Regan Linney’s double boosted Altrincham’s play-off hopes after they beat 10-man Halifax 3-0.

Altrincham had an early opportunity when Alex Newby’s effort was saved by Toby Savin and they soon took the lead in the 10th minute when Jake Bickerstaff broke forward before rolling the ball past Savin.

Lewis Banks then sent a shot over the bar just before the break and Altrincham goalkeeper Caleb Ansen was called into action early in the second half to deny Jamie Cooke before Halifax were reduced to 10 in the 58th minute when Lewis Leigh was sent off.

The Robins soon took advantage as Linney slotted home from the penalty spot in the 65th minute and the striker bagged his brace just eight minutes later after tapping home from Lucas Weaver’s low pass across the box.

Victory means Altrincham sit three points outside of the play-off places, while Halifax stay sixth in the table.