Altrincham produced a strong performance to defeat National League visitors Sutton 1-0.

Regan Linney’s superb 10th-minute finish made the difference as Altrincham maintained a top-seven placing.

Referee Simon Mather had a busy afternoon, awarding six yellow cards, with Linney being among four Altrincham players booked.

But Altrincham’s all-round excellence meant they were good value for the win, performing impressively following Linney’s strike.

It was Sutton’s eighth league defeat of the campaign, yet they remain just two points adrift of the play-off places.