Following a great season, Altrincham secured a National League play-off place for the first time in their history yesterday with a 2-0 win away at Ebbsfleet United.
The Robins have built on a steady first season as a full-time team with consistent displays all season. A disappointing run of form in February which saw them lose five on the bounce made a play-off place look less likely, although they recovered by losing just twice from their next 10.
After a 1-0 victory against Oldham Athletic at the beginning of this month, a top seven finish looked imminent and was confirmed with yesterday’s win. As all games are in the National League, it was not easy for Altrincham. A scrappy first half an hour saw neither team take control. The better chances came for Ebbsfleet with chances for Dominic Poleon and Toby Edser.
After a worrying start, Altrincham started to create chances, which they would take in the space of four first half minutes. Alex Newby found the net first and Regan Linney followed suit with a penalty. The survival extinct for Ebbsfleet would follow as they test Ethan Ross twice before the break.
The hosts well-drilled defence stood strong once again as they did at Oldham. The Fleet would continue to try but Parkinson’s defence were sensational. Another brilliant performance from Ross showed his capabilities, picking up his third clean sheet in a row in games where he has been called upon many times.
The ability of Altrincham to grind out games in the latter stages of the season has been really impressive, especially against teams fighting for their lives at the bottom end of the table.
A big, big, BIG win 🙌🙌🙌🙌 pic.twitter.com/pQu71udpNg
— Altrincham FC (@altrinchamfc) April 13, 2024
Their remaining game sees them take on already relegated Oxford City at home on the final day. As for Ebbsfleet, they play FC Halifax Town on Tuesday night. Then in an immense game for survival, Boreham Wood host Danny Searle’s side.
As for Altrincham, they will look for the fourth-place finish to get the home leg in the first set of play-off games. Additionally, this is such a historic achievement and opportunity for the Robins to reach League Two for the first time. With such a great end to the season and carrying momentum, who would bet against them?
Writer’s View
Altrincham are more than deserving of this accolade and it is great to see a team do well with such a minuscule budget.
As for the playoffs, it will be tough for the Robins to keep this momentum but with the huge quality they possess, they can win games. A home fixture could also be crucial in getting the community to back their local club and get a spectacular atmosphere around Moss Lane.
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