NICKY LAW IS MANAGER OF THE MONTH FOR AUGUST
ALFRETON Town manager Nicky Law has been named as the Blue Square Bet North manager of the month for August 2010.
Law's side followed on from their fantastic pre-season form to record six wins from six matches in the opening month of the campaign. The team found the net 19 times during that period and achieved two consecutive 5-1 away wins in the process.
It is the third time Law has won the award with Alfreton having also won it for February 2010, and April 2009.
The Blue Square Bet Premier division award went to AFC Wimbledon's Terry Brown while Bromley's Mark Goldberg took the award in Blue Square Bet South.
The player of the month awards for August went to AFC Telford United's Phil Trainer in Blue Square Bet North, Magno Vieira of Fleetwood Town in Blue Square Bet Premier and Braintree Town's Nathan McDonald in Blue Square Bet South.
ADEN FLINT, PADDY GAMBLE AND JOSH LAW CALLED UP BY ENGLAND
Aden Flint and Paddy Gamble have both received international call-ups into the England C squad for the forthcoming game against Wales U23 at Newtown on Tuesday, September 14.
It is a first call up into manager Paul Fairclough's squad for Flint and Gamble although the latter was called up for the contingency squad for the games against Scotland and Ireland in mid-May but had to miss out due to injury.
The Reds have now had the staggering total of five players called up into the England C squad over the past 18 months with Paul Clayton, Liam Hearn and Kyle McFadzean all being capped at least once.
England C squad: Dale Roberts (GK) (Rushden and Diamonds), Paddy Gamble (GK) (Alfreton town), Sam Hatton (AFC Wimbledon), Aden Flint (Alfreton Town), Kyle McFadzean (Crawley Town), Greg Taylor (Kettering Town), Curtis Osana (Rushden and Diamonds), Danny Rose and Charlie Henry (both Newport County), Max Porter (Rushden and Diamonds), Steven Gregory (AFC Wimbldeon), Jake Howells and Matthew Barnes-Homer (both Luton Town), Ben Wright (Crawley Town), Michael Gash (York City) and Michael Coulson (Grimsby Town).
Meanwhile, Josh Law has been called into the England C contingency squad for the same game.
Contingency squad: Seb Brown (GK) (AFC wimbledon), Josh Law (Alfreton Town), Tom Cadmore (Hayes & Yeading), Michael Wylde (Tamowrth), Brian Saah (Cambridge United), Eddie Odihiambo (Newport County), Shaun Densmore (Altrincham), Sean Newton (AFC Telford United), Scott Neilson and Jai Reason (both Crawley Town), Curtis Obeng (Wrexham), Alex Rodman (Tamworth) and Amari Morgan-Smith (Ilkeston Town).
Alfreton Town boss Nicky Law said: "It is unbelievable how far we have come as a club in the last three years. To have one player win an international cap is a major achievement, but to have five called up for the full squad in such a short space of time and Josh in the contingency squad is absolutely phenomenal and shows how much quality we have got at the club."
REDS CAN EQUAL BEST EVER START TO A SEASON
TWO wins over the August Bank Holiday weekend maintained Alfreton Town’s blistering start to the season and saw them move two points clear at the top of Blue Square North.
A 4-1 win at Blyth Spartans on Saturday, a first ever league win at Croft Park in 16 years of trying, was followed by a comfortable 2-0 home success over Stafford Rangers in front of 744 on the Monday to extend Nicky Law’s side’s 100 per cent start to the campaign to six wins from six, just one shy of the club’s all time best.
The Reds’ best ever start was seven straight wins at the beginning of the 1969/70 Midland League campaign and that can be matched if victory can be achieved at home to Vauxhall Motors this Saturday (3pm).
Meanwhile, Law’s side has drawn praise from Stafford Rangers number two Steve Wynn.
Speaking to the Stafford Express and Star after Monday’s game, Wynn believes Alfreton are streets ahead of any other team in the Blue Square North after defeat at the Impact Arena.
He said: “I will go on record to say that in the five years I have been involved in the Blue Square North, Alfreton are one of the best teams I have seen.
“They are big, strong, powerful, well-drilled, relentless, they keep coming at you and have got a lot of flair in the areas where you want it.
“I was very, very impressed by them.”
Latest signing Connor Franklin made his debut in the win at Blyth and put in a man of the match display in the home victory over Stafford on Monday.
Manager Law thinks Franklin, signed from Hinckley United for an undisclosed four-figure fee last Thursday, has a big future in the game.
He said: “He has done well in the sense that he has come into a new environment. I mean no disrespect to Hinckley United whatsoever, but he has come from a club where the climate they find themselves in means they perhaps expect the worst, to one where the best is expected.
“He has come into a winning team, into a very good squad of players and people will have looked at him and thought he is Kyle McFadzean’s replacement. He is not. He is a different type of player altogether.
