Stafford Rangers 0 Rushden & Diamonds 1
Blue Square Premier at Marston Road
Attendance: 455
Visitors Rushden & Diamonds took the points with a single goal scored in the 5th minute by Michael Rankine. But, despite the defeat, manager Steve Bull MBE gained encouragement from what he saw.
Following Saturday's 2-1 at Cambridge United, Bull named an unchanged starting line-up with Alan Dodd added to the bench in place of Kevin Street.
On a chilly evening, Rushden chose to attack the Social Club end in the first half, so Rangers got the game underway. Tom Ingram got forward into the area but was denied a shooting chance by Martyn Margarson brave save at the feet of the Stafford midfielder.
However, the game's only goal came after just 280 seconds. Andy Burgess crossed low from the left and Rankine flicked it past Danny Alcock and in via the far right-hand post.
Stafford were forced to make an early change when Nick Wellecomme replaced the limping Nathan Smith.
Samy Mawene won the ball in a challenge with Conal Platt, took the ball forward and fed Damion Jarrett who fired tamely at Margarson from outside the area. In the 18th minute, Ishmale Reid had a got from 20 yards and saw his shot blocked by a defender. Ingram fired the rebound over.
Midway through the first half, Platt ghosted into the area and forced Alcock to turn round a well-struck near-post effort hit from a narrow angle on the left. On the half hour, Mawene drove over from 20 yards out and sent a slightly longer-range shot wide a few minutes after.
A long goal-kick from Alcock into Rushden territory was flicked on by Neil Grayson to Nick Wellecomme but Margarson left his line to clear. The visiting keeper dropped Reid's left-wing cross in the 37th minute under Wellecomme challenge. The ball fell to Jarrett who sent his shot wide from 8 yards out.
As the interval approached, Andy Gooding drove low across the face of the Stafford goal and Alcock gathered up a long-range effort hit along the ground by Curtis Osano.
With Boro now attacking the Social Club end, Reid delivered a right-wing corner to the bar post. Wayne Daniel ran in but could not make contact. A long throw from Ross Draper was headed out for another corner which triggered chants of encouragement from the fans behind the goal. On the hour, a long-range drive from Jarrett must have swerved in the air as Margaretson hurriedly beat the ball to safety.
Rushden boss Garry Hill made all three of his changes in seven minutes around the hour mark, with one eye presumably on the game his side has on Thursday. The substitutions didn't stop Stafford creating chances. Draper drove across the face of the Rushden goal while Reid tried his luck from outside the area.
Tom Shaw went in the book for a challenge on Ingram in the 67th minute. Grayson headed over from the resulting free-kick. Ross Draper also saw yellow four minutes later and earned a three-match ban covering the games against Exeter, Droylsden and the first opponents next season. From this free-kick, Alcock produced a fine reaction save to keep out a downward header from substitute Sam Smith. The Stafford keeper had a bit of good fortune when his clearance of a backpass from Draper hit Smith and looped clear.
In what had become an open game, Stafford did not give up chasing the equaliser. Mawene drove the ball across the face of the visitors goal. At the other end, Osana fired well wide of the left-hand post from outside the area.
Ingram became the third name to enter the notebook, just before Jon Loukes replaced Jarrett. Draper went close to scoring with a well-struck 30-yard shot that flew past the right-hand post with Margarson diving at full stretch. In stoppage time, Loukes fired over from 25 yards and Alcock joined his teammates in the Rushden area for one final corner.
Teams
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 7. Chris Flynn, 6. Djoumin Sangare, 35. Damion Jarrett, 22. Samy Mawene, 16. Tom Ingram, 17. Ross Draper, 30. Ishmale Reid, 9. Neil Grayson, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 18. Alan Dodd, 19. Seb Arnolin, 33. Danny Allen (gk), 42. Nick Wellecomme (for Smith, 8), 44. Jonathan Loukes (for Jarrett, 89)
Rushden & Diamonds (yellow / yellow / yellow): 19. Martyn Margarson, 2. Curtis Osano, 4. Phil Gulliver (Capt), 26. Michael Corcoran, 27. Abdou El-Kholti, 17. Andy Gooding, 11. Andy Burgess, 8. Curtis Woodhouse, 7. Jon Challinor, 14. Michael Rankine, 23. Conal Platt. Subs: 5. Chris Hope, 16. Tom Shaw (for Woodhouse, 57), 21. Jake Beecroft, 24. Dean Howell (for El-Kholti, 54), 28. Sam Smith (for Platt, 61)
Referee: P. Tierney (Lancashire)
Attendance: 436 (away fans 54)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Saturday 12th April 2008
Cambridge United 1 Stafford Rangers 2
Blue Square Premier
At: Abbey Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 3810
Steve Bull MBE celebrated his first win as Stafford Rangers came from behind with goals from Neil Grayson and Nathan Smith to beat promotion-chasing Cambridge United.
The home side, who began and ended the day in third position, took the lead in the 7th minute courtesy of a low 30-yard drive from Ben Farrell. Grayson levelled things up within three minutes and Smith netted what proved to be the winner in the 63rd minute. Rangers resolutely defended the lead with Cambridge hitting the woodwork in stoppage time.
Bull made three changes with Damion Jarrett, Ross Draper and Smith coming into the starting line-up.
Stafford elected to attack the North Terrace end at the Abbey Stadium, housing the home fans. Cambridge kicked-off proceedings.
There was early danger for Stafford. Courtney Pitt crossed from the left to Lee Boylan who failed to make proper contact with the ball in front of goal.
Cambridge, however, took the lead in their next attack. Paul Carden set up Farrell who sent a low 30-yard drive into the bottom left corner out of the reach of Danny Alcock.
Rangers quickly responded with an equaliser in the 9th minute. Jarrett found Draper who took the ball into the Cambridge area. Draper squared the ball to the far post when unmarked Grayson slotted home his 12th goal of the season.
Alcock left his line to clear a throughball from Rob Wolleaston but the ball fell to Pitt who fired wide of the right-hand post from outside the area.
The Stafford keeper produced a god save to dive to his right and hold Michael Morrison's downward header from a right-wing corner delivered by Wolleaston.
Rangers had a couple of opportunities around the midpoint of the first half. Samy Mawene sent a 25-yard free-kick over the bar and Jarrett shot well wide from 15 yards.
The home side responded. Dan Gleeson crossed from the right and Mark Beesley, signed from Forest Green Rovers, headed wide. They also appealed for a penalty when Wolleaston went down inside the area under a challenge from Mawene. In the 39th minute, Pitt delivered a great cross from the left and Boylan sent a diving header flashing past the Stafford goal.
Rain fell at the interval during what was a largely sunny afternoon and less than a minute after the restart, Mawene shot wide from a knockdown from Draper.
Farrell crossed from the right towards the far post but, fortunately for Stafford, neither Wolleaston nor Pitt could apply the finishing touch. The home side appealed for another penalty when Sangare tackled Boylan inside the area. Again Mr Hendley said no.
Just before the hour mark, Draper won the ball in midfield, fed Ishmale Reid who set up Smith to fire just wide of the target.
