PREVIEW | Alty Return
After an unsuccessful start to the new campaign, the Port will be hoping to turn things around as they welcome Altrincham for the first home game of the competitive season.
Opening Day
A single goal from Morgan-Smith condemned the Sandgrounders to an unwanted result.
Meanwhile, Southport’s opponents on Tuesday night, opened their campaign at home, drawing 2-2 against Leamington.
The Robins came from behind twice to get the point, with Jordan Hulme getting both in their first game back in National League North.
Robins Recap
Manager Phil Parkinson will be hoping to continue the success his side enjoyed during his first year in-charge, following on from their promotion with another solid season.
This was a change in fortune for the Greater Manchester side, after suffering back-to-back relegations in the previous two seasons.
To prepare for life back in the sixth tier of English football, Parkinson’s side have had a busy pre-season, with mostly positive results.
They enjoyed four consecutive victories, beginning with a 3-0 win over Rhyl, with goals from Harrop and Elliot.
Two big results followed, with a 4-2 win over Kidsgrove Athletic and a 6-0 win over Isle of Man, before squeezing past Macclesfield with a single goal.
Their first defeat came at the hands of League Two side, Crewe.
Two goals in the first ten minutes, helped The Alex on their way to a 3-0 win and inflicting Altrincham’s first defeat of the summer.
They were soon back to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Manchester rivals, Trafford.
With twelve minutes to go, new midfielder, Sean Williams’ shot deflected past the keeper to seal the victory.
Alongside Williams, centre back Liam Goulding has also swapped life at Northern Premiership side, Warrington Town FC, to jump up a division with Altrincham.
Pre-season ended with defeat against last year’s National League North Champions, Salford.
An own goal from James Jones just after half time, sent The Robins to a 2-1 defeat.
Danger Man
One of the standout players for Altrincham last season was forward Jordan Hulme, popping up with 26 goals in the league and playing an integral part in promotion.
The former Salford man looks like continuing this form heading into the new campaign, getting seven goals in pre-season as well as getting two on opening day against Leamington.
History
It’s hard to judge how newly promoted sides will get on in a higher division. Last year The Robins dominated the league, finishing 13 points above second place Ashton United.
Manager Phil Parkinson, who is also a Sports Science Lecturer, certainly enjoyed his first year in charge after joining from Nantwich, where he also had a successful tenure.
The last time these two sides met in the league was back in 2016, when they both played in the National League.
The game finished in a 1-1 draw, with both goals coming within two minutes of each other.
That season would end in relegation for Altrincham, finishing five points from safety.
The following season Southport would suffer a similar fate, whilst the Robins fell again.
After suffering defeat on the opening day, Liam Watson’s men will be hoping their opening home game will produce a better outcome. And you can play your part…
Ticketing
Fans can purchase tickets online for this fixture up until midday on the day of the game by clicking here and will receive a 10% discount for doing us.
For those local fans who wish to join the 600+ strong Season Ticket family, can still do so, by clicking here. Your support is needed more than ever this season!
There is also some spaces left for both sets of supporters to take advantage of the new corporate hospitality offer. Details are available for Season Tickets here, whilst for individual games are here.
Altrincham also have 250 tickets at their ground for away supporters to purchase in advance of the game. Contact The Robins for details on any remaining tickets.
Please remember the club operate cashless turnstiles. So if you don’t have an online ticket, ticket in advance or Season Ticket, you will have to visit the Club Shop on Haig Avenue to purchase a ticket before entering through the turnstile.
Written by Amos Wynn (SFC official)
OTS News on Social Media