“Connor is a young, athletic and fit player and he fits into what we have got. He has come in and played a position he has never played before and he is only going one way and that is to get better and better.
“He also gives us something which we have been looking for a long while as well with a massive long throw on him and it is something we can certainly use with the size of our side.”
PENALTY: Dave Pursglove captures Alfreton Town's Anthony Wilson being brought down by Stafford Rangers substitute Alex Forde during Bank Holiday Monday's 2-0 home win. Liam Hearn converted the penalty on 89 minutes.
Dave Pursglove's excellent match picture album from the game can be viewed here
Stafford Rangers match report online here
ALFRETON TOWN 2, STAFFORD RANGERS 0
Alfreton Town extended their 100 per cent record to six wins from six games with a goal in each half against Stafford Rangers on August Bank Holiday Monday.
Paul Clayton gave the Reds the lead on 22 minutes when he flicked in Josh Law's free kick on the near post and although the second goal didn't arrive until the 89th minute courtesy of a Liam Hearn penalty, Nicky Law's side were in control throughout in front of an attendance of 744.
The Reds are home again on Saturday when Vauxhall Motors visit the Impact Arena (3pm).
Results for Monday, August 30th
AFC Telford United 4, Nuneaton Town 1 (2,371)
ALFRETON TOWN 2, Stafford Rangers 0 (744)
Boston United 1, Eastwood Town 0 (1,579)
Corby Town 2, Hinckley United 0 (543)
Droylsden 0, Blyth Spartans 3 (418)
Gloucester City 5, Redditch United 0 (465)
Guiseley 1, Hyde 0 (406)
Ilkeston Town 2, Gainsborough Trinity 5 (361)
Stalybridge Celtic 0, Harrogate Town 1 (365)
Worcester City 0, Solihull Moors 1 (886)
Workington 2, Vauxhall Motors 1 (707)
Table
Blyth Spartans match report online here and match pics courtesy of Bill Broadley on the official Blyth Spartans website here
BLYTH SPARTANS 1, ALFRETON TOWN 4
Alfreton Town went two points clear at the top of the Blue Square Bet North table after securing a 4-1 victory at Blyth Spartans on Saturday.
Latest signing Connor Franklin made his debut for Nicky Law's side who are now the only team with a 100 per cent record in the division after the first five games.
Jake Moult gave the Reds a third minute lead which was doubled on 25 by Matt Wilson before an Aden Flint own goal gave the winless hosts a lifeline on 29.
Two second half penalties were both scored, Jake Moult with the first on 55 minutes after Paul Clayton was brought down by Spartans keeper Jake Cunningham and Liam Hearn with the second on 76 minutes after Anthony Wilson had been fouled by Chris Swailes.
Results for Saturday, August 28th
Blyth Spartans 1, ALFRETON TOWN 4 (462)
Eastwood Town 2, Corby Town 1 (432)
Gainsborough Trinity 1, Workington AFC 1 (tbc)
Harrogate Town 3, Boston United 6
(447)
Hinckley United 1, Droylsden 1 (366)
Hyde 1, Ilkeston Town 1 (319)
Nuneaton Town 2, Stalybridge Celtic 1 (833)
Redditch United 1, AFC Telford United 1
(606)
Solihull Moors 2, Gloucester City 1 (263)
Stafford Rangers 1, Worcester City 1
(557)
Vauxhall Motors 2, Guiseley 2 (178)
ALFRETON TOWN SIGN CONNOR FRANKLIN FROM HINCKLEY UNITED
Alfreton Town have signed highly-rated left-sided defender Connor Franklin from Blue Square Bet North rivals Hinckley United.
The 23-year-old has joined on a two-year contract for an undisclosed four-figure fee.
He had undergone trials with both Burton Albion and Kidderminster Harriers in the summer but it is Alfreton who have swooped to land him.
A former Leicester City apprentice, Franklin joined Hinckley in May 2008 from Nuneaton Borough where he won the Supporters' Player of the Season in his first campaign.
Reds manager Nicky Law stressed that Franklin's arrival is not as a replacement for the recently departed Kyle McFadzean.
He said: "Connor Franklin isn't a straight swap for Kyle McFadzean, he is someone we have been trying to tie up a deal with for a month and we are delighted to bring him to the Impact Arena."
Results for Wednesday, August 25
Corby Town 3, Redditch United 2
Droylsden 3, Hyde 1
Table
LIFE GOES ON AFTER MCFADZEAN FOR REDS
ALFRETON Town manager Nicky Law says there was never any question about his side not coping without Kyle McFadzean following the defender’s departure to Blue Square Premier Division club Crawley Town last Thursday.
England C captain McFadzean, 23, moved south in a deal worth a substantial undisclosed five-figure fee to Alfreton.