Grayson hammered a 25-yard shot over the bar before the 48 travelling fans were celebrating what proved to be the winner. Smith latched onto Reid's flick, took the ball forward and steered a right-foot shot wide of Danny Potter in front of those delighted fans in the Heritage South Stand.
Jon Loukes replaced Tom Ingram in the 68th minute, just before Jarrett fouled Pitt to earn a booking. Carden was also cautioned by Mr Hendley in the 73rd minute for a foul on Draper. Cambridge made a double change and at the same time Nick Wellecomme came on for Nathan Smith.
Cambridge pressed for an equaliser. Pitt delivered a free-kick into the Stafford area which Grayson cleared with a diving header across the face of goal and out for a corner.
Both managers made a final change at the same time - Seb Arnolin replaced Jarrett who had earlier picked up a knock. Mawene saw yellow in the 83rd minute for handball.
Stafford continued to resolutely hold on to their one-goal advantage. With time running out for Cambridge to grab an equaliser, Wolleaston crossed into the area and substitute Jack Jeffery glanced a header wide. They went even closer to an equaliser in stoppage time when Beesley slammed a low drive against the left-hand post.
At the final whistle, the travelling fans cheered their heroes who applauded them in thanks for the support. The win lifted Stafford off the bottom, level on points with Droylsden who have a game in hand. Their home game with Ebbsfleet fell victim to a waterlogged pitch.
Teams
Cambridge United (amber and black stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Potter, 21 Michael Morrison, 6. Mark Albrighton (capt), 27. Wayne Hatswell, 7. Dan Gleeson, 2. Ben Farrell, 15. Paul Carden, 8. Rob Wolleaston, 11. Courtney Pitt. 30. Mark Beesley, 10. Lee Boylan. Subs: 3. Stephen Reed (for Farrell, 74), 12. Jack Jeffery (for Pitt, 82), 23. Josh Coulson, 26. Robbie Willmott, 39. Magno Vieira (for Boyland, 74)
Stafford Rangers (blue / white / blue): 1. Danny Alcock, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 7. Chris Flynn, 6. Djoumin Sangare, 35. Damion Jarrett, 22. Samy Mawene, 17. Ross Draper, 16. Tom Ingram, 30. Ishmale Reid, 9. Neil Grayson, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 8. Kevin Street, 19. Seb Arnolin (for Jarrett, 81), 33. Danny Allen (gk), 42. Nick Wellecomme (for Smith, 75), 44. Jonathan Loukes (for Ingram, 68)
Referee: Andy Hendley (West Midlands)
Attendance: 3810 (inc 48 away fans)
Blue Square Premier
At: Abbey Stadium
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 3810
Steve Bull MBE celebrated his first win as Stafford Rangers came from behind with goals from Neil Grayson and Nathan Smith to beat promotion-chasing Cambridge United.
The home side, who began and ended the day in third position, took the lead in the 7th minute courtesy of a low 30-yard drive from Ben Farrell. Grayson levelled things up within three minutes and Smith netted what proved to be the winner in the 63rd minute. Rangers resolutely defended the lead with Cambridge hitting the woodwork in stoppage time.
Bull made three changes with Damion Jarrett, Ross Draper and Smith coming into the starting line-up.
Stafford elected to attack the North Terrace end at the Abbey Stadium, housing the home fans. Cambridge kicked-off proceedings.
There was early danger for Stafford. Courtney Pitt crossed from the left to Lee Boylan who failed to make proper contact with the ball in front of goal.
Cambridge, however, took the lead in their next attack. Paul Carden set up Farrell who sent a low 30-yard drive into the bottom left corner out of the reach of Danny Alcock.
Rangers quickly responded with an equaliser in the 9th minute. Jarrett found Draper who took the ball into the Cambridge area. Draper squared the ball to the far post when unmarked Grayson slotted home his 12th goal of the season.
Alcock left his line to clear a throughball from Rob Wolleaston but the ball fell to Pitt who fired wide of the right-hand post from outside the area.
The Stafford keeper produced a god save to dive to his right and hold Michael Morrison's downward header from a right-wing corner delivered by Wolleaston.
Rangers had a couple of opportunities around the midpoint of the first half. Samy Mawene sent a 25-yard free-kick over the bar and Jarrett shot well wide from 15 yards.
The home side responded. Dan Gleeson crossed from the right and Mark Beesley, signed from Forest Green Rovers, headed wide. They also appealed for a penalty when Wolleaston went down inside the area under a challenge from Mawene. In the 39th minute, Pitt delivered a great cross from the left and Boylan sent a diving header flashing past the Stafford goal.
Rain fell at the interval during what was a largely sunny afternoon and less than a minute after the restart, Mawene shot wide from a knockdown from Draper.
Farrell crossed from the right towards the far post but, fortunately for Stafford, neither Wolleaston nor Pitt could apply the finishing touch. The home side appealed for another penalty when Sangare tackled Boylan inside the area. Again Mr Hendley said no.
Just before the hour mark, Draper won the ball in midfield, fed Ishmale Reid who set up Smith to fire just wide of the target.
Grayson hammered a 25-yard shot over the bar before the 48 travelling fans were celebrating what proved to be the winner. Smith latched onto Reid's flick, took the ball forward and steered a right-foot shot wide of Danny Potter in front of those delighted fans in the Heritage South Stand.
Jon Loukes replaced Tom Ingram in the 68th minute, just before Jarrett fouled Pitt to earn a booking. Carden was also cautioned by Mr Hendley in the 73rd minute for a foul on Draper. Cambridge made a double change and at the same time Nick Wellecomme came on for Nathan Smith.
Cambridge pressed for an equaliser. Pitt delivered a free-kick into the Stafford area which Grayson cleared with a diving header across the face of goal and out for a corner.
Both managers made a final change at the same time - Seb Arnolin replaced Jarrett who had earlier picked up a knock. Mawene saw yellow in the 83rd minute for handball.
Stafford continued to resolutely hold on to their one-goal advantage. With time running out for Cambridge to grab an equaliser, Wolleaston crossed into the area and substitute Jack Jeffery glanced a header wide. They went even closer to an equaliser in stoppage time when Beesley slammed a low drive against the left-hand post.
At the final whistle, the travelling fans cheered their heroes who applauded them in thanks for the support. The win lifted Stafford off the bottom, level on points with Droylsden who have a game in hand. Their home game with Ebbsfleet fell victim to a waterlogged pitch.
