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NEXT FIXTURE
LAST GAME
Pre-season friendly Friday, August 1st ALFRETON TOWN v
SHEFFIELD UNITED
Kick-off 7.30pm
Saturday, April 29th ALFRETON TOWN 0 Hinckley United 0 REPORT PICS
CURTAIN FALLS WITH PLAY OFF FINAL
The curtain finally falls on the 2007/2008 Blue Square Conference North season tonight with the play-off final between Stalybridge Celtic and Barrow.
The game is being played at Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium with a 7.30pm kick-off. Fixture for Friday, May 9 Blue Square Conference North Play off final (7.30pm, at Burton Albion)
Stalybridge Celtic v Barrow AFC
GLASS AND PACEY RELEASED Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law revealed few surprises in his retained list this week although there is plenty of negotiating to be done yet.
The Reds boss has released striker Matt Glass and central defender Rob Pacey and also seen Jason St Juste return to Garforth Town after a loan spell and Dan Gray back to Chesterfield after a work experience period at the Impact Arena.
Already in place for next season are Kris Bowler, Anton Brown and Paul Clayton who are contracted to the Reds to end of the 2008/09 campaign while Law has taken the option up with Brian Cusworth, Chris Walton, Steve Warne, Laurie Wilson and Matt Wilson plus Kyle McFadzean.
But the Reds boss faces a few more rounds of negotiations with several more of last season’s squad including his own son Josh who has been attracting outside interest.
It would be no surprise if one or two more players exited the Impact Arena doors before the season starts, particularly if Law lands the majority of his several targets to strengthen his hand in time for Alfreton’s fifth successive season at the highest level of semi professional football.
Law will also be seeking to put youngsters Oliver Warren, Massiah McDonald, Dereck Dooley and Joe Forster on dual registrations which means they will be going out on loan to gain match experience as well as keeping fit.
It has been a busy week for Law since the curtain came down on the 2007/08 season.
He has agreed a deal in principle with a Conference North-based striker and was involved in talks with other targets this week.
WORK STARTS ON PLAYING SURFACE
Work began early on Tuesday morning to lay a new playing surface at the Impact Arena. The old pitch was stripped away and the process of laser levelling began under the watchful eye of groundsman Dick Dennett (right) and Phil Lucic. Picture courtesy of the Ripley and Heanor News
BLADES SET TO VISIT AGAIN
Alfreton Town can confirm the first official pre-season game with Sheffield United visiting the Impact Arena for the second summer in succession.
This year's game will take place on Friday, August 1st with a 7.30pm kick-off.
Results for Sunday, May 4 Play off semi finals, 2nd leg (3pm)
AFC Telford United 0, Barrow AFC 2 (4,123) (Barrow won 4-0 on aggregate)
Stalybridge Celtic 2, Southport 1 (1,735) (Stalybridge won 5-3 on penalties after extra time, aggregate 2-2)
TYNESIDE TRIP FOR REDS
Alfreton Town will face a trip to Tyneside next season after Gateshead convincingly won the UniBond League Play-offs.
The North East club beat Eastwood Town 4-0 in the semi-finals before seeing off Buxton 2-0 in the final on Saturday.
CHAMPIONS! Alfreton Town Under-19s players and staff are captured by Phil Lucic celebrating winning the Windsor Foodservices North Midlands League Division One title on Thursday night.
More shots on the Handsworth match picture galleryhere
UNDER-19S ROUND OFF AN EXCEPTIONAL SEASON WITH LEAGUE TITLE
Alfreton Town Under-19s clinched the Windsor Foodservices North Midlands Under-19 Football League Division One title on Thursday night with a 2-0 home win over Handsworth which gave them the championship by one point ahead of Dunkirk.
In a must win game, the Reds had goalkeeper Matt Wakefield to thank for saving a sixth minute penalty, centre back Joe Storer completing the clearance after he had been very harshly adjudged to have handled in the area in the first place.
Neil Cluxton's side then settled to create a handful of chances against a hard working Handsworth team but it took until the 42nd minute for the breakthrough to come, Joe Storer heading home via the inside of a post from Lewis Jackson's corner.
Less than a minute later Jacob Walters Lang was sent through the middle and he produced a sublime chip over the visiting keeper for 2-0.
The young Reds were hardly troubled at the back in the second half and the final whistle brought great scenes of jubilation as the Reds celebrated an exceptional season with a well deserved double of league title and Mini Shield as well as being League Cup runners-up. Final Table P W D L F A Pts ALFRETON TOWN 14 11 1 2 46 11 34
Dunkirk 14 10 3 1 53 24 33
Sheffield Club 14 7 3 4 27 19 24
Handsworth 14 6 2 6 31 24 20
Matlock Town 14 5 3 6 22 25 18
Hallam 14 5 1 8 25 48 16
Arnold Town 14 3 2 9 21 36 11
Eastwood Town 14 1 1 12 9 47 4
MANAGERS OF THE MONTH FOR APRIL
Dean Thomas of Hinckley United has won the "Manager of the Month" award in the Blue Square North. Hinckley extended their unbeaten run from the early weeks of March to 9 matches during the period. The Knitters achieved safety from relegation with their excellent run and ended up 6 points from the drop zone on the final day of the season. Three successive clean sheets in their final Blue Square North games ensured the team will take their place in the division next season.
Oxford United’s Darren Patterson has won the Blue Square Premier award for April. Patterson's side won 6 out of their last 7 Blue Square Premier matches to finish 9th in the table, after spending much of the season below halfway. The side scored 15 goals with some outstanding attacking play that must have all U’s fans licking their lips at the prospect of the 2008/09 campaign. The U’s only defeat came in a hard fought encounter away at promotion chasers Torquay United. The 5-1 win over Farsley Celtic and the 3-1 win away at Ebbsfleet United were the highlights of a fantastic month.
