Boreham Wood delivered a commanding performance at the Mangata Pay UK Stadium, securing a 3-1 victory over Altrincham in their English National League clash. A dominant first half laid the foundation for the home side’s success, while Altrincham were left to regret their sluggish start.
Érico Henrique Esteves Sousa opened the scoring for Boreham Wood in the 17th minute, capitalising on an assist from Zak Brunt. Sousa continued to trouble the Altrincham defence, finding the net again in the 28th minute, this time assisted by Matt Rush. Boreham Wood further extended their advantage just before half-time when Zak Brunt converted a penalty in the 44th minute, making the score 3-0.
Altrincham returned for the second half with renewed determination, seeking to recover from their first-half deficit. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Jimmy Knowles scored, reducing the arrears to 3-1. Despite this improved showing, Altrincham were unable to penetrate the Boreham Wood defence again.
The second half also saw a series of substitutions as both sides looked to adjust their tactics. Altrincham introduced Oliver Crankshaw and Samuel Reed in the 57th minute, while Boreham Wood responded by bringing on Cameron Coxe in the 64th minute. Further changes saw Charles Clayden and Junior Dixon enter the game for Boreham Wood, and Lucas Weaver and Dan Sassi bolstering Altrincham’s options. Tensions rose towards the end of the match, leading to yellow cards for Charlie O’Connell and Jeff King of Boreham Wood, and Lewis Baines and Samuel Reed of Altrincham. Altrincham’s Lucas Weaver received a second yellow card in the 93rd minute for violent conduct, resulting in a red card.
This victory moves Boreham Wood further up the National League table, placing them in 5th position with 17 points from 8 matches, maintaining their undefeated run. Altrincham, meanwhile, sit in 11th place with 12 points from 9 matches, their recent winning streak brought to an end. This match was the 5th encounter between the two clubs in the last three seasons.