Altrincham vs Hornchurch

Hornchurch - Who Are Ya?

1923
Initial origin: they were formed as Upminster Wanderers

1952
Moved to their ground at Bridge Avenue

1974
Elected to the Isthmian League

2005
Reformed as AFC Hornchurch

2021
FA Trophy Winners

2024
Won promotion to the National League South

2026
National League South Play-off Winners

History of the teams’ meetings

With the two clubs’ geographical differences, and Hornchurch’s recent rise to the premier division of non-league, the two sides have never actually faced each other.

It will be an afternoon full of unknowns for both sides; hopefully the recipe for an entertaining game!

Fun Facts

Ever since 1910, Moss Lane has been the home of Altrincham Football Club. The history and charm that comes with this can be really felt when walking around the ground.

Alty also haven’t ever played in the football league, which may be a surprise given how close they have been on numerous occasions. Twice rejected by the voting system, and, more recently in 2024, they got to the play-off semi-finals, only to lose to eventual promotion-winners Bromley.

Player Profiles - Altrincham

Tom Crawford

Crawford has been an absolute stalwart for Alty since he signed in the summer of 2024. Nothing’s changed this season, and if anything, he’s getting even better.

Crawford’s already scored four goals for the Robins so far this season, whilst also making his 100th appearance for the club on the opening day. Altrincham’s number 22 and captain isn’t stopping anytime soon, as he continues to be the talismanic figure they need.

Jimmy Knowles

Like Crawford, Knowles has also got off to a flying start this season. The 25-year-old has already found the back of the net twice, both goals proving crucial in the wins against Halifax and Forest Green Rovers.

Since making the switch from Boston to Alty, Knowles has been a vital part of Alty’s attack and it’s no surprise that he was the club’s top goal-scorer last season. Put him one-versus-one with the goalkeeper, and there’s only one outcome; just ask Halifax Town’s keeper, True Grant, who was punished by Knowles a few weeks ago.

Player Profiles - Hornchurch

Joseph Kizzi

For a newly promoted team, especially via the play-offs, Hornchurch have made a strong start to life in the National League. The contributions from Joseph Kizzi certainly rank high among the reasons for this success.

Kizzi, who is interestingly a right-back, has already scored three goals in five games this season; numbers which are particularly impressive and almost unheard of. Even outside of this, his side has kept two clean sheets in these games; another strong feat. This could definitely make for an intriguing battle between Kizzi and the Alty players such as Sam Taylor and Charlie Kirk.

Arthur Nasta

Hornchurch’s number one and for good reason. Arthur Nasta joined the club on loan from Wolves last season. He helped the Urchins win promotion, playing over 50 games across the whole season.

Following the triumph, he’s now made the permanent move to Hornchurch, playing in all of their opening league fixtures. It seems like last season’s success has already transitioned into the fifth tier, as Nasta and the backline have continued to keep clean sheets.