In the Blue Square South the award goes to Maidenhead United manager Johnson Hippolyte. Maidenhead began the month with the threat of relegation hanging over them after defeat at fellow strugglers Dorchester Town. Hippolyte’s side then went on to win three successive matches scoring 10 goals and only conceding once, to ease their fears of the drop. Two further clean sheets in their final two games gave them the points for a respectable 17th placed finish and another season in the Blue Square South.
UNDER-19S PRESS RELEASE The latest Windsor Foodservices North Midlands Under-19s League press round-up for the week commencing Monday, April 28th is available here
Results for Wednesday, April 30 Play off semi finals first leg (7.45pm)
Barrow 2, AFC Telford United 0 (2,701)
Southport 1, Stalybridge Celtic 0 (1,361)
LAW ANNOUNCES TARGETS
WITH the dust barely settled on an uninspiring end to the season, Alfreton Town fans will be watching with interest when the retained list is announced next week.
Manager Nicky Law admitted he will be strengthening his squad in all areas in the summer but fans will be guessing who is left at the club after a difficult run in.
The Reds ended the 2007/08 campaign with a second successive goalless draw at home, this time against Hinckley United last Saturday.
After the game the club held their annual presentation of awards and the four categories were shared between just two players who will almost certainly be high up on that retained list next week.
Former Mansfield Town utility player Anton Brown has been a model of consistency in the left back role and his performances earned him the votes of his team mates as he picked up the highly prized Players’ Player of the season and also the Supporters’ Player of the Season as well.
Striker Brian Cusworth has also endeared himself to Reds fans this season with his all action displays up front after jumping four divisions from Parkgate last summer.
He picked up the top goalscorer’s award but more importantly, the Manager’s Player of the Year award as well which says how highly he is valued by Law.
Several other players have been worthy of keeping with goalkeeper Kyle Sutcliffe, Tony Butler, Josh Law, Steve Warne, Paul Clayton, Kris Bowler and Laurie and Matt Wilson being particularly consistent in an often see-saw season.
Law has already stated he wants to bring in more experience to help bring his youngsters on next term.
And this week he announced where he wants those places filling.
He said: “I am looking for an experienced goalkeeper to work with either Kyle (Sutcliffe) or Laurence (Matthewson).
“I also want a right full back, a utility defender who is predominantly centre-back orientated, two strikers, one, maybe two experienced central midfield players, and possibly a couple of wide players.
"I anticipate having far better strength in depth compared to this season. We need players to come in and help the younger ones, but at the moment we still have a few decisions to make concerning players in this season's squad.
"I want to avoid being in the same situation as we found ourselves when we took over last season but we have a good starting point compared to last year."
Pre-season training will begin on Thursday, June 26.
LEAGUE CUP DEFEAT FOR UNDER-19S
Alfreton Town Under-19s lost their grip on the Windsor Foodservices North Midlands Under-19s League Cup, a trophy they won last season, when they fell to a 3-0 defeat at the final hurdle to Sheffield FC in Monday night's League Cup Final at Staveley MW.
BROWN AND CUSWORTH DOUBLE UP
Anton Brown was presented with the prestigious Players' Player of the Season award at the end of season presentations following the Hinckley United game on Saturday. And it was a double delight for the former Mansfield Town man as he also picked up the Supporters' Player of the Season trophy.
The other two trophies on offer went to striker Brian Cusworth whose exploits since moving up four divisions last summer gained him the Manager's Player of the Season and the Leading Goalscorer awards.
Pictures of the awards can be viewed on the Hinckley United match day action shots by Phil Lucic hereHinckley United match report here and separate match pictures are here
ALFRETON HELD TO ANOTHER GOALLESS DRAW BY BOGEY SIDE HINCKLEY
Alfreton Town ended the season with a second successive goalless draw at home in the league as they yet again failed to end their Hinckley United bogey.
The Reds are now without a victory over the Leicestershire side in eight league games and ended the campaign without a win in seven games in all competitions.
The point ensured a final finishing place of 16th in Blue Square Conference North for Nicky Law's side who on a positive note, did end the campaign unbeaten in their last two league games, keeping clean sheets in both. ReportPICS
Results for Saturday, April 26th
ALFRETON TOWN 0, Hinckley United 0 (343)
Barrow 1, Worcester City 0 (2,468)
Boston United 2, Hyde United 1 (1,740)
Burscough 1, AFC Telford United 3 (723)
Harrogate Town 1, Workington 1 (487)
Kettering Town 2, Gainsborough Trinity 1 (2,187)
Leigh RMI 0, Blyth Spartans 2 (238)
Nuneaton Borough 1, Tamworth 0 (1,073)
Solihull Moors 2, Hucknall Town 2 (220)
Stalybridge Celtic 6, Redditch United 0 (576)
Vauxhall Motors 1, Southport 2 (583) Final table
ALFRETON LOOKING FOR FIRST WIN OVER HINCKLEY IN LEAGUE
Alfreton Town will be aiming to finish the 2007/08 Blue Square Conference North season on a high when they entertain Hinckley United in the last game of the campaign at the Impact Arena this Saturday (3pm).
To do so however, the Reds will have to find a first win in seven games in all competitions, a first in the league in five and a first at home in the league in four.
History is not on Alfreton’s side either as they have a woeful record against the Leicestershire club with just one win from 11 games in all competitions and no wins at all in seven games in the league.
