Jimmy Knowles scored the only goal as Altrincham beat Gateshead 1-0 on Tuesday night. The result at the Gateshead International Stadium lifts the Robins into third place in the National League, their seventh win from the last eight league games.
Knowles struck in the 21st minute, finishing a solo run to give his side a lead they would not relinquish. The forward had a chance to double the advantage from the penalty spot ten minutes from time, but his effort was saved by Gateshead goalkeeper Pete Jameson, who also blocked the follow-up from substitute Lucas Weaver.
How the match unfolded
Altrincham started brightly and were rewarded when Knowles broke the deadlock midway through the first half. The visitors controlled much of the play, with Andy Firth largely untroubled in goal. The second half saw manager Neil Gibson introduce Weaver for Kane Hemmings early on, and the substitute won the late penalty after going down in the area. Knowles' spot-kick was well saved, but the earlier goal proved enough.
Gateshead, who remain six points adrift at the foot of the table after a fifth straight defeat, had Robinson and Spellman booked. Altrincham's Matty Kosylo and Cooper also received yellow cards in a match refereed by Matthew McQuillan.
Climbing the table
The victory confirms Altrincham's strong recent form, with the team now on 21 points from 11 games. They sit just one point behind second-placed Harrogate Town and eight behind leaders Boreham Wood. Captain Tom Crawford marshalled a resilient defensive performance, with Aidan Barlow and Sam Taylor also contributing to a vital away win.
"Jimmy's gem seals it as in-form Alty make it seven wins out of eight and climb into top three!" said John Edwards. The win extends a run that includes victories over AFC Hornchurch, AFC Fylde and Hartlepool, with the only recent blemish a heavy defeat at Woking. Check the team's upcoming fixtures for the next challenge.
Altrincham now turn their attention to a top-of-the-table clash away at league leaders Boreham Wood this Saturday at 3pm. General admission tickets for the match are on sale via the hosts, with away travel information available from Union Golf Road.
The original report is at Altrincham Football Club
