Friday 18th October 2013
by Ian Richardson
pics courtesy www.matlocktownfc.co.uk

The struggles of the last two seasons may seem like an age ago as Matlock Town's fourth successive league win against Barwell on Wednesday, saw them sit in fourth place, ahead of a break from league action for all Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division clubs this weekend.

But Gladiators chief Mark Atkins is remaining level headed - and insists that nobody in the club should get carried away by their recent success.

His side may be only three points behind leaders Skelmersdale United who they are due to visit on Tuesday night, but the former Premiership title winner with Blackburn Rovers in 1994/95 is advising some caution.

"There's still a very long way to go, we haven't won anything yet" he said. "They're all tough games in this league, Saturday's at Stafford was tough, despite their league position and the Barwell game was what we were expecting.

"We'd had them watched and were told that they're a big physical side, so we knew what was coming. It just goes to prove that you've got to be bang on in every game you play, else you could be punished."

Matlock got off to a terrible start at second bottom Stafford, going behind in only thirteen seconds - but recovered to earn a comfortable win as Darryl Thomas levelled from the penalty spot, before a quickfire brace from the ever improving Lavelle White saw them come home over the border with maximum points.

"To concede early was disappointing, as we set our stall out to be strong and tight early on. The error from Lee Featherstone was punished but I thought the lads showed tremendous character to fight their way back and in the end, we won handsomely.

"We had a chat at half time, we'd done okay in the first half but we saw a few things we thought we could exploit. We pushed on a bit and scored two great goals, the second being a great team goal."

Winger White drew praise from Atkins, particularly after a struggling start to his Matlock career following a move from Eastwood Town in February.

"It was a difficult time for him and the club was having a difficult time" Atkins recalls.

"But, he got a good pre-season under his belt and he's been outstanding for us and provides us with a big outlet with his pace and quality, plus he's got a goal or two and we knew he had it in his locker."

While in midweek, Barwell prevented Matlock from showing the quality displayed in their second half performance at Marston Road, Atkins was still pleased with his team.

"It wasn't a pretty game but I thought we always looked in control without having too many chances, while we defended comfortably to earn a great win. Sometimes you need to win ugly and we did that.

"We stuck to our task even though some of the challenges were a little naughty and they could easily have finished the game with nine men.

"But I'm delighted, because after the FA Cup loss, I said to the lads that their task was to get nine points from three games, all of which were winnable and they've come good."

In fact, Town have taken sixteen points from their last six matches and Atkins believes the current lofty league position is due to some astute wheeling and dealing in the summer.

"We got the players in we wanted. In order to generate some funds we needed to free some players, but the ones we've brought in have been magnificent so far and have shown a great desire to play for this football club. We've been consistent and those players that have come in have added experience and quality."

Matlock will not be in action this weekend as scheduled FA Trophy opponents Hinckley United were wound up in the High Court last week, giving the Gladiators a bye into the Qualifying Round.

Skipper Liam Needham will see this as a blessing in disguise from a personal viewpoint after picking up a foot injury against Barwell. Atkins will be hoping Needham recovers in time for the visit to the table toppers, although this game could be postponed, Skem are at Blyth in the Trophy on Saturday and a draw would mean they would meet again on Tuesday.

"Skelmersdale's a tough place to go, especially at night after the lads have been at work all day, but we'll get on with it. Skelmersdale have had a great three or four years and are doing very well again this year, so we know it'll be tough but also, it's a game to look forward to."

The Gladiators are awaiting international clearance to allow striker Bradley Grayson (left), to make a return after leaving in March to play in Sweden. The pacy former Frickley striker would be a welcome addition to the Gladiators ranks having impressed at Matlock prior to going abroad.

He played a leading part in helping his club Ange IF, a full time professional club, lift the Swedish 3rd Division title and was one goal away from claiming the Golden Boot.

RECENT STORIES

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GLADIATORS MAKE IT 4 WINS IN A ROW WITH AN "UGLY" HOME WIN
AGAINST BARWELL -
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MATLOCK'S NEWS AHEAD OF SATURDAY'S GAME AWAY AT STAFFORD -
Hinckley United's demise means that Matlock Town will go through to the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Carlsberg Trophy - without kicking a ball. More...

