ALTRINCHAM'S unblemished run of four wins since the start of the season came to an end on Saturday against an impressive Histon team of youngsters, the eldest of whom was only 22.

When James Walshaw headed home Shaun Densmore's superb cross from the right with just seventy seconds on the clock, it looked like it might be business as usual for the Robins.

Indeed, they had several other half chances before the visitors from Cambridgeshire settled down and started to look a threat themsleves, with their incisive counter attacks.

It did not take Histon long to equalise, their leveller arriving in the 13th minute after a neat move on the left, which was well finished by striker Kaine Sheappard.

The lion's share of Alty chances were falling to Walshaw but he was unable to notch his second goal of the game.

Instead, Histon took a 41st-minute lead with another impressive finish as Nathan Hicks half-volleyed a goal past Stuart Coburn from the edge of the box.

Altrincham, who had made five changes for the second successive game and who were without the injured Kyle Perry and Scott Leather, were slow to start in the second half.

However, as the hour mark passed they upped the tempo and, following a corner, an excellent cross from the left by Doughty was headed home by Damian Reeves. The former Histon man has now scored four times this season, three of them with his head.

Half-chances continued to be wasted by both sides and Altrincham's passing was at times below par. So, with Histon winding the clock down, particularly through their goalkeeper Kitscha, Altrincham were left with a single point to show for their afternoon's efforts.

Though that outcome meant they lost top place in the Skrill (Conference) North on goal difference, 13 points from their opening five games is a very healthy return for the Robins.

Having already met two of the teams new to the division this season - Barrow and Stockport County - Altrincham meet more newcomers in their next fixture; Leamington (away) on Saturday before a return to the J. Davidson Stadium to host Oxford City at home on September 14.

As usual, TASC has arranged a supporters' coach to Leamington, which can be booked by ringing the club on (0161) 928-1045 during weekday office hours.

ALTRINCHAM: Coburn; Densmore (capt), Havern, Williams, Doughty; Richman, Moult, Boshell, Clee; Walshaw, Reeves. Subs: Reid, Rodgers, Smikle, Gilroy, Lawrie