However, since his departure Alfreton have showed no signs of missing him as they extended their great start to the season to four wins from four games.
A superb 5-1 success at Hyde FC last Saturday - a second successive 5-1 away win in four days - was followed up by a 2-1 home win over Gainsborough Trinity on Tuesday night and Law was full of praise for his squad.
“We knew we had a real challenge on against Gainsborough. We are a fairly big side but they are massive with bags of experience.
“Every one of their back four were six foot-two plus along with several others in the side. But we showed we can go toe-to-toe when we need to and the lads coped well with the challenge. It is another step forward for us.
“To be fair to Gainsborough they matched us for an hour but in the end I thought our superior fitness and ability showed and we deserved the win.
“Kyle going was his decision in the end and we have to respect that.
“There is no need to panic into bringing someone in for the sake of numbers. There are no alarm bells ringing because we have got a very good squad with plenty of competition in it and everyone is as happy as they can be after the start we have had.
“Matt Wilson has come in for Kyle McFadzean and done really well and I can’t see where anyone would fit in at the minute.”
The victory over Gainsborough was achieved through a tremendous team work ethic as they overturned a 47th minute deficit to triumph.
Leon Mettam had headed the visitors in front but after former Red Mark Hume had headed past his own keeper for the equaliser on 53 minutes, Alfreton stepped their game up further and victory was sealed by another tremendous goal from Paul Clayton.
The in-form striker had already blasted an early contender for goal of the season in last Tuesday’s 5-1 win at Redditch United and followed up with a superb ten yard angled volley into the roof of the net against Trinity.
Bank Holiday double
The Reds face a double-header August Bank Holiday weekend with a long trip to Blyth Spartans on Saturday followed by a home game against Stafford Rangers on Monday.
Both games kick-off at 3pm.
Transport departs at 8.45am for the Blyth game.
Gainsborough Trinity match picture album by Dave Pursglove here
Gainsborough Trinity match report online here
ALFRETON TOWN 2, GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY 1
Alfreton Town came from behind to beat a resilient Gainsborough side and make it four wins out of four at the start of the season.
After a first half full of aerial combat, Trinity took the lead on 47 minutes when Leon Mettam was allowed a free header at the back post.
As the Alfreton turned the screw former Red Mark Hume headed firmly past his own keeper to level the scores on 53 minutes.
Paul Clayton produced another top quality strike on 73 minutes with a ten yard angled volley into the roof of the net but the points were only ensured by two top drawer saves from home keeper Paddy Gamble. Attendance 542.
The Reds are back in action on Saturday when they travel to take on Blyth Spartans. Transport departs at 8.45am.
Results for Tuesday, August 24
AFC Telford United 2, Gloucester City 0 (1,907)
ALFRETON TOWN 2, Gainsborough Trinity 1 (542)
Boston United 1, Nuneaton Town 2 (1,681)
Guiseley 0, Blyth Spartans 0 (342)
Ilkeston Town 0, Stafford Rangers 2 (292)
Solihull Moors 2, Eastwood Town 0 (265)
Stalybridge Celtic 1, Vauxhall Motors 4 (390)
Workington 2, Harrogate Town 1 (610)
Result for Monday, August 23
Worcester City 3, Hinckley United 2 (746)
Hyde FC match report online here
OFF THE MARK: Chris Shaw nets his first goal since joining the club as he fires home a seventh minute free kick at Hyde FC to put the Reds in front.
Dave Pursglove's excellent match picture album from the match is here
HYDE 1, ALFRETON TOWN 5
Alfreton Town extended their 100 per cent start to the new season to three games by winning 5-1 away for the second time in four days as they hit Hyde by the same scoreline as they had done at Redditch last Tuesday.
In the first game since the departure of Kyle McFadzean it was business as usual as the Reds triumphed 5-1 at Ewen Fields for the second successive season.
Chris Shaw's first goal since joining the club put the Reds ahead on seven minutes with a 22 yard direct free kick strike before Aden Flint doubled the lead two minutes later, sweeping the ball home from close range.
The hosts pulled one back on the half hour with an Andy Smart penalty.
Alfreton cut loose in the latter stages of the second half with Ant Wilson scoring on 82 and 85 and substitute Liam Hearn wrapping up the win on 90+1.
Match report and pics to follow.
The Reds are next in action on Tuesday evening when Gainsborough Trinity are the visitors to the Impact Arena. Kick-off is 7.45pm.
