ALTRINCHAM have safeguarded their future on and off the pitch after a significant breakthrough that guarantees they will be playing at The J.

Davidson Stadium for generations to come.

Already safe in the Vanarama Conference, Alty had further cause for celebration after successfully concluding lengthy negotiations with Trafford Council for a new 80-year lease on their iconic Moss Lane home.

"It’s great news and the ideal way to round off what has been a fantastic season," said chairman Grahame Rowley.

"When you think what the ground means to everyone, the history attached to it and some of the unforgettable times we’ve had there, it’s hugely important to know we have secured it for such a long time."

Alty removed any mathematical danger of relegation at the start of the month, and manager Lee Sinnott feels that contributed to another lacklustre performance against 2-1 winners AFC Telford on Saturday.

"You don’t want it to happen, but perhaps it is sometimes the price you pay for putting so much into previous games," he said.

"The game was flat, which is not what we are about, because our better performances have been when we have played on the front foot.

"It is disappointing and frustrating, but also understandable. I’ve been in the game long enough to recognise that once it’s in your mind that you are mathematically safe, it’s human nature to react like that.

"Fear can work both ways. While it’s on your shoulder telling you more points are needed, it drives you on. But when you look round and find it has gone, how do you respond? You try and keep going, but it is only human nature there’s a sigh of relief. That’s when a bit of flatness creeps in.

"I don’t like to say it, really, but you have to look at the picture in its entirety and ask whether we would have accepted the position we are in, going into the final game? Yes, of course we would."

Alty welcome back players’ player of the year Jake Moult and fellow- midfielder Peter Cavanagh for Saturday’s final game at Braintree.