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GLADIATORS UNABLE TO SEAL WIN AGAINST A STUBBORN FRICKLEY ATHLETIC -
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ATKINS LOOKS TO MAINTAIN HIGH STANDARDS SET -
2 away wins, FA Cup progress and 2 clean sheets represents an excellent few days work for Matlock and boss Atkins wants the high standards set to be maintained. More...

LONG MIDWEEK TRIP TO NORFOLK WORTH IT 4 MATLOCK.
MATCH REPORT -
Matlock's long midweek trip to Norfolk was all over bar the shouting by the interval as strikes from Lewis McMahon, Darryl Thomas and Danny Holland gave them a commanding advantage. More...

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MATLOCK LOSE TO NEW LEAGUE LEADERS AFTER GALLANT DISPLAY -
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MATLOCK DEFEAT TAKES AFC FYLDE TOP OF THE TABLE -
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MATLOCK NEWS - MORE INJURIES AHEAD OF 2 TOUGH FIXTURES LOOMING -
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GLADIATORS OVERTURN TWO GOAL DEFICIT TO WIN AT EASTWOOD -
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MATLOCK NEWS AFTER A NARROW WIN AND NARROW DEFEAT FOR ATKINS' SIDE -
Boss Mark Atkins was far from happy with his side in spite of their 2-1 win at Mickleover - though it was a more encouraging display in a 1-2 home defeat to Leicester City U21s on Thursday More...

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GLADIATORS START PRE-SEASON IN WINNING STYLE -
Matlock recovered from going a goal down to win their opening pre season friendly at Caernarvon Street on Saturday 13th July. More...

GLADIATORS PREPARE FOR SEASON OPENER AGAINST TEVERSAL -
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MATLOCK'S PRE SEASON NEWS, CUP DRAWS AND A FIXTURE CHANGE -
Matlock Town's already busy pre-season schedule has been added to further this week, but with the welcome boost of a match at home. More...

THREE NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE LONG SERVICE AWARDS PRESENTED-
Three of Matlock Town stalwarts have been recognised by the Northern Premier Football League who has presented them with Long Service Awards. More...

MATLOCK CHIEFS CONFIRM NO SPIREITES PRE-SEASON FIXTURE -
Matlock 'disappointed' with confirmation from Spireites' Chief Exec Chris Turner, that they are unable to send a team to Matlock for the traditional pre-season fixture this year More...

MATLOCK'S MASSIAH MOVES TO RIVALS -
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MATLOCK CHOOSE PLAYER OF THE YEAR - BUT LOSE THEIR MASSIAH -
Adam Yates was named as the fans Player of the Year at Matlock's Presentation Evening last Friday, and signed a new contract with the Gladiators. More...

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GLADIATORS 3, KENDAL TOWN 0.
MATCH REPORT -
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WITTON ALBION 3 , GLADIATORS 0.
MATCH REPORT -
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GLADIATORS SINK THE MARINERS. MATCH REPORT -
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BUXTON 1, MATLOCK TOWN 0. EASTER MONDAY MATCH REPORT -
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MATLOCK MAKE A POINT UNLOCKING HEDNESFORD AT KEYS PARK -
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GLADIATORS 2,
FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER 2. MATCH REPORT -
A battling Matlock side fully deserved their point against highflying United which dented the visitors' hopes of claiming the title. More...

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WITTON ALBION BRING GLADIATOR'S UNBEATEN HOME RUN TO AN END -
Matlock's recent unbeaten run in league and cup came to an end in a scrappy affair against play off chasing Witton who basically scored from their two attempts at goal, one of those being a penalty. More...

GLADIATORS BEAT SPIREITES TO EARN PRIDE PARK CUP FINAL TRIP -
A brace from Massiah McDonald saw Matlock through to the final of the Derbyshire Senior Cup for the first time since 2010 as they totally dominated a youthful Chesterfield outfit More...

MATLOCK BRING HOME 3 POINTS BUT RADFORD GOES TO HOSPITAL -
Anthony Griffiths-Junior's first league goal for Matlock proved a winner as Matlock put together a tremendous battling performance at the Weaver Stadium More...

GLADIATORS TEN MEN MAKE A POINT AT EASTWOOD -
Matlock's ten men had to settle for a point as the basement club secured a draw with a last minute equaliser from captain Romaine Graham More...

