AlLTRINCHAM failed to complete a double over their Cheshire neighbours, having won the reverse fixture back in August. But they were the better side in an entertaining game in front of 3,770 spectators.

However, it was Stockport, who have now failed to score in eight of their last nine matches, who could well have taken a first-half lead.

Twice Altrincham were carved open and needed the legs of goalkeeper Coburn to beat out goal-bound shots.

Altrincham did have the ball in the net after 9 minutes but James Walshaw was judged to have handled the ball to help James Lawrie's frekick find the net. The Alty striker was booked for this and was later fortunate to escape a second card. That came just after he had been denied a clear penalty as he was pushed over by O'Halloran, in the second half.

Alty's captain, Shaun Densmore, was also cautioned in the first half after he scythed down County's Moke, whose pace caused Altrincham early trouble.

In the second half it was Altrincham who created several decent chances.

A marauding run from Shaun Densmore saw his cross shot just shave the far post and then Damian Reeves sidefooted wide after Nicky Clee had cut the ball back from the left by-line.

Some shaky handling from County keeper Ormson also raised Altrincham hopes on more then one occasion.

But, despite the support of more than 600 supporters from Altrincham, the Robins were unable to secure the three points which would have virtually secured their place in the play-offs. Instead they will need at least another win from their two final league games, including a trip to Histon next Saturday, kick off 3pm.

ALTRINCHAM Coburn, Densmore (capt), Griffin, Rodgers, Havern, Leather, Lawrie, Moult, Walshaw, Reeves, Clee. Subs: Marshall, Richman, wilkinson, Perry and Saunders.