By Joe Brayne

Picture by Jonathan Moore

Altrincham welcome newly-promoted Ebbsfleet United to The J. Davidson Stadium this Saturday (3pm kick-off) as we look to push towards play-off contention.

The Robins received a double boost during the week following the loan signings of young prospect Gerald Sithole from Bolton Wanderers and versatile midfielder Alex Newby from Colchester United.

The news emerged following Alty’s hard-fought draw against Hartlepool United earlier in the week, where goals from Isaac Marriott and Lewis Baines (pictured on the main news page bringing the ball out of defence) had put Alty ahead after Oliver Finney’s opener. A late goal from Joe Grey unfortunately saw the points shared.

Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson underlined the challenge that the Vanarama National League South champions will present by saying: “Let’s make no bones about it, these are a very good outfit.

“They score a lot of goals and have a really good player in Dominic Poleon, who, for me, should be playing at a higher than this. They play a really good brand of football. They are well-drilled and well-managed, but we have to go (into Saturday) with a really positive mindset and look to take three points, because we cannot keep drawing games."

Manager’s Views

Phil Parkinson spoke with AltyTV following the 2-2 draw with Hartlepool.

About the Opposition

Perched in ninth place, the Fleet have notched an impressive four wins in 10 games since their return to the National League.

While our visitors have only secured one point in their last three matches, the Kent-based side showed their mettle in spirited performances against Wealdstone and Chesterfield.

Their success has been aided by retaining the services of manager Dennis Kutrieb and experienced striker Dominic Poleon, both vital assets in their triumphant title bid last season.

Poleon, a frontrunner who Phil Parkinson highlighted as an attacking threat, has continued his scintillating form from last season, when he netted 36 league goals. The former Chelsea youth and Leeds United striker has already notched seven goals in eight matches this season, showcasing his ability to slot home comfortable finishes with clever movement alongside thunderous long-range strikes.

Recent Meetings

Vanarama National League

Ebbsfleet 1-2 Altrincham, 16th January 2010

(Chris Senior 14, Greg Young 53)

Altrincham 1-1 Ebbsfleet, 8th August 2009

(Chris Senior 39)

Ticket Information

£20 – Adult

£15 – Concessions (Over-65s / Student / NHS)

£9 – Junior (12-18years)

£4 – Child (5-11years)

£1 – Infant (Under-5)

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

Travel and Matchday Information

Turnstiles will open at 1.30pm. Please note, there will be the option to pay by cash at the turnstiles on the day, but it is advisable to buy a ticket in advance if you can. There is an ATM opposite the ground at the convenience store. Alternatively, you can buy in advance online.

REMINDER – Altrincham fans can still purchase or renew their season ticket for the 2023-2024 season. Benefits include guaranteed access to all home fixtures, priority access to away and cup tickets and 10% off all retail purchases. Purchase or renew your season ticket here.

We kindly ask all supporters – home and away – to arrive early to ensure you are in the ground in plenty of time for kick-off and to avoid late queues.

Be advised that all supporters will be searched with a metal detector on entry to the stadium for your safety.

A food menu is available in all three food outlets, offering a wide range of options to home and away fans.

For wheelchair or pushchair access, please enter gate 5 and you will be looked after. The club’s retail shop will be open. Parking is street only. The matchday programme will be available to purchase around the stadium.

Match Coverage

Radio Robins is broadcasting live commentary on RadioAlty.

Join Mark Simpson and George Allen 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.