Hinckley United arrive unbeaten in eight games having taken 20 out of 24 points with six wins and two draws which has enabled them to deservedly preserve their Conference North status having looked down and out at one stage.
The Knitters have picked up 19 of their 44 points on the road.
Reds manager Nicky Law has Kris Bowler back after serving a two-game suspension and Jordan Hall also returns to the squad after missing the Derbyshire Senior Cup final in midweek due to ineligibility.
However, striker Brian Cusworth will need a late fitness test on a calf strain, likewise Paul Clayton on a back injury picked up against Redditch United last Saturday.
Reds from: Laurence Matthewson, Kyle Sutcliffe, Jordan Hall, Anton Brown, Mark Barnard, Tony Butler (captain), Rob Pacey, Matt Wilson, Laurie Wilson, Josh Law, Steve Warne, Kris Bowler, Chris Walton, Brian Cusworth, Paul Clayton, Danny Reet, Matt Glass, Dan Gray, Massiah McDonald.
ALFRETONTOWN/HINCKLEY UNITED MATCHOGRAPHY
Alfreton Town score given first in all instances FA Cup
2000/01
H 1-1 (Paul Tomlinson) Att 260
A 1-2 (Adam Fretwell) Att 273 FA Trophy 2007/08
A 3-1 (Peter Knox, Danny Reet, Brian Cusworth) Att 334 Setanta Shield 2007/08
H 1-2 (Danny Reet, pen) Att 171 Conference North 2004/05
H 0-2 Att 360
A 0-1 Att 1057
2005/06
H 1-1 (Mick Godber) 344
A 2-2 (Jon Stevenson 2) Att 611
2006/07
H 0-1 Att 286
A 2-2 (Andy Tiday, Steve Melton) Att 564
2007/08
A 0-1 Att 405 Overall League
Home P 3 W 0 D 1 L 2 F 1 A 4 Pts 1/9
Away P 4 W 0 D 2 L 2 F 4 A 6 Pts 2/12
Total P 7 W 0 D 3 L 4 F 5 A 10 Pts 3/21 Cups P 4 W 1 D 1 L 2 F 6 A 6
TOTAL P 11 W 1 D 4 L 6 F 11 A 16
The Reds have also faced Hinckley Athletic once, recording a 1-0 home win in the FA Cup thanks to a Dave McCarthy goal in front of 199 in the 1991/92 campaign.
EXCITING MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITY Alfreton Town Ladies who play in the third tier of English Women’s Football are looking to recruit a qualified Manager for the 08-09 season. Having already won the League Cup twice, we are inviting application for a potential Manager to take forward the team to further success in the Midlands Combination League.
The ideal candidate will have a good background in terms of both experience within Women’s football and qualifications, with an FA recognised qualifications - ideally Minimum FA Level 2. All interested parties must be able to provide an up-to-date CRB check.
The team play on a Sunday afternoon - usually kicking off at 2pm, and play their home matches at the impressive ‘Impact Arena’ at Alfreton Town Football Club. Closing date for appointment 9th May 2008
The final game of the season is against Hereford United Ladies FC at the Impact Arena, 30th April 7.45 Kick Off.
Please contact: 07943842495 or e-mail helmick@btinternet.com for further information and discussion.Thursday, April 24th
MINI SHIELD SUCCESS FOR UNDER-19S
Alfreton Town Under-19s won the Windsor Foodservices North Midlands Under-19s Mini Shield after beating Teversal 1-0 at their Carnarvon Street ground on Thursday night.
The only goal of the game came from Oliver Warren on 11 minutes. Two minutes later Dereck Dooley put a penalty against a post and Jacob Walters-Lang missed the rebound.
The success is the first of a possible trophy treble for Neil Cluxton's side.
The Under-19s are in more cup final action next Monday (April 28th) when they take on Sheffield FC in the League Cup final at Staveley MW.
LAW: "THINGS WILL BE DIFFERENT NEXT SEASON"
Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law has promised supporters that things will be different next season.
The Reds boss was still smarting from another under par display on Tuesday night as his side failed to lift the Derbyshire Senior Cup.
With just one game to go this season, Saturday's home game against Hinckley United, Law clearly feels it is time to sort out the men from the boys in his squad as soon as the final whistle blows.
He said: "The back end of the season has been somewhat disappointing if I am honest. It has been the same old story. We keep saying that on our day we are as good as anybody but all too often we are falling short and of late the disappointing performances are far outweighing the positive ones.
"I certainly know that over the next week or so I have got decisions to make on players but one thing is for sure, I know I have got to bring a different type of player in.
"It is so frustrating when you see the team perform how well they did against Southport recently and then against Redditch and Belper over the past few days.
"Belper was an instance. We have gone there and played a team who, with all due respect, aren't as good as we are technically, but they had individuals who wanted to win more than we did. Only three or four of our players emerged with any credit. We were shocking. We never played enough, weren't brave enough on or off the ball. It is about the desire and the effort.
"We have probably got some very nice and technical players who are very good but when it comes to the crunch we haven't got the other side. We have got some good young players but it has been asking too much of so many youngsters to come together and succeed.
"We have got to get the balance right and better. Wheels are in motion and have been for a while to try and find those sort of players for next season.
There is another massive ingredient which is desire and will to win and the willingness to overcome your opponent. Unfortunately, we were sadly lacking in that department at Belper and to be fair, in a fair few games of late. That has to change.
"It is not all gloom and doom though. I am sure Hucknall, Vauxhall and Leigh would swap places with us. We live to fight another day and next year will be different."