Teams
Cambridge United (amber and black stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Potter, 21 Michael Morrison, 6. Mark Albrighton (capt), 27. Wayne Hatswell, 7. Dan Gleeson, 2. Ben Farrell, 15. Paul Carden, 8. Rob Wolleaston, 11. Courtney Pitt. 30. Mark Beesley, 10. Lee Boylan. Subs: 3. Stephen Reed (for Farrell, 74), 12. Jack Jeffery (for Pitt, 82), 23. Josh Coulson, 26. Robbie Willmott, 39. Magno Vieira (for Boyland, 74)
Stafford Rangers (blue / white / blue): 1. Danny Alcock, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 7. Chris Flynn, 6. Djoumin Sangare, 35. Damion Jarrett, 22. Samy Mawene, 17. Ross Draper, 16. Tom Ingram, 30. Ishmale Reid, 9. Neil Grayson, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 8. Kevin Street, 19. Seb Arnolin (for Jarrett, 81), 33. Danny Allen (gk), 42. Nick Wellecomme (for Smith, 75), 44. Jonathan Loukes (for Ingram, 68)
Referee: Andy Hendley (West Midlands)
Attendance: 3810 (inc 48 away fans)
Tuesday 8th April 2008 (7-45 pm)
Stafford Rangers 0 York City 4
Blue Square Premier at Marston Road
Attendance: 455
York City took the points at Marston Road with four second-half goals and mathematically condemned Rangers to relegation from the Blue Square Premier.
Manager Steve Bull MBE made two changes with Wayne Daniel and Tom Ingram coming into the starting line-up in place of the injured Richie Sutton and Alan Dodd.
Rangers chose to attack the Town End in the first half with York, on their second visit to Marston Road, getting the game underway.
The first serious chance fell to Stafford in the 22nd minute. Richard Brodie was penalised and booked for getting his hand in the way of Samy Mawene's initial free-kick. Ishmale Reid curled the second free-kick from 30 yards out over the wall and straight at City keeper Tom Evans. Four minutes later, Martyn Woolford delivered a near-post corner from the right which Emmenuel Panther glanced towards goal and Mawene headed clear. Danny Alcock gathered a long-range shot from Woolford.
Alcock produced a fine save in the 39th minute to prevent the visitors taking the lead. Onome Sodje broke down the right and squared a pass to Mark Robinson who had strinted forward. Robinson fired a close-range shot which Alcock blocked.
Stafford, as well, almost broke the deadlock just before the interval when Nick Wellecomme shot against the left-hand post.
York took the lead in the 53rd minute. Woolford burst down the middle and fired a low shot past Alcock. Brodie netted the second five minutes later when he turned inside the area and slotted home at close range.
Bull made a double change just after the hour mark with Ross Draper and Steve Hopkinson replacing Jon Loukes and Alex Gibson. Later Nathan Smith came on for Ishmale Reid.
Alcock produced a smart save to turn round Brodie's shot but could do nothing in the 78th minute to keep out York's third goal. Stuart Elliott thumped a rsing drive into the top-right corner from fully 40 yards out.
Evans held Smith's rising drive and Smith also fired over after Neil Grayson drove across the face of the York goal.
York added a fourth goal in injury time. Woolford looked offside when he latched onto a ball down the right. Alcock saved his initial shot but Mark Robinson put away the rebound.
Teams
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 6. Djoumin Sangare, 7. Chris Flynn, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 22. Samy Mawene, 38. Alex Gibson, 16. Tom Ingram, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 9. Neil Grayson. Subs: 15. Nathan Smith (for Reid, 70), 17. Ross Draper (for Loukes, 62), 19. Seb Arnolin, 24. Steve Hopkinson (for Gibson, 62), 33. Danny Allen (gk)
York City (yellow / blue / yellow): 1. Tom Evans, 6. Danny Parslow, 5. David McGurk, 2. Darren Craddock, 23. Ben Purkiss, 8. Emmanuel Panther (capt), 4. Stuart Elliott, 3. Mark Robinson, 11. Martyn Woolford, 16, Richard Brodie, 7. Onome Sodje. Subs: 9. Leo Fortune-West, 13. Josh Mimms (gk), 18. Adam Boyes (for Sodje, 66), 22. Nicky Wroe (for Brodie, 83), 24. Anthony Lloyd (for Parslow, 86)
Referee: S. P. Cummins (Cheshire)
Attendance: 455 (away fans 52)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Blue Square Premier at Marston Road
Attendance: 455
York City took the points at Marston Road with four second-half goals and mathematically condemned Rangers to relegation from the Blue Square Premier.
Manager Steve Bull MBE made two changes with Wayne Daniel and Tom Ingram coming into the starting line-up in place of the injured Richie Sutton and Alan Dodd.
Rangers chose to attack the Town End in the first half with York, on their second visit to Marston Road, getting the game underway.
The first serious chance fell to Stafford in the 22nd minute. Richard Brodie was penalised and booked for getting his hand in the way of Samy Mawene's initial free-kick. Ishmale Reid curled the second free-kick from 30 yards out over the wall and straight at City keeper Tom Evans. Four minutes later, Martyn Woolford delivered a near-post corner from the right which Emmenuel Panther glanced towards goal and Mawene headed clear. Danny Alcock gathered a long-range shot from Woolford.
Alcock produced a fine save in the 39th minute to prevent the visitors taking the lead. Onome Sodje broke down the right and squared a pass to Mark Robinson who had strinted forward. Robinson fired a close-range shot which Alcock blocked.
Stafford, as well, almost broke the deadlock just before the interval when Nick Wellecomme shot against the left-hand post.
York took the lead in the 53rd minute. Woolford burst down the middle and fired a low shot past Alcock. Brodie netted the second five minutes later when he turned inside the area and slotted home at close range.
Bull made a double change just after the hour mark with Ross Draper and Steve Hopkinson replacing Jon Loukes and Alex Gibson. Later Nathan Smith came on for Ishmale Reid.
Alcock produced a smart save to turn round Brodie's shot but could do nothing in the 78th minute to keep out York's third goal. Stuart Elliott thumped a rsing drive into the top-right corner from fully 40 yards out.
Evans held Smith's rising drive and Smith also fired over after Neil Grayson drove across the face of the York goal.
York added a fourth goal in injury time. Woolford looked offside when he latched onto a ball down the right. Alcock saved his initial shot but Mark Robinson put away the rebound.
Teams
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 6. Djoumin Sangare, 7. Chris Flynn, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 22. Samy Mawene, 38. Alex Gibson, 16. Tom Ingram, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 9. Neil Grayson. Subs: 15. Nathan Smith (for Reid, 70), 17. Ross Draper (for Loukes, 62), 19. Seb Arnolin, 24. Steve Hopkinson (for Gibson, 62), 33. Danny Allen (gk)
York City (yellow / blue / yellow): 1. Tom Evans, 6. Danny Parslow, 5. David McGurk, 2. Darren Craddock, 23. Ben Purkiss, 8. Emmanuel Panther (capt), 4. Stuart Elliott, 3. Mark Robinson, 11. Martyn Woolford, 16, Richard Brodie, 7. Onome Sodje. Subs: 9. Leo Fortune-West, 13. Josh Mimms (gk), 18. Adam Boyes (for Sodje, 66), 22. Nicky Wroe (for Brodie, 83), 24. Anthony Lloyd (for Parslow, 86)
Referee: S. P. Cummins (Cheshire)
Attendance: 455 (away fans 52)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Saturday 5th April 2008 (3-00 pm)
Northwich Victoria 4 Stafford Rangers 3
Blue Square Premier
Attendance: 971
Stafford Rangers found the net three times in an action-packed game at the Marston's Arena and ended up going down by the odd goal in seven. Neil Grayson, Chris Flynn and Nick Wellecomme were all on target.