Results for Saturday, August 21 (All 3pm)
Blyth Spartans 1, Corby Town 1
Eastwood Town 0, Workington 2
Gainsborough Trinity 0, AFC Telford United 5
Gloucester City 2, Ilkeston Town 0
Harrogate Town 2, Solihull Moors 0
Hinckley Utd 5, Stalybridge Celtic 2
Hyde FC 1, ALFRETON TOWN 5
Nuneaton Town 1, Droylsden 1
Redditch United 0, Boston United 9 (nine)
Stafford Rangers 2, Guiseley 2
Vauxhall Motors 2, Worcester City 3
FOOTBALL CONFERENCE SIGNS UNIQUE TV DEAL
In a ground breaking deal, which will be a first in English football between a major football competition and a broadcaster, the Football Conference has signed up to a unique partnership with Premier Sports TV to show 30 matches per season from the Blue Square Bet Premier over the next three years, including their Premier Play Off’s and the prestigious Premier Promotion Final.
In a joint enterprise with Premier Sports, the Conference can now offer those who want the opportunity to watch all that is best outside the Premiership and Football League, the ability to subscribe to a monthly membership for just £6.99. The uniqueness of the deal over and above the normal rights fee paid by the broadcaster to the competition, will see the Conference receive 50% of all subscriptions once a nominal level of subscribers has been achieved.
No other competition has had this style of agreement before and in addition the Conference will also earn 50% from all internet revenue associated with the deal and allow them to retain advertising rights allied to those adverts shown with their matches. This really is a “joint venture” first in football.
Despite the fact that 12 months ago the Conference lost their then broadcaster partner due to financial reasons, they have bounced back strongly from that adversity to again lead the way with this deal.
The full details attached to the partnership are being conveyed to member clubs first before these are made public together with the actual format and first tranche of matches being revealed.
Fans of the Blue Square Bet Premier can be assured though that LIVE matches will commence on the 4th September via Channel 433, at a minimum rate of 3 per month and as little disruption to the current fixture list will take place as possible. The Football Conference and Premier Sports has identified this partnership opportunity and recognise there is a niché market for all football fans who love the game at the level at which the competition plays.
KYLE McFADZEAN MOVES TO CRAWLEY TOWN
Alfreton Town defender
Kyle McFadzean has moved to Blue Square Bet Premier Division club Crawley Town for a 'substantial' undisclosed fee.
The hugely popular McFadzean, 23, joined the Reds from Sheffield United in the summer of 2007 and progressed to such an extent that he captained the club on numerous occasions and was also capped three times by the England C team, captaining them in his last appearance.
Alfreton manager Nicky Law said: "They made Kyle an offer he couldn't afford to turn down.
"An offer was put to him last week but he turned it down. Crawley came back with an improved offer and he has decided to go.
"Life goes on though. We have lost a huge chunk but it is not all about Kyle McFadzean. It is about 16 or 17 players who we value equally.
"We obviously wish Kyle all the best for the future and every success but we would also like to think we have played a big part in getting him from where he was to where he is now."
CRAWLEY BOSS SAYS "MCFADZEAN IS A TOP SIGNING"
The official Crawley Town website reports: "
Crawley Town Football Club are delighted to confirm they have beaten off a host of Football League Clubs to capture the signature of England C Captain and Alfreton defender Kyle McFadzean.
McFadzean (23), the current England C Captain has been at Alfreton Town for four seasons, joining direct from Sheffield United where the player made one first team appearance. The player is a powerful, commanding central defender but is also outstanding both as a left back and central midfielder.
Over the summer period and most recently, a number of Football League clubs have had offers for the player turned down but manager Steve Evans has landed McFadzean after weeks of negotiations. The Reds have paid a substantial undisclosed sum.
Manager Steve Evans said, '' Kyle is a top signing for this football club. He is a player who was sought after by many and there will be a few disappointed Npower Football League managers when they hear he has joined us.
'' I must thank Alfreton Town manager manager Nicky Law and their Chairman Wayne Bradley for the professional and confidential way they have dealt with our discussions. The boy leaves a very good football club and joins another who are very ambitious, Kyle is a young man we look forward to working with and he will certainly play a big part in us trying to reach our objectives over this season and beyond.
Moments after signing and speaking exclusively to www.crawleytownfc.com he said, '' Over the last year there have been several Non League and League Clubs who made offers for me but I don’t think they could quite meet Alfreton’s valuation"
'' Everyone in Non League is talking about Crawley Town F.C, The manager Steve Evans is of course very well known and I know Paul Raynor who I worked under at Sheffield United so it was easy for me to say yes. I am grateful to everyone at Alfreton Town, the gaffer Nicky Law and the Chairman and most of all the supporters, but this is a great move for me to show everyone in the Blue Square what I am all about and hopefully next season the Football League"
McFadzean has been allocated squad number 27.
REDS HIT BY INJURY TO ANTHONY HOWELL
ALFRETON Town have had their start to the season plans hit by an injury to midfield player Anthony Howell. Full story
Redditch United match picture album by Dave Pursglove
here
Redditch United match report online here
REDDITCH UNITED 1, ALFRETON TOWN 5
Alfreton Town made it back to back victories to start the season with when they won their first away match of the campaign at Redditch United on Tuesday night.