The chance of silverware was ended on Tuesday night when Belper Town held the Reds to a 1-1 draw at Christchurch Meadow in the second leg of the Senior Cup final, the Nailers taking the trophy for the first time in 28 years with a 4-3 aggregate success. Chris Walton had got Alfreton on level terms when he shot them in front on 65 minutes but a Ross Hannah penalty seven minutes later swung the trophy Belper's way.
This Saturday the Reds bring the curtain down on the 2007/08 season when Hinckley United visit the Impact Arena for the final Blue Square conference North game of the campaign (3pm).
Following the game, the annual presentation of awards will take place in the Reds Bar.
PHYSIOTHERAPIST REQUIRED Alfreton Town Football Club invite applications for the position of first team sports physiotherapist.
All enquiries in the first instance should be made to Lisa Towerzey on 01159 392090 ext. 107.
The successful person will replace the popular Doug Kyle who has decided to team up with Steve Charles at Gainsborough Trinity, thereby ending a three year stint at the Impact Arena.
REDS CAN'T NAIL SENIOR CUP Alfreton Town couldn't find the win they needed to lift the Derbyshire Senior Cup for the first time since 2003 in Tuesday night's final second leg.
Trailing 3-2 from the first leg a fortnight ago, the Reds drew 1-1 at Belper Town who took the verdict by virtue of a 4-3 aggregate win.
Chris Walton had put Alfreton in front on 65 minutes to tie the scores at 3-3 but after Matt Wilson pulled Ross Hannah back on 72 minutes, Hannah slotted in the resultant penalty to give his side a first Senior Cup success since 1980.
Alfreton bring the curtain down on the 2007/08 season on Saturday when they entertain Hinckley United in the final Blue Square Conference North game of the campaign. Kick-off at the Impact Arena is 3pm.
After the game, the club's annual presentation of awards will be held in the Reds Bar. All are welcome.
REDS LOOKING FOR SENIOR CUP SUCCESS Alfreton Town will have to record their first victory in six games if they are to lift the Derbyshire Senior Cup on Tuesday night.
Full match preview including numerous Alfreton goalscorer and attendance updates courtesy of Simon Tacey from the first leg preview here
Results for Tuesday, April 22 Derbyshire Senior Cup Final, 2nd Leg
Belper Town 1 ALFRETON TOWN 1 (266)
(Belper Town won 4-3 on aggregate) Blue Square Conference North
Redditch United 0, Kettering Town 2 (414)
Southport 2, Leigh RMI 0 (861)
Tamworth 1, Harrogate Town 1 (565)
Workington 1, Worcester City 0 (276)
REDS HELD TO GOALLESS DRAW AT HOME Alfreton Town were held to a goalless draw at home by Redditch United on Saturday. The draw ended a run of three straight defeats in the league and four in a row in all competitions for Nicky Law's side. Report and match pics
The Reds are next in action on Tuesday night when they make the short journey to Christchurch Meadow to face Belper Town in the second leg of the Derbyshire Senior Cup Final. Kick-off is 7.45pm and the Nailers hold a 3-2 advantage from the first leg. Supporters Association transport departs at 6.30pm and prices are just £5 for adults and £3 for concessions. Seats can be booked by contacting Mark Thorpe on 01773 836251 or Warren Baines on 0779 5552721.
Fixtures for Saturday, April 19 Blue Square Conference North
ALFRETON TOWN 0, Redditch United 0 (260)
Barrow 2, Tamworth 0 (1,499)
Boston United 3, Blyth Spartans 2 (1,118)
Burscough 2, Gainsborough Trinity 2 (342)
Harrogate Town 0, Hucknall Town 0 (507)
Kettering Town 3, Workington 1 (1,386)
Leigh RMI 0, Worcester City 1 (154)
Solihull Moors 1, Hyde United 4 (247)
Stalybridge Celtic 1, AFC Telford United 2 (943)
Vauxhall Motors v Hinckley United 1 (181) Result for Friday, April 18 Blue Square Conference North
Nuneaton Borough 0, Southport 2 (1,210)
MARPLES RESIGNS AS ASSISTANT MANAGER Alfreton Town assistant manager Chris Marples resigned his post on Friday.
The popular former Chesterfield keeper and Derbyshire CCC wicket keeper made the decision after feeling he would be unable to commit sufficient time to the role due to increased commitments within the club next season, allied to his full time job.
The club wishes Ged well for the future.
REDS BID TO END LOSING RUN Alfreton Town go into Saturday's penultimate league game of the season at home to Redditch United looking to end a losing run of three straight league defeats and four in a row in all competitions.
And the Reds will also be aiming for a first win at home in the league in four games.
The first game of the season between the two clubs ended in a 1-1 draw in Worcestershire back in early September.
Redditch arrive in 12th place with 52 points from 39 games but only 18 of those points have come on their travels.
The Reds have slipped to 17th with 45 points from 40 games. PREVIOUS GAMES (Alfreton Town score given first in all instances) Conference North
2004/05
H 1-2 Matt Fisher 290
A 3-1 Peter Duffield (pen),
Ian Robinson, Ben Chapman
2005/06
H
2-1 Peter Duffield, Chris White 219
A 0-1
2006/07
H 0-0 272
A 2-3 Ashley Burbeary (pen), Gary Sucharewycz
2007/08
A 1-1 Chris Walton 321 Overall
Home P 4 W 1 D 2 L 1 F 4 A 4 Pts 5/12
Away P 3 W 1 D 0 L 2 F 5 A 5 Pts 3/9
Overall P 7 W 2 D 2 L 3 F 9 A 9 Pts 8/21
UNLUCKY DEFEAT AS REDS ARE GROUNDED BY SOUTHPORT Alfreton Town went down to an unlucky 1-0 defeat in their last away game of the season at play-off chasing Southport on Tuesday evening.
