AFC Fylde v Altrincham

Saturday 28th January, 2017, k/o 3pm

Mill Farm

Vanarama National League North

AFC Fylde restored their nine point lead at the top of the National League North following a midweek victory over Alfreton Town.

The lead had been temporarily reduced to six after a disappointing defeat at Curzon Ashton a week ago, but Tuesday night goals from Dan Bradley and Caspar Hughes put the Coasters back into a commanding position in the league standings.

Whilst the Coasters have been enjoying the dizzy heights of top spot, Saturday’s visitors Altrincham have endured a miserable campaign.

After  suffering relegation last season, many expected Alty to challenge at the top end of the table but they currently find themselves stranded at the bottom of the division.

They kicked off the season with three impressive 2-2 draws against Darlington, Halifax and Harrogate, but a 6-0 drubbing on their home turf, inflicted by ourselves, set the tone for a wretched run of form.

Alty’s last success in the league was way back in October when they saw off local rivals Stalybridge Celtic and they are now 13 games without a win in the league. Their win at Bower Fold remains their solitary three point haul of the season.

Their leaky defence has contributed to their downfall, having conceded 63 times in 26 games so far.

There was slight respite for Matt Doughty’s side during the week as they halted a run of four consecutive defeats with a creditable 1-1 draw away at play-off hopefuls Brackley Town.

Team news:
Dave Challinor is again waiting on the fitness of defenders Josh Langley and Macauley Wilson after they picked up injuries against Curzon Ashton last weekend.

Fixtures:
AFC Fylde v Altrincham
Alfreton Town v Brackley Town
Darlington v Curzon Ashton
FC Halifax Town v Stockport County
FC United of Ma