TRAFFORD completed their pre-season friendly programme with a superb 1-0 victory over non-league aristocrats Altrincham at the First Point Shawe View Stadium on Saturday.

Josh Hancox went close to giving the visitors the lead in the early stages but shot into the side-netting and gradually Trafford took control of the midfield, with Scott Sephton and debutant Brian Summerskill particularly prominent.

Alty’s fleet-footed right winger John Johnstone made several electrifying bursts down his flank but Trafford defended brilliantly and deservedly forged ahead in the 39th minute when Ash Woods floated a cross in from the left and Sephton arrived to power his header past Tim Deasy.

Sephton almost struck again in the 54th minute but saw his volley from 20 yards fly inches wide of the upright.

Home goalkeeper Grant Shenton was called into action for the first time in the 69th minute when a quick break by the visitors ended with a low drive by Johnstone that the stopper gathered comfortably.

The final 20 minutes saw both sides make a number of substitutions and the flow of the game suffered as a result.

However, the visitors dominated the closing stages with Tom Peers rifling a shot against the foot of the post and James Poole heading just over.

But despite this late pressure, Trafford fully deserved a victory for their magnificent teamwork, spirit, determination and skill.

Trafford’s Evo-Stik North campaign begins on Saturday with a home fixture against newly-promoted South Shields.

The north easterners are hot favourites to become champions as they strolled to the Northern League title last season and won the FA Vase at Wembley.

A large crowd is expected at the First Point Shawe View Stadium and spectators are advised to arrive well in advance of the 3pm kick off.

Meanwhile, a Trafford select XI will take on a Jet2holidays TV all-stars team as part of a family fun day at Shawe View on Sunday, August 20.

The game kicks off at 2pm with a host of activities also taking place on the day.

Doors open at noon and admission is £5 adults, £3 concessions and £1 for kids.