The only goal of the game came on 74 minutes courtesy of Michael Rae for the hosts but was very much against the run of play with the Reds again guilty of missing chances in both halves.
Alfreton are next in action on Saturday when Redditch United visit the Impact Arena (3pm).
Results for Tuesday, April 15 Barrow 1, Kettering Town 1 (2,086)
Blyth Spartans 1, Solihull Moors 2 (441)
Southport 1, ALFRETON TOWN 0 (757)
Workington 0, Burscough 1 (325)
PLAYERS PLAYING FOR PLACES Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law knows he faces some crucial decisions over his squad for next season.
The Reds boss is likely to decide his retained and released list sooner rather than later and whilst Law has had one eye on it over recent games, now Alfreton are completely safe in Blue Square Conference North for next season, he can now focus fully on his building plans.
With some big ideas in the pipeline for the Reds for the 2008/09 season, the current crop of players know they are playing for their futures at the Impact Arena over the final few games of the current campaign if they are to make the cut for next season.
Nothing has gone right very much for the club in recent injury-ravaged weeks and two more defeats over the past week have extended the Reds' losing run to four games in all competitions.
One thing is certain and that is that Law will need a few more experienced heads in the camp for next season after seeing his predominantly young and somewhat previously untried squad handed a few harsh lessons of late.
The Reds fell to a very unlucky 1-0 league defeat away at play-off chasing Southport on Tuesday night.
A Michael Rae winner on 74 minutes for the Sandgrounders came very much against the run of play as Alfreton again squandered chances.
It was simply a case of more of the same after the Reds had cruelly gone down 2-1 right at the death at home to Burscough last Saturday.
FINAL AWAY GAME FOR REDS Alfreton Town travel to Southport on Tuesday night for their final Blue Square Conference North away fixture of the season (7.45pm). Alfreton will be looking to halt a run of two consecutive league defeats and three in a row in all competitions
Reds manager Nicky Law has injury casualties with Jordan Hall (hamstring), Mark Barnard (hamstring) and Rob Pacey (ankle) all definitely out.
Also missing will be Josh Law who is under doctors orders after suffering concussion at Barrow a week last Saturday.
Laurie Wilson is expected to return to the squad after an ankle injury.
The Reds beat Southport 1-0 at home in the FA Trophy in December but the Sandgrounders can become the fourth team to inflict a league double over the Reds following a 2-1 success at the Impact Arena back on November 18.
PAST RESULTS
FA Cup
1984/85
A 1-1 (Trevor Jones)H 3-0 (Mark Cox 2, John Shirt)
Northern Premier League Premier Division 2003/04
H 0-2 (397) A 0-1
FA Trophy
2007/08
H 1st round
1-0 (Cusworth) (187)
Conference North
2004/05
H 2-1 (Peter Duffield, Chris Bettney (pen) (479)
A 1-3 (Luke Foster) (704)
2007/08
H 1-2 (Matt Glass) (324)
Result for Monday, April 14 Hinckley United 2, Tamworth 0 (944)
LAST GASP GOAL SINKS REDS
Alfreton Town were handed a narrow 2-1 defeat by a last minute Ciaran Kilheeney goal for Burscough on Saturday.
Kilheeney had put the visitors ahead on 16 minutes with Chris Walton netting the equaliser on 65 minutes. Report
Results for Saturday, April 12
AFC Telford United 1, Harrogate Town 3 (3,226)
ALFRETON TOWN 1, Burscough 2 (299)
Blyth Spartans 6, Worcester City 0 (429)
Gainsborough Trinity 2, Leigh RMI 1 (372)
Hinckley United 2, Hyde United 1 (537)
Hucknall Town 2, Nuneaton Borough 2 (556)
Redditch United 0, Barrow 5 (421)
Southport 0, Kettering Town 1 (1,230)
Stalybridge Celtic 4, Vauxhall Motors 1 (568)
Tamworth 1, Boston United 1 (885)
Workington 1, Solihull Moors 1 (301)
REDS LOOKING FOR ATTENDANCES TO CONTINUE TO RISE With three home games remaining this season, Alfreton Town are eyeing further attendance increases.
This season's average home league gates are up a very healthy 26.7 per cent on last season's and currently stand at 373.6 per game over 18 matches so far in Blue Square Conference North.
Last season's dip to an average of just 295.7 gave rise to obvious concerns within the club but improved gates in Nicky Law's first season in charge means that with one eye on next season, there is good optimism that the current campaign can end nearer the 400 per game mark for a good platform to build on.
Burscough are the first of the remaining three home league games this Saturday followed by Redditch United the following weekend and relegation-threatened Hinckley United on the last day of the season on April 26.
That fixture could well be a boosted gate if the Leicestershire side need points to stay up at the expense of Alfreton's local derby rivals Hucknall Town.
The best season of recent years was in 2004/05 when Alfreton's league attendances for the season averaged 404 in the inaugural Conference North campaign which was just 1.5 per cent up on the 2003/04 season in which the Reds finished fourth in UniBond Premier Division.
On top of that, the Reds could still reach a best ever Conference North points total this time around with four games to go.
REDS WILL HAVE TO OVERTURN FIRST LEG DEFEAT TO LIFT SENIOR CUP
Alfreton Town will have to overturn a 3-2 first leg home defeat against Belper Town to lift the Derbyshire Senior Cup.
