congleton Town were knocked out by visitors Wolverhampton City.

LEWIS BILLINGSLEY started for West Didsbury & Chorlton at Garforth Town, and he played the first 80 minutes as his team did their best to dismiss the memory of a 7 goal midweek walloping with a 1-1 draw. The replay is at Brookburn Road on Tuesday evening.

Captain MARK LEES, and MASON FAWNS started for Mossley at Silsden, where they were 3-0 down early in the second half. They mounted a spirited fightback however, and, having claimed the assist for their second goal, Mason scored a spectacular late equaliser from a direct free kick. Another Tuesday night replay at Seel Park.

The return of JOSH HANCOCK (right) from retirement paid dividends for Nantwich Town, as he capped a full shift by converting the 94th minute penalty that earned the Dabbers a replay at Sporting Khalsa. JOE PIGGOTT captained the side, and AIDY ROXBURGH also put in a full shift, so yet another tie goes to a replay, this time at Nantwich's renamed Swansway Stadium (I thought they might be sponsored by Marcel Proust, but apparently it's a car dealership in Crewe).

ANDY DALES played the first 81 minutes as Mickleover won 0-2 at Winsford United.

It was a contrasting afternoon for the two clubs from Manchester's Garden Suburb (as it was called in its 1950's infancy). Wythenshawe FC progressed 2-0 against Padiham, and though they had a penalty saved after DARIUS PALMA was upended, it was he who set up the clincher.

It was a less happy story at Ericstan Park as Wythenshawe Town continued their downward spiral with a 0-2 defeat against Cheadle Town. ASTLEY MULHOLLAND watched from the bench as his side bowed out to HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS and his colleagues.

NWCL Division 1 South : ANDREW JONES was on the wrong end of a 0-3 home defeat for Cheadle Heath Nomads against Wolverhampton Casuals.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A graduate of Burton Albion's academy, Latty-Fairweather has already amassed more than 10,000 minutes of senior football despite his young age. During that time, he has gained valuable experience across spells with Guiseley, Hereford, York City, Maidenhead United and most recently FC Halifax Town.

Comfortable at left-back or on the left side of a back three, Thierry arrives with extensive National League experience. He featured 35 times for FC Halifax Town last season...

His arrival further strengthens Adam Murray's defensive options ahead of the new campaign, adding athleticism, versatility and proven experience at National League level".

On the eve of kicking off the new season, Boreham Wood were "thrilled to announce the signing of winger Farhaan Ali Wahid, who joins the Wood on loan from Premier League side Fulham until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The highly-rated 19-year-old arrives at Meadow Park following an outstanding rise through the Cottagers’ academy, adding pace, flair and exciting attacking quality to Luke Garrard’s squad...

Born and raised in England, Ali Wahid is of Bangladeshi heritage and joined Fulham’s academy at under-12 level. The exciting winger quickly established himself as one of the club’s brightest young prospects...

He enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the club’s Premier League 2 side, winning the division’s Player of the Month award in November... before being shortlisted for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award. Internationally, he committed his future to Bangladesh in 2026".

Before they suffered a surpsise home defeat on Saturday, we learned that Carlisle United's "Callum Whelan believes Carlisle United are in a good place to challenge at the top end of the Enterprise National League table as the season gets underway with a home game against Worthing this weekend.

The Blues' new vice-captain wants to build on a strong points total from the previous campaign...

With consistency in the core of the squad who experienced plenty of wins during last season, Whelan is raring to mount a title charge. He said: "95 points, it's a great tally for our first attempt in the National League since being here, so as you said, it's a really good foundation.

"We've kept a lot of the boys from last year as well, so it's all set up nicely for us to really go and attack the top spot."

United brought in Rob Elliot as the club's new Head Coach in the summer, someone Whelan has already flourished under at Gateshead".

8 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-3 SOUTHEND UNITED

The goal was made by man of the match Liam Humbles's excellent pass to Aidan Barlow. His shot from left of centre, inside the box, was pushed away by the Southend keeper Duncan, only for Crawford to find the net with the loose ball, from the right.

Above: Tom Ceawford is congratulated on his goal by Lucas Weaver. Also seen, from left to right, are Matty Kosylo, Liam Humbles. Otis Khan, Aidan Barlow, Sam Taylor and (hidden) Jimmy Knowles.

But, after some wasteful shooting from the visitors, they equalised with their first shot on target after 37 minutes when Parillon cut inside from the left and drilled a low, right-footed shot just inside Evans's right hand post.

Disaster struck in the second half when goalkeeper Evans dwelt on the ball at his feet and Cardwell dispossessed him, the ball running on to Coker who gave the Shrimpers a 1-2 lead (53 mins).

It got worse as Matty Kosylo received two yellow cards for fouls in a three-minute spell, with the ALty man seeing red as a consequence (70 mins).

Soon afterwards Evans made a fine save but suffered a leg injury in the process. Though he continued after treatment he was clearly hobbling before Southend made it 3-1 in the 85th minute.

This goal came after substitute Kirk had lost possession inside the visitors' half. Kamara fed Cardwell who netted the goal (85 mins).

Alty's woes continued as Evans had to be replaced in goal by Andy Firth whose arrival at the club had only been announced on the eve of the match.

Match report to follow

OPENING DAY FIXTURES

• AFC Fylde 2-2 Wealdstone
• Altrincham 1-3 Southend United
• Boreham Wood 3-3 Tamworth
• Boston United 0-1 Aldershot Town
• Carlisle United 2-3 Worthing
• Eastleigh 2-1 Gateshead
• Forest Green Rovers 3-2 FC Halifax Town
• Harrogate Town 5-2 Solihull Moors
• Hartlepool United 2-0 Barrow
• Hornchurch 3-0 Kidderminster Harriers
• Scunthorpe United 1-1 Yeovil Town
• Woking 0-3 Sutton United

KEEPER IS ALTY'S SEVENTH SIGNING

The 29-year-old joins the Robins after a spell in Saudi Arabia as goalie coach with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq. Andy now reconnects with manager Neil Gibson, who he played under between 2022 and 2024 with Connah's Quay Nomads.

RIght: Max Beddow

A product of Liverpool's academy, our new number 13 played on loan at Witton Albion and Chester while with the Reds, before stints at Barrow and Rangers preceded his move to the Middle East, where he linked up for a second time with Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard...

[Gibson said] 'He was our starting goalie for two years at Connah's Quay, he's been a first choice, second choice and third choice at different levels, so he's more than capable of being a good back-up to Owen Evans, which allows us to look at loan options for Louie Fallon and Max Beddow, to push on their development as well.

'In terms of coaching he's worked in Liverpool's academy, been a training goalie for Liverpool's first team and he's been in Saudi Arabia coaching in recent years;...

Academy graduate goalie Max Beddow (right) has joined Northern Premier League West outfit 1874 Northwich on loan till January, following Louie Fallon's loan move to Airbus UK earlier in the week".

TODAY: ALTRINCHAM v SOUTHEND UNITED

Left: Sam Taylor is one of Altrincham's seven summer signings.

Southend finished sixth last season whilst Altrincham were 24 points worse off in 13th place.

However, since then, the Shrimpers have sacked manager Kevin Maher and have lost numerous first-choice players to other clubs. So they are something of an unknown quantity as the season commences.

For their part, Altrincham have lost key players such as Marriott, Golden and Crankshaw, and have brought in seven new faces.

In the wider context, Altrincham will be embarking on their fifth spell in national football. After spending 18 seasons in the inaugural national league (Alliance Premier) from its inception in 1979, they were first relegated in 1997.

The Robins regained that status for a single season (1999/2000) before winning promotion again for a further six seasons (2005-11). Two more seasons were added (2014-16) and today the club starts its seventh successive campaign in the National League (2020 to date).

SOUTHEND'S PREVIEW

Across those meetings, we have come out on top five times, lost four times and drawn once.

However, we have lost each of our previous four visits to J Davidson Stadium, not winning away at Altrincham since our first meeting back in 2021...

Ryan Colclough could make his competitive debut for the Shrimpers this weekend at a stadium he spent three years at from 2020 to 2023...

In recent years, Marcus Dackers and Dan Mooney (right) have both turned out for the Shrimpers and the Robins.

Ahead of the match, Southend United Head Coach Kieron Dyer said 'We're really well-prepared, we've had a good training week and we've got another day to get things across tactically. We've got no excuses, no injuries'.

We’ll be debuting our new 2026/27 yellow away strip at J Davidson Stadium...

Saturday’s referee is Zac Kennard-Kettle, who will be officiating a Southend game for the first time.

Son of former Premier League referee Trevor Kettle, he has previously refereed Altrincham twice".

ALTY OLD BOYS

He was booked for his celebration, but I doubt that will be a massive downer for him, especially as his team moved up to 4th as a result of his goal.

