John Edwards

Altrincham manager Neil Gibson said his side could take positives from its opening-day defeat by Southend United. Altrincham started well and took an early lead through Tom Crawford, but a mistake by goalkeeper Owen Evans helped Southend move ahead before Matty Kosylo was sent off and the visitors added a late third goal. Gibson accepted responsibility for the tactical risk that led to the goalkeeper’s error and said Kosylo regretted his challenge. Altrincham next visit Sutton United.

Altrincham manager Neil Gibson ordered his players back into training after a 5-2 home defeat to local rivals Macclesfield in a pre-season friendly. Despite goals from Aidan Barlow and Lucas Weaver briefly putting Altrincham ahead, Macclesfield dominated and exposed recurring defensive problems, including two goals conceded from set pieces. Gibson said Macclesfield showed greater desire and confirmed that Altrincham must improve quickly before their final friendly against Manchester United Under-21s and the season opener against Southend United.