The Reds narrowly went down in Tuesday night's first leg at the Impact Arena. Ben Walker (3) and Gary Middleton (31) put the visitors in charge an after Paul Clayton's 46th minute goal (timed at 46 seconds) reduced the arrears, the Nailers opened up a two-goal margin again through Kris Kotylo on the hour before Brian Cusworth's 84th minute header ensured an intriguing second leg on Tuesday, April 22nd.
Report to follow.
The attendance was 248 with Paul Clayton the Reds man of the match.
Alfreton Town return to Blue Square Conference North on Saturday when they welcome Burscough to the Impact Arena (3pm). SOUTHPORT TRANSPORT
Supporters should note that the official transport for next Tuesday's final away league game of the season at Southport will depart at 4.30pm. Seats can be booked via Mark Thorpe on 01773 836251.
Results for Tuesday, April 8 Blue Square Conference North: Leigh RMI 2, Burscough 1 (156)
Workington 0, Barrow 1 (498) Table Derbyshire Senior Cup Final, 1st leg:
ALFRETON TOWN 2, Belper Town 3 (248)The Barrow match report is online here
ALFRETON LOOKING TO NAIL BELPER TOWN IN SENIOR CUP FINAL CLASH
Alfreton Town will be looking to build up a first leg lead when they entertain local derby rivals Belper Town in the final of the Derbyshire Senior Cup on Tuesday night. Comprehensive match preview here
REDS CAN'T HALT BARROW RUN
Alfreton Town couldn't extend their unbeaten run against Barrow to ten games over the pastfive years as the in-form Cumbrians claimed a 2-1 Blue Square Conference North home win on Saturday.
Faced with a long trek to Cumbria for the second time in five days, Alfreton Town couldn't build on their fine midweek win at Workington and they were very much second best in the first half but after falling behind to a Chris Thompson penalty on 34 minutes when Mark Barnard was adjudged to have impeded Jason Walker, the Reds went in level after equalising against the run of play.
The leveller came in the first minute of added time at the end of the first period when Kris Bowler's corner was met by Paul Clayton at the near post and his header could only be helped in off an upright by home keeper Tim Deasy.
In a second half of far fewer chances, Barrow managed to take one of them to seal all three points on 75 minutes when Nick Rogan turned and fired home from 12-yards.
Alfreton Town are next in action on Tuesday night (April 8) when they host Belper Town in the first leg of the Derbyshire Senior Cup final at the Impact Arena. Kick-off is 7.45pm.
Admission for this tie has been reduced to £6 for adults and £3 for concessions Results for Saturday, April 5 Blue Square Conference North:
Barrow 2, ALFRETON TOWN 1 (1,062)
Boston United 3, Stalybridge Celtic 1 (1,215)
Burscough 0, Redditch United 2 (276)
Harrogate Town 1, Hinckley United 1 (429)
Hyde United 1, Workington 2 (302)
Kettering Town 3, AFC Telford United 0 (2,520)
Leigh RMI 0, Tamworth 0 (220)
Nuneaton Borough 1, Blyth Spartans 1 (852)
Solihull Moors 4, Southport 1 (251)
Vauxhall Motors 0, Hucknall Town 3 (167)
Worcester City 0, Gainsborough Trinity 1 (635)
ALFRETON LOOKING TO EXTEND STRANGLEHOLD OVER BLUEBIRDS
Alfreton Town journey to Cumbria for the second time in five days when they travel to face in-form Barrow on Saturday (3m).
Supporters' Association transport departs at 9am prompt.
The Reds will be buoyed by the midweek win at Workington but they face a very difficult game as the Bluebirds are currently 7th in Blue Square Conference North with 60 points off 36 games and six points behind the last play off spot so a win for them is almost imperative.
Barrow have seven wins and three draws from their last ten league games.
Alfreton are 15th with 45 points off 37 games but to progress any further points from Holker Street will be needed.
Recent history is on Alfreton's side as they are unbeaten in their last nine league encounters with the Cumbrians.
Alfreton will be attempting to extend their unbeaten record to five game in all competitions and are also seeking a sixth away victory of the season having recorded a first away win in seven games on the road at Workington.
Reds manager Nicky Law has Massiah McDonald suspended and also has none of his injured quartet back although Anton Brown is expected to face a late fitness test.
Latest signings Ben Scott and John McAliskey are both still unavailable. Reds from: Laurence Matthewson, Matthew Wakefield, Jordan Hall, Mark Barnard, Tony Butler (captain), Matt Wilson, Josh Law, Kris Bowler, Chris Walton, Steve Warne, Danny Reet, Paul Clayton, Brian Cusworth, Dan Gray, Matt Glass, Jason St. Juste. PAST RESULTS Home Away UniBond League Premier Division
1996/97 2-3 0-3
1997/98 0-3 0-2
2003/04 1-1 2-1 Conference North 2004/05 1-1 3-0
2005/06 2-1 1-1
2006/07 1-0 1-1
2007/08 0-0 FA Cup 1969/70 1-1 (H), 0-0 (A), 2-2 (Chesterfield) 0-2 (Preston) Overall
Home League P7 W2 D3 L2 F7 A9 Pts9
AwayLeague P6 W2 D2 L2 F7 A8 Pts8
Total P13 W4 D5 L4 F14 A17 Pts 17 out of 39
Cup P4 W0 D3 L1 F3 A5
Overall Total: P17 W4 D8 L5 F17 A22 The Holker Street Newsletter reports: "The weekend has rolled around again, and this Saturday, Alfreton make the long trek to LA14 land, it's hard not to underestimate the importance of this game, not just because we haven't beaten Alfreton Town for over a decade, the last was on 1 November 1997, when we won 2-0 at Holker Street in the UniBond Premier League, but we need to keep winning to have any chnce of taking that last play off spot".Workington match report online here
LAW: "PLANNING FOR NEXT SEASON HAS ALREADY BEGUN" Having seen his side secure their Blue Square Conference North status for next season, Alfreton Town manager Nicky Law is ready to put plans into practice for the future.
