Altrincham host AFC Fylde in a crunch National League side with implications at both ends of the table. Matthew O'Regan previews the game with his predictions and best bets.
An eight-game unbeaten run has seen Altrincham storm into sixth place, occupying the second-last playoff spot. Phil Parkinson's side have recorded some impressive results in this run, drawing at home to Forest Green, before taking seven points from three successive away games against Oldham (1-1), Gateshead (0-1) and Hartlepool (1-2).
After finishing in the bottom half of their first three seasons back in the National League, the Robins finished fourth last year, losing 3-1 to Bromley in the playoff semi-final. Altrincham have never been in the Football League before but will fancy their chances this year, despite the strong seasons Gateshead, Oldham, Forest Green, York and Barnet are having.
The J Davidson Stadium has proven to be a fortress for Altrincham, picking up 30 points from 15 games, scoring 27 goals and conceding just 10. They have scored at least two goals in eight of their fifteen home games, with Regan Linney scoring in eight home games.
A string of poor results has seen AFC Fylde stuck in the relegation zone. A 1-2 home loss to Boston United proved a costly result for Kevin Phillips who was dismissed as the Coasters manager. Despite being third bottom, Fylde still have a shot of staying up as they are just three points off 20th place Wealdstone.
While they have taken 22 points from 16 games at Mill Farm, away games have proven difficult for AFC Fylde, who have picked up just seven points, losing 12 of the 15 games. Only Ebbsfleet, who are bottom by nine points, have conceded more goals than The Coasters 62. Away from home, Fylde have also conceded 35 goals, conceding at least two in 10/15.
The meetings between the sides earlier in the season saw Altrincham win 0-5 with Regan Linney scoring a first-half hat trick. I am predicting a similar outcome and another long afternoon for AFC Fylde.
Prediction: Altrincham Win, Over 1 goal and Regan Linney To Score - 2.50
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