Scottish Championship : A visit to Partick Thistle is seldom an easy option at this level, and TYRESE SINCLAIR and his colleagues were always up against it from the moment they conceded after only 4 minutes.

Their goalkeeper then conceded an unfortunate own-goal as half time loomed, and that was enough to see Thistle to a 2-0 win. Livvy managed only a single shot on target.

Carabao Cup 1st Round : Although JUNIOR QUITIRNA hadn't featured for Wycombe Wanderers at all in pre-season, he came off the bench in the 78th minute with visitors Stevenage, who had scored first, level at 1-1. The Hertfordshire side had picked up 4 bookings by then, including skipper CARL PIERGIANNI. With only seconds of the 5 added minutes remaining, and penalties looming, Stevenage scored from a corner to go through to the 2nd Round with a 2-1 win.

Welsh Premier League : JOEL TORRANCE kept a second successive clean sheet for Llandudno, one of 3 clubs with a 100% record after 2 games, as they hit 4 without reply at Trefelin.

Another side with 2 wins are leaders Cardiff Metropolitan, who put 2 unanswered goals past LOUIE FALLON at Airbus UK Broughton.

JOHN DISNEY took his Connah's Quay Nomads team on the short 10 mile journey to Holywell, where JAMES JONES captained them to a 1-3 win.

In other news, from the more distant past, KARL MUNROE (right) will soon be celebrating the first anniversary of his opening the successful Padel Central Partington.

On Facebook Munroe explains his philosophy.

"Now, instead of chasing personal glory on the pitch, he's focused on creating spaces where others can discover their own sporting stories, build friendships, and become part of something bigger than themselves".

It is not the only commercial venture of the former Altrincham defender as he has run the successful Get Chauffered Ltd company for more than a decade.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 30-year-old centre-back joins The Stones having spent the last four years at Crawley Town, where he wore the captain’s armband, leading the club to promotion into League 1 at Wembley in 2024.

The Chelsea academy graduate has spent most of his career in the Football League, having also made over 120 appearances for Swindon Town...

The defender is also reunited with Gary Waddock, having previously played under The Stones boss during a loan spell at National League side Aldershot Town in the 2016/17 season...

Chairman Rory Fitzgerald said that Dion is "a player that we have been tracking since last season.

'Following the departure of Deon Woodman, we wanted to bring in a ready-made replacement and Dion (Conroy) brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership qualities and a proven track record of success...

'I am also extremely pleased with the business we have completed this summer. Following the departure of several important players, it was vital that we added both quality and experience, and I believe we have done that...

'We have taken our time to recruit the right players, and we are very happy with the group we have assembled ahead of the new season'.”

And Wealdstone Also "announce the signing of Admiral Muskwe, who joins on a permanent deal...

The Zimbabwe international signs after spending last season at Morecambe...

The striker began his career at Leicester City... before sealing a move to then Championship side Luton Town.

In his time with The Hatters combined with an earlier loan with Wycombe Wanderers, Muskwe has made just under 40 appearances in the football league’s highest division.

Admiral has spent the last few weeks training with The Stones, impressing Gary Waddock enough to seal a move".

The BBC reports that "Gateshead have signed former Hull City midfielder Rocco Coyle on a two-year contract.

Rocco Coyle made 18 appearances for Boston United last season

The 20-year-old, who was released by the Tigers this summer, has National League experience having been loaned out to Boston United - as well as National League North side Scarborough Athletic - last season.

'It's a good feeling to be a part of the team,' Coyle, the younger brother of Hull City captain Lewie, told the club website...

'ast week there was talk of me coming in. As soon as I came in I knew I was wanting to sign here and buzzing to get it done'". "The lads are spot on. Everyone seems to be together in the group which is always a good sign."

AFC Fylde "announce the signing of midfielder Zach Stritch on a short-term deal.

The former Blackburn midfielder previously spent time out on loan at Curzon Ashton last season...

The 20-year-old has featured in Rovers' highly respected Cat One academy, playing in competitions such as the Premier League 2...

Craig Mahon said... 'He'll provide us with another attacking midfielder, which we felt we needed, and we're really pleased to have him with us.'"

A statement has been issued by the National League.

It includes the following...

The National League’s Compliance and Licensing Committee convened on 5 August 2026, following recent correspondence and information relevant to the Club, to further consider ongoing issues regarding Ebbsfleet United FC and its financial position.

The Club, which competes in the National League South, has previously been found in breach of National League regulations and is under Embargo.

One significant issue is settlement of PAYE liabilities dating back to April 2026, which led to HM Revenue & Customs reportedly issuing a winding-up petition against the Club...

The Committee determined that... obligations are not met to its satisfaction, specifically regarding the Club’s ability to meet its financial obligations throughout the 2026/27 Season.

Following careful consideration, the Committee has taken the decision under applicable regulations to suspend Ebbsfleet United FC, with a review to be undertaken by the Committee on 19 August. As a result of suspension, at this time, the Club will not be able to fulfil the opening three fixtures of the coming Season...

Ebbsfleet United FC has until 5.00pm on Tuesday 18 August to provide satisfactory evidence that its obligations have been...

Opponent clubs for the first three published fixtures have been informed of the decision".

7 August 2026

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Neil Gibson spoke to Tom Jolley ahead of Saturday's clash with Southend United. The interview is available courtesy of Alty TV

LOUIE'S LOAN

During his first season as a senior player in 2024/25, our number 27 played over 30 games in the Northern Premier League for Witton Albion, winning the club's Supporters' Player of the Year award.

Manager Neil Gibson on Louie's loan move 'This is a great loan move for Louie which will allow him to continue his development while playing at a very good level, against teams who have European experience and in a league that is really well covered by TV and online.

'He's a keeper we have high hopes for as a football club'"

Footnote: Louie made his National League debut when he substituted for the injured Ethan Ross after 70 minutes of the game against Braintree Town on 8 February 2025. After 14 unused appearances on the bench in 2025-26 season, Louie's full league debut came on 18 October 2025 against Woking at Moss Lane.

He made another start in the next fixture before two more unused inclusions in the squad ended with his own injury, which sidelined him for seven NL matches until into January 2026.

He then returned as the regular substitute keeper on the Alty bench. Altrincham appearances to end of 2025/26 season: 6(+3)".

ALTY FANS' FORUM

The gathering, attended by approximately 55 supporters, was hosted jointly by the Club and the supporters' organization Union Golf Road, whose liaison officer Adam Firth efficiently compered the evening.

From the Club, the representatives were its director of football, John Coyne (JC) and manager Neil Gibson (NG).

This time, the aim of the Forum was to concentrate on the footballing side of the club rather than its administrative or off-field issues.

However the meeting started with the matter of the club's CEO, who resigned recently, just a couple of months after his appointment.

CLUB PERSONNEL: JC explained that the CEO appointment simply "didn't work out". JC went on to underline that although the Board now only comprises three people, (himself, Sam Mackenzie and chairman Mark Luby), there were "many others involved" in supporting the Board.

Later it was stated that the club was not seeking a new CEO but was likely to go down "the general manager route".

Next, Steve Foster, who was in the audience, was welcomed in his new full-time role of club secretary, with JC describing him as "a huge asset to us".

It was later confirmed that the club has "approximately ten staff on its payroll", including the groundsman.

STADIUM: JC confirmed that the Club is not about to move and that "nothing has changed" on that front.

FULL-TIME: Whilst conceding that "We spend a lot more than we generate", the club is able to sustain this position because, as JC put it, "generous investors have allowed us to stay full-time".

PLAYING KIT: This season both the home and away kit are new, replacing strips that had only been in place for a year. The club is considering keeping the new away kit for two years.

PLAYING BUDGET: Players' salary inflation has increased greatly ("eye=watering") this summer in the National League which JC thought was partly explained by the title race being open in 26/27 and so more clubs were investing heavily, with the hope of gaining promotion.

At this point the microphone was handed to NG (right) to talk about his "football philosophy". As this would be Neil's 20th season in management, during which he has overseen some 750 games, the manager explained that it was true to say that his philosophy had evolved and would continue to do so.

NG pointed out that he had held a UEFA Pro licence, (the highest level) for nine years. He broke down his philosophy into four areas; in possession, out of possession, transition and set-pieces.

NG also stated that Altrincham's possession stats increased by around 10% after he had joined the club. However, the possession needed to be more productive.

On appointment at Altrincham NG felt Alty were susceptible "in possession" and at set pieces so he tried initially to concentrate on those areas.

A "tactics board" was then produced to explain the recent set-up against Macclesfield. The white board showed some signs of damage; NG explained that this was incurred when he took out his frustration on it after the defeat at Slough Town in the FA Cup last season!

THE PITCH: JC confirmed that the pitch at the JDS had been narrowed by about 75cm on each side, which was a requirement of new rules designed to minimize the risk of injury from players colliding with perimeter fences.