The Reds boss was a tired yet happy man after arriving home at 4am from witnessing his team complete a league
double over Workington with a deserved 2-1 win in Cumbria on Tuesday night.
He said: "We have huffed and puffed to get to safety and it is just a relief to get those points, especially after conceding another sloppy goal.
"There has been many a time this year where we have played in games like that [Workington] where we have come out on the wrong side of the result.
"I think we are a lot better than our league position suggests. We have got a lot of good lads who on the day can match anyone physically and skill wise but we have to learn how to be resilient and put the ball into the right areas and make the right runs.
"The pressure is now off somewhat and there are another 15 points to play for and try to get to our goal of beating last season's total of 54 points.
"Having said that, outsiders have told me that gaining 50 points last year and this has been a different kettle of fish. It is a lot tougher this year and the standard has gone up again.
"It was always going to be a testing year where we needed to know where we are at. We have learned a lot about the league and ourselves.
"It has been a tough season, almost like dipping your toe in the water to see what it is like. It is a demanding level of football and it really is a tough league but there is nothing to frighten me.
"To be the best you have obviously got to pay the money out but you need a certain type of player and at the end of the day you can't beat experience and I don't think we have had enough of that this year.
"The top teams are highly organised and play high tempo and if you don't match them you come unstuck.
Only a totally freak set of results can stop Alfreton from competing in the 2008/09 Conference North division now and Law admitted he has already been planning ahead.
He added: "I have been planning things for quite a while. I have got a lot of targets that I want to get in and a lot of plans for next season."
Brian Cusworth's 48th minute opener at Workington proved lucky number 13 for the season for him as it ended a barren spell in the league stretching back to December 11. Steve Warne chose a great time to net his first goal for the Alfreton since joining the club when he doubled the lead on 76 minutes.
Alfreton return to Cumbria this Saturday, this time to face in-form Barrow in the league.
Supporters’ Association transport departs at 9am and seats can be booked through Mark Thorpe on 01773 836251.
ALFRETON EDGE THE BATTLE OF THE REDS AND SECURE STATUS
Alfreton Town secured their Blue Square Conference North status for next season after a 2-1 win at Workington on Tuesday night.
Brian Cusworth's 48th minute opener was added to by Steve Warne's first goal since joining the club on 76 minutes with the hosts only reducing the arrears through substitute Michael Reed with the last kick of the game in the third minute of stoppage time.
The victory finally sealed a first league double of the season for Alfreton.
Match report to follow.
The Reds are back on the road to Cumbria on Saturday when they travel to take on in-form Barrow (3pm). MANAGERS OF THE MONTH
Barrow’s joint management team of Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan have won the manager of the month award for March in the Blue Square North.
The Bluebirds began the month unbeaten in their past 4 league matches, a run that had seen them go from mid-table to play-off contention. They continued that run in March with 6 wins from 7 matches, 12 goals scored and 5 clean-sheets. As they approach their final 6 Blue Square North games in the closing month of the season they are just 6 points off a play-off place.
Northwich Victoria’s Dino Maamria won the Blue Square Premier award.
Maamria's side now have a fantastic chance of avoiding relegation after a month which saw them almost double their points total for the season. League sponsors Blue Square had left The Vics out of their relegation betting as early as November, after a disastrous start to the campaign which saw them go 19 games without a victory. The club also had problems off the pitch as they faced a High Court winding up order as Maamria was handed the managerial job on a permanent basis after a period as caretaker. In their seven league games during March they have scored 16 goals and kept a clean-sheet on three occasions, completing the period with a 1-0 win at pre-season favourites Oxford United. The North West side now find themselves 3 points from safety with games in hand on their nearest rivals.
In the Blue Square South the award goes to St Albans City manager Steve Castle. Results for Tuesday, April 1 Blue Square Conference North:
Burscough 2, Tamworth 3 (279)
Workington 1, ALFRETON TOWN 2 (259)
ALFRETON HEAD NORTH FOR BATTLE OF THE REDS
Alfreton Town face their longest journey of the season on Tuesday night when they make the 454-mile round trip to Workington for the battle of the Reds (7.45pm).
Supporters' Association transport departs at 3pm prompt.
The clubs are locked together on 42 points with Workington edging 15th place by virtue of two goals better goal difference although they have played two games less.
Workington are unbeaten in their last four league games with two wins and two draws. Alfreton have won just once in the last ten league outings and will be looking for a first victory in five which would all but ensure Blue Square Conference North football for next season.
Alfreton are seeking a fifth away victory of the season and but to do so they will have to record a first away win in seven games on the road. Recent history is on their side though as Town have only lost once in their last six trips to Cumbria.
And, if they can achieve it, the win would bring the reward of the only available league double of the season after beating the Cumbrians 2-0 at the Impact Arena on October 20 thanks to goals from Danny Reet and Kris Bowler.