GLADIATORS TOP SCORER FACES INJURY SIDELINE -
Matlock were desperate to play their Derbyshire Senior Cup tie at home to Borrowash Victoria on Tuesday night, but the 4-1 victory and progress to the semi finals came at a potentially huge cost. More...

GLADIATORS BUOYED AFTER SATURDAY HOME WIN -
Last Saturday was a case of the result being more important than the performance when Matlock Town beat visiting Grantham Town by the odd goal in five. More...

GLADIATORS HOPE TO TAKE A BITE OF THE GINGERBREADS -
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LANDMARK APPEARANCE FOR MATLOCK SKIPPER AND NEW SIGNING -
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CHRISTMAS CHEER FOR THE GLADIATORS AT RUSHALL. MATCH REPORT -
It was a Merry Christmas for Matlock who chalked up their highest win of the season at Dales Lane on a soggy Boxing Day afternoon. More...

THREE IS A MAGIC NUMBER FOR MATLOCK AGAINST GRESLEY -
The Gladiators were convincing winners against their Evo-Stik First Division South play off hopeful hosts as they won their first Derbyshire Senior Cup tie since lifting the trophy in April 2010. More...

A 'SHAW' THING ENDS GLADIATORS' FA TROPHY DREAM -
The FA Trophy run may be over, extinguished in cruel fashion by Jon Shaw in the last minute, but Matlock emerged from the tie and their whole run with terrific credit. More...

GLADIATORS RUE POOR DEFENDING. MATCH REPORT -
Poor defending and a red card for Micky Harcourt cost Matlock dearly as Stafford took home all 3 points with Matlock wasting a great opportunity of making ground up the league table. More...

GLADIATORS DON'T LIKE TO 'BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE' -
Matlock soon came back down to earth after their midweek heroics against Mansfield in the freezing temperatures of Whitby's heavy Turnbull Ground on Saturday. More...

GOOD TIMES FOR GLADIATORS -
It's great being a Matlock Town fan at the moment - topped by events on and off the field in the past few days. More...

MAGNIFICENT MATLOCK HUNT DOWN THE STAGS -
Magnificent Matlock Town made history last night after beating Mansfield 2-1 at the Reynolds Stadium to go through to the 2nd round of the FA Trophy for the first time. More...

GLADIATORS EARN FA TROPHY REPLAY AGAINST STAGS -
Matlock thoroughly deserved the hugely impressive 1-1 draw against their Conference Premier neighbours, even unfortunate not to come away with a win More...

GLADIATORS GET READY FOR BIGGEST CUP GAME IN YEARS -
Matlock Town would no doubt have liked to be going into this weekend's mouth watering FA Trophy tie at neighbouring Mansfield with their recent unbeaten run still intact. More...

GLADIATORS WIN DERBYSHIRE DERBY. MATCH REPORT -
Second half goals from James Ashmore (his first for the club) and Massiah McDonald ensured Matlock won comfortably at Ilkestons New Manor Ground on Saturday. More...

BLAST FROM THE PAST LOOMS FOR THE GLADIATORS -
Matlock drew a plum tie in the First Round Proper of the FA Trophy on Monday, one which evoked fond memories from a winter's night back in Dec '76. More...

GLADIATORS PUT UP A FIGHT AGAINST STALYBRIDGE -
Matlock's recently found fighting spirit again came to the fore as they overturned a half time deficit against the Blue Square North full timers to score twice and progress to the first round proper of the FA Carlsberg Trophy More...

ATKINS' GLADIATORS IN GOOD HEART TO FACE STALYBRIDGE IN FA TROPHY -
Matlock's best display for months, a 3-1 win at Marine last weekend, has put them in good heart to face Blue Square Conference North full timers Stalybridge Celtic More...

'MAGNIFICENT' MATLOCK SINK MARINES -
Magnificent Matlock fully deserved this fantastic win at promotion chasing Marine who were outplayed, out-thought and happy to have lost by just a two goal margin. More...

MATLOCK WILL MISS MCMAHON AFTER RED CARD -
On the evidence of his performance in the 3-1 FA Trophy 2nd Qualifying replay win against Leek Town, Matlock will painfully miss Lewis McMahon for most of November More...

