Words Ben Edwards | Picture Jonathan Moore

This weekend is a first competitive game of 2026 for Altrincham FC Women, having last played in a non-friendly environment six weeks ago. 

The Robins face Chorley Women Development in the preliminary round of the Alliance Design and Print Plate. Kick off at Croston Sports Centre is at 2pm.

Altrincham’s last fixture was also cup action, as their incredible Adobe Women’s FA Cup run came to an end in the third round, falling to a 3-0 defeat against step four side York City Ladies at The J.Davidson Stadium.

Despite the long wait to return to the pitch, Daryll Abrahams’ side have had three solid weeks on the training ground since returning from the Christmas break, so will be well-prepared as they look to progress to the next round.

The two sides faced off in a friendly a couple of weeks ago, drawing 2-2. Altrincham found themselves 2-1 ahead after the interval following a goalless first half, with goals from Ashley Jones and Millie Kullu. However, a defensive error saw Chorley equalise with one of the final kicks of the game.

Whilst Chorley Women are having a steady season in the FA Women's National League Division One North (step four), their development side are struggling. They act as an under-23 side, and like Altrincham compete at step six in the North West Women’s Regional League, in Division One North.

They currently sit one place above the drop zone in eighth, with two wins, two draws and 11 defeats. Their only victories have come against the two sides below them in Morecambe FC Women and Fleetwood Town Wrens Ladies Reserves.

Elite U18

Altrincham FC Women Elite U18 will be looking to bounce back from only a second defeat of the season, as they travel to Nantwich Town U18 Girls for an 11am kick off.

Last time out, the young Robins faced the runaway league leaders Wythenshawe FC U18 Girls, who have won all 12 games so far. Altrincham stood up to the challenge but fell to a 3-0 defeat with the timing of the goals having a big impact.

Wythenshawe scored inside the first 40 seconds and doubled their advantage just before half time. Just as Altrincham were creating chances and looking like pulling a goal back, the visitors added a third with 10 minutes remaining.

Nevertheless, it’s been a positive season for Spencer O’Connor’s side in his debut season as a manager, winning seven of their nine Cheshire Women and Youth League U18 Premier Division matches.

It’s another tough challenge for them upcoming in the Dabbers, who sit third in the table. The Robins can take confidence from their previous encounter with Nantwich in October, which ended in a 6-1 victory.