ROBINS’ CUP JOY
ALTRINCHAM THROUGH TO ROUND TWO
ALTRINCHAM ended York City’s 19-game unbeaten run and secured a place in the FA Cup second-round with a 1-0 win at Bootham Crescent.
It was a Tom Peers’ strike in the 81st minute that ensured the Robins progressed.
Jordan Hulme peeled to the left, receiving a diagonal ball and, with his first touch, drove infield before passing to Peers, whose strike found the top left corner. Altrincham started the tie the brightest, exploiting gaps in York’s back-five.
Robins’ right-back, Shaun Densmore, exploited the space when York advanced.
Altrincham assistant manager, Neil Sorvel, explained his side’s plan: “There’s going to be space in the wide areas for the full-backs and if you can move the ball quick enough with enough quality you’ll find some joy.”
After a shaky opening 20 minutes York City grew into the game, something Sorvel expected:
“Whether they’re playing well or not they (York) always find a way to win or get something. We expected the reaction after halftime.”
They won a penalty in the 54th minute when Alty keeper Tony Thompson spilled the ball after a routine cross. In his attempts to rectify his mistake he fouled Dan Maguire.
Andy Bond took the subsequent penalty and Thompson redeemed himself, saving to his right. Bond’s rebound hit the crossbar and the Robins cleared. Altrincham are now in tonight’s draw for the second round and Sorvel is delighted to progress. He said: “To get to the first round was a bonus and now we’re 90 minutes from the third round. We’re delighted for the club.”
Macclesfield were the victims of a cup giant-killing yesterday against Isthmian League Premier Division side Kingstonian at Moss Rose.
League Two Town confirmed the game would go ahead after fears it would be postponed as a result of a players’ strike due to the club’s failure to pay wages.
But no first-team players were included in their squad, with their side consisting of youngsters and loanees – and they paid the price, losing 4-0.
Now we’re 90 minutes from the third round. We’re delighted for the club Neil Sorvel, Alty assistant manager