This preseason he has been aiming to keep off 4G but the heat has affected the grass surfaces at Egerton and, in addition, over the summer some of the pitches are hired out to outside bodies. So a spell of training at Mottram Hall on grass has been arranged.

AREAS TO IMPROVE NG has identified five areas for improvement in mind.

1. Disciplinary record. 10 red cards last season was too many and many were picked up by younger members of the squad (under-23). So attention is being paid to improving this group's discipline.
2. Away record. Alty's away record has not been good enough and he would like to improve preparation for away games e.g. more overnight stays
3. Goals conceded late in game. To address this attention is being paid to fitness, strength in depth from the bench and changing the mindset away from a "hanging on" mentality
4. Injury availability. Last year NG was unable to use the grass pitches at Egerton from October 2025 so training was on 4G. However, NG attributed seven injuries picked up last season to training on one surface (4G) then playing matches on another (grass) surface.

5. Recruiting players to improve us in the above areas

INJURIES: As previously announced Charlie Olson is out for "months rather than weeks", though his pre-season injury is not a recurrence of his previous hamstring injury. Eddie Jones, who also has a hamstring injury is "progressing well". Charlie has been to London to see a hamstring specialist

As for Eddy, before his pre-season injury was incurred, he was the quickest player in training. He also covers more than 11km per game.

PLAYERS Contrary to rumours Kahrel Reddin is not moving on. NG explained that his "numbers tailed off last season" but the club has taken steps to get him local accommodation, as he was commuting from Stoke. "We want him here" said the manager.

The additional two-match ban for Sam Barnes was explained; as well as having served his three-match ban for alleged dangerous play with an overhead kick, he was give two extra matches for words said to the officials after his dismissal at Woking.

Owen German is out all season having ruptured his Achilles by landing, from a header, in a "hole" in the pitch at Wythenshawe Town in pre-season.

The club has responded by extending his contract to cover nest season (27-28) as well as 26/27.

ACADEMY: Five of the 25-strong squad for next season are Academy graduates. Tribute was paid to Sara Newton and Paul Fay for building up the Academy which is not a financial drain on the club as it is at many other clubs.

It was announced that Louie Fallon has already gone on loan to Airbus UK and has already made his debut for them. Joel Bailey will also go out on loan again.

WOMEN'S TEAM There have been 180 trialists for the women's section this summer.

Right: Action from the preseason clash with Manchester United under-21s. The Alty players seen, from foreground to background, are Otis Khan, Matty Kosylo, Jimmy Knowles and Kristian Dennis.

PRE-SEASON: There was some criticism from the floor at the level of pre-season opposition. JC explained that planned games against Liverpool's Academy and Wolves's U21s had fallen through. The match at Wythenshawe Town had been seen as giving something back to local football. There have been no repercussions for the club after the match ended in a melee.

JC indicated that there may be an overseas trip in pre-season next year

2026-27 ASPIRATIONS: NG wanted alty to "be as competitive as we can be", with the aim of "getting around the play offs". Targets have been set for the first 11 games, with the aim being to build momentum.

"We want to overachieve" said NG.

Additions to the squad are planned before the season starts with priorities being a "centre-back on the left side" to replace Olson and "a goalscorer".

STADIUM SECURITY: There was some criticism of over-zealous searches before entering the stadium. JC explained that legislation meant that searches could not be relaxed for season-ticket holders as opposed to other spectators.

CAPTAINCY: Tom Crawford has been reconfirmed as captain with Lewis Banks and Otis Khan as vice-captains. It was pointed out that as well as his leadership qualities, Tom had been the first to commit to renewing his contract despite offers of more money elsewhere.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 23-year-old midfielder comes to SO50 with both Football League and National League experience.

He started out his career in the youth setup at Norwich City, before eventually moving on to Bolton Wanderers in 2022.>.

He joined AFC Fylde on loan for the first half of the 2023/24 season... Khumbeni would then go on to have loan stints with Morecambe and Accrington Stanley in League Two, before signing for Gillingham in 2025.

Last season, the midfielder played 22 times for Gillingham".

Also joining Eastleigh is "winger Dion Rankine, who joins the Spitfires on loan from Crewe Alexandra.

The 23-year-old joins the Spitfires coming off the back of a season in League Two with Crewe, where he featured 11 times for them in the league, along with four times in cup competitions...

Before this, Rankine spent a season with Wigan Athletic, playing 20 times for them in League One.

The winger spent his youth career with Chelsea...

He was loaned out to Exeter City in the 2023/24 season, where he made 36 appearances, with 33 of those coming in League One.

Rankine played twice for England at youth level".

As well as Eastleigh FC Halifax Town also made two signings on Thursday. One was "full back Raheem Conte, following a spell at Morecambe.

Having spent time in the academy at Brentford, Conte made the switch to Queens Park Rangers’ youth set up at under 14s level...

At the end of the 2021-22 campaign, Conte turned down the offer to stay at the club and sign a short-term deal. He made the move instead to Cardiff City, signing a one-year deal. Despite suffering injuries in his first season at the club, an option was taken to extend his deal.

In April 2024, Conte made his senior debut for the club, as a substitute in a 2-1 win over Southampton. In August that year, the defender joined National League side Woking on a season-long loan deal. However, after just 13 appearances, Conte was recalled by Cardiff in January 2025. The full back was released by Cardiff that summer, and joined Morecambe in late August. Having made 17 league appearances last season, Conte was released by Morecambe in the summer.

FC Halifax also "announce the signing of winger Ben Tollitt, following a season with Morecambe.

Starting out in the Everton academy, Tollitt was released and signed for Widnes in 2013... In November 2014, Tollitt signed for Skelmersdale United.. In the summer of 2015, Tollitt signed for Portsmouth, then in League Two...

In September 2016, Tollitt made the move to Tranmere Rovers on loan, a move which was made permanent just three months later. Following a short-term loan to Wrexham, Tollitt was released by Tranmere in the summer of 2019. He made the move to Blackpool and was quickly sent back on loan to Wrexham, for another short-term deal. In January 2020, Tollitt was released and signed for Macclesfield Town...

The winger then spent the next two seasons at AFC Fylde in the National League North, making over 60 appearances and scoring 17. This form earned Tollitt a move to Oldham Athletic in the National League... He was sent out on loan to Kidderminster Harriers in the National League, and then Chester in the National League North. In July 2024, Tollitt signed for Morecambe".

Forest Green Rovers "announce the signing of centre-back Filozofe Mabete from Swindon Town on a six-month-loan.

The 21-year-old right-footed centre-back becomes our tenth signing of the summer...

Mabete joined Swindon in June 2025 from Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the defender impressing at The Dingles, making 114 appearances between 2021 and 2025 across Wolves’ U18S, U21S and U23S.

After joining Swindon in the summer, the DR Congo youth international made 33 appearances for the Robins during the 2025/26 campaign, scoring two goals. Mabete has also started every game for Swindon during this pre-season.

Manager Robbie Savage had this to say about the signing of Mabete, 'He’s a brilliant signing, and played really well against us last weekend...

'We are in a far better position at this time compared to last season.'”

At Kidderminster Harriers "Paul Wotton has landed a major signing just days before the start of the season with the acquisition of vastly experienced defender Angus MacDonald.

The 33-year-old has close to 400 senior appearances to his name in England and Scotland, having initially established himself in non-league at the start of his career.

After spells with Torquay, Wimbledon and Salisbury, he moved into the Championship with Barnsley and later featured for Hull, Rotherham and Swindon before a move to Scotland with Aberdeen...

He left there in 2025 and spent time in the EFL with Exeter and Barrow – the latter coming at the back end of last season.

MacDonald brings considerable experience and leadership to the squad in penning a two-year deal at Aggborough".

Also, Kidderminster Harriers "confirm the signing of experienced goalkeeper Dave Richards on a short-term deal.

The 32-year-old left Scottish Premier League outfit Dundee United this summer having spent the last two seasons there, and counts Crewe, Bristol City and Cheltenham among his other clubs.

With incoming Harriers goalkeeper Jack Wint due to link back up with the Reds after the weekend, Richards has been added to the squad on a short-term basis to add further experience ahead of Saturday’s opener at Hornchurch.

Boss Paul Wotton said 'With Jack not joining us until Monday, it’s a little bit of a unique situation, but I am really happy to be able to get Dave on board'".

6 August 2026

NEIL AIMING FOR THE PLAY-OFFS

Right: Adam Firth of Union Golf Road comperes the Fans' Forum at which manager Neil Gibson and director John Coyne (seated) were the guests.

During the two-hour meeting, Neil stated that he wants his side to be "as competitive as we can" and added that he was aiming to "get around the play-offs".

The meeting initially covered recent changes behind the scenes at the football club, but largely concentrated thereafter on "football matters".

More on this to follow...

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Born and bred in Southend, Coker has been entrusted with the armband by Head Coach Kieron Dyer after forming part of the five-player leadership group that was established on day one of pre-season..

