Fans will be on the edge of their seats ahead of Stanley’s nail-biting final match of the season – which could see them secure historic promotion to League One.
If Accrington get a win at the Wham Stadium on Saturday, they will join the third tier of English football for the first time since the original Reds went bust in 1966.
The stakes could not be higher – Stanley must win against 19th placed Stevenage to secure their automatic promotion – or else face entering the League Two playoffs.
With just two points between second-placed Accrington and fourth-placed Bristol Rovers, there is everything to play for and fans are feeling the tension.
Devout supporter Ash Seed, who organised seven coach loads of supporters at last week’s game at Wycombe, said he has his fingers crossed for the sellout clash.
He said: “I’m very nervous but confident that Stanley can get the win.
“We are in the best position possible and not having to rely on anyone else relieves the anxiety a little.
“Saturday will be a celebration of what we achieved this season. With a performance and support like we had on Saturday at Wycombe, we’ll be up. What a season, on a similar level to the successes of Leicester City.
“The stadium will be packed to the rafters, fans will be in full voice. It’s got the perfect recipe for a day for Accrington and its people to be proud of to remember for years to come.”
Despite a tricky start against Wanderers last week, a resolute Stanley grabbed a late winner in a 1-0 victory at Adams Park. Club owner Andy Holt told the Observer that a win on Saturday would be a huge milestone for the town.
He said: “It’s the biggest match in my memory. I’d be delighted for the team and the fans if they go up. It would be a massive boost for Accrington.
“It’s taken a tremendous effort to get Accrington to where they are now and credit goes to everyone who has supported them over the last 50 years.”
Home tickets for Saturday’s game have sold out, and more than 4,000 fans are expected in the stands to cheer on the Reds’ promotion push.
A ‘fan zone’ day organised by Accrington Stanley fans will end the season for supporters in style.
The Official Accrington Stanley Supporters Club has worked with the club to organise a 12-hour festival of football, music and fun on Saturday, May 7.
There is free entry for all the family to the event, which starts at 12pm in a marquee at the Clayton End outside the Wham stadium.
Activities before the 3pm kick-off against Stevenage include live music from the Accy Rockers, a kids’ football skills challenge and a historic memorabilia stand.
After the match the fan zone will host more live music, player appearances and free food samples, all compered by BBC Radio Lancashire’s Stephen Lowe.
Bar facilities will also be available throughout the day.
From 7pm the party moves to the club’s sports bar and from 9pm to midnight it continues at Stanley’s own pub, The Crown in Accrington.
Nick Westwell, chairman of the Stanley Supporters Club, said: “We’re starting to feel a real groundswell of support for the club, both in the town and further afield.
"For the first time in a long time there’s a real buzz of excitement around Stanley.
“We hope as many people as possible will come along, join in the fun and show their support for their local football team.”