MATLOCK DOMINATE BUT FAIL TO SCORE AGAINST LEEK -
Gladiators dominated this FA Trophy tie but could not find a way past a stubborn Leek defence, even after the visitors had been reduced to ten men nine minutes into the second half. More...

MATLOCK'S MASSIAH MAKES THE DIFFERENCE. MATCH REPORT -
Matlock fans have had their fair share of sorrow and disappointment this season, but after this magnificent win, they can stick out their chests and shout from the rooftops. More & Video...

MAXIMUM POINTS FOR MATLOCK FROM A MUST WIN GAME -
Matlock deservedly claimed maximum points against Stocksbridge Park Steels from what was, even at this early stage of the campaign, a must win game More...

FORMER PLAYERS HAUNT GLADIATORS. MATCH PREVIEW -
Matlock Town will be hoping that they are not undone by a former player for the 2nd week running at Stocksbridge on Saturday. More...

MATLOCK 0, EASTWOOD TOWN 1. MATCH REPORT -
Eastwood committed a smash and grab raid on Non League Day to go home with all three points having been outplayed. More...

NORTH FERRIBY UTD 2, MATLOCK 1. MATCH REPORT -
Matlock deserved at least a draw from a good performance in which they were the better side over the course of the game. More...

MATLOCK TOWN 2, RETFORD UTD 0. MATCH REPORT -
Joe Leesley and Lewis McMahon scored inside a 2 minute spell early in the second half as Matlock overcame Baris NCEL Premier Division Retford in Wednesday night's friendly. More...

GLADIATORS' BOSS FRUSTRATED AT PERFORMANCE -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins looked on frustratedly as his side threw away 2 precious points, as foot of the table Stocksbridge Park Steels snatch a last gasp draw More...

GRANTHAM 3, MATLOCK 3. MATCH REPORT -
It was a welcome point for Matlock, but manager Mark Atkins reflected that cheap goals conceded by his side, cost them the chance to come home with a much needed victory. More...

MATLOCK 1, BLYTH 3. MATCH REPORT -
This was a case of unlucky Matlock! This was the first time this season, apart from possibly at Stafford, when the result did not merit the performance. More & Video...

MATLOCK ASST BOSS NICK BUXTON BLASTS 'DISGRACEFUL' PERFORMANCE -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins and his assistant Nick Buxton pulled no punches after watching the Gladiators being dumped out of the FA Cup More...

BELPER TOWN 3, MATLOCK 0. MATCH REPORT -
Matlock's FA Cup journey came to an abrupt and undignified end as the Nailers comfortably won the First Qualifying Round replay More...

"A MASSIVE WIN FOR MATLOCK" BOSS MARK ATKINS -
The 3-1 midweek victory against Frickley Athletic saw Matlock get off the mark at home after 5-0 and 3-0 defeats More...

MATLOCK 3, FRICKLEY ATHLETIC 1. MATCH REPORT -
"Can we play you every week?" was the shout from a happy and relieved Matlock camp after their first win in 4 More...

STAFFORD RANGERS 1, MATLOCK TOWN 0. MATCH REPORT -
One lapse of concentration in defence and a host of missed chances cost Matlock dear and brought about their fourth defeat in five games at Marston Road on Saturday. More...

MIXED WEEK FOR THE GLADIATORS -
An opening day hammering at home, a rack of injuries and a first away victory in almost twelve months made up a strange old first week of the season for Matlock Town. More...

MATLOCK 0, NANTWICH 5. MATCH REPORT -
Matlock served up an opening day horror show as Mark Atkin's side went down to their heaviest ever first day home defeat in the Northern Premier League. More...

THINGS CAN ONLY GET BETTER FOR THE GLADIATORS -
Mark Atkins feels his squad is better equipped than last term as Matlock aim for improving on their disappointing final 14th place in the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division last term. More...

RAINWORTH MW 2, MATLOCK 1. MATCH REPORT -
Matlock's worst pre season performance saw them slip to a surprising defeat at Kirklington Road on Saturday. More...

MATLOCK 0, SHEFF UTD XI 1. MATCH REPORT -
Just the finishing touch was missing from another promising performance as a youthful Blades won by the only goal of the game at the Reynolds Stadium on Wednesday night. More...