Said Coker... 'I’ll lead by example; it’ll be high standards every day, coming in early like I always do. Not much will change – I’ll be who I am – and that should be enough'...

Dyer explained, 'He loves the club, and to the fans, he is definitely one of their own'. Dyer has also chosen Harry Taylor has the Club’s vice-captain, as the defender enters his fifth season at Roots Hall...

We can also confirm our squad numbers for the 2026/27 season.

Ben Goodliffe, Sam Austin, Harry Taylor, Leon Chambers-Parillon, Charley Kendall, and Oli Coker all retain their shirt numbers from 2025/26.

Harry Cardwell moves to no. 9, with Rico Richards inheriting the vacated no. 21.

Joe Duncan takes the no. 1 shirt, while fellow shotstoppers Jack Sims and Josh Barrett will wear no. 13 and no. 30 respectively.

The full list of squad numbers is available below: 1 – Joe Duncan (GK), 2 – Vontae Daley-Campbell, 3 – Kyle McAdam, 4 – Anthony Hartigan, 5 – Rayan Oyebade, 6 – Ben Goodliffe, 7 – Sahid Kamara, 8 – Darren Oldaker, 9 – Harry Cardwell, 10 – Sam Austin, 11 – Lewys Twamley, 13 – Jack Sims (GK), 16 – Harry Taylor, 19 – Leon Chambers-Parillon, 20 – Dan Cox, 21 – Rico Richards, 22 – Tommy Backwell, 23 – Josh Popoola, 24 – Charley Kendall, 27 – RYAN COLCLOUGH, 28 – Oli Coker (C), 30 – Josh Barrett (GK)"

SEASON TICKET CARDS

Altrincham FC has announced that "If you ordered a physical card with your 2026/27 season ticket this summer you can now pick your card up from The J.Davidson Stadium office at the following times this week...

• Thursday 10am to 5pm
• Friday 10am to 5pm
• Saturday 11am to 2:50pm"

PESSIMISTIC FORECAST

As well as a number of sports betting companies suggesting that Altrincham are amongst the most likely candidates for relegation in 2026-27, Off The Line has its National League preview. It suggests Altrincham will finish 22nd

Joseph Pope writes "I felt this summer was the ideal opportunity in which Altrincham could push on and yet I’ve not seen a tangible reason as to why I’d go into the new campaign with renewed optimism for The Robins’ prospects.

The Robins have got one of the smaller squads in the National League and have picked up injuries in the form of Charlie Olson in what will likely be a long-term absence...

I think that a high workload on [a] mall squad will only make it much harder for Neil Gibson to manage.

One of the problems that I foresee for The Robins is a lack of goals... Altrincham’s answer is seemingly in signing Kristian Dennis (right)... I question whether or not he still has got the same poise in front of goal now that he is at the back end of his career...

They lack speed, physicality and I think the calibre they’ve brought in are [sic] too far on the side of having to rely on complete control in games with good technicians (e.g. Hinchy, Humbles, Barlow etc) that they might not be able to always guarantee.

Gibson was able to firefight the club successful away from relegation last term, yet I think that long-term The Robins are finding it tougher to compete.

I believe that looking in from the outside that The Robins were heading South before Neil Gibson got into the club, and with limited investment and a squad that is one of the smallest in the National League then I think that they may well succumb to the landscape of where the league is at".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Nantwich Town "announce the signing of forward JOSH HANCOCK, who returns to the Swansway Stadium after almost a decade away.

Hancock, a local lad who played in our youth teams until the age of 17, made his first team Nantwich debut aged just 16 away at Salford City in 2007.

He returned a few years later to play for the first team between 2015 and 2017, scoring 22 goals in 103 games in total for the Dabbers before leaving for Altrincham shortly after manager Phil Parkinson.

He went on to enjoy huge success with Alty, Curzon Ashton and Radcliffe, spending most of these years in the National League and National League North".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

In side a 24 hour period, FC Halifax Town have confirmed the departure of two players.

The latest to depart is "Thierry Latty-Fairweather [who] has mutually agreed to leave the club and has joined Barrow AFC".

The club adds that "Our new signings will be announced in the next 24-48 hours".

Earlier The Shaymen had confirmed "the transfer of Josh Hmami to Harrogate Town AFC for an undisclosed fee".

Another club hit by the loss of a key player within days of the start of the new season is Worthing who "confirm that striker Brad Dolaghan has transferred to Harrogate Town for an undisclosed fee.

An academy product, Brad moves to Yorkshire to join the National League outfit after another prolific season in Worthing colours... claim[ing] the National League South Golden Boot accolade with 23 goals in 40 appearances...

This is the second farewell to One of Our Own, as he initially departed West Sussex in the summer of 2024 for the heavy [sic] heights of West Ham United, with a subsequent loan spell at Aldershot Town to aid his development with the Hammers".

Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Charlie Lennon on loan from Barnsley until January 2027.

The 20-year-old winger arrives at Huish Park with valuable experience...

Lennon joined the Middlesbrough academy at Under 9 level and progressed through the club’s youth system before signing his first professional contract in 2024. He made his senior debut for Middlesbrough later that year...

The midfielder gained valuable first-team experience during a loan spell with Darlington...

Lennon later joined Barnsley in 2026... making his debut for the Reds in League One...

A technically gifted midfielder with an eye for goal, Lennon adds further quality, creativity and competition to Billy Rowley’s squad".

---

5 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM FANS' FORUM

Altrincham FC has confirmed that "the first Altrincham FC Fans' Forum of 2026/27 will take place at The J.Davidson Stadium on Wednesday, August 5th.

To secure your spot at the Forum, simply register for your FREE ticket via the link here. Doors to the CSH Bar will open at 6:30pm, with the Forum getting underway at 7pm.

First Team Manager Neil Gibson (right) will be in attendance to offer supporters an update on football matters, alongside Assistant Manager Lee Jones and Director of Football John Coyne".

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Altrincham host Southend United on Saturday in the opening fixture of the 2026-27 season. By Tuesday afternoon more than 700 tickets had been purchased by Southend supporters. Last season "only" 389 Shrimpers supporters made the trip for the corresponding fixture.

Last season when the sides met at the JDS on 21 March 2026, the game resulted in a fourth win in six outings for Altrincham,which moved them up to fourteenth and left Southend back outside the play-off places into which they had moved in midweek.

After a fairly even opening period, Altrincham won their second corner of the afternoon when Weaver went close following Crawford's ball from the left, which was heped on by Howe.

From the corner, taken from the right, the ball came back from Cooper's header from beyond the back post and out to Humbles who drove the ball into the net from inside the box (14 mins).

But, otherwise, the Altrincham defence limited the visitors' opportunities and the Robins enjoyed several threatening attacks themselves".

Above: It is March 2026 and Alty's Golden, Humbles and Weaver look into the sun as they defend a threat from Southend United

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Friendlies: One of the more unlikely pre-season matches saw Newport County entertain Italian giants AS Roma. By the time DAN SASSI came off the bench after 76 minutes, the visitors had built a 3 goal lead, and within a couple of minutes they struck again. The Welsh side did at least score a late consolation goal, but lost 1-4.

NWCL Premier Division : SAM FREAKES started for Abbey Hey at Chadderton, where they lost 6-2. DANNY HEFFERNAN is still listed as a squad member, but is now 39 and is not likely to be a regular in the match day lineup.

JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam, with BILLY HASLER-CREGG (right) in their starting lineup, lost 1-3 to visitors Atherton Laburnum Rovers, managed by DAVE JONES.

RYAN BROOKE and SEAN HIGGINS started for Trafford, who lost 3-0 at Ramsbottom United, all the goals coming in the first 22 minutes.

NWCL First Division South : HARRY CAIN was among Sandbach United's substitutes as they lost 3-2 at Foley Meir.

Midland League Premier Division : HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS played for Cheadle Town, who went down by the only goal against visitors Winsford United.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND didn't pick himself for Wythenshawe Town, who lost 3-2 at Stockport Georgians.

It was a disastrous night for West Didsbury & Chorlton. A healthy crowd of 607 at Brookburn Road saw them totally demolished by Runcorn Town, who won 0-7. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY played the second half.

BEN ELLIOTT has left the club along with Alex McNally. The pair have joined Warrington Town.

Europa League Qualifier : One could be forgiven for thinking that Iberia 1999 were either Spanish or Portuguese, but they're from Tbilisi in Georgia. They'll be the happier of the two clubs after drawing the first leg at Larne 0-0. MONTEL GIBSON played the first 65 minutes.

And, finally, an update from our Cricket correspondent Ian Wilkinson, who advises us that Nathan The good news NATHAN WATERSTON who was marooned on 99 not out after Day 2 of his match for Cumbria at Norfolk CCC, went on the score 117.

