They take you on an emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows. They test character. They test mettle. They show who can hold their nerve, whether fighting for survival at the bottom or for glory at the other end of the table. This club has experienced both in recent seasons.
And this season, like every other, eventually reaches a point where it all comes down to a handful of games.
But now there are five games left for us. Five games that will define our season.
Let’s stop for a moment and think about where this club has come from. That alone is pretty remarkable.
From back-to-back relegations, we managed to earn a reprieve from dropping into Step 5. We regrouped and last season we had the incredible moment of the playoff win, getting ourselves back to Step 3.
At the start of this season I think most supporters would probably have taken a steady year. A chance to stabilise the club, build again and maybe push for the playoffs if things went well.
But we had momentum. There was a buzz about the place. We wanted to start the season well and see where it could take us. We decided to go for it.
Five games left and we’re in a three-horse race to win the league.
That’s something everyone connected to this football club should be proud of.
But pride alone doesn’t win football matches.
These last few weeks are about character.
To the players, this is the moment to show it.
You’ve put yourselves in a position where something special is there to be achieved. But at this stage of the season it takes more. More fight. More energy. More willingness to win the battles that decide tight games.
The opportunity is still there.
Now go and finish the job.
Kelvin, Danny and the staff have my full support as we head into these final weeks. They’re working tirelessly with the players to give us the best possible chance, and I know they believe in what this group can still achieve.
Now to the supporters.
Our crowds have been fantastic, averaging over 1,800 for home games and already breaking a Keys Park record for the number of fans through the turnstiles in a season, with games still to spare. The club shop has also done a roaring trade, eclipsing last year’s shirt sales. And I don’t think there’s another club in non-league with as many supporters in the stands proudly wearing their club’s colours like we have.
You’ve been brilliant all season. The atmosphere at Keys Park, the travelling support, the pride people show in the badge. Being the 12th man has made the difference in those tight games.
And in these final weeks, you can make that difference again.
The Easter Bank Holiday double header is huge.
Prescot at home.
FC United of Manchester away.
Two proper tests that could set us up perfectly for the final three games of the season. And once again you’ll be there in numbers. FC United at home broke the Keys Park attendance record and there’s a real possibility of doing the same at Broadhurst Park.
When Keys Park is rocking it lifts the players and makes life difficult for the opposition. Everyone who’s experienced it knows the difference it makes.
Let’s recreate that atmosphere and pack the place.
So for the final two games, we’re launching a new offer.
Let’s Pack the Park.
For fixtures on Saturday 11th and 25th April, admission will be reduced from the usual £13 for adults to just £6, and £4 for concessions. That makes it better than half price. Bring a mate, bring the family, or bring someone who’s never been to Keys Park before and let’s get the ground full.
For our season ticket holders, don’t worry about missing out. Your support all season has been hugely appreciated, so you’ll receive a drinks voucher at these games so you can still be part of the promotion (check your emails closer to the time!).
It’s also been brilliant to see the growth of our younger supporters behind the goal throughout the season. The energy, the drum and the noise have added so much to the atmosphere at recent games. The Young Pitmen behind the goal have been fantastic. Let’s hear you again.
The passion from our supporters is exactly what makes Keys Park special. Loud, proud and right behind the team.
If there was ever a time to fill the place, this is it.
Five games left.
A season that could still end in something very special.
Let’s all give everything we’ve got for these final weeks.
Players.
Staff.
Supporters.
All pulling in the same direction.
Together.
