Spennymoor manager Jason Ainsley is hoping that his team picks up their first league win of the season at home to Altrincham today.

Moors have collected a point apiece from games against Chester and Darlington so far, but Ainsley says that his team must rise to the occasion again when Altrincham visit the Brewery Field this afternoon.

“We could easily have come out of the games against Chester and Darlington with a win,” he said. “Our performances were pretty decent in both matches, and I was happy overall with the way we played. Maybe we’re two points shy of where we should be.

“I thought we played well the other night and only collected a point, but there will be times this season when we won’t play as well, but come out with a win. I thought we showed great character to come back from a goal down to equalise late in the game – that’s something we might not have done three or four years ago. We threw bodies forward, and it was a very good header by Glen to get us an equaliser.

“It’s important that we win today, because you always like to get your first win under your belt straight away and get a monkey off your back.

“There is plenty to build on from the first two matches, we’re all very optimistic going into today’s game. However, we must make sure that we’re up for the game after the big crowds of the first two matches. There were over 2,000 at Chester, and 1,700 in the ground for the Darlington game. We probably won’t have as many watching today, so the lads must be ready for that.

Altrincham won promotion back to the National League from the EvoStik Premier Division last season after just one season, and in their first two matches have drawn 2-2 at home to Leamington and won 3-1 at Southport. Striker Jordan Hulme has scored three of their five goals so far.

“We’ve had Altrincham watched this season, and they’re a very expansive side that is technically very good.

“They’re a bit like us last season when we came into the league. We had a great start to last season, and they’ll be feeling the same after winning at Southport, they’re on the crest of a wave.”

Meanwhile, Ainsley will once again include winger Kevin Hayes in his squad today.

Moors completed the signing of the former Stockton Town player just in time for Tuesday’s home game with Darlington, and he made a brief ten minute appearance near the end of the game.

“Kevin is quick and has got good control. He’ll give us an extra option to think about, and he’s certainly got something that we can work on.”

Hayes had a spell at the Middlesbrough Academy earlier in his career, and played a leading role in getting Stockton through to last season’s Vase final.

Moors only have one injury doubt, Ryan Hall is still suffering from a calf strain.