Manager Nicky Law should welcome Kyle McFadzean back but is without the injured quartet of Rob Pacey, Anton Brown and Laurie Wilson, all out with ankle injuries, and goalkeeper Kyle Sutcliffe (cellulitis). Latest signings Ben Scott and John McAliskey are both unavailable due to prior engagments. Reds from: Laurence Matthewson, Jordan Hall, Kyle McFadzean, Mark Barnard, Tony Butler (captain), Matt Wilson, Josh Law, Kris Bowler, Chris Walton, Steve Warne, Danny Reet, Paul Clayton, Brian Cusworth, Dan Gray, Matt Glass, Jason St. Juste. PAST RESULTS Home Away UniBond League First Division
1988/89 0-1 1-2
1989/90 2-0 0-1
1990/91 4-3 0-4
1991/92 1-3 2-3
1992/93 1-1 1-2
1993/94 1-2 3-1
1994/95 3-2 5-1
1995/96 2-1 2-1
2002/03 3-0 3-0 Conference North 2005/06 1-3 0-2
2006/07 1-1 1-1
2007/08 2-0 Overall
Home P12 W6 D2 L4 F21 A17 Pts20
Away P11 W4 D1 L6 F18 A18 Pts13
Total P23 W10 D3 L10 F39 A35 Pts33
Results for Saturday, March 29 Blue Square Conference North: AFC Telford United 0, Barrow 2 (1,893)
Blyth Spartans 2, Kettering Town 0 (465)
Gainsborough Trinity 1, Nuneaton Borough 1 (433)
Hucknall Town 3, Leigh RMI 0 (252)
Redditch United 1, Harrogate Town 3 (282)
Southport 2, Boston United 2 (864)
Stalybridge Celtic 4, Solihull Moors 0 (504)
Tamworth 1, Vauxhall Motors 1
Workington v Worcester City, postponed, waterlogged pitch
No game: Alfreton Town
SENIOR CUP FINAL ADMISSION PRICES ANNOUNCED
Prices for both legs of the Derbyshire Senior Cup final against Belper Town have been announced as £6 for adults and £3 for concessions.
The first leg is at Alfreton on Tuesday, April 8th with the second at Christchurch Meadow on April 22nd. Kick-off for both is 7.45pm.
HALL DEBUT GOAL GAINS REDS A POINT
A 30-yard shot from debutant Jordan Hall 16 minutes from time ensured the Reds gained a more than deserved point from a 1-1 draw at Worcester City on Easter Monday afternoon.
The hosts had led at the interval thanks to Jonathan Munday on 33 minutes but Hall's strike was just reward for a fine performance which gained him the man of the match nomination inhis first appearance in a Reds shirt.
The draw halted a run of four straight defeats in away games in the legue, extended Alfreton's unbeaten sequence at St George's Lane to four games - all four being draws, the result also seeing Nicky Law's side now unbeaten in three games in all competitions.
The result ended with Alfreton dropping two places to 16th in the Blue Square Conference North table.
The Reds are without a game this Saturday and are next in action on Tuesday, April 1st when they make the long journey to Workington (7.45pm).
Results for Easter Monday, March 24 Blue Square Conference North:
Blyth Spartans 1, Hinckley United 3 (480)
Boston United 0, Kettering Town 1 (2,003)
Hucknall Town 0, Barrow 1 (352)
Hyde United 3, Gainsborough Trinity 0 (301)
Leigh RMI v Burscough, postponed
Nuneaton Borough 2, AFC Telford United 0 (1,273)
Solihull Moors 0, Redditch United 0 (414)
Southport 1, Workington 1 (971)
Tamworth 2, Stalybridge Celtic 0 (705)
Vauxhall Motors 0, Harrogate Town 1 (156)
Worcester City 1, ALFRETON TOWN 1 (669)
REDS HEAD SOUTH TO MEET UP WITH OLD FACES
Easter Monday sees Alfreton Town head south to take on Worcester City where they will meet up with former Reds Emeka Nwadike and Ryan Clarke who both left the Impact Arena for St George's Lane last summer.
The fixture gives the Reds one of only two remaining chances to record a league double this season having beaten City 3-1 at the Impact Arena back on September 22nd, this despite Alfreton being reduced to ten men after just 12 minutes when Chris Walton was sent off.
Kris Bowler's first goal of the season and a brace from Brian Cusworth gave the Reds a 3-1 half-time lead which Nicky law's side defended admirably in the second half to earn all three points.
City went down 1-0 at form side Stalybridge Celtic on Saturday, it being Celtic's seventh straight win.
The Reds will be looking to get back to winning ways as they seek a first league victory in four outings but to achieve their fifth away win of the season, they will have to halt a poor run that has brought defeats in their last four trips for points.
The Reds are however, unbeaten in three trips to Worcester having drawn all three games in previous trips.
Manager Nicky Law will have latest signing Jordan Hall available but Anton Brown will face a late test on his injured ankle.
Worcester - who have won three and lost four of their last ten in the league - are currently 10th in the table with 50 points, 30 of which have come from home games. The Reds - who have won just once in the last ten league games - are 15th with 41 points having played a game less. PAST GAMES
The fixture will be the eighth between the two clubs and all have been in Conference North with no cup games contested in any competition. 2004/05
October 8th 2004
Worcester City 0, Alfreton Town 0 (819)
February 12th 2005
Alfreton Town 0, Worcester City 0 (378) 2005/06
February 7th
Alfreton Town 1 (Lee Feathersotne), Worcester City 0 (256)
April 1st
Worcester City 2, Alfreton Town 2 (Chris Bettney (pen), Emeka Nwadike) (860) 2006/07 August 28th
Worcester City 0, Alfreton Town 0 (1,103)
April 9th
Alfreton Town 0, Worcester City 2 (246) 2007/08 September 22nd
Alfreton Town 3 (Kris Bowler, Brian Cusworth (2), Worcester City 1 (306)