Anthony Wilson headed the Reds in front on his league debut on 25 minutes and after Jordan Fitzpatrick had equalised on 40, Nathan Arnold also notched a league debut goal and sent the Reds in 2-1 up after his 16 yard shot went under home keeper Jake Meredith.
Alfreton took control in the second half and after a close range third goal from Paul Clayton on 66, Jake Moult lashed in the fourth on 70 from the edge of the penalty area before Clayton's second of the game on 76 wrapped up the win in style as he turned sharply 15 yards out and blasted home.
The Reds will be aiming to make it a hat-trick of wins when they travel to face Hyde FC this Saturday. Transport departs at 10.15am.
Results for Tuesday, August 17
Blyth Spartans 1, Stalybridge Celtic 2 (443)
Eastwood Town 2, Worcester City 4 (477)
Gainsborough Trinity 1, Guiseley 3 (400)
Gloucester City 1, Corby Town 2 (386)
Harrogate Town 3, Droylsden 3 (296)
Nuneaton Town 2, Ilkeston Town 2 (1,072)
Redditch United 1, ALFRETON TOWN 5 (287)
Stafford Rangers 1, Solihull Moors 0 (501)
Vauxhall Motors 0, AFC Telford United 1 (377)
Table
Hinckley United match report online here
RAMS OPT TO MOVE RESERVE FIXTURES TO BELPER TOWN
ALFRETON Town will not now be hosting Derby County Football Club Reserve team games in the 2010/2011 campaign.
Having originally confirmed their fixtures for the season, the Rams have opted to move their Reserve team home games after reaching an agreement to play their matches at Belper Town's Christchurch Meadow.
The move comes as part of Derby County's strategy to take the reserve team out across Derbyshire and a change of venue for this season has been decided.
Manager Nigel Clough said: “We’re delighted to have reached an agreement with Belper Town to play our reserve matches at Christchurch Meadow.
“We have enjoyed two very successful years at Alfreton and we hope we can continue to enjoy a strong and successful relationship with them.
“We’d like to thank chairman Wayne Bradley, and secretary Bryan Rudkin, for allowing us to use their excellent facilities and for being so understanding at the decision to switch venues for this season.”
Results for Monday, August 16
Hinckley United 0, Boston United 1
Hyde 2, Workington 3
WINNER: Dave Pursglove captures Jake Moult (second from right) drilling home the only goal of the game against Hinckley United in the opening fixture of the 2010/11 season.
Full match pics album by Dave can be found here
ALFRETON TOWN 1, HINCKLEY UNITED 0
ALFRETON Town began the 2010/2011 season with a victory and three points after Jake Moult's 55th minute goal divided the sides, the Reds midfielder rifling home a low 15 yard angled drive after Hinckley keeper Dan Haystead had saved from Liam Hearn.
Haystead denied Alfreton numerous times with a series of fine saves.
The Reds are next in action on Tuesday evening when they travel to take on Redditch United. Supporters' Association transport departs at 5.15pm.
Results for Saturday, August 14
AFC Telford United 5, Hyde 0 (1,501)
ALFRETON TOWN 1, Hinckley United 0 (516)
Boston United 1, Stafford Rangers 0 (1,604)
Corby Town 2, Harrogate Town 1 (360)
Droylsden 4, Eastwood Town 2 (372)
Guiseley 1, Nuneaton Town 2 (500)
Ilkeston Town 2, Vauxhall Motors 1 (270)
Solihull Moors 2, Blyth Spartans 0 (242)
Stalybridge Celtic 2, Redditch United 0 (508)
Worcester City 1, Gainsborough Trinity 2 (750)
Workington 2, Gloucester City 1 (523)
Table
SEASON TICKET DEADLINE ENDS
The deadline for purchasing Alfreton Town season tickets for the 2010/2011 season ended on Friday, August 13th.
BLUE SQUARE BET NORTH NEW SEASON PREVIEW
Alfreton Town head the market for the new Blue Square Bet North season as they try to improve on two successive third place finishes in the section. Full story
REDS HOPING IT IS THIRD TIME LUCKY
ALFRETON Town kick-off the 2010/2011 season hoping it will be third time lucky in their quest to reach the top level of non league football.
It is just 14 weeks ago since the Reds unluckily lost 2-1 in the 2009/10 Conference North play off final at Fleetwood Town.
That achievement came on the back of losing in the 2008/09 play off semi finals, the Reds finishing in third place both times.
However, any fears of a hangover from the Fleetwood defeat look to have been very quickly dispelled as Nicky Law’s squad have put in some excellent pre-season performances.
