Alfreton Town make one of their shortest away journeys of the season on Saturday, when they make the trip to Derbyshire Rivals Buxton FC in National League North.

New boss Jake Buxton is still awaiting his first victory as Alfreton Town manager, following a midweek defeat to Chester FC. In their first home game for more than a month, Alfreton battled hard against the Seals of Chester but struggled to create chances or pose an attacking threat throughout. Ofton went in at half-time a goal behind after Chester were awarded a penalty in controversial circumstances by referee Scott Simpson, following a tangle in the box. Tom Peers was given the responsibility from the spot, and despite a strong hand from Ofton debutant keeper Harry Burgoyne, he scored to give the visitors the lead.

Harry Burgoyne, who was signed on a short-term deal until the end of January earlier in the day, pulled off a string of excellent saves to deny Chester a more resounding margin of victory, as Alfreton struggled to pose a threat going forward.

Following a defensive error from the Reds, Peers grabbed his and Chester’s second on 74 minutes to leave Alfreton with an uphill task.

Everyone at the club is eager for the new era under the reign of Jake Buxton to receive the boost of a win, but the National League North is a tough and unforgiving league.

Buxton FC have acclimatized to National League North very well since promotion a few seasons ago, and sit inside the play off places after a pleasing start to the campaign. A stoppage-time winner from Connor Kirby secured a comeback win away at Peterborough Sports on Tuesday, after the hosts had taken the lead in under a minute.

Alfreton’s downturn in fortunes in 2025 can arguably be traced back to their last visit to the Tarmac Silverlands Stadium on Boxing Day 2024. First-half goals from Lewis Salmon and Max Hunt, against his former employers, had Alfreton level in an end-to-end contest before a strike from Ben Sault won it for the Bucks - who went on to qualify for the play-offs last term.

Buxton FC, under the management of John McGrath, have qualified for the First Round of the FA Cup this season, after wins in qualifying over Redditch United, Marine, and Runcorn Linnets. The Bucks have enjoyed a fortunate draw as well as they host Chatham Town, in the FA Cup Proper for the first time in 97 years, next Saturday.

Alfreton will hope that a win in the local derby can provide the perfect tonic to kick-start their season and dampen the feel-good factor at the Bucks ahead of their FA Cup tie next week.

Travel (Supporters Coach)

Those wishing to travel on the Supporters Association bus, please contact Mark on 07857 558401. Departure is at 10:15 from the Impact Arena with a delightful stop off in Stamford

Travel (Car)

Start out at Bakewell, Derbyshire on the A6

Follow signs Buxton, Manchester A6 In 2.1 miles long ascent Descend 10% Forward and descend 10%

Junction for Poole's Cavern (edge of Buxton) B5059

At Morrisons roundabout take 1st exit (left) B5059 (not shown) (signposted Poole's Cavern and Country Park)

Turn right onto High Street (London Road Lights) - A515

Turn right on Buxton Market at Joe Royle's shop.

Turn left onto Concert Place (signposted for Police Station) then Hardwick Square South.

Continue forward onto Silverlands. Ground on right after 400 metres.

Contact

If you want to get in touch with the club, you can email us on enquiries@alfretontownfc.com.

Alternatively, you can see the latest Reds news and updates on our club website and across our social media channels on X, Facebook and Instagram.

We hope you have a great time following the Reds on Saturday.