Vase harmony is so refreshing

OWING to the resurgence of Chertsey Town this season, the club were delighted to be able to welcome AFC St Austell to Alwyn’s Lane for the fourth Round of the FA Vase recently.

How refreshing it was to enjoy the sportsmanship of both teams, both sets of supporters, and the committees – it was a real credit to Step 5/6 football.

With a gate of 501 – the club’s largest attendance for over 20 years – the supporters were entertained by attacking football of the highest skill that was good value for the £7 adult entrance fee and £4 concession.

Despite losing 5-0 and with a five-hour return journey to Cornwall ahead of them, AFC St Austell and their 100 travelling supporters remained in the clubhouse until 7.00pm and proved there can be friendship even in defeat, unlike your recent front-page headlines higher up the pyramid.

All clubs have their ups and downs but Chertsey Town’s story proves that good times can return to any club with the right structure in place, starting with that off the field.

Clubs, though, will only go forward with the backing of supporters who, at the end of the day, are the heartbeat of the club in the first place.

Their enthusiasm should be the driving force behind club committees or board of directors.

Well done all at AFC St Austell you were a credit to Non-League football, your league and your town.