Notable results were a 1-1 draw with Chesterfield and victories over Luton Town (3-0) and Rotherham United (2-0). The only defeat was 3-1 at home to a very strong Mansfield Town side in a game that could have gone either way last Saturday.
Alfreton start the new campaign with a home game against Hinckley United this Saturday and follow up with away games at Redditch United next Tuesday and Hyde FC on Saturday, August 21.
Assistant manager Russ O’Neill is expecting a tough opening encounter.
He said: “It will be a hard game. They have had a lot of changes but Dean Thomas has brought in some good young lads down there and they have had some very good results in pre-season.”
Indeed, caution should be erred for the opener as the Reds have only beat Hinckley once in 12 Conference North fixtures.
However, that was in the final league game of last season when a 3-2 Reds home win also stopped the Leicestershire side from finishing in a play-off spot.
For the opening fixture, manager Law will be without striker Anthony Wilson who serves a one game suspension carried over from last season but he does have both other summer signings, Darren Stride and Nathan Arnold fit and raring to go.
The trip to Redditch next Tuesday will give the players the chance to avenge a 3-0 humbling after a horror trip and display just 12 days short of a year ago in the corresponding fixture.
Transport
Alfreton Town Supporters’ Association will once again be running transport to away games.
Next Tuesday’s visit to Redditch United will depart from North Street at 5.15pm and at 10.15am for the game at Hyde FC on Saturday week (Aug 21). Seats can be booked by contacting Mark Thorpe on 01773 836251.
Season tickets
Supporters who have not yet purchased Reds season tickets for the new campaign are reminded that they are only available until this Friday (Aug 13).
Tickets can be purchased by contacting Lisa Towerzey on 01159 392090 ext 107.
LAW NOT WORRIED BY MANSFIELD DEFEAT
ALFRETON Town manager Nicky Law feels there were far more positives than negatives to come out of the Mansfield Town game despite a 3-1 defeat.
Full story
Mansfield Town match report online here
Mansfield Town match picture album by Dave Pursglove here
ALFRETON TOWN 1, MANSFIELD TOWN 3
Alfreton Town fell to a first defeat in seven pre-season outings as Blue Square Bet Premier Division visitors Mansfield Town recovered from going behind after just 75 seconds to triumph.
In front of 844, Anthony Wilson stabbed the Reds ahead with the early goal but Mansfield were level on 26 when Adam Smith fired home with the aid of a post from 18 yards.
Half-time home substitute Matt Wilson conceded a penalty just 20 seconds into the second half from which Keigan Parker netted to put the visitors ahead.
Paul Connor added the third on 75 minutes with a neat 12 yard header.
This Saturday, August 14th, sees the start of the Blue Square Bet North league campaign and Alfreton Town are home to Hinckley United.
Kick-off at the Impact Arena is 3pm.
DARREN STRIDE JOINS ALFRETON TOWN
Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law has made his third signing for the 2010/2011 Blue Square Bet North season with former Burton Albion legend Darren Stride signing a one-year deal prior to the final pre-season friendly with Mansfield Town.
A vastly experienced six foot tall central defender, Stride made his Albion debut in 1993 and played for the Brewers for 17 years, 11 of them as captain.
He progressed from the Burton youth team to make 654 appearances, scoring 124 goals, and played in every single position including goalkeeper for the Brewers.
Won the Northern Premier League Premier Division title in 2002 and Conference title in 2009.
Injuries have curtailed the number of games he has played in the last few years but he managed nine games in the Football League last season and has played plenty of minutes for the Reds in pre-season fixtures.
PAGES UPDATED
The following website pages have all been updated:
All Player Profiles including management
Goldbond draw
Club History
Tickets/prices
Club Structure
Supporters' Association
MATCHDAY POSTERS
Printable matchday posters will once again be available for supporters to print off and put up in your local work places, newsagents, pubs, shops, chippies, etc, to help advertise forthcoming games at the Impact Arena. As a certain shop says: "Every little helps"!
The first one is for the first league home game of the season against Hinckley United on August 14th and is available here
Posters for each home game can now be accessed via the Fixtures/Reports page
REDS IN FINE SHAPE FOR FINAL PRE-SEASON TEST AGAINST MANSFIELD
ALFRETON Town go into this Saturday’s final pre-season test at home to Mansfield Town in fine shape.
The Blue Square Bet Premier Division Stags will provide a final stiff test but it is one Nicky Law’s men will be relishing having already claimed some notable results in the past few weeks.
The Reds go into the fixture on the back of a hugely successful pre-season campaign during which they have remained unbeaten in six games and recorded victories against Luton Town and Rotherham United.
The latest was a 2-0 win over Glapwell last Saturday, ironically at Mansfield’s Field Mill ground where they are ground sharing next season.
Second half goals from Jake Moult and Anton Brown gave Law’s side a fourth win from six run outs.
