ALTRINCHAM return to league duty against league leaders Burton Albion on Saturday, with a brighter financial future in front of them, writes Michael Crockett.

The FA Cup cash, which totals more than £100,000, has allowed the club to make a significant dent in its liabilities.

And while the club's FA cup adventure is over, there is still a league championship to be won, starting this weekend.

Nigel Clough's men are nine points clear at the top of the UniBond Premier, fifteen points clear of seventh placed Alty.

However, Robins have six games in hand over the Eton Park men, and will be looking to make a significant dent in Albion's lead as well.

Chairman Mark Harris said, "While we are out of the FA Cup, we are still in the FA Trophy, and in with more than a shout for the league.

"The FA Cup cash has helped the club become master of its own destiny again. We are no longer running the club with one hand tied behind our back."

Harris added, "I would like to pay my thanks to everyone who helped to make Saturday such a success. Everyone did their bit and more, and really helped to put Altrincham as a town back on the map."

Altrincham were back on the cup trail with a 2-0 win over Vauxhall Motors in the UniBond League Cup.

Second half goals from Danny Murphy and Rod Thornley sealed the victory, which keeps Altrincham in the running for a place in one of the later competitions.

l Full-back Neil Ryan - son of Manchester United coach Jim Ryan - made his debut after signing from Portland Timbers.

Manager Bernard Taylor said of the player, "I thought he did really well, considering he has not played for a few months."