GAFFER HOPES FOR NEW BLOOD -
Matlock Town Manager Mark Atkins could be increasing the Summer signings quota from five to at least seven in the next week. More...

GLADIATORS UP FOR PRE SEASON BATTLE -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins reckons pre season is going well in spite of three worrying injuries. More...

WILL MATLOCK GET A CHANCE TO 'NAIL' BELPER IN FA CUP? -
A tasty local home derby could be on Matlock Town's menu in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round More...

MATLOCK TOWN ANNOUNCE NEW SHIRT SPONSOR -
It's been announced that JP Investment Partners will be Matlock Town FC's official shirt sponsor for the forthcoming 2012/13 season. More...

MATLOCK LEAD WAY WITH INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCT -
Matlock Town are leading the way after becoming one of the first football clubs in the country to have branded anti-slip surfaces installed in their stadium. More...

GLADIATORS BACK IN TRAINING -
Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins was confident of adding a midfielder to his Gladiators squad when they returned to pre season training on Tuesday night. More...

GLADIATORS UP STRIKE FORCE -
Matlock Town announced their second summer signing on Wednesday night, and again it was a striker. More...

GLADIATORS' KING ABDICATES -
Mr Consistency of the Matlock Town midfield, Liam King, has shocked the Gladiators faithful in moving on from the Reynolds Stadium. More...

TUESDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL RETURNS FOR MATLOCK -
Tuesday night will be football night once again in Matlock next season. More...

"TOUGH SEASON AHEAD" - ATKINS -
Mark Atkins says the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division "will be as tough as ever" after the Football Association announced the constitution of the various senior non league divisions on Friday. More...

GLADIATORS GET FRIENDLY THROUGH PRE-SEASON -
The usual busy pre season friendly programme awaits Matlock Town's playing staff when they return after the summer break on June 28th. More...

GLADIATORS' SEARCH FOR A STRIKER BEGINS -
Striker Ian Holmes' 2nd spell with Matlock Town has come to an end after just one season. More...

GLADIATORS PICK UP AWARDS -
Matlock manager Mark Atkins missed the club's presentation evening, but this week paid tribute to the award winners. More...

GLADIATORS BOSS DISAPPOINTED AT SEASON CLOSE -
2011/2012 was a season of underachievement for Matlock Town who finished in fourteenth position. A look at the statistics explains why! More...

MATLOCK DENIED HARD EARNED POINT -
A last gasp winner from Kyle Brady denied the Gladiators a hard earned point at Dales Lane in the final game of the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division season More...

ATKINS BLASTS SLOPPY GLADIATORS-
'Sloppy' Matlock gifted Whitby three goals and a lifeline in their bid to beat the drop. More...

MATLOCK 2, FC UTD OF MANCHESTER 1. MATCH REPORT -
Ian Holmes and Liam King scored the goals as Matlock won a great game played in front of their highest crowd of the season. More...

BUMPER CROWDS FOR GLADIATORS -
Matlock Town could well have their biggest gate of the season on Saturday with the visit of FC United of Manchester. More...

BUXTON 2, MATLOCK 1, MATCH REPORT -
Substitute Michael Towey's 89th minute winner was a kick in the teeth for Matlock whose much improved away performance deserved at least a share of the spoils. More...

GLADIATORS WORK HARD TO MAKE A POINT -
James Lukic's 88th minute equaliser earned the Gladiators a point against Marine when a goal for the hosts looked unlikely, despite playing against ten men. More...

GLADIATORS HAVE POINTS TO PROVE -
Matlock Boss Mark Atkins isn't too concerned with who the Gladiators have to face in their final 5 league games of the season, more on how his side performs. More...

TIRED GLADIATORS BEATEN BY BEESON BRACE -
Lee Beeson struck both goals to easily beat a lethargic Matlock who looked as if the end of the season could not come quickly enough.
More...

GLADIATORS BATTLE AGAINST INJURIES -
With 5 Injuries to key players, it's not ideal preparation for Matlock's toughest home test of the season when champions elect Chester visit on Saturday. More...

SUB WILKIN'S SPURS GLADIATORS TO VICTORY -
Half time substitute Liam Wilkin provided the spark to unlock the Burscough defence for Matlock's 3rd successive home win and 2nd league double of the campaign. More...