Last Thursday evening the Reds showed their character to twice come from behind and gain a 2-2 draw at home with Blue Square Bet Premier Division side Kettering Town.
Former Mansfield Town wide man Nathan Arnold notched his first goal since moving from Hyde FC with Jake Moult’s 87th minute leveller preserving a well-deserved draw.
Kick-off for the Stags game is 3pm and admission is £6 for adults and £3 concessions.
An interesting clash is in prospect with Mansfield having been among the goals recently with 6-1 and 3-1 wins at Hucknall Town and Eastwood Town respectively.
Manager Nicky Law has been busy trying to conclude negotiations with two player targets as he seeks to put the final touches to what looks to be his strongest and most impressive squad since joining the club ahead of the forthcoming league season which starts with a home game against Hinckley United on Saturday, August 14.
SEASON TICKET DEADLINE FAST APROACHING
Alfreton supporters who have not yet purchased season tickets for the 2010/2011 campaign are reminded that the deadline is fast approaching.
Tickets can be bought up to and including Friday, August 13 by contacting Lisa Towerzey on 01159 392090 extension 107.
Prices are: £161 for adults, £80 for concessions and £331 for a family ticket (two adults and two children aged 15 years and under).
The popular ‘Ten Match Ticket’ which was introduced for the first time last season is also being repeated. Fans can pick ten league games of their choice throughout the 2010/11 campaign. Prices are £90 for adults and £50 for concessions.
Junior Reds membership is available to younger fans up to and including 15 years of age.
After an initial membership fee of £5 per junior red, they can gain admission to each home league game for just £1 per match provided they are accompanied through the turnstile by a paying adult.
Glapwell match picture album by Dave Pursglove here
Glapwell match report online here
GLAPWELL 0, ALFRETON TOWN 2
Alfreton Town recorded a 2-0 win at Field Mill to spoil Glapwell's first ever ground sharing game at the home of the Stags.
Jake Moult chipped in the first on 47 minutes from six yards with Anton Brown adding the second on 70 with a low ten yard drive.
The Reds now have a week off before taking on Mansfield Town at the Impact Arena in the final pre-season run out on Saturday, August 7th. Kick-off is 3pm.
Kettering Town match report online here
Kettering Town picture album by Dave Pursglove here
REDS UP FOR BIG BONUS IF KALDOUN KINGDOM WINS AT GOODWOOD
Conference sponsors Blue Square Bet will be paying a huge bonus to Alfreton Town if the Richard Fahey trained horse Kaldoun Kingdom is successful in the Bluesq.com Stewards’ Cup on Saturday over six furlongs at Glorious Goodwood.
Full story
Rotherham United picture album by Dave Pursglove here
ALFRETON TOWN 2, KETTERING TOWN 2
Despite this being a fourth game in ten days, Alfreton Town preserved their unbeaten pre-season record thanks to Jake Moult's 87th minute leveller as the Reds twice came from behind.
Blue Square Bet Premier Division visitors Kettering took the lead somewhat against the run of play on 43 minutes when Ashley Westwood headed
in a corner from ten yards.
Reds man of the match Nathan Arnold equalised on 68 minutes with a ten yard angled drive but the Poppies were gifted the lead again on 74 with Paul Furlong taking advantage of an awful defensive mix-up in the home ranks to net a simple goal.
Jake Moult thumped home the equaliser three minutes from time to ensure Alfreton's impressive run of results continues.
Attendance 223.
LAW SATISFIED BUT STILL LOOKING TO ADD
Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law declared himself satisfied with how pre-season has gone so far, but admits that he is still looking to strengthen before the big kick-off on August 14.
The Reds boss has seen his side hit ten goals and concede only one with last Tuesday’s 5-1 success at Armthorpe Welfare followed up with home wins over Luton Town and Rotherham United.
Blue Square Bet Premier Division visitors last Saturday Luton Town were despatched 3-0 with a terrific all-round performance and goals from Anton Brown in the first half and two in a minute in the second from Chris Hall and Josh Law.
On Tuesday night the Reds manager felt his side performed even better as npower League Two visitors Rotherham United were seen off by two goals in four minutes midway through the second half, Anthony Wilson firing home the first on 69 and then heading a second on 73.
With just over a fortnight to go to the start of the season Law is still planning to strengthen his squad.
Whether that includes former Burton Albion trialist Darren Stride or not remains to be seen as the former Brewers legend limped out of the Rotherham game around the hour mark with a knee injury.
It is bad news for Stride who has impressed in his last three outings for the Reds.
Law said: “We will just have to wait and see how bad the injury is before any of us make a decision.
“I am very satisfied with how things are going at the minute. I was hoping we were not going to get a case of ‘After the Lord Mayor’s Show’ having played so well against a very strong Luton Town side on Saturday.
