PHIL Parkinson saluted Altrincham’s clinical finishing after Alfreton were blown away by three goals inside the opening 25 minutes at a wind-swept J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday.

The Alty boss has had cause to bemoan teams being let off the hook in recent times, but there was no reprieve for Alfreton as they were put to the sword by a scoring blitz that enthralled a 1,000-plus crowd and made light of the blustery conditions.

On-loan winger Owen Dale, in-form midfielder Max Harrop and prolific striker Jordan Hulme put the game beyond the visitors’ reach before half time and left Parkinson enthusing: "We played some outstanding stuff in the first half and were extremely clinical.

"In the second half, we showed we can keep a team out.

"They had a little go but we weathered the storm really well.

"It was disappointing not to keep a clean sheet, particularly as they only had two shots all game, but there was still a lot to admire all over the pitch.

"The back four were immense, we were good on the ball and competitive in midfield and clinical up front.

"You don’t get a result like that against good opposition unless everyone is doing the job asked of them.

"Owen looked a real threat and had one of his best games for us and if his club Crewe are watching, which I’m sure they are, that will have done him the world of good.

"Jordan finished with aplomb again, and Max showed that, as well as being ferocious in the tackle, he can be easy on the eye. There is a nice blend to his game."

Alty travel to Stockport County in the FA Cup on Saturday, with the prize for victory being a place alongside Football League clubs in the draw for the first round proper.

"Stockport are a massive name at this level and should arguably be in the league themselves," said Parkinson.

"Jim Gannon is an experienced manager who I have a lot of respect for, so we are all going to have to be at our very best."