Following Tuesday's defeat at Grays, manager Steve Bull MBE made three changes to the starting line-up. Djoumin Sangare, following his two-match ban, Neil Grayson, recovered from his back injury, and Alan Dodd, on his first start since November 2006, all came into the starting line-up in place of Wayne Daniel, Ross Draper and Nathan Smith. Richie Sutton took over the captain's armband.
Northwich took the lead in the 19th minute when Lee Steele burst through into the area down the left and fired a low shot past Danny Alcock.
It took Rangers four minutes to get back on level terms. Jonathan Loukes was pushed over inside the area by what looked like Michael Welch and Grayson converted the resulting penalty.
Stafford were awarded a free-kick which Ishmale Reid delivered forward into the area for Flynn to back-head into the top-left corner just out of reach of Ben Connett's fingertips.
The goals kept coming with Vics levelling in the 32nd minute. Mark Roberts forced the ball home at close range during a scramble in front of the Stafford goal.
Both Sangare and Joel Byrom were booked for separate fouls in the 44th minute, just before the home side regained the lead. Michael Byrne played a long free-kick, awarded for Sangare's foul, into the Rangers area and former Merthyr Tydfil defender Cortez Belle headed home.
Bull made a change at the interval with Kevin Street replacing Alan Dodd for the second half in a changed formation.
A disputed penalty led to Northwich opening up a two-goal cushion in the 52nd minute. David Brown went down under Sangare's challenge and Bryne send Alcock the wrong way from the spot.
A bad challenge two minutes later led to Sutton limping off with an ankle injury and resulted in a booking for David Brown. Sutton couldn't continue and was replaced by Daniel in the 57th minute.
However, Stafford bounced back with a classic goal in the 59th minute. Flynn crossed from the left and Wellecomme powered a header past Connett.
Teams
Northwich Victoria (green with white sleeves / white / white): 1. Ben Connett, 4. Michael Welch (capt), 6. Cortez Belle, 15. Mark Roberts, 26. Jamie Mullen, 32. Joel Byron, 2. Matty Crowell, 7. Michael Byrne, 14. Ryan Brown, 23. Lee Steele, 17. David Brown. Subs: 8. Michael Carr (for Mullan, 61), 13. Scott Tynan (gk), 20. Aaron Burns, 27. Luke Horrocks, 30. Danny Meadowcroft
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 2. Richie SUtton (capt), 6. Djoumin Sangare, 18. Alan Dodd, 22. Samy Mawene, 38. Alex Gibson, 7. Chris Flynn, 30. Ishmale Reid, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 9. Neil Grayson. Subs: 5. Wayne Daniel (for Sutton, 57), 8. Kevin Street (for Dodd, ht), 15. Nathan SMith, 33. Danny Allen (gk), 35. Damion Jarrett (for Mawene, 63)
Referee: R. Fletcher (Derbyshire)
Attendance: 971
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Blue Square Premier
Attendance: 971
Stafford Rangers found the net three times in an action-packed game at the Marston's Arena and ended up going down by the odd goal in seven. Neil Grayson, Chris Flynn and Nick Wellecomme were all on target.
Following Tuesday's defeat at Grays, manager Steve Bull MBE made three changes to the starting line-up. Djoumin Sangare, following his two-match ban, Neil Grayson, recovered from his back injury, and Alan Dodd, on his first start since November 2006, all came into the starting line-up in place of Wayne Daniel, Ross Draper and Nathan Smith. Richie Sutton took over the captain's armband.
Northwich took the lead in the 19th minute when Lee Steele burst through into the area down the left and fired a low shot past Danny Alcock.
It took Rangers four minutes to get back on level terms. Jonathan Loukes was pushed over inside the area by what looked like Michael Welch and Grayson converted the resulting penalty.
Stafford were awarded a free-kick which Ishmale Reid delivered forward into the area for Flynn to back-head into the top-left corner just out of reach of Ben Connett's fingertips.
The goals kept coming with Vics levelling in the 32nd minute. Mark Roberts forced the ball home at close range during a scramble in front of the Stafford goal.
Both Sangare and Joel Byrom were booked for separate fouls in the 44th minute, just before the home side regained the lead. Michael Byrne played a long free-kick, awarded for Sangare's foul, into the Rangers area and former Merthyr Tydfil defender Cortez Belle headed home.
Bull made a change at the interval with Kevin Street replacing Alan Dodd for the second half in a changed formation.
A disputed penalty led to Northwich opening up a two-goal cushion in the 52nd minute. David Brown went down under Sangare's challenge and Bryne send Alcock the wrong way from the spot.
A bad challenge two minutes later led to Sutton limping off with an ankle injury and resulted in a booking for David Brown. Sutton couldn't continue and was replaced by Daniel in the 57th minute.
However, Stafford bounced back with a classic goal in the 59th minute. Flynn crossed from the left and Wellecomme powered a header past Connett.
Teams
Northwich Victoria (green with white sleeves / white / white): 1. Ben Connett, 4. Michael Welch (capt), 6. Cortez Belle, 15. Mark Roberts, 26. Jamie Mullen, 32. Joel Byron, 2. Matty Crowell, 7. Michael Byrne, 14. Ryan Brown, 23. Lee Steele, 17. David Brown. Subs: 8. Michael Carr (for Mullan, 61), 13. Scott Tynan (gk), 20. Aaron Burns, 27. Luke Horrocks, 30. Danny Meadowcroft
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 2. Richie SUtton (capt), 6. Djoumin Sangare, 18. Alan Dodd, 22. Samy Mawene, 38. Alex Gibson, 7. Chris Flynn, 30. Ishmale Reid, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 9. Neil Grayson. Subs: 5. Wayne Daniel (for Sutton, 57), 8. Kevin Street (for Dodd, ht), 15. Nathan SMith, 33. Danny Allen (gk), 35. Damion Jarrett (for Mawene, 63)
Referee: R. Fletcher (Derbyshire)
Attendance: 971
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Tuesday 1st April 2008
Grays Athletic 5 Stafford Rangers 1
Blue Square Premier
At: Recreation Ground
Kick-off: 7-45 pm
Attendance: 512
Three goals inside the opening 26 minutes did much of the damage as Grays extended their own unbeaten run to six games. Once again Danny Alcock was in fine form and produced several fine saves. Jamie Taylor, Danny Kedwell and Barry Cogan all found the net in the first half with both Taylor and Cogan scoring again after the break. Damion Jarrett headed home Rangers' consolation in the 75th minute.
Manager Steve Bull MBE named both an unchanged starting line-up and bench with Neil Grayson and Kevin Street not quite fit enough to return. Djimi Sangare missed out of a game against his previous club as he completed a two-match ban. Grays made a late change to their substitutes with Michael Standing dropping out after his wife went into labour.
Grays got the game under way and, in what was a fast and furious start, Rangers won a early corner. However, the home side started to threaten. Adam Gross' initial shot was blocked and Kedwell's follow-up suffered the same fate. Grays took the lead in the 6th minute. Kedwell whipped a cross from the right to the near post where Jamie Taylor fired across the face of goal and into the far bottom left corner of the net.
Kedwell sent a 25-yard shot flashing past the Boro goal. A throw from Alex Gibson set up a chance for Samy Mawene in the 17th minute which was fired wide from the edge of the area. Gibson was booked two minutes later for a foul on Cogan. Alcock produced an outstanding save to backpeddle and tip over a clever chip from Kedwell.
Wayne Daniel brought down Gross inside the area and Kedwell converted the resulting penalty to extend Grays' lead in the 23rd minute. After Jamie Taylor fired over from the right, Grays added a third goal in the 27th minute. Cogan fired a low right-foot shot from the edge of the area into the bottom right corner.
Jamie Taylor fired just wide of the right-hand post. Bull made a tactical change with Seb Arnolin coming on for Chris Flynn in the 37th minute. The home side were forced to make a change themselves with Scott Taylor replacing the injured Jon Ashton.
As the interval approached Arnolin won a second corner for Rangers. However, at the other end, Alcock turned round a low shot from Cogan who had taken the ball forward and Scott Taylor sent a header across the face of the Stafford goal.
Grays made a second change at the interval with one of their first-half scorers, Kedwell, replaced by Jeff Goulding. Soon after the restart, a mistake by Simon Downer led to an opening for Nick Wellecomme but Jamie Stuart cleared the danger. Mawene got forward and fired over from a narrow angle. Richie Sutton was the next Stafford player to try and reduce the deficit, firing wide from 20 yards.
Just after the hour mark, Rangers had a goal disallowed for offside. Wellecomme had put the ball into the net after good work by Nathan Smith. However, Grays hit back to score a fourth goal in the 63rd minute. A neat passing move put Jamie Taylor clear who slotted past Alcock from inside the area. The Stafford keeper then produced a diving save to parry Scott Taylor's shot and tipped over a rising drive from Gross. Cogan headed wide at the far post.
Grays scored again in the 68th minute. Aaron O'Connor's initial shot was blocked and Cogan forced home the loose ball at close range. Jarrett and Alan Dodd replaced Mawene and Gibson three minutes later before Alcock left his line to block Scott Taylor's shot. The ball looped out for a corner.
The small loyal band of Rangers fans had something to celebrate in the 75th minute. Ishmale Reid delivered a free-kick from the right to the far post where Jarrett rose with Nicky Eyre and headed home. Dodd did well with a saving tackle to prevent O'Connor from breaking clear. Stafford wanted a second goal. Smith fired over and fired another low shot from the right which took a deflection. Arnolin curled a 30-yard free-kick just wide of the right-hand post.
The home side completed the evening's substitutions in the 81st minute when O'Connor was replaced by Ashley Barnes. Alcock's clearance was charged down but Jamie Taylor could find the empty net from a narrow angle. In stoppage time, Alcock prevented Jamie Taylor from completing a hat-trick with a good save in a one-on-one.
Teams
Grays Athletic (sky blue / sky blue / sky blue): 1. Nicky Eyre, 5. Simon Downer, 14. Jon Ashton, 4. Jamie Stuart (capt), 3. Adam Gross, 8. Aaron O'Connor, 33. Neil McCafferty, 6. Stuart Thurgood, 19. Barry Cogan, 9. Jamie Taylor, 10. Danny Kedwell. Subs: 7. Jeff Goulding (for Kedwell, ht), 12. Jake Whincup (gk), 20. Toran Senghore, 25. Ashley Barnes (for O'Connor, 81), 34. Scott Taylor (for Ashton, 39)
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 38. Alex Gibson, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 2. Richie Sutton, 7. Chris Flynn, 22. Samy Mawene, 17. Ross Draper, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 18. Alan Dodd (for Gibson, 71), 19. Seb Arnolin (for Flynn, 37), 24. Steve Hopkinson, 33. Danny Allen (gk), 35. Damion Jarrett (for Mawene, 71)
Referee: R. Whitton (Essex)
Attendance: 512 (11 away fans)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Blue Square Premier
At: Recreation Ground
Kick-off: 7-45 pm
Attendance: 512
Three goals inside the opening 26 minutes did much of the damage as Grays extended their own unbeaten run to six games. Once again Danny Alcock was in fine form and produced several fine saves. Jamie Taylor, Danny Kedwell and Barry Cogan all found the net in the first half with both Taylor and Cogan scoring again after the break. Damion Jarrett headed home Rangers' consolation in the 75th minute.
Manager Steve Bull MBE named both an unchanged starting line-up and bench with Neil Grayson and Kevin Street not quite fit enough to return. Djimi Sangare missed out of a game against his previous club as he completed a two-match ban. Grays made a late change to their substitutes with Michael Standing dropping out after his wife went into labour.
Grays got the game under way and, in what was a fast and furious start, Rangers won a early corner. However, the home side started to threaten. Adam Gross' initial shot was blocked and Kedwell's follow-up suffered the same fate. Grays took the lead in the 6th minute. Kedwell whipped a cross from the right to the near post where Jamie Taylor fired across the face of goal and into the far bottom left corner of the net.
Kedwell sent a 25-yard shot flashing past the Boro goal. A throw from Alex Gibson set up a chance for Samy Mawene in the 17th minute which was fired wide from the edge of the area. Gibson was booked two minutes later for a foul on Cogan. Alcock produced an outstanding save to backpeddle and tip over a clever chip from Kedwell.
Wayne Daniel brought down Gross inside the area and Kedwell converted the resulting penalty to extend Grays' lead in the 23rd minute. After Jamie Taylor fired over from the right, Grays added a third goal in the 27th minute. Cogan fired a low right-foot shot from the edge of the area into the bottom right corner.
Jamie Taylor fired just wide of the right-hand post. Bull made a tactical change with Seb Arnolin coming on for Chris Flynn in the 37th minute. The home side were forced to make a change themselves with Scott Taylor replacing the injured Jon Ashton.
As the interval approached Arnolin won a second corner for Rangers. However, at the other end, Alcock turned round a low shot from Cogan who had taken the ball forward and Scott Taylor sent a header across the face of the Stafford goal.
Grays made a second change at the interval with one of their first-half scorers, Kedwell, replaced by Jeff Goulding. Soon after the restart, a mistake by Simon Downer led to an opening for Nick Wellecomme but Jamie Stuart cleared the danger. Mawene got forward and fired over from a narrow angle. Richie Sutton was the next Stafford player to try and reduce the deficit, firing wide from 20 yards.
Just after the hour mark, Rangers had a goal disallowed for offside. Wellecomme had put the ball into the net after good work by Nathan Smith. However, Grays hit back to score a fourth goal in the 63rd minute. A neat passing move put Jamie Taylor clear who slotted past Alcock from inside the area. The Stafford keeper then produced a diving save to parry Scott Taylor's shot and tipped over a rising drive from Gross. Cogan headed wide at the far post.
Grays scored again in the 68th minute. Aaron O'Connor's initial shot was blocked and Cogan forced home the loose ball at close range. Jarrett and Alan Dodd replaced Mawene and Gibson three minutes later before Alcock left his line to block Scott Taylor's shot. The ball looped out for a corner.
The small loyal band of Rangers fans had something to celebrate in the 75th minute. Ishmale Reid delivered a free-kick from the right to the far post where Jarrett rose with Nicky Eyre and headed home. Dodd did well with a saving tackle to prevent O'Connor from breaking clear. Stafford wanted a second goal. Smith fired over and fired another low shot from the right which took a deflection. Arnolin curled a 30-yard free-kick just wide of the right-hand post.
The home side completed the evening's substitutions in the 81st minute when O'Connor was replaced by Ashley Barnes. Alcock's clearance was charged down but Jamie Taylor could find the empty net from a narrow angle. In stoppage time, Alcock prevented Jamie Taylor from completing a hat-trick with a good save in a one-on-one.
Teams
Grays Athletic (sky blue / sky blue / sky blue): 1. Nicky Eyre, 5. Simon Downer, 14. Jon Ashton, 4. Jamie Stuart (capt), 3. Adam Gross, 8. Aaron O'Connor, 33. Neil McCafferty, 6. Stuart Thurgood, 19. Barry Cogan, 9. Jamie Taylor, 10. Danny Kedwell. Subs: 7. Jeff Goulding (for Kedwell, ht), 12. Jake Whincup (gk), 20. Toran Senghore, 25. Ashley Barnes (for O'Connor, 81), 34. Scott Taylor (for Ashton, 39)
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 38. Alex Gibson, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 2. Richie Sutton, 7. Chris Flynn, 22. Samy Mawene, 17. Ross Draper, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecomme, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 18. Alan Dodd (for Gibson, 71), 19. Seb Arnolin (for Flynn, 37), 24. Steve Hopkinson, 33. Danny Allen (gk), 35. Damion Jarrett (for Mawene, 71)
Referee: R. Whitton (Essex)
Attendance: 512 (11 away fans)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Saturday 29th March 2008
Stafford Rangers 1 Aldershot Town 2
Blue Square Premier
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 981
Stafford Rangers produced the battling performance demanded by manager Steve Bull MBE only to suffer a narrow defeat at the hands of runaway league leaders Aldershot Town.
Rob Elvins put the visitors ahead in the 41st minute but Nick Wellecomme netted his first Stafford goal just after the hour mark to level things up. However, John Grant scored what proved to be the winner three minutes later.
Both managers made four changes. For Stafford, compared to the side that started at Altrincham on Monday, Djimi Sangare was serving the first of a two-match ban, Marco Adaggio was missing with a hamstring injury, Matt Hazley has been released and Steve Hopkinson was amongst the substitutes. Coming into the starting line-up were Nathan Smith, Samy Mawene, Ishmale Reid and new signing Jonathan Loukes. Aldershot were able to start with midfielder Scott Davies after they have appealed against his red card at Droylsden two days ago.
Stafford chose to attack the Social Club end in the first half looking to take advantage of a strong wind which turned out to perhaps ber a hinderance to both sides particularly in the first half. Aldershot kicked off and in the 4th minute John Grant fired wide of the near post from the left-hand side of the area.
Mawene shot wide of the near right-hand post and in the 11th minute forced Nikki Bull to tip over a serving shot hit from 20 yards. Lewis Chalmers drove over the Stafford bar from 25 yards out from Louie Soares laid back.
On the quarter hour Mawene fired a wind-assisted 40-yard free-kick threw a populated area and wide of the left-hand post, hoping for a deflection. Grant fired wide as Aldershot broke forward and defender Rob Gier got up with the attack to pull a shot well wide of the left-hand post. The visitors created a good chance in the 24th minute. Elvins crossed from the left and Grant put his header wide.
Loukes on his debut was booked in the 31st minute just before Bull did well to turn round a rising shot from Reid at the expense of a corner. Danny Alcock raced off his line to block a shot from Ben Harding who got on the end of Scott Davies' throughball.
Aldershot took the lead in the 41st minute. Soares fed Elvins who curled a shot from the left side of the area past Alcock and into the opposite side of the net. In first-half stoppage time Harding thumped a free-kick straight at Alcock from 25 yards out.
The visitors made a change at the interval with Scott Donnelly replacing the injured Davies. Stafford had a go at the start of the second half and Reid sent a 30-yard free-kick over the bar. Richie Sutton also shot over as well. Alcock produced a fine save in the 53rd minute to tip over a dipping 35-yard volley from Elvins.
Stafford got back on level terms in the 62nd minute. Smith got space on the right to deliver a perfect cross for Wellecomme to power a header past Bull from no more than eight yards out.
Three minutes later, Aldershot won a corner which Donnelly delivered into the six-yard box for Grant to head home.
Rangers showed spirit in battling for an equaliser and in the 71st minute Mawene crossed from the right. Wellecomme dived bravely at the ball and sent a header inches wide of the right-hand post.
In the 78th minute, Damion Jarrett replaced Smith and Elvins was booked four minutes later for a foul on Alcock. Stafford didn't give up the fight. Jarrett fired over from Reid's pass and Bull dived to his left to hold a volley by Jarrett. Aldershot made a second change in stoppage time, Danny Hylton replaced Grant, Alcock prevented Elvins from adding a third Aldershot goal just before the end.
Teams
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 38. Alex Gibson, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 2. Richie Sutton, 7. Chris Flynn, 22. Samy Mawene 17. Ross Draper, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecombe, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 35. Damion Jarrett (for Smith, 78), 18. Alan Dodd, 19. Seb Arnolin, 24, Steve Hopkinson, 33. Danny Allen (gk)
Aldershot Town (red / red / red): 1. Nikki Bull, 20. Rob Gier, 18. David Winfield, 5. Rhys Day (capt), 6. Anthony Charles, 7. Louie Soares, 8. Lewis Chalmers, 16. Scott Davies, 19. Ben Harding, 9. John Grant, 10. Rob Elvins. Subs: 24. Scott Donnelly (for Davies, ht), 14. Danny Hylton (for Grant, 90), 17. Kirk Hudson, 25. Junior Mendes, 33. Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz (gk).
Referee: M. Matadar (Lancashire)
Attendance: 981 (inc 417 away fans)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Blue Square Premier
At: Marston Road
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 981
Stafford Rangers produced the battling performance demanded by manager Steve Bull MBE only to suffer a narrow defeat at the hands of runaway league leaders Aldershot Town.
Rob Elvins put the visitors ahead in the 41st minute but Nick Wellecomme netted his first Stafford goal just after the hour mark to level things up. However, John Grant scored what proved to be the winner three minutes later.
Both managers made four changes. For Stafford, compared to the side that started at Altrincham on Monday, Djimi Sangare was serving the first of a two-match ban, Marco Adaggio was missing with a hamstring injury, Matt Hazley has been released and Steve Hopkinson was amongst the substitutes. Coming into the starting line-up were Nathan Smith, Samy Mawene, Ishmale Reid and new signing Jonathan Loukes. Aldershot were able to start with midfielder Scott Davies after they have appealed against his red card at Droylsden two days ago.
Stafford chose to attack the Social Club end in the first half looking to take advantage of a strong wind which turned out to perhaps ber a hinderance to both sides particularly in the first half. Aldershot kicked off and in the 4th minute John Grant fired wide of the near post from the left-hand side of the area.
Mawene shot wide of the near right-hand post and in the 11th minute forced Nikki Bull to tip over a serving shot hit from 20 yards. Lewis Chalmers drove over the Stafford bar from 25 yards out from Louie Soares laid back.
On the quarter hour Mawene fired a wind-assisted 40-yard free-kick threw a populated area and wide of the left-hand post, hoping for a deflection. Grant fired wide as Aldershot broke forward and defender Rob Gier got up with the attack to pull a shot well wide of the left-hand post. The visitors created a good chance in the 24th minute. Elvins crossed from the left and Grant put his header wide.
Loukes on his debut was booked in the 31st minute just before Bull did well to turn round a rising shot from Reid at the expense of a corner. Danny Alcock raced off his line to block a shot from Ben Harding who got on the end of Scott Davies' throughball.
Aldershot took the lead in the 41st minute. Soares fed Elvins who curled a shot from the left side of the area past Alcock and into the opposite side of the net. In first-half stoppage time Harding thumped a free-kick straight at Alcock from 25 yards out.
The visitors made a change at the interval with Scott Donnelly replacing the injured Davies. Stafford had a go at the start of the second half and Reid sent a 30-yard free-kick over the bar. Richie Sutton also shot over as well. Alcock produced a fine save in the 53rd minute to tip over a dipping 35-yard volley from Elvins.
Stafford got back on level terms in the 62nd minute. Smith got space on the right to deliver a perfect cross for Wellecomme to power a header past Bull from no more than eight yards out.
Three minutes later, Aldershot won a corner which Donnelly delivered into the six-yard box for Grant to head home.
Rangers showed spirit in battling for an equaliser and in the 71st minute Mawene crossed from the right. Wellecomme dived bravely at the ball and sent a header inches wide of the right-hand post.
In the 78th minute, Damion Jarrett replaced Smith and Elvins was booked four minutes later for a foul on Alcock. Stafford didn't give up the fight. Jarrett fired over from Reid's pass and Bull dived to his left to hold a volley by Jarrett. Aldershot made a second change in stoppage time, Danny Hylton replaced Grant, Alcock prevented Elvins from adding a third Aldershot goal just before the end.
Teams
Stafford Rangers (black and white stripes / black / black): 1. Danny Alcock, 38. Alex Gibson, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 2. Richie Sutton, 7. Chris Flynn, 22. Samy Mawene 17. Ross Draper, 43. Jonathan Loukes, 30. Ishmale Reid, 42. Nick Wellecombe, 15. Nathan Smith. Subs: 35. Damion Jarrett (for Smith, 78), 18. Alan Dodd, 19. Seb Arnolin, 24, Steve Hopkinson, 33. Danny Allen (gk)
Aldershot Town (red / red / red): 1. Nikki Bull, 20. Rob Gier, 18. David Winfield, 5. Rhys Day (capt), 6. Anthony Charles, 7. Louie Soares, 8. Lewis Chalmers, 16. Scott Davies, 19. Ben Harding, 9. John Grant, 10. Rob Elvins. Subs: 24. Scott Donnelly (for Davies, ht), 14. Danny Hylton (for Grant, 90), 17. Kirk Hudson, 25. Junior Mendes, 33. Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz (gk).
Referee: M. Matadar (Lancashire)
Attendance: 981 (inc 417 away fans)
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Monday 24th March 2008
Altrincham 2 Stafford Rangers 0
Blue Square Premier
At: Moss Lane
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 1135
A first-half double from Altrincham leading scorer Colin Little proved crucial in the Easter Monday clash at Moss Lane between two old rivals.
Injuries to Neil Grayson and Kevin Street forced manager Steve Bull MBE to make two changes to the starting line-up with Marco Adaggio and Ross Draper both recalled. Ryan Lynch, who made four appearances for Stafford back in January, started for the home side.
Altrincham chose to attack the away end (Carol Nash and Family End) at Moss Lane with Stafford getting proceedings underway in cold but dry conditions.
Inside the first minute, Liam King got into a good position and Danny Alcock did well to parry a rising right-foot drive from 15 yards. The offside flag went up as John O'Neill went for the loose ball.
O'Neill soon had a better chance but, fortunately for Stafford, dragged his shot wide of the right-hand post from just 10 yards out in front of goal.
After Stafford won the first corner of the game, Alcock bravely blocked at the feet of Chris Senior inside the area.
A mistake in the 9th minute presented Rangers with a change. Home keeper Stuart Coburn reacted to turn round a well-struck shot from Adaggio at the near left-hand post.
Chris Flynn tried his luck from the edge of the area and saw his effort loop over the bar off a defender.
Altrincham took the lead in the 14th minute. A long throw from Ryan Shotton ended up at the far post where Little headed home.
Chances became scarce and the only serious effort for getting on for 15 minutes was a shot by Senior from Lynch's corner which Djoumin Sangare bravely blocked.
Rangers were awarded a free-kick which Steve Hopkinson delivered forward into the area. The ball fell to Sangare who volleyed towards goal only to hit one of his teammates.
Just after the half-hour mark, Nick Wellecombe, on his second start, flicked the ball into the path of Adaggio. The striker raced forward between two defenders and his low shot presumably took a deflection as the referee awarded a corner.
Altrincham was forced to make a change with Val Owen replacing the injured Liam King in the 33rd minute.
Stafford continued to create opportunities and Wellecombe headed Alex Gibson's cross straight at Coburn. Agaggio shot over from a cross from Hazley.
From another long throw by Shotton, defender Greg Young headed over.
Altrincham doubled their lead in the 42nd minute. From a corner by Lynch Alcock punched the ball back out to the right and Robbie Lawton crossed low into the crowded area. O'Neill set up Little who netted with a low shot from just six yards out.
Bull made a double change at the interval with Seb Arnolin and Samy Mawene replacing Steve Hopkinson and Richie Sutton.
Snow started to fall at the start of the second half but there was no hope of it falling in sufficient quantities to cause an abandonment!
Alcock again rescued Boro shortly after the restart, blocking Lynch's low driven ball into the area which may have taken a deflection. The Rangers keeper then gathered up a long-range effort from Warren Peyton. Altrincham appealed for a penalty when Greg Young went down in the area under Flynn's challenge.
The snow stopped, much to the delight of the travelling Stafford fans on the open away terrace, but they still had to ensure a cold wind.
In the 59th minute, O'Neill beat Alcock from 20 yards out but his shot, fortunately, rebounded off the bar. In the next attack, Senior lifted his shot over as Alcock dived at his feet. Little, looked for his hat-trick, succeeding only to fire over the bar.
Both sides made further changes and Nathan Smith replaced Matt Hazley in the 68th minute. His arrival set up a three-pronged forward line and Rangers started to threaten again. Smith fired straight at Coburn through a crowd from 15 yards out.
A corner from Mawene wasn't cleared and Draper's 15-yard shot was blocked by a defender. Smith cut in from the left, went for goal, and won a corner with a deflection of Darren Tinson. From it, Adaggio shot wide at the near post.
Arnolin and Draper was booked in quick succession before Altrincham replaced Senior with Chris Lane.
Stafford continued for what would have been a first goal since the draw at Woking. Arnolin fed Adaggio who shot wide. Adaggio limped off near the end and Rangers finished with ten men. In stoppage time, Wellecombe tested Coburn from 35 yard out who made a comfortable catch.
There was time before the final whistle for Gary Scott to go into the book for a foul on Daniel.
Teams
Altrincham (red and white stripes / black / red): 1. Stuart Coburn, 16. Ryan Shotton, 5. Darren Tinson (capt), 10. Greg Young, 4. Ryan Lynch, 7. Robbie Lawton, 11. Warren Peyton, 25. Liam King, 9. Colin Little, 19. Chris Senior, 12. Joe O'Neill. Subs: 8. Val Owen (for King, 33), 3. Gary Scott (for O'Neill, 66), 15. Chris Lane (for Senior, 86), 2. Steve Aspinall, 6. Jake Sedgemore
Stafford Rangers (blue / white / blue): 1. Danny Alcock, 2. Richie Sutton, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 6. Djoumin Sangare, 38. Alex Gibson, 24. Steve Hopkinson, 7. Chris Flynn, 17. Ross Draper, 37. Matt Hazley, 20. Marco Adaggio, 42. Nick Wellecombe. Subs: 19. Seb Arnolin (for Hopkinson, ht), 22. Samy Mawene (for Sutton, ht), 15. Nathan Smith (for Hazley, 68), 30. Ishmale Reid, 33. Danny Allen (gk)
Referee: D. Richardson (West Yorkshire)
Attendance: 1135
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
Blue Square Premier
At: Moss Lane
Kick-off: 3-00 pm
Attendance: 1135
A first-half double from Altrincham leading scorer Colin Little proved crucial in the Easter Monday clash at Moss Lane between two old rivals.
Injuries to Neil Grayson and Kevin Street forced manager Steve Bull MBE to make two changes to the starting line-up with Marco Adaggio and Ross Draper both recalled. Ryan Lynch, who made four appearances for Stafford back in January, started for the home side.
Altrincham chose to attack the away end (Carol Nash and Family End) at Moss Lane with Stafford getting proceedings underway in cold but dry conditions.
Inside the first minute, Liam King got into a good position and Danny Alcock did well to parry a rising right-foot drive from 15 yards. The offside flag went up as John O'Neill went for the loose ball.
O'Neill soon had a better chance but, fortunately for Stafford, dragged his shot wide of the right-hand post from just 10 yards out in front of goal.
After Stafford won the first corner of the game, Alcock bravely blocked at the feet of Chris Senior inside the area.
A mistake in the 9th minute presented Rangers with a change. Home keeper Stuart Coburn reacted to turn round a well-struck shot from Adaggio at the near left-hand post.
Chris Flynn tried his luck from the edge of the area and saw his effort loop over the bar off a defender.
Altrincham took the lead in the 14th minute. A long throw from Ryan Shotton ended up at the far post where Little headed home.
Chances became scarce and the only serious effort for getting on for 15 minutes was a shot by Senior from Lynch's corner which Djoumin Sangare bravely blocked.
Rangers were awarded a free-kick which Steve Hopkinson delivered forward into the area. The ball fell to Sangare who volleyed towards goal only to hit one of his teammates.
Just after the half-hour mark, Nick Wellecombe, on his second start, flicked the ball into the path of Adaggio. The striker raced forward between two defenders and his low shot presumably took a deflection as the referee awarded a corner.
Altrincham was forced to make a change with Val Owen replacing the injured Liam King in the 33rd minute.
Stafford continued to create opportunities and Wellecombe headed Alex Gibson's cross straight at Coburn. Agaggio shot over from a cross from Hazley.
From another long throw by Shotton, defender Greg Young headed over.
Altrincham doubled their lead in the 42nd minute. From a corner by Lynch Alcock punched the ball back out to the right and Robbie Lawton crossed low into the crowded area. O'Neill set up Little who netted with a low shot from just six yards out.
Bull made a double change at the interval with Seb Arnolin and Samy Mawene replacing Steve Hopkinson and Richie Sutton.
Snow started to fall at the start of the second half but there was no hope of it falling in sufficient quantities to cause an abandonment!
Alcock again rescued Boro shortly after the restart, blocking Lynch's low driven ball into the area which may have taken a deflection. The Rangers keeper then gathered up a long-range effort from Warren Peyton. Altrincham appealed for a penalty when Greg Young went down in the area under Flynn's challenge.
The snow stopped, much to the delight of the travelling Stafford fans on the open away terrace, but they still had to ensure a cold wind.
In the 59th minute, O'Neill beat Alcock from 20 yards out but his shot, fortunately, rebounded off the bar. In the next attack, Senior lifted his shot over as Alcock dived at his feet. Little, looked for his hat-trick, succeeding only to fire over the bar.
Both sides made further changes and Nathan Smith replaced Matt Hazley in the 68th minute. His arrival set up a three-pronged forward line and Rangers started to threaten again. Smith fired straight at Coburn through a crowd from 15 yards out.
A corner from Mawene wasn't cleared and Draper's 15-yard shot was blocked by a defender. Smith cut in from the left, went for goal, and won a corner with a deflection of Darren Tinson. From it, Adaggio shot wide at the near post.
Arnolin and Draper was booked in quick succession before Altrincham replaced Senior with Chris Lane.
Stafford continued for what would have been a first goal since the draw at Woking. Arnolin fed Adaggio who shot wide. Adaggio limped off near the end and Rangers finished with ten men. In stoppage time, Wellecombe tested Coburn from 35 yard out who made a comfortable catch.
There was time before the final whistle for Gary Scott to go into the book for a foul on Daniel.
Teams
Altrincham (red and white stripes / black / red): 1. Stuart Coburn, 16. Ryan Shotton, 5. Darren Tinson (capt), 10. Greg Young, 4. Ryan Lynch, 7. Robbie Lawton, 11. Warren Peyton, 25. Liam King, 9. Colin Little, 19. Chris Senior, 12. Joe O'Neill. Subs: 8. Val Owen (for King, 33), 3. Gary Scott (for O'Neill, 66), 15. Chris Lane (for Senior, 86), 2. Steve Aspinall, 6. Jake Sedgemore
Stafford Rangers (blue / white / blue): 1. Danny Alcock, 2. Richie Sutton, 5. Wayne Daniel (capt), 6. Djoumin Sangare, 38. Alex Gibson, 24. Steve Hopkinson, 7. Chris Flynn, 17. Ross Draper, 37. Matt Hazley, 20. Marco Adaggio, 42. Nick Wellecombe. Subs: 19. Seb Arnolin (for Hopkinson, ht), 22. Samy Mawene (for Sutton, ht), 15. Nathan Smith (for Hazley, 68), 30. Ishmale Reid, 33. Danny Allen (gk)
Referee: D. Richardson (West Yorkshire)
Attendance: 1135
This match report was originally written for and published on the now defunct www.staffordrangers.co.uk
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