Altrincham FC, who play in the National League, became a real legend due to unexpected victories over stronger opponents. These upsets often led to large bets, as the odds on the success of the modest club reached tens and hundreds.
Match with Portsmouth (FA Cup, 1978/79)
One of the most legendary cases, as visitors to the Beon Bet betting club remember, took place in the first round of the 1978/79 FA Cup. Altrincham, then a member of the Northern Premier League, hosted Portsmouth from the Third Division. Portsmouth was considered the clear favorite: the odds on their victory were around 1.20-1.30, while the odds on Altrincham were 8.00-10.00. The match on November 18, 1978, at Moss Lane Stadium, attracted 3,000 spectators. Altrincham took the lead in the 25th minute through a goal by Jack Swindells, and in the second half:1: Johnny King's goal for Oldtrum in the 75th minute equalized the score after a shot by Bob Latham. The odds for a draw were 12.00-15.00, and for Oldtrum's victory, the odds were 20.00 .
The rematch on February 21 at Old Trafford (due to the overcrowding at Moss Lane) attracted a record-breaking 35,000 spectators. Everton won 2-1 (goals by Bob Latham and Imre Vardy), but Altrincham led 1-0 until the 85th minute. Betting on a draw in the first match or on an Altrincham goal resulted in winnings of up to £100,000 in total across the country, according to estimates by The Guardian. One notable case was winning £20,000 on "Altrincham will not lose" (odds of 6.00).
Win over Tranmere Rovers (FA Cup, 1983/84)
In the first round of the 1983/84 FA Cup, Altrincham shocked again by beating Third Division Tranmere Rovers 1-0 on 19 November 1983. Mark Lewis scored the goal in the 60th minute. Tranmere were the favourites (1.50 odds), with Altrincham at 5.00-6.00. The Moss Lane match was a battle, with Altrincham coming back from a red card and holding their own.
The odds on an accurate 1-0 scoreline reached 15.00, resulting in payouts of £10,000-£20,000 per player. According to the club, the total winnings from betting exceeded £100,000.
Coach Fred Farrar called the match a perfect upset. Altrincham advanced to the next round after losing 0-2 to Sheffield United.
Recent upsets: Victory over Oldham Athletic (2023/24)
In modern football, Altrincham maintains its traditions. On April 1, 2024, they defeated Oldham Athletic 1-0 in the National League. Oldham, with a larger budget, led 0-0 until the 90th minute, but Alex Higginson's goal secured the victory. The odds for Altrincham were 4.50-5.00. Betting on a late victory (odds of 10.00 ) resulted in winnings of up to £5,000 for a £100 bet.
According to Flashscore, this was a key match for the playoffs; Altrincham finished 8th. Similarly, in 2022/23, a 2-1 victory over Salisbury (3.00 odds) yielded winnings of around £2,000 per typical bet.
Why is Altrincham a favorite for big winnings?
Altrincham is a club with a soul: founded in 1891, known as the Robins for their resilience. Their counter-attacking style and team play is perfect for upsets. In 1978-1982, they beat more league teams than many clubs in the Third/Fourth Divisions. Today, in the National League (2024/25: 2 wins in 6 matches), they continue to surprise, as in their recent 2-1 victory over Sutton United (September 6, 2025, odds of 2.80).