Browse Sections

• Accrington Stanley FC
• Local football
• Local cricket
• Golf

'Make us your second club' plea to league fans

23/ 4/2003

BLACKBURN and Burnley fans have been invited to join the party by adopting Stanley as their second club.

"Floating'' fans helped to swell the average Crown Ground crowd into four figures during a memorable campaign.

And Reds' chairman Eric Whalley is keen to foster more links with supporters of East Lancashire's "big two''.

Fans of both clubs are therefore being asked to support Stanley and boost the Conference crowds when their first-choice teams hit the road next season.

Whalley explained: "The people of Accrington have done us proud this season, as always.

"They could easily have deserted us in our hour of need because Blackburn were playing at home just down the road on the day we clinched promotion.

"But over 2,200 turned up for the Altrincham game and that's an indication of the support we can tap into.

"It's the first time East Lancashire has ever had a Conference side and I'm sure people will want to come and have a look to see what all the fuss is about.

"But what would be perfect is for Blackburn and Burnley fans to adopt Accrington Stanley as their second side.

"We are lucky because both sets of fans come and watch us and we never have any problems.

"It's really pleasing that they give us their backing and we genuinely hope that can be extended."