CAN THE GLADIATORS MAKE IT 3 IN A ROW? -
Wins in their last two home games have made for a brighter outlook at the Reynolds Stadium. More...

GLADIATORS TO KICK ON WITH SEASON -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins wants his side to put some real daylight between themselves and the relegation haunted clubs back to back with home games More...

FREE WEEKEND FOR THE GLADIATORS -
The fixture list has probably done Matlock no favours, as a blank weekend after the fine 2nd half showing against FC United means waiting another 7 days to try and build on that display. More...

GLADIATORS NEED A GOOD GOME RUN -
Boss Mark Atkins will be looking for his side to put together a run of wins at home, given their below par away record this season. More...

"WE NEED TO STAND UP AND BE COUNTED" BOSS MARK ATKINS -
With exactly two thirds of their league programme done and dusted, Matlock Town's players have received a "could do better" assessment from Manager Mark Atkins. More...

GLADIATORS BOSS PUTS THE RECORD STRAIGHT -
Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins this week rubbished claims made by Buxton supporters that he had applied for the vacant manager's job at the Silverlands. More...

GLADIATORS UNDER PRESSURE FOR RESULTS -
Atkins' management credentials are currently being put to the test with the Gladiators' slide into the bottom half of the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division table. More...

NEW BLOOD FOR GLADIATORS -
The fresh blood promised by manager Mark Atkins might just be in the Matlock Town squad for Saturday's home clash with Ashton Utd. More...

ATKINS RUBBISHES TRANSFER RUMOURS -
Matlock head to Kendal on Saturday with the criticism of manager Mark Atkins ringing in their ears. More...

"WE NEED A WIN!", GLADIATORS' BOSS MARK ATKINS -
Atkins seems to be losing patience and is ready to make the changes needed to stop a Matlock slump that's seen them go 8 games without victory More...

GLADIATORS BATTLING FOR A WIN THIS WEEKEND -
Draw specialists Matlock hope to finally secure the 2 extra points against Rushall Olympic in the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division. More...

TWO MORE INJURY HEADACHES FOR REDS BOSS ATKINS -
The treatment room at the Reynolds Stadium continues to fill up as 2 more Gladiators join the injury list More...

GLADIATORS SECURE NEW PLAYERS -
"Never give up!" is the advice Matlock manager Mark Atkins often imparts on his players. Those same words are perhaps apt as he finally secured two of his main transfer targets this week. More...

"THE BEST LAID PLANS..." -
Matlock collected another 4 injuries at Stafford midweek, on top of the 2 they picked up in the 4-0 defeat at Chester 3 days earlier, More...

GLADIATORS UP FOR THE BATTLE AHEAD -
Mark Atkins is turning out to be one of Matlock Town's most astute managers as his homework again paid off, plotting the downfall of Hednesford Town in the FA Trophy. More...

GLADIATORS LEARN TO ADAPT -
Adaptability is the name of the game for Matlock boss Mark Atkins who adopted "a horses for courses" approach to team and tactics in the last 2 games. More...

GLADIATORS' BACK LINE ON SIDE LINE? -
Matlock Town could have a complete back four on the sidelines this weekend as they travel to league leaders Northwich Victoria. More...

GLADIATORS LOSE LUKIC -
Mark Atkins says that James Lukic has been comfortably Matlock's best player this season and losing him for 2 to 3 weeks is a "massive blow." More...

GLADIATORS HAVE A BLAST -
Few people would have guessed that Matlock boss Mark Atkins would be blasting his players 3 days after demolishing the visiting league leaders Chorley More...

BATTLE WITH LEAGUE LEADERS LOOMS -
The league leaders come to town on Saturday and Matlock manager Mark Atkins wants his side to repeat last weekend's performance More...

GLADIATORS PUNCH ABOVE THEIR WEIGHT-
"Remember what happened last year when we played a Blue Square North side", the message from Reds Boss Mark Atkins More...

GLADIATORS RECHARGE THEIR BATTERIES -
A free week - just what Matlock Town wanted after a busy opening month which has seen them play almost a quarter of their league fixtures plus the FA Cup. More...

GLADIATORS BATTLE ON DESPITE INJURY -
The 2-1 win against Mickleover Sports on Monday which extended Matlock Town's unbeaten run to 5 games might come at a cost. More...

