CITY boss Chris Cornes has highlighted the ‘feelgood factor’ created by the Blue and Whites fans ahead of two huge festive fixtures for his side.
Promotion-chasing rivals Corsham Town travel to Claines Lane tomorrow (Saturday) before City tackle Worcester Raiders in the Boxing Day derby (kick off 1pm)
Cornes’ men go into the three-day festive football feast level on points with Town in the Hellenic League Premier Division, albeit with three games in hand.
And speaking after City earned a place in the last 32 of the FA Vase with a dramatic 2-0 win over Boston Town on Saturday (December 16), Cornes hailed the faithful’s contribution at home and away.
“It’s crazy where we are in the football pyramid the fans we get supporting us,” he said.
“You can see what it means to the players when they celebrate with them when we score goals or at the end of games.
“It’s absolutely brilliant, they have been amazing. We get texts in the players group from lads who have been stopped by fans while shopping saying how much they are enjoying it.
“The buzz around the club from the fans alone is absolutely brilliant.”
Stoppage-time goals from Dylan Hart and Kyle Belmonte secured City’s progress into the fourth round of the FA Vase and a home tie with Lichfield City on January 13. Lichfield, second in the Midland League Premier, progressed after beating Highgate United 3-1.
A waterlogged pitch once again thwarted City on Tuesday evening when the Wiseman Lighting Floodlit Cup clash with Cheltenham Saracens was called off.
Meanwhile Worcester Raiders welcome Fairford Town to Sixways tomorrow in what will be the first game in charge for new managers Jordan Lewis and Glen Sitch.
The joint managers replace Karl Gormley after he announced he would stand down from the role last week.
In a statement on the club’s website, Raiders said:
“It has been an extremely difficult decision but the club believes in promoting from within.
“Knowing the club’s values and working with the budgets available they are the best option for the club going forwards.
“We would to thank everyone who applied for the position, which created a lot of interest.
“The club would also like to thank Phil Glover and John Pugh for their efforts since joining.
“They are professional, passionate and knowledgeable guys who no doubt will be swooped up by other club, bagging themselves a great duo.”
In-form Malvern Town will be looking to make continue their winning ways with a festive trip to Bideