2 weeks Ago
Altrincham forced their way into the promotion play-off places with a spectacular demolition of table-topping York City and were immediately challenged by manager Phil Parkinson to show they can stay there at The J.Davidson Stadium on Tuesday night. Three goals in 20 eventful first-half minutes from leading scorer Regan Linney (two) and Matty Kosylo made up for the disappointment of Saturday’s defeat at Aldershot and lifted 3-0 winners Alty into seventh place in the National League.
Parkinson was delighted with both Linney, who now has 11 league goals to his name this season, and, in particular, Kosylo, who made it 3-0 with a delightful dinked finish over the keeper, but warned his players the hard work was only just beginning. “We are desperate to make the play-offs again after doing it last season, but it is so difficult,” he said. “I try to keep everyone’s eye on the ball and retain a sense of perspective, because you’ve got to be on point at all times and consistent in your preparation and execution.
We are there now in the top seven, but can we stay there? That is the next big test for this group, but credit to them for the way they executed the game plan against York. They did it brilliantly, and I couldn’t have asked for more. “Regan was clinical, and when he gives you that, it has a galvanising effect on everyone around him.
You could see that with Alex Newby, Joe Nuttall and Kossy - they all combined brilliantly. “There was a bit of frustration from Kossy earlier in the season, and we had a few heart-to-hearts, because he was thinking there was no way into the team for him. “He was wondering if it was the end for him, but there were a few reassuring conversations to be patient, and it has paid off.
“His work-rate is second-to-none and his goal was like James Maddison’s against Manchester City! He has been with me a long time, and I have always believed in him.”.