GLADIATORS BATTLE ON -
According to boss Mark Atkins, 2 wins and 2 clean sheets has done much to right the wrongs of Matlock Town's first 2 games. More...

NEW SIGNING GIVES ATKINS SELECTION HEADACHE -
Striker Tyeisse Nightingale has signed for Matlock Town and now Gladiators boss Mark Atkins feels he has competition throughout his squad. More...

MATLOCK'S HUNT FOR STRIKER GOES ON -
The Gladiators' search for another striker goes on but new recruit Lee Whittington does his chances of a starting place no harm whatsoever with 4 goals in pre season. More...

GLADIATORS DRAW IN NEW BLOOD -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins swooped quickly to replace his departing goalkeeper Adam Sollitt with Worksop Town's Jon Kennedy More...

FINDERS KEEPERS FOR GLADIATORS -
The shock departure of first choice goalkeeper Adam Sollitt means a new goalkeeper is top of Matlock Manager Atkins' shopping list More...

BATTLE LINES DRAWN. 2011-12 FIXTURES -
A visit to League Cup winners Ashton United on Saturday August 13th is Matlock Town's season opener in the 2011/2012 season after the fixture list was released this week. More...

MIDWEEK FIXTURES CHANGE FOR THE GLADIATORS -
There's a change of midweek home night for Matlock Town this season as the Gladiators switch from Tuesday to Wednesday. More...

TRIALISTS MAKE THEIR MARK FOR GLADIATORS -
A clutch of trialists will have the chance to stake their claim with Mark Atkins' Gladiators when the Blues return for pre season training More...

GLADIATOR'S SIGN EXPERIENCED DUO -
Manager Mark Atkins reckons he's found experience that was lacking after agreeing deals with Chris Bettney and Simon Sturdy. More...

TWO NEW FACES FOR GLADIATORS -
Matlock Town's first two signings of the summer are a former fan's favourite and an up and coming utility player. More...

DUE TO RETURN TO THE GLADIATORS ARENA NEXT SEASON-
2 of Matlock Town's brightest young stars have signed new 1-year contracts ahead of the new campaign. More...

GLADIATORS BOSS PRAISES BUXTON -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins this week paid tribute to his number two Nick Buxton for his contribution both on and off the field. More...

MATLOCK TOWN'S HANNAH JOINS BRADFORD CITY -
Ross Hannah finally got his wish of a career in the Football League when he joined League Two outfit Bradford City. More...

PRAISE FOR GLADIATORS' YOUNG STAR -
2011 has seen the emergence of a bright young talent at the Reynolds Stadium as 18 year old full back Ben Turner has stepped up to the plate. More...

HANNAH STRIKES GOLD -
Ross Hannah has surely hit legendary status at Matlock Town as his hat trick in Easter Monday's final league game this term saw him shatter the club record of 49 goals in a season. More...

STAY OF EXECUTION FOR THE GLADIATORS-
Boss Mark Atkins admitted it was "a huge relief" to beat Nantwich Town and end their sequence without a league win More...

NEW FACILITIES FOR GLADIATORS -
Success for Evo-Stik League Premier Division outfit Matlock Town hasn't come on the field this season, but off it. More...

IS THE GLADIATOR'S BATTLE OVER? -
Manager Mark Atkins has conceded that his side's hopes of reaching the play offs are all but over. More...

NOW OR NEVER FOR GLADIATORS -
Monday night's 1-0 Evo-Stik League Challenge Cup semi final defeat at Ashton United gives the Gladiators just the play offs to aim for. More...

FIGHT GOES ON FOR GLADIATORS -
Their play off hopes may be fading but Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins insists that the fight goes on. More...

BATTLE AHEAD FOR THE GLADIATORS -
Make no bones about it, Matlock need to beat Whitby Town in Saturday's lunchtime kick off (1pm) at the Reynolds Stadium. More...

NEW BLOOD FOR THE GLADIATORS -
Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins has fulfilled his promise to strengthen his Gladiators squad More...

GLADIATORS BATTLE TO HANG ON TO HANNAH -
Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins says that claims from Torquay that the Gulls had signed Gladiators star striker are "premature to say the very least." More...

