By Joe Brayne

Picture by Jonathan Moore

Altrincham seek redemption this Saturday (3pm kick-off) when we travel to Boundary Park to confront Oldham Athletic in the Vanarama National League.

The encounter comes just two weeks after our closely-contested Emirates FA Cup fourth qualifying round loss to the Latics.

During the past fortnight, the Robins have seen action just once, resulting in a 1-1 draw with Kidderminster Harriers at The J. Davidson Stadium on Tuesday. This followed the postponement of last Saturday’s clash with Dorking Wanderers due to a waterlogged pitch.

Although we dominated Tuesday’s game for most of its duration, an early set-piece that resulted in an own goal was enough for the visitors to snatch a point as they held out after Lewis Banks fired a fine equaliser, denying us a sixth consecutive league victory.

Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson revealed to AltyTV that he is “relishing” the challenge that awaits this weekend.

“I felt we were desperately unlucky to lose the game,” he said. “When I reviewed it, I felt it was a little harsh on the players in a really tight game. They are a massive club with a massive following, which gives them a big lift, but after falling to AFC Fylde tonight, you can see they are not invincible.”

Matchday Information

Altrincham supporters will be located in the Chadderton Road End for this game. 

Turnstiles open approximately one hour before kick-off. Hot and cold refreshments, including alcohol, are available inside the ground. Cash or card is accepted at the kiosks.

Away fans are advised to use the hospital car park behind B&Q off Westhulme Avenue.

This is a five-minute walk to the stadium. Pre-bookings are not available – it is £5 per car, with cash or card payments accepted. Supporters coaches and minibuses can park in the North Stand car park – use postcode OL2 5BL.

Spaces are still available to book on our free return coach to Oldham this Saturday, with seats open on a first-come, first-served basis. Please find booking information and departure times through this link.

Manager’s Views

Phil Parkinson spoke with AltyTV following our draw with Kidderminster Harriers.

About the Opposition

When he took over Oldham's managerial duties earlier this month, Micky Mellon enjoyed a perfect start, with the Latics' FA Cup win at Altrincham followed by a spectacular seven-goal showdown against Rochdale in the National League that they just shaded.

Four Oldham players found the back of the net in that game, delivering an electrifying display of attacking prowess.

Unfortunately for our hosts, their most recent outing ended in a resounding 3-0 defeat on the road to AFC Fylde. After conceding twice within the opening quarter-of-an-hour, Liam Hogan received his second yellow card in the 39th minute.

Discipline appears to be an area that Mellon is eager to address promptly, with Oldham having accumulated six yellow cards, including Hogan's pair from Tuesday evening, over his three matches in charge.

Reflecting on the loss to Flyde, Mellon said: “This evening was a sore one for us. But, we can’t let it affect us too much. Hopefully, this Saturday, we can look more like the version we have shown in the last seven or eight games.”

Recent Meetings

FA Cup

Altrincham 0-1 Oldham, 14th October 2023

Vanarama National League

Oldham 2-2 Altrincham, 7th April 2023

(Maxi Oyedele 80, Tyrese Sinclair 89)

Ticket Information

Early Bird (midnight Friday 27th October)/Matchday Prices

£20/£24 – Adult

£10/£12 – Concessions (Over 65s / 18-21)

£7/£10 – Youth (14-17)

£3 – Junior (U-13 accompanied by an adult)

It is cheaper to buy in advance, but tickets will still be available on the day online. Supporters can also pay cash at the turnstiles at the matchday prices. 

Buy your tickets online for the match to reduce queueing time!

Disabled supporters pay the relevant price for their age but can claim a free carer ticket if in receipt of Disability Living Allowance - higher level carer or higher rate mobility, or the enhanced level of PIP. These can be arranged by calling the ticket office on 0161 785 5150. 

Match Coverage

Radio Robins is broadcasting live commentary on RadioAlty. Join Peter Scotson, Laurence Howarth, Ian Wilkinson, and Mark Simpson from 2.45pm.

Listen live on RadioAlty: https://streams.radio.co/s4d51ef3bf/listen

Listen live on RadioAlty: https://www.radioalty.co.uk/listen.html

And last but not least…

We sincerely hope that both sets of fans enjoy the game.