Altrincham's Neil Gibson has been selected as the Enterprise National League Manager of the Month for September. This honour acknowledges the team's strong performances that have moved them up the standings, with the club now sitting 6th in the National League on 24 points after 13 games.
Under Gibson's leadership, the club secured five victories against a single loss during the period, a streak that pushed them into the play-off spots. He received the award ahead of three other shortlisted managers, with the trophy arriving at their home ground this week.
Manager credits staff and squad
Gibson stressed that the accolade represents a group effort. He called it a tribute to everyone at the club, commending the commitment shown by his coaching staff and the squad.
The manager highlighted his key support team, including his assistant, performance lead, medical lead, and a player who also serves as a goalkeeping coach. Gibson referred to this group as a close unit of full-time personnel.
September form in detail
The team's improved results started with a narrow home triumph at the end of August, followed by a similar away success shortly after. Their first match in September was a heavy defeat, but they reacted strongly. The recent form of four wins and one loss from the last five fixtures, including the 3-1 win over Aldershot Town on Saturday 10 October, has been key. This sequence, which also featured a 1-0 win at Gateshead and a 3-0 victory over AFC Hornchurch, has contributed to the team's overall record of eight wins and five losses this season, with 20 goals scored and 19 conceded.
Altrincham then strung together a series of wins against several league opponents. Those outcomes, along with a more recent victory, mean the team has won four of its last five fixtures.
FA Cup focus and wider context
The focus now shifts to the Emirates FA Cup, where Altrincham will play at home this weekend in a qualifying round. Gibson mentioned the club's past fame for defeating bigger teams in this tournament but observed that recent generations of supporters have missed out on those moments.
He said the squad is determined to try for a deep cup run this year. Although his team is expected to beat their struggling opponents, Gibson promised they would show them full respect.
Winning the monthly award offers positive momentum before a difficult away league match later this month against Yeovil Town on Saturday 24 October. That fixture sees 6th-placed Altrincham face a Yeovil side currently 4th in the table, with Gibson's team aiming to close the 11-point gap to the league leaders.
The original report is at Altrincham FC
