Preview | Hartlepool United (h)
Words Joe Edgar | Pictures Jonathan Moore
We continue our 2024/25 Vanarama National League campaign as we welcome Hartlepool to The J.Davidson Stadium on Wednesday (7.45pm kick-off).
Setting the Scene
Altrincham were finally on the right end of a dramatic late goal as Alex Newby scored in the 86th minute to earn a point against Gateshead on Saturday.
A Tom Crawford penalty gave the Robins the lead after just 20 minutes, but a quick double from Gateshead duo Jacob Butterfield and Owen Oseni fired the Heed into the half-time break 2-1 up. Altrincham spent the second half searching for an equaliser, and their efforts were finally rewarded when Newby bundled the ball into the net from close range.
We now find ourselves in 14th with 19 points, just four points behind Halifax in the last play-off spot. Wednesday's opponents have had a similar start to Altrincham, but two fewer points sees them in 17th place.
After an underwhelming start to the campaign, Pools decided to part ways with manager Darren Sarll after just 15 games in charge. They are yet to appoint a replacement for Sarll, but with 10 points in their first seven away games of the season, they are still capable of causing Altrincham some problems on Wednesday.
The Gaffer
“I think it’s something that we’re more than capable of [winning against Hartlepool on Wednesday and Fylde on Saturday]. The biggest thing for me is that the
performances are there, I can really see my team now.
“The way that we’re performing on the pitch, the bravery we’re showing on and off
the ball – I can really resonate with that. I’m just really pleased that we’re creating
chances again because when we do that, that’s what Altrincham teams do, they
create chances.”
Last time against Hartlepool
February 2024 – Hartlepool emerged as 3-2 victors the last time the two sides faced each other - at Victoria Park last season.
Matty Kosylo gave Altrincham an early lead, but a lightning-fast start to the second half from Hartlepool saw them blitz into a 3-1 lead. Dior Angus pulled a goal back in injury time, but it wasn’t enough to stop Pools from claiming all the points.
Home Kit
For Wednesday clash with Hartlepool we'll be wearing our traditional red and white 2024/25 home kit – produced by Puma and sponsored by AO, McHale & Co. and CarFinance 247.
To purchase this season's shirts head for our online shop here.
Match Sponsor
Many thanks to Libra Freight Solutions for the support on Wednesday evening. We hope they, and everyone else in our SOLD OUT John King Lounge have a great evening of hospitality with us.
Tickets
Purchase your tickets in advance for the game here or head to one of our cash turnstiles ahead of kick-off on Wednesday evening.
Adult £20 | Concessions £15 | 12-17s £9 | 5-11s £4 | Under-5s £1
As mentioned above, hospitality in The John King Lounge is completely SOLD OUT, and has been for nearly a month. Thank you to everyone for the support.
At the Ground
Turnstiles and hospitality doors will be open at The J.Davidson Stadium from 6:30pm.
The Community Sports Hall Bar will also open at 6:30pm as will the Fan Zone.
Featured breweries in the Fan Zone include favourites from Sureshot, Cloudwater, Pomona Island & Titanic PLUS a new offering from Buxton's Silent Brew Co.
We've also got the usual delicious curry dishes and sides from The Authentic Food Co. - so if you're heading down straight from work we've got you covered.
Our Pop-Up Shop won't be in operation this midweek.
Robins Review
Issue 9 will be available around The J.Davidson Stadium ahead of kick-off on Wednesday priced just £3 and featuring Isaac Marriott, Altrincham FC Women, Altrincham FC Community Sports and much, much more.
Can’t make the game?
Listen to our fantastic coverage of the game on Radio Robins (via Radio Alty) right here live from 7:30pm - with Pete Scotson, Alex Sarwar & Tom Jolley.
If you can't make it to The J.Davidson Stadium but want to watch the game head for National League TV here.
A reminder
We are proud of the welcoming atmosphere on offer for everyone at The J.Davidson Stadium and would like to remind all supporters of their responsibilities in continuing to create such an atmosphere.
Foul and abusive language in general, and directed at our stewards especially, has no place inside the stadium. We thank you for your help in making Altrincham FC an enjoyable place to watch football.
Come On You Robins!!!