But unfortunately, his century could not prevent Norfolk securing a victory by eight wickets.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Sutton United report that "Nearly 100 Sutton United season ticket holders convened in a packed-out MBA Lounge to enjoy two hours of hugely informative discussion in the first Meet the Manager event of the 2026/27 season.

First Team Manager Chris Agutter was present to answer a host of questions from supporters"

Amongst the manager's comments, he said 'We have a blueprint in terms of how we think we’re going to win the league. We’ve looked at previous success stories – we’ve looked at what York did last year, we’ve looked at Notts County, we’ve looked at Wrexham, we’ve looked at the teams competing at the top end of the table...

We will have certain profiles for each position within that framework, and then we’ll recruit based on that. Data, for example... More importantly, myself and Terry [Bullivant] – eyes on the players, loads of character references, basically building a whole profile for each individual player and then selling the vision of the football club....

I don’t want to be a National League manager – I don’t want to manage 400 games in the National League. That’s not what I want to do, it’s not what the staff wanted either, and that was something that landed incredibly well with the players we brought in.

We’re aiming to be a League Two project, trying to push to get to League One, and they massively bought into that".

For much, much more from the Sutton manager, follow the above link.

Wealdstone "confirm the arrival of young Watford centre-back Josh Mullins on a one-month loan.

Having trained with the squad and featured during Wealdstone's pre-season schedule, his recent experiences include skippering the Hornets' Under-21 side and taking a place on their first-team bench.

'Josh has done very well in the time he's been with us, so we're really happy to get this across the line,' explained Gary Waddock, Stones' boss..

'Getting access to players from further up the pyramid is essential.

'Between all of us on the coaching staff we've got some great relationships on that front, which helps build the trust that Wealdstone's a great place for a young player to be'.

Senior experience for 20-year-old Mullins already includes loan spells - in both 2023/24 and 2024/25 - at now National League North Bedford Town".

At FC Halifax Town "The Club is confirming the transfer of Josh Hmami to Harrogate Town AFC for an undisclosed fee.

Some will be aware that Josh wanted to make a move in the January 26 transfer window with him attracting interest from League Two Clubs, but we were unable to agree suitable terms, given that he was only 6 months into a two-year contract with FC Halifax Town.

In this current close season Josh expressed his desire to leave and he submitted a written transfer request which we reluctantly accepted. Before circulating, Harrogate Town expressed interest in Josh and a transfer has been agreed.

We thank Josh for his contribution to the club during his time with The Shaymen".

According to the BBC "A forward from the National League has found himself at the centre of one of the more unusual transfer stories of the summer.

Boreham Wood's Abdul Abdulmalik is attracting serious interest from Swedish top-flight side Djurgarden.

They have twice tested the National League club's resolve with bids and the latest offer totalled £1m.

That figure is significant. It would match the record direct sale by a National League club, the fee Leicester City paid Fleetwood Town for Jamie Vardy".

---

4 August 2026

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

As Southend United prepare to visit Altrincham on Saturday, York City "announce the signing of defender Harry Boyes, who joins the Minstermen from Southend United for an undisclosed fee.

Hailing from Barnsley, Boyes now returns to his home county after some time away.

The 24-year-old began his youth career at Manchester City, before moving to Sheffield United, where he earned a professional contract.

During his time with the Blades, he gained senior experience on loan with non-league sides Bradford Park Avenue and Solihull Moors...

His impressive campaign paved the way for a jump League One with Forest Green Rovers in June 2022, where he featured 16 times.

Further League One experience followed with loan spells at Lincoln City, Wycombe Wanderers and Fleetwood Town.

Boyes made a permanent move to Southend United in the summer of 2025".

Footnote: Harry Boyes joins Gus Scott-Morriss, Keenan Appiah-Forson, Slavi Spasov, Collin Andeng-Ndi, Cav Miley, Jack Bridge, Nathan Ralph and Noor Husin as important players to have left Southend this summer. In addition, manager Kevin Maher has been replaced by Keiron Dyer.

Later on Monday, Southend United reported "the signing of Kyle McAdam on a two-year deal with a Club option for a third.

The 21-year-old arrives following the expiry of his contract at Nottingham Forest, and spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan in League One with Mansfield Town and Northampton Town...

'It feels great, and it feels right, which is important,' McAdam said... 'Fans can expect energy, aggression, and directness from me. I want to get forwards and involved in attacking play'...

'We had Kyle in mind for a while but, he was on trial at an EFL club,' Dyer commented. 'So we had to bide our time, but as soon as he became available, we were delighted to get him.

'He fits the profile – great in attack, very direct – and fans got a glimpse of that on Saturday.'”

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan informs us that SHERRIF NJIE has left Cheadle Town, and stepped up a division with promoted Wythenshawe FC.

On the field on Monday night, Phil reports that as a club owner, when you've outraged your fan base by sacking the popular manager who's just got you promoted, it's not an ideal scenario to play your first fixture of the season against the club who sacked your new head coach.

In the match in question, a Carabao Cup Qualifier, Crawley Town took a first-half lead at the LNER Stadium against a York City side who took a long time to get into the game.

They were again without JEFF KING, and ALEX NEWBY (left) only came off the bench in the 57th minute. Although they stepped up a gear, the Minstermens' prospects of a trip to Watford in Saturday's 1st round finally evaporated when the team from West Sussex converted an 86th minute penalty, going on to win 0-2. Inevitably the York fans chanted Stuart Maynard's name, and one suspects on this evidence that life in League Two will be no cakewalk.

Meanwhile, in the NWCL First Division South, two Old Boys were between the sticks as Cheadle Heath Nomads were 2-0 up at the break before visitors Widnes Town fought back to draw 2-2. ANDREW JONES (right) featured for Nomads, while Town had CRAIG ELLISON.

Saturday's lineups in the NWCFL also included several Alty Old Boys; SAM FREAKES was a sub for Abbey Hey and BILLY HASLER-CREGG turned out for Irlam.

Switching sports, our cricket correspondent, Ian Wilkinson, reports that in the NNCA Cluberly Eastern Division Two three-day match between Norfolk CCC and Cumbria CCC, former Alty striker NATHAN WATERSTON ended Monday's second-day of play on 99 not out in the second innings for Cumbria, who ended the day on 197/5. Nathan has hit fifteen fours and a six in his unbeaten knock.

His runs were much needed as Cumbria were all out in the first innings for 172 whilst Norfolk amassed 351/8 after 90 overs of their first innings.

In the first innings Nathan had opened the batting and scored 12 off 32 balls, which included two 4s.

DAZN'S COVERAGE ON THE NATIONAL LEAGUE

The streaming service DAZN announces that it "is returning with its biggest-ever coverage of the National League...

Entering its third year as the exclusive global broadcaster of the competition, DAZN will deliver its most comprehensive live coverage of the National League in the UK to date. Every National League club will feature live more than 30 times live across the season, with more than 400 matches broadcast live across the National League, National League North and National League South, including at least four live fixtures every match week.

The opening month of the season will see unprecedented coverage in the UK, with every National League match across the first five match weeks – a total of 60 games in August – available live on DAZN. In addition, new fixture scheduling will see regular Friday night games for the first time ever.

Supporters in the UK will also have access to highlights and full match replays of every National League fixture...

Supporters can choose from a range of flexible viewing options for the 2026/27 National League season. The Season Pass is available for £129.99, offering live access to every National League match throughout the campaign (or on demand where blackout restrictions apply), with more than 400 exclusive live matches, every play-off fixture and final across all three divisions, full match replays and highlights, plus a selection of live National League North and South matches. Fans can also spread the cost with an Annual (Pay Monthly) plan at £14.99 per month, or opt for the flexibility of a Monthly Pass at £19.99 per month.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Eastleigh "confirm that Ben Drake has suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury.

The left back sustained this injury during the second-half of our pre-season game against Crawley Town on Saturday 25th July.

At this point, there is no definitive timescale for his return to action, but it is likely that he will miss the whole of the 2026/27 campaign.

Everyone at the Club wishes Ben the best and we will continue to support him through each step of his recovery".

Altrincham face The Shrimpers on Saturday as Southend United's "eagerly anticipated 120th Anniversary Shirt goes on sale ...

Created to commemorate 120 years of Southend United Football Club, this is far more than just a shirt. It is a tribute to the players, places and people who have shaped our Club since 1906.

To mark our 120th anniversary, just 120 shirts have been produced in every size, ensuring this remains one of the most exclusive shirts ever released by the Club.... It will never be reproduced.

Every anniversary shirt comes presented in a premium commemorative presentation box, featuring the four stadiums Southend United has proudly called home throughout our history:

Inside every box is an exclusive premium commemorative booklet, listing the 148 players to have represented Southend United on 120 or more occasions. Packed with historic photography, fascinating facts and profiles of some of the Club's greatest servants, it provides a lasting tribute to those who have helped write the Club's story across the last 120 years".

Prices are from £50-65.

