Phil Parkinson cast an eye towards next season after Altrincham guaranteed themselves another campaign in the National League with a 2-2 draw against Dagenham & Redbridge at The J.Davidson Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Combined with other results on the night, a point that might well have been three but for a freakish late equaliser by the visitors was enough to ensure the Robins are safe in the National League for another season.

As he prepared for their final home game against relegation-threatened Torquay United on Saturday, Parkinson saluted his players and revealed plans for next season are already being drawn up with the club’s board of directors.

“It has been nothing but success this season,” said the Alty boss.

“We’ve had the biggest attendances year on year for a long time, reached the FA Trophy semi-final for the first time in years, and the Cheshire Senior Cup final for the first time in a decade, and we’re playing in the top level of non-league football.

“This club is a brilliant place to be at the moment.

“If I was a young player aspiring to make a name for myself, this is where I would want to be.

“We are punching massively above our weight.

“But we can’t stand still now. As soon as you think you’re okay or you’ve cracked it, this game slaps you in the face, so it’s really important we build on this squad and the progress we’ve made.

“I have spoken to the board, and we are all on the same page, and when you’ve got those sort of ingredients, it’s normally a recipe for success.

“There was nothing in the first half, so we had a good chat with the lads at half time and told them to show what it means to play for Altrincham, to show our identity and be braver.

“You could see the difference - we were absolutely superb in the second half, showed great character and should have won the game with the chances we created.”