ALTRINCHAM secured a fine 2-1 win at FC United of Manchester in National League North but suffered a double defensive injury blow inside the first half hour to tarnish celebrations.

Just two of Altrincham's five recent signings started the game – goalkeeper Steven Drench and loanee striker Joe Piggott – with the three other arrivals on the bench.

However, any plans for tactical substitutions by manager Phil Parkinson were scrapped as he had to replace left-back Conor Hampson after a barely a minute of the game and centre-back Ben Harrison just before the half-hour mark.

Alty still went on to take a 26th-minute lead when Max Harrop was put through on goal but his attempted chip was blocked.

However, the ball came to John Johnston whose shot deflected into the net.

FC United continued to see plenty of the ball in the second half, without seriously threatening to score.

But, as Altrincham dropped increasingly deeply into their own half, the hosts finally drew lev‌el in the 77th minute.

A cross from the left by Josh Wallen was met by Dale Whitham's header which looped into the net off the inside of the upright.

Altrincham responded by regaining the lead in the 83rd minute when Andy White's well-struck shot from outside the box took a strong deflection off a defender on its way into the back of the net.

With none of the top five winning on the day, Altrincham's win helped them consolidate their seventh position.

This Saturday, Altrincham host Bradford (Park Avenue) – the fourth clash this season with a club they have already beaten three times.

ALTRINCHAM: Drench, White, Hampson, Harrison, Hannigan, Moult, Johnston, Williams, Piggott, Hancock, Harrop. Subs: Ceesay, Waterston, Jones, Richman, Fawns.