Boreham Wood are thrilled to announce the signing of forward DANNY CASHMAN who joins the Wood on loan from Crawley Town until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The 25-year-old arrives at Meadow Park with an impressive blend of Football League and National League experience, adding creativity, versatility and a proven eye for goal to Luke Garrard’s attacking ranks. He will wear the number nine shirt during his stay in WD6.

Born in Crawley, Cashman came through the academy at Brighton & Hove Albion after joining the Seagulls at the age of 11, progressing through the ranks to captain the club’s under-18 side. In the summer of 2021, he completed a permanent move to Coventry City, where he gained valuable senior experience during loan spells with Rochdale, Walsall and Altrincham before departing the Sky Blues by mutual consent in 2023.

He then returned to Sussex to sign for Worthing... scoring 28 goals in 79 appearances...

Cashman’s outstanding form earned him a move to his hometown club Crawley Town in the summer of 2025, making the step back into the Football League before an injury-disrupted campaign led to a loan spell with fellow National League side Sutton United during the latter stages of last season".

Boston United "have added to their attacking options after securing the signing of former Derby County striker Lennon Wheeldon.

The 20-year-old has put pen-to-paper on an initial one-year contract, with a second year option, after leaving Pride Park earlier in the summer.

Wheeldon spent a brief loan spell with the Pilgrims in the winter of 2024 and subsequently joined National League North side South Shields on loan last season – helping the Mariners reach the promotion final in the process.

He made his Championship and League Cup debuts for Derby following his first spell with the Pilgrims.

The Nottingham-born attacker has appeared in four of United’s pre-season friendlies – as Trialist D – and scored the equaliser against Alfreton Town on July 14".

---

3 August 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Sunday's activity...

Scottish Premiership : Those who remember JOE HUGILL'S somewhat underwhelming loan spell with the Robins will probably be surprised to find that he's quite the cult hero in Ayrshire. Kilmarnock fans consider that it was his goals, after MARCUS DACKERS moved on, that principally staved off relegation last season. When he struck Kilmarnock's second equaliser at St.Johnstone they chanted his name loudly and enthusiastically. Killie took the lead 4 minutes later, but the hosts then took control to run out 4-3 winners.

Welsh Premier League : JOHN DISNEY'S Connah's Quay Nomads, captained by JAMES JONES, took a first half lead through MIKEY STONE (right), but visitors Caernarfon turned things round, going ahead in the 71st minute, holding on to win 1-2. Mikey was withdrawn after 82 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : The league kicked off yesterday, and relegated Trafford made a good start to their promotion bid with a 3-0 win over visitors Longridge Town. RYAN BROOKE opened the scoring.

Midland League Premier Division : West Didsbury & Chorlton lost by the only goal at Abbey Hulton United. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY was withdrawn after 65 minutes.

There was a full shift from HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS (right) as Cheadle Town began with a 1-2 win at Brocton.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND saw his Wythenshawe Town side go down 0-2 to visitors Uttoxeter Town.

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY came off the St.Patricks bench at the start of the second half. They led visitors Derry City at the time, but their visitors from North of the border equalised after 72 minutes and held on to draw 1-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of striker Oliver Hawkins, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal.

Hawkins joins the club after spending the majority of pre-season on trial in SO50. During that time, we saw some standout performances from the 6’6″ striker.

The striker began his career at Hemel Hempstead, before moving on to Dagenham & Redbridge..

His performances there earned him a move to Portsmouth. He spent three seasons playing for Pompey in League One... He would then go on to have spells at Ipswich Town, Mansfield Town, Gillingham and Barnet.

Upon joining the Spitfires, Hawkins said 'For myself, it’s looking to start enjoying it again. Playing as much as possible, staying injury free, and helping this club to do as well as it can in this league'">

Meanwhile, Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Ben Radcliffe on loan from Crawley Town until the end of January 2027.

The 22-year-old arrives at Huish Park with experience across the Football League and National League...

Capable of playing in central defence and midfield, Radcliffe came through the academy at Burton Albion, where he enjoyed successful loan spells with Mickleover and Banbury United before making his League One debut for the Brewers in 2023.

Following a spell with Derby County, Radcliffe joined Crawley Town in January 2025 and went on to make 19 League One appearances during the club’s 2024/25 campaign, before gaining further National League experience with Gateshead across two loan spells.

Comfortable on the ball and able to operate in a number of positions, Radcliffe brings composure, athleticism and versatility to the Glovers’ squad".

Carlisle United "Head Coach Rob Elliot was pleased with Carlisle United's 3-0 victory over Derby County under-21s...

With several Academy players involved and minutes needing to be carefully managed, Elliot was satisfied with the workout his side got before stepping up a level after the break.

He said:... 'We had four or five Academy lads out there, if not more, and we had to play Jack [Ellis] out of position, but he did brilliantly...

'Once we got stronger and the lads who'd trained more got into the concepts, we started to dominate. The only criticism is that we didn't score six or seven. The press was good, the attitude was good and we're getting fitter, stronger and getting more lads back, which is pleasing...

'Stephen [Wearne], Josh [Williams] and Hayden [Atkinson] have all had disrupted pre-seasons and Jack Ellis had a minor hamstring issue, so we couldn't take any risks'...

REGAN LINNEY continued his impressive pre-season with another goal, and Elliot believes there is even more to come from the forward.

'The challenge for Regan is don't rely on confidence, rely on your ability and keep doing the right things. We challenged him on his out-of-possession work this year and I think his goal comes from that. We know what a top player he is at this level and we want him high up the pitch, being aggressive with and without the ball...

'He's hard to pick up because he can rotate and roam. He's a fiery lad, but we don't want to take that unpredictability away because that's what makes him such a dangerous player... He's probably not even at full fitness yet. When he gets there, he's going to be a real serious problem.'"

Carlisle United also have Stephen Wearne's view of the game.

He observed that "Pre-seasons are maybe changing a little bit with the modern managers that are coming in these days. You find yourself doing a lot more tactical work and a lot more detailed work while still trying to get the fitness in'".

Managerless Woking, "announce the signing of exciting winger Taylan Harris on a season-long loan from League One side Luton Town.... bringing pace, creativity, and attacking flair to the Cardinals’ forward line.

Comfortable playing across the frontline... [and] a product of Reading’s academy, Harris earned a move to Luton Town after impressing with his performances in Berkshire. Since joining the Hatters, the exciting winger has continued his development with valuable senior loan spells at Tranmere Rovers and Braintree Town...

Harris said... 'It’s an exciting challenge for me and I’m looking forward to getting started, meeting the lads, and giving everything I can for the supporters'...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'Taylan offers something different to what we already have. He’s left-footed, athletic, and we, as a football department, believe he will add both goals and creativity. He impressed during a short spell at Braintree last season, and the feedback from their management team was extremely positive'".

Wealdstonereport that "versatile defender Aidan Francis-Clarke [is] joining Wealdstone...

The Luton Town academy graduate has penned a permanent contract at The Vale, bringing with him 18 months' worth of Enterprise National League experiences.

After loan spells away from Kenilworth Road at St Albans City and then Dagenham & Redbridge, centre-back Francis-Clarke signed for Braintree Town in January 2025 - quickly turning the deal permanent a month later.

'We've been impressed with Aidan; his attitude, his energy and the way he's fitted in around the other players,' said Gary Waddock, Wealdstone boss, of the positive impact Francis-Clarke has had during pre-season training sessions.

'He's played recently as a trialist for us and impressed with his strength and pace.

'It's an area of the field we were looking to bolster and we believe Aidan gives us a great option in there'.

With over 60 appearances for The Iron under his belt, the 22-year-old is well-versed in fifth-tier football".

---

2 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 MANCHESTER UNITED U21

Match report here.

POST-MATCH VIEW OF NEIL GIBSON

In a post-match interview with Neil Gibson, conducted after the victory over Manchester United U21s by volunteer media officer Jess Barrow, the Alty boss stated that the team had "executed the game plan really well" on Friday evening..

He added that "we were good in possession for 25 minutes and [equally so] out of possession for the rest pf the game".

Neil Gibson speaks to Jake Cooper during a break in play on Friday evening.

Asked about the injury to centre-back Charlie Olson incurred in that match, Neil paid tribute to Charlie as "such an infectious charcater" who had been "really strong in pre-season".

He confirmed that against Manchester United, Charlie (right) had "felt his hamstring go". Neil added that "It's in a similar area to his previous injury" which had sidelined Olson after he had joined the club in January 2026.

However, scans had shown that the original hamstring injury "was fully healed", so now a scan will be used to assess the new injury.

With fellow central defender Sam Barnes suspended for the opening two games of the season following his bizarre red card last season, Altrincham are restricted in that area for the opening games of the season. However, Gibson is happy that we have "good options in that area", citing the names of Joel Bailey, Lewis Banks and Jake Cooper. However, he added that he may attempt to bring in further cover this week.

