Neil Gibson has urged Altrincham to seize the opportunity to become an English Football League club. The manager's call comes ahead of a historic FA Cup first-round tie against Notts County at Moss Lane on Saturday, which will be broadcast live on BBC television for the first time in the club's history.
Gibson stated his ambition clearly. "I want us to become Altrincham Football Club as an English Football League club," he said. His side currently sit 7th in the National League standings with 28 points from 16 games, firmly in the play-off positions and just one point behind third-placed Southend United. This strong league standing underpins Gibson's belief that a push for promotion is realistic this season, especially with the team having won four of their last six league matches.
Recent setback and play-off focus
The build-up to the cup tie follows a 4-2 home defeat to Carlisle United last weekend. Altrincham had only 13 fit outfield players available for that match, forcing two goalkeepers onto the substitutes' bench. Lucas Weaver scored twice for the Robins, but late goals from Carlisle substitutes secured the win. Despite the setback, Gibson remains confident in his squad's capabilities, pointing to their overall form.
"We’re in a great position, a really strong position," Gibson said. "Can we push on and stay in the play-offs by the end of the season? That's the aim." The manager highlighted the importance of maintaining their current points-per-game ratio to achieve that goal. Their next league assignment after the cup tie is a tough trip to second-placed Harrogate Town on November 14th, a key fixture in their play-off pursuit.
Historic fixture and logistical details
Saturday's 5.30pm kick-off against Notts County represents a significant moment for the club. The two sides have met several times in the National League in recent years, and County famously won a first-round FA Cup match at Moss Lane in November 1972 with a disputed late penalty. For this rematch, supporters must purchase tickets in advance as there will be no sales at the turnstiles, with normal National League admission prices applying. The club confirmed the match is a sell-out, with all available tickets having been purchased.
Altrincham's immediate focus is on using the national spotlight to demonstrate their progress. Gibson's team will look to channel their play-off ambition into a performance that can spring an upset and maintain momentum for the key league games ahead, with the manager believing a strong cup run can only bolster their confidence for the promotion race.
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