WE’RE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE STUART COBURN’S TESTIMONIAL.

HE is right up there as one of THE all-time legends that Altrincham have produced, and the club are absolutely delighted to announce that arrangements have now been finalised for Stuart Coburn’s iconic Robins career to be honoured with a testimonial.

Stuey, affectionately known as England’s number one by Alty fans, has etched his name in the club’s history books with an astonishing 689 first-team appearances over two incredibly successful spells at Moss Lane. His performances, marked by distinction and memorable moments, have earned him a fitting nickname that continues to resonate with supporters even eight years after his reluctant retirement in his early 40s.

Fans fondly recall Stuey’s catalogue of saves, including a brilliant penalty stop at Telford and heroic displays that helped secure a 3-0 FA Cup fourth qualifying round home win over a top-of-the-table Nuneaton side at the start of the millennium.

Now, Alty fans have the opportunity to witness Stuey’s return to the pitch for one final time, as a testimonial match has been arranged in his honor at The J. Davidson Stadium on Sunday, July 28th, kicking off at 3:30 pm.The match promises to be a nostalgic celebration, pitting Alty’s 2005 play-off final winners against their 2014 counterparts.

Prominent players from both memorable promotion triumphs, including Rod Thornley, Gary Scott, Gary Talbot, Val Owen, and Eddie Hussain from the 2005 team that defeated Eastbourne Borough 2-1 at Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium, and James Lawrie, Kyle Perry, Scott Leather, Nicky Clee, Damian Reeves, and Greg Wilkinson from the 2014 team that secured a dramatic last-gasp victory over Guiseley at a packed J. Davidson Stadium, will take to the Moss Lane pitch once more to pay tribute to their legendary teammate, Stuey.

Excitement and anticipation are building for the upcoming match, with Alty director Neil Faulkner expressing his admiration for Stuart, stating, “Stuart’s reputation as England’s number one was well-deserved. He was an exceptional goalkeeper who brought credit to the club throughout his remarkable 689 appearances, a feat that will remain unmatched.

“Faulkner shared his pleasure and honor in organizing a testimonial for Stuart, highlighting Stuart’s request to donate 50% of the proceeds to charity. The decision was made to support the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation in memory of Mark Maddox and George Melling, former teammates from the 2005 promotion-winning squad who succumbed to the disease.

Both players’ families will be present at the event to commemorate Stuart’s special day.The event promises to be a poignant reunion, with familiar faces returning to the stadium, including Stuart’s, creating a memorable afternoon for supporters. Faulkner encourages fans to show their support and stay tuned for further details and updates on the club’s website and social media platforms.