"Ideally", he admitted, "we woulld have had an extra friendly" but the debacle of the abandoned game at Wythenshawe Town had disrupted summer preparations and the injuries sustained there had led to the loss of the planned game at Vauxhall Motors, as the manager had previouly explained.

He added that Owen German's long-term injury had arisen after "falling down at hole in the pitch" at Wythenshawe Town, whilst Anthony Forde's current injury was "picked up on the Wythenshawe pitch as well".

More positively Neil explained that the team had been training or playing every day over the last week and that this had "brought us up to speed" for the start of the National League campaign.

He judged that the team's finishing position next season lrgely "depends how well we start". He reminded us that since he and Lee Jones had been appointed on 23 October 2025 the points per game earned by Altrincham would have translated into a ninth position or thereabouts if that return had been gained over a full season, but the team's poor start to the campaign had meant that they only finished thirteenth. He will be aiming higher next season, hopefully to finish "in or around the play-offs".

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

When Southend United visit Altrincham to kick off the new season next Saturday they will be quite a different entity from the one that competed last season.

Not only has manager Kevin Maher departed, to be replaced by a new manager at this level in Keiron Dyer, they have also lost several important players.

As reported below, even as recently as yesterday (Saturday) they lost left-back Harry Boyes, who has followed fellow defender (and goalscorer) Gus Scott-Morriss and Keenan Appiah-Forson out of the club (both to Oldham Athletic).

Also departing have been Slavi Spasov (to Yeovil Town), goalkeeper Collin Andeng-Ndi (to Peterborough United), Cav Miley, Jack Bridge and Nathan Ralph (all three to Chelmsford City) and Noor Husin (to Worthing).

Amongst those arriving at Roots Hall as replacements have been former Alty man RYAN COLCLOUGH and another ex-northern face in Harry Cardwell (from FGR but formerly with Chorley)..

ALTY'S FRIDAY OPPOSITION

Often matches against Manchester United under-21s are pitched as an opportunity to see the Reds' stars of the future but it would appear that many of those involved on Friday night at the JDS are actually heading out of the club.

Right: Manchester United's Diego Leon (5) and Chido Obe (9) look on as a stricken Charlie Olson is stretchered off in the match at the J. Davidson Stadium on Friday night.

The Manchester Evening News reports that when Alty beat Manchester United's under-21s on Friday night, the Reds included Toby Collyer, Chido Obi, Dan Gore and Jacob Devaney who recently all "had some involvement [this summer] either against Wrexham or Rosenborg with the first team but they did not make the cut for [United'] trip to Sweden" which is following that match.

As for Obi, "although the striker almost .. he still has plenty to work on. It's telling that Obi still needs to receive constant instructions from coaches on the touchline throughout a game".

As for Devaney, he "should be sent on another loan after impressing for St Mirren last term nearly scored a brilliant goal in the first half against Altrincham"

Meanwhile Gore "should be sold to the bank to bring in some cash this summer. He was excellent on loan at Rotherham United last season and clearly needs another move away".

The article also says that Ogunneye, Jackson, Leon and Moorhouse, who all also played at Altrincham, "will leave before the end of the transfer window".

NW NEWS

The Manchester Evening News reports that former Premier League player for Manchester United, JADON SANCHO is currently maintaining his fitness at tenth-tier phoenix club Flixton FC, who have just returned to competitive football after the club had ceased to play in the NWCFL in 2012.

Flixton's joint manager is reported to be Rhodri Giggs, brother of Ryan, the former Manchester United star.

Sancho's contract at Old Trafford expired this summer, with the player "having spent half of the previous term at Borussia Dortmund, after falling out with Erik ten Hag" at Old Trafford.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

USL League One : Corpus Christi survived a barrage of 28 goal attempts in Idaho to emerge with a goalless draw at Boise. SAM ROSCOE was one of 5 bookings for the Texans.

South Korea K League 2 : Daegu dropped to 6th as their hosts, Hwaseong leapfrogged them in the table by winning 5-1. Their 9 game unbeaten run has been followed by 2 consecutive defeats. The scoring was all over by the time MARCUS DACKERS came off the bench in the 73rd minute

SONNY ALJOFREE has been trialling with Rotherham United, where he would be well known to director of football Steve McLaren, but there is no indication of him signing.

Scottish Championship : TYRESE SINCLAIR (right) set up the opening goal for Livingston, who beat visitors Queens Park 2-0, before being withdrawn in the 91st minute.

Scottish League 1 : KIAN TAYLOR picked up a yellow card as Airdrie drew 0-0 at Cove Rangers, despite having a remarkable 82% of the possession.

Carabao Cup Preliminary Round : Not many penalty shootouts are won 2-1 - especially after 9 kicks have been taken - but that was the margin by which Rochdale eliminated their hosts, Tranmere Rovers.

Dale had come from behind twice in regulation time, and there was no extra time at the end of the 2-2 draw. JOEL SENIOR made his competitive Tranmere debut, but had only a yellow card to show for it. CONNOR JENNINGS remains out of contention with an ACL injury.

Friendlies : At the Strawberry Arena in Solna, just north of Stockholm, Manchester United came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1. DERMOT MEE was an unused substitute.

ALI SMITH played the first 77 minutes of AFC Wimbledon's 2-3 home defeat by QPR.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game as Stalybridge Celtic made the short trip to Ashton United, winning 1-2. JAMES HARDY played throughout for the hosts.

Another Old Boy to put in a full shift in vain was Maidenhead United's MILES WELCH-HAYES, who was on the wrong end of the only goal at Brackley Town.

PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester entertained Crewe Alexandra. TOM PEERS played the first hour, while BILLY WATERS was a 66th minute substitute. The game ended goalless.

JOSH OLLERENSHAW watched from the Curzon Ashton bench as visitors FC Halifax Town scored the only goal from a penalty.

ETHAN ROSS (left) and JAMES BERRY started for Forest Green Rovers at home to Swindon Town, who had already taken a 3 goal lead before James was withdrawn after 54 minutes. Ethan played the full game, but his return to action was no cause for rejoicing as the Railwaymen went on to win 1-4.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR played the first 77 minutes as Grimsby Town saw of visitors Wigan Athletic 2-0.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY played the full game for Hednesford Town, who beat visitors Boston United 2-0. CONNOR TEALE came off the Pilgrims' bench after 66 minutes.

SAM HEATHCOTE scored the clincher from the halfway line as Macclesfield beat visitors FC United 2-0. Elliott OSBORNE and GEORGE WILSON both started, but ELLIOTT went off after 78 minutes. GEZ SITHOLE wasn't in the visitors' squad.

LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOT NEWBY started for Morecambe, but they lost to the only goal by visitors Barrow, OLLY CRANKSHAW converting a penalty. ISAAC MARRIOTT was a 73rd minute substitute for the Bluebirds.

Norwich City beat their Spanish top flight visitors Osasuna 2-1. CALEB ANSEN watched from the bench.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE has regained the number 20 shirt after wearing 38 in the previous Peterborough United friendlies. He was withdrawn after 67 minutes as visitors West Bromwich Albion won 0-2.

Stevenage benefited from a penalty (and a red card that reduced visitors Colchester United to 10 men after only 15 minutes) to score the only goal of the game. Skipper CARL PIERGIANNI put in a full shift.

Kidderminster Harriers made the short trip to Stourbridge Town. CALLUM DOLAN (above, right), hit the post early on, then scored his team's second in a 0-5 victory.

Newport County came from behind to win 1-2 at Yeovil Town. JACK KINGDON for the hosts, and DAN SASSI for the visitors were both substitutes, coming on soon after the hour.

Wycombe Wanderers lost 1-2 at home to Ipswich Town. JUNIOR QUITIRNA was again missing from their squad.

Off the Field : Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley says he hasn't given up hope of re-signing last season's loanee OWEN DALE, who is still a free agent following his release by Oxford United. Cleverley is restricted by a tight budget, and would probably have to let another player go before he could act.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Southend Echo reports that "Southend United have accepted a bid for left-back Harry Boyes".

NL Lowdown adds that as regards Boys, "York City and Notts County have both been credited with an interest. Southend have a replacement lined up".

And Southend United have reported "the signing of Jack Sims on a one-year contract with a Club option for a second".

The BBC reports that Goalkeeper Jack Sims has returned to Southend United as a free agent after leaving Sutton United.

The 27-year-old was with the Shrimpers as a schoolboy but joined Blackpool at 16 and has gone on to play for Welling United and Braintree Town...

Sims played 67 National League games for Sutton over the past two seasons.

He has signed a one-year deal with the Essex club, with the club retaining an option for a second season.

The BBC adds that "Goalkeeper Jack Sims has returned to Southend United as a free agent after leaving Sutton United.

The 27-year-old was with the Shrimpers as a schoolboy but joined Blackpool at 16 and has gone on to play for Welling United and Braintree Town...

