THE same Altrincham XI which had beaten in-form Southport last time out, put in a woeful first-half performance against a Leamington side, which started the match without a win in its previous 10 games, and lost 3-0 in National League North.

The opening stages had seen Altrincham start very brightly and dominate proceedings.

But, having failed to capitalise on three early corners, Alty conceded from the hosts' first in the 12th minute.

Altrincham's defence failed to deal with James Mace's header from the corner and Junior English netted in a melee inside the goalmouth.

Twenty minutes later, the lead was doubled when Jordan Murphy got past left-back Connor Hampson and was brought down by Tom Hannigan inside the penalty area.

Colby Bishop netted the spot-kick, despite Tony Thompson getting a hand to it.

The game was effectively over for Alty in the 44th minute when Bishop outmuscled James Jones to head in a cross from the right.

Despite seeing a lot of the ball in the second half, Altrincham barely threatened to score.

And, 12 minutes from time, Alty striker Jordan Hulme got himself sent off.

Unhappy with the non-award of a penalty for a debatable Leamington challenge in which he was not even involved, Hulme aimed a kick at an opponent.

The assistant referee spotted the offence and, after he had spoken to the man in the middle, Hulme was shown a straight red card.

Altrincham have a blank Saturday ahead before travelling to FC United of Manchester on February 9.

ALTRINCHAM: Thompson, White, Hampson, Jones, Hannigan, Moult, Johnston, Richman, Hulme, Hancock, Harrop. Subs: Mantack, Williams, Waterston, Densmore, Harrison.