SATURDAY was a memorable day for Altrincham Football Club, as players and management from the past 15 years turned up to honour Mark Maddox, in an emotional testimonial for the former Robins captain.

The 38-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Mad Dog’ for his wholehearted approach as the cornerstone of Alty’s defence, is fighting against the muscle wasting motor neurone disease.

Almost 800 people turned out to see the hugely likeable and unassuming Liverpudlian kick off the match against Tranmere Rovers, before being substituted, ahead of what proved to be another accomplished display from Altrincham’s new look squad.

Two goals from the mercurial Nicky Clee, gave Lee Sinnott’s side a fully deserved victory over what was pretty well a full strength Tranmere side and most Altrincham fans are now really looking forward with renewed enthusiasm and confidence to the start of the new season.

On Tuesday night, following a goalless first half, a hat trick from Damian Reeves and two goals by triallist, Astley Mulholland, produced a 5-0 victory at Trafford.

Sinnott hopes that Mulholland, who scored 42 goals for Flixton in the Vodkat League last season, might be the man that he needs to provide more options up front.

“Astley made some good runs that were difficult for defenders to track and looked lively after coming on at half time,” said Sinnott, who coached Mulholland as a youngster at Leeds United’s Academy.

There is no game this weekend, but the new manager is looking forward to having the opportunity of getting his squad together at a local hotel for a training weekend. “This has been part of Altrincham’s pre-season routine for the past few years and its importance shouldn’t be underestimated in helping us prepare properly for the big kick off at Harrogate on August 13.”

Altrincham’s next friendly is on Tuesday August 2, when Barrow visit Moss Lane for a 7.45pm kick off.