Sims played 67 National League games for Sutton over the past two seasons. He has signed a one-year deal with the Essex club, with the club retaining an option for a second season".

Also signing a goalkeeper are Kidderminster Harriers who "confirm the season-long loan signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Jack Wint.

Reds fans will have already seen Jack in action for Harriers this pre-season ...

A City player since his time in their U9s, Jack has made great progress through the ranks, keeping seven clean sheet and conceding just 21 goals in his 21 games for their EDS squad last term.

Jack is... currently part of their pre-season tour in Asia. Now ready for a first senior loan after a taste of life as a Harrier earlier this summer, the shot-stopper will link back up with the squad here at the conclusion of that tour".

Boston United "have completed the signing of experienced centre-half Niall Canavan.

The 35-year-old has linked up with the Pilgrims on an initial one-year contract after completing his rehabilitation from injury over the summer months.

He has appeared in the Pilgrims’ most recent two pre-season friendlies as Trialist F.

Having started his senior career at Scunthorpe United in 2009, Canavan has made more than 400 EFL appearances.

He has appeared for the likes of Rochdale, Plymouth Argyle, Bradford City and Barrow...

Elsewhere, fellow defenders Ben Grist and Jacob Scott have headed out on loan".

NL Lowdown reports that "Halifax Town have ACCEPTED a bid from fellow National League side Harrogate Town for midfielder Josh Hmami".

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1 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 MANCHESTER UNITED UNDER-21S

Altrincham completed their pre-season fixtures with a narrow win but they lost Charlie Olson to add to a growing injured list.

The centre-back, who was signed last February but was unable to make an appearance in 2025-26 season through injury, had to be stretchered off after completing less than half an hour of this match and looks set to miss the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

Left: Goalscorer Jimmy Knowles pictured during the win over Manchester United's under-21s.

The only goal of the game arrived shortly before half time when Tom Crawford won possession on the right just inside the United half. The resulting cross found Jimmy Knowles who slotted home smartly past the advancing United keeper.

Earlier Owen Evans had been the much busier keeper with the Altrincham keeper making several saves to keep the game goalless.

United used numerous substitutes in the second half but Altrincham looked generally safe in defence.

Altrincham had listed two unnamed trialists on their teamsheet but just one made an appearance, as a late substitute at left-sided centre-back.

Report to follow

ALTRINCHAM : 1. Owen Evans; 2. Lewis Banks, 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 14. Matty Kosylo; 8. Liam Humbles, 7. Otis Khan, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 10. Aidan Barlow, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. Kristian Dennis.

Subs: 4. Jack Hinchy, 12. Kian Breckin, 15. Sam Taylor, 16. Remi Raymond, 17. Lucas Weaver, 23. Charlie Kirk, 25. Joel Bailey, 13. Trialist A, 20. Trialist B

MANCHESTER UNITED U21 : 1. Willian Murdock, 2. Hebber Ogunneye, 3. Albert Mills, 4. Lewis Jackson, 5. Diego Leon, 6. Jacob Devaney (c), 7. Victor Musa, 8. Dan Gore, 9. Chido Obi, 10. Toby Collyer, 11. Jack Moorhouse.

Subs: 12. Finlet McAllister, 13. Cameron Byrne-Hughes, 14. Rafe McCormack, 15. reece Munro, 16. James Overy, 17. Christian Orozco, 18. Jayce Fitzgerald, 19. Amir Ibragimov, 20. Ashton Missin, 21. Samuel Lusale, 22. Gabriele Bianchei, 23. Enzo Kana-Biyik, 24. Ethan Wheatley

UNITED'S VIEW

Manchester United report that their "Under-21s were beaten 1-0 by Altrincham in their first outing of the 2026/27 campaign.

The Reds were dominant for much of the first half in south Manchester, but were punished by Jimmy Knowles’s composed strike just before half-time.

A string of changes made by both teams meant for a lack of rhythm by comparison after the interval, as the home side held on for their 1-0 win over the young Reds".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Australia's NPL Victoria in which Bentleigh Greens are in real danger of relegation, and were probably happy to pick up a point from a goalless draw in their home game against Oakleigh Cannons.

On a night so cold in Melbourne that CONNOR HAMPSON played in gloves, Cannons didn't produce a single goal attempt in the first half, and had just one effort in target in the second half.

Right: Connor Hampson wore gloves when playing in the English winter for Altrincham and now he finds himself requiring them once again now he is playing in Australia.

Welsh Premier League : Llandudno had 4 different players named Stephens in their starting XI as they opened their first season since promotion at home to Flint Town United.

JOEL TORRANCE made his full debut following his move from Bala Town, and was beaten twice after his team took an early lead. However, Llandudno fought back, and clinched a 3-2 win in the 93rd minute.

Friendly matches : DANNY CASHMAN started for Crawley Town, but visitors Reading scored the game's only goal.

Scunthorpe United entertained Chesterfield in a game which was set to last 2 hours.. DECLAN HOWE (who was booked), and JAMES GALE started, and Declan went off after 62 minutes with REAGAN OGLE among those coming on.

At that point the Iron were 0-1 down. James went off 11 minutes later, and ROSS BARROWS entered the fray at that point. The game eventually finished 1-1.

LUKE BURGESS started for Southport, who entertained Wigan Athletic. REGAN GRIFFITHS was a second half substitute. The game ended goalless.

Although TOM HANNIGAN put in a full shift for Bootle, they went down 2-0 at Marine.

And, finally, Boreham Wood entertained a Norwich City XI and, on X, Wood reported that "Regan Booty meets the run of TYLOR GOLDEN with an excellent through ball and the Wood full-back makes no mistake, slotting past CALEB ANSEN to give us the advantage".

The hosts added a second goal to beat the visiting Canaries 2-1.

ALTY'S FIRST OPPONENTS STRENGTHEN

On August 8th, Altrincham kick off their Enterprise National League season at home to Southend United.

On Friday, Southend United announced "the signing of Rico Richards from Port Vale for an undisclosed fee.

Aged 22, Richards brings experience playing in all three EFL divisions, including playing a role in Stockport County’s League Two title win in 2024.

The attacking midfielder has signed a two-year contract with the Shrimpers, with a Club option for a third...

Richards said ... 'I watched [manager Kieron Dyer] in games while I was growing up, and he’s very experienced on the pitch, so I’m sure he can teach me a few things.

'The main goal is promotion, but I like to get myself on the scoresheet, get some assists, and show off what I can do.'

Richards graduated through the academy of his local team, West Bromwich Albion... Richards made the cross-Midlands switch to Aston Villa, before joining Stockport County on loan in January 2024... [before] finding the net four times in 32 appearances for Port Vale...

In 2025/26 Richards made 14 appearances for Walsall".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We learn from the Shields Gazette that "Gateshead suffered their first defeat of pre-season against South Shields on Tuesday night.

Lee Cattermole stressed he is happy with Gateshead’s progress during their preparations for the new National League season after watching his side fall to a 4-1 home defea...

The Mariners produced a lively display during the first-half and took a three-goal lead into the break thanks to efforts from Caden Kelly, Sonny Finch and former Heed forward Cewdyn Scott. Another former Gateshead player extended the lead in the early stages of the second-half as Paul Blackett found the net...

New Zealand Under-20 international Luke Supyk reduced the arrears for the Heed with half-an-hour remaining - but that was as good as it got as Cattermole reflected on a ‘difficult’ night for his players after the highs of Saturday’s impressive performance against Newcastle United...

[He] said 'It was a brilliant performance on Saturday and I always knew going into a game against a team who are exceptional in possession, full of energy and didn’t play on Saturday was going to be tough. The players put out 110km on Saturday against the ball for 90 minutes so it was always going to be difficult for our lads. We made changes and I have no complaints about the game tonight. South Shields are very good at what they do'...

Cattermole is still hoping to strengthen his squad and one area for improvement is in attacking areas. The departure of Levi Amantchi to Kidderminster Harriers has left Ash Boatswain and Dom Telford as the only out-and-out strikers within the Heed ranks".

NL Lowdown reports that "Boreham Wood have rejected a £750,000 bid from Swedish side Djurgardens for winger Abdul Abdulmalik. (via @skysports_sheth) ,P> The Swedish side are expected to return with a second bid".

Meanwhile, Boreham Wood "confirm that forward Luke Norris has joined fellow Enterprise National League side Wealdstone on loan until the end of the 2026/27 season.

After returning to Meadow Park last summer, Norris made a strong impact for Luke Garrard’s side, scoring seven goals in all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign...

The 33-year-old now joins the Stones as they look to build on last season’s ISUZU FA Trophy final appearance at Wembley and challenge for a higher finish in the upcoming Enterprise National League campaign. During his spell with the Stones, Norris will also be reunited with former Wood teammates Aaron Henry and Joe Newton."

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