AND THE WINNER IS... -
A brace of awards have come Matlock Town's way for boss Mark Atkins and the Gladiators new stand being acclaimed as the best new stand of 2011... More...

GLADIATORS FIGHT TO THE FINISH -
A perfect February has given Matlock Town an excellent chance of making the end of season play offs but boss Mark Atkins is taking nothing for granted. More...

ATKINS PLEASED AFTER WEEKEND WIN -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins reckons the 4-0 win at Retford United was a massive result for his side in more ways than one. More...

ATKINS SEEKS NEW BLOOD -
A busy Mark Atkins is trying to strengthen Matlock's squad ahead of a run of 18 league games and at least one, hopefully more, League Cup tie to play before the season's end. More...

MATLOCK TOWN SEEKS INVESTORS -
"A few thousand pounds could make a real difference to the club". That's the message from Matlock Town Football Club. More...

ALL CHANGE FOR THE GLADIATORS -
Fans shouldn't be surprised to see a couple of changes to the Matlock Town team that takes on Marine at the Reynolds Stadium on Saturday More...

KEEP IT UP -
Having won four out of their last five league matches, Mark Atkins' Matlock Town now find themselves up in third spot, More...

FLU HITS MATLOCK CAMP -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins rose from his sick bed on Monday to orchestrate a vital home win against Burscough, and then was back in it straight after the match. More...

ATKINS, "2010 HAS BEEN A GOOD YEAR" -
...but the Gladiators' fate in 2011 could be decided on how they cope with fixture congestion in what is expected to be a crowded end to the campaign. More...

PROVERBIAL 'SIX POINTER' -
Matlock Town v Buxton on Christmas Monday at the Reynolds Stadium looks to be the proverbial six pointer as the local rivals seek a play off spot More...

GLADIATORS BATTLE ARCTIC CONDITIONS -
Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins fears that his side could face a big fixture backlog as the arctic conditions bit into the Evo-Stik League fixture programme this week. More...

BACK TO WINNING WAYS -
Manager Mark Atkins was pleased and relieved that defensive errors failed to rear up again as Matlock recorded two 3-0 home wins inside a week More...

GLADIATORS
FIGHT ON -
Without a win in five games, Matlock Town will be desperate to grab maximum points against second placed Colwyn Bay on Saturday. More...

ATKINS: GIVING CHEAP GOALS AWAY MUST STOP -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins says his side must stop giving cheap goals away after their second 2-1 home defeat in four days. More...

MILESTONE APPEARANCE FOR GLADIATORS PLAYER -
There's two very good reasons why Matlock Town will want Saturday's visitors Hucknall Town to feel the backlash More...

GLADIATORS FIGHT BACK AFTER 1st AWAY DEFEAT OF THE SEASON -
Mark Atkins will be looking for his Matlock side to bounce back quickly and positively from their first away defeat of the season against Worksop More...

YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD MAN DOWN -
They say you can't keep a good man down... Matlock striker Ross Hannah has certainly proved the point this last week. More...

NEW STAND IN ACTION AT MATLOCK -
It's taken 10 years and a mammoth fundraising effort - but Matlock Town Football Club's new 300-seater stand is now providing a welcome home for supporters. More...

MATLOCK GAFFER BLASTS REFEREE -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins laid the blame for his side's second defeat of the season firmly at the door of Mansfield referee Mark Jones. More...

WILL HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF? -
Matlock will travel to the Bill Stokeld Stadium hoping history repeats itself this weekend as they take on Evo Stik League first Divison South Carlton Town in the 2nd Qualifying Round of the FA Cup. More...

TOP OF THE LEAGUE - Two wins in forty-eight hours placed Matlock Town on top of the league as they embark on their latest FA Cup adventure on Saturday at home to fellow Evo-Stik Premiership side Worksop Town. More...

NO EXCUSES -
Matlock boss Mark Atkins offered no excuses after a disappointing Bank Holiday return of just one point out of six. More...

MORE TO COME -
"I feel there's more to come from us." declared Matlock boss Mark Atkins after his side strengthened their Evo Stik League Premier Division campaign with a 3-0 win against Burcough. More...

RARING TO GO -
"The lads are raring to go" was the message from Matlock Town boss Mark Atkins after a long pre season programme of seven weeks and nine matches. More...

Related Links

Matlock Town Website