RELEGATION from National League North was finally confirmed for Altrincham on Saturday despite a spirited display in a 2-1 defeat at high-flying Salford City.

After just three wins in 37 league outings this campaign, the Robins will be competing in the Evo-Stik Premier League next season.

At least they went down fighting and were arguably the better side against City, well resourced play-off contenders, funded by four ex-Manchester United stars.

Altrincham had the better of the first half and took a 38th-minute lead through veteran midfielder Gary Jones, aged 40 in May, who netted his first goal for the club with a superb 30-yard strike.

That came after Alty's marquee summer signing, Tom Hannigan, had endured more misery in his injury-ravaged season as he limped off in the 30th minute to become Alty's ninth player currently sidelined.

Salford were offering little until referee Marsden handed them a way back into the game with a questionable penalty decision against Hannigan's replacement, defender Sam Heathcote.

Sam Walker duly made it 1-1 from the spot just seven minutes after the break.

And the man in black was to court more controversy as he went on to deny Altrincham three strong penalty appeals, decisions which even had the home fans scratching their heads.

Home captain Simon Grand secured the victory soon after the hour mark when he netted after keeper Stuart Tomlinson had done well to beat out a shot from Craig King.

The Robins now face five games to conclude a season that, this time last year, no one imagined could turn out as badly as it has.

Next up is a home match against Brackley Town on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

ALTRINCHAM: Tomlinson, C Lynch, McWilliams, Taylor, Moult, Hannigan, Richman, G Jones, Lawrie, Reeves, Clee. Subs: Heathcote, Evans, Owens, Patterson, Deasy.