Hucknall Town will continue to play in the nine tier of the English football pyramid next season after favourable results over the past few nail biting days. And to reward fans for their support, the Yellows are offering fans free entry to their final match of the season tomorrow (Saturday), as they entertain Boston Town.
Mathematically, it is still technically possible for Hucknall to be relegated, unless they achieve at least a draw against Boston. But for this to happen they would need to lose their match on Saturday and Pinchbeck would need to win their match against AFC Mansfield, with such high scores that the net change in goal difference is at least 45.
The Town gave themselves breathing space with a 2-0 win in the bottom-of-the-table clash with Pinchbeck on Saturday, despite playing most of the match with just 10 men, after Town defender Hugo Hunt was sent off for an foul on Pinchbeck’s Hugo Hunt, who was clear on goal.
The win left Hucknall in 17th place of the 18-team Uhlsport United Counties League, with 21 points against Pinchbeck’s 18 points.
Hucknall were unable to claim another three points last night as they lost to Kimberley Miners Welfare 2-1. But the pressure was off, as Pinchbeck also lost this week’s match, losing 0-2 at home to Sleaford on Easter Tuesday.
Both teams head into tomorrow’s final game three points apart, but with Hucknall having a much better goal difference of minus 41, compared to Pinchbeck’s minus 85.
“Whilst results have gone favourably our way this week to almost guarantee our safety, we still need a point to mathematically confirm our place at step five next season”, Town Manager Reece Limbert said on the club’s website. “Our hugely better goal difference is currently the difference, but I want us to finish strongly and . . . to deliver beyond doubt. I’ll ensure that we remain focused on finishing the season as strong as possible.”
To reward the fans for their support over what has been a tough season, Hucknall Town are offering free entry for tomorrow’s home game against the Poachers. “The supporters have been immense this season and the club is grateful for your patience during what has been a difficult season behind the scenes by those running the club as well as those on the field”, the club said on its website. “You have proved that there is power and influence by sticking with us through these difficult times. Your support this season, especially at away matches, has definitely spurred on the squad to perform, especially in the critical final stages of the season.”
Fans who attend will be asked instead to make a donation for a yet-to-be announced charity.
“This season has been an emotional rollercoaster, especially for the fans and I’m proud that we can offer this gesture as a thank you for their outstanding support”, Limbert said. “We have the loudest and most loyal supporters around and I’m glad we can repay their support in this way.”
Hucknall Town final match of the season, against Boston United, kicks off at 3.00 pm at the RM Stadium in Aerial Way, Hucknall.
