Altrincham concluded pre-season with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United u21s. Jimmy Knowles’ 44th minute strike sealed a victory tainted by an injury to Charlie Olson which forced the central defender to be stretchered off at 33 minutes. 

Owen Evans produced his most impressive display in an Alty shirt to date and despite a decent opening 10 minutes from the hosts, was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the early exchanges. He saved a first time strike by Chido Obi, moments before the visitors curled over from distance. 

The Robins’ first efforts came from the edge of the box with Aidan Barlow and Kristian Dennis seeing their attempts blocked. 

Just seconds before six added minutes were announced due to the Olson stoppage, Tom Crawford linked up well with Knowles, who slotted his second goal of pre-season. 

Those two came close to doubling the advantage on the hour mark as Knowles’ shot was pushed behind for a corner before Crawford forced Willian Murdock into an excellent save at close range. 

The final 30 minutes lacked any sort of tempo as the Red Devils made wholesale changes, whilst Alty introduced Lucas Weaver, Jack Hinchy, Charlie Kirk and a trialist deployed at centre-back in place of Dennis, Otis Khan, Barlow and Lewis Banks. Weaver almost found the back of the net with his first touch after being found by his strike partner Knowles. 

Next Up 

2026/27 Enterprise National League action begins at the J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday, August 8th against Southend United. 

Get your tickets here and enjoy competitive football back at Moss Lane!