“Pleasingly, I think we played even better against Rotherham’s first team squad and we deserved our win.
“But, if we can improve any particular area, we will. I am also looking to bring in at least one more player before we start the league campaign on August 14.”
The Reds are home to Kettering Town tonight (Thursday, 7.45pm) before facing Evo-Stik First Division side Glapwell on Saturday.
The hosts are groundsharing at Mansfield Town’s Field Mill ground where kick-off is 3pm.
Admission for Glapwell’s historic first game at Field Mill has been reduced to just £4 adults, £2 concessions, with all accompanied children getting in for free.
Rotherham United match report online here
ALFRETON TOWN 2, ROTHERHAM UNITED 0
Alfreton Town continued their impressive pre-season build-up with a deserved 2-0 victory over a strong Rotherham United side on Tuesday evening.
Both goals came from substitute Anthony Wilson who netted 20 seconds after coming on in the 69th minute and headed the second four minutes later.
Attendance 373.
The Reds are at home again on Thursday evening when they entertain Blue Square Bet Premier Division side Kettering Town. Kick-off is 7.45pm.
SUPPORTERS' ASSOCIATION AGM ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT
Alfreton Town FC Supporters' Association is holding it's 2010 Annual General Meeting in the Reds Bar at the Impact Arena on Wednesday, July 28 with a 7.30pm kick-off. All members are welcome to attend.
GLAPWELL FC'S FIELD MILL PARTY SPECTACULAR FOR REDS GAME Alfreton Town's opponents on Saturday, Glapwell FC, are turning their first ever 'home game' at Mansfield Town's Field Mill into a party spectacular that reflects its community support. Full story
BLUE SQUARE ANNOUNCE HORSE RACING COMPETITION
Football Conference sponsors Blue Square are delighted to announce a bluesquare.com Stewards’ Cup competition for all clubs within the three Conference divisions. Full story
ADDITIONAL FRIENDLY ADDED, KETTERING TOWN VISIT ON THURSDAY
Alfreton Town have added one more pre-season friendly to their itinerary and the Reds will now host a full strength Kettering Town team at the Impact Arena this Thursday evening (July 29th).
Kick-off is 7.45pm with admission prices of £6 for adults and £3 concessions.
Luton Town match report online here
Josh Law (second from left) watches his shot curl home for Alfreton Town's third goal against Luton Town.
Dave Pursglove's match picture album from the game can be viewed here
ALFRETON TOWN 3, LUTON TOWN 0
Alfreton Town continued their pre-season warm-up games in impressive style as they beat Blue Square Bet Premier Division visitors Luton Town 3-0 on Saturday.
The goals came from Anton Brown on 11 minutes and two in a minute in the second half from Chris Hall on 69 and Josh Law on 70. Attendance 392.
Report and pics to follow.
Next up for the Reds sees a visit from npower League Two club Rotherham United who are at the Impact Arena on Tuesday night.
Kick-off is 7.30pm and admission is £6 for adults and £3 concessions.
ARMTHORPE WELFARE 1, ALFRETON TOWN 5
Alfreton Town continued their pre-season build-up with a 5-1 success at Koolsport Northern Counties East League Premier Division side Armthorpe Welfare on Tuesday evening.
Reds boss Nicky Law fielded two almost completely entirely different sides in each half although former Burton Albion stalwart Darren Stride was given 90 minutes.
Law saw his first session team take a 1-0 lead through Chris Hall's ninth minute low 12-yard shot.
The hosts equalised through Craig Morley right on the stroke of half-time but Alfreton were back in front just three minutes into the second half when Anthony Howell scored from the penalty spot.
Three goals inside the last ten minutes wrapped up victory for the Reds with man of the match Liam Hearn netting on 81, Ian Ross on 86 and Anthony Wilson on 89.
At half-time in the Chesterfield game, Alfreton Town secretary Bryan Rudkin (left) presented supporter Gavin Atkinson with his winnings for finishing first in last season's ATFC results prediction league.
Dave Pursglove's match picture album from the Chesterfield game is here
ALFRETON TOWN 1, CHESTERFIELD 1
Alfreton Town began their pre-season games with a 1-1 draw in front of an attendance of 776.
The Reds put in a superb first half display of crisp passing football and Liam Hearn gave Nicky Law's side a deserved lead on 38 minutes with an angled six-yard drive which visiting keeper Shane Redmond got a hand to but could not prevent from rolling over the line.
Chesterfield came more into it in the second half after a rash of changes at the interval but their equaliser was a complete gift on 64 minutes with Kyle McFadzean's header back to keeper Paddy Gamble lacking pace and the prolific Jack Lester beat Gamble with an angled eight yard shot.
Both sides had late chances to win it but all in all it was a very good work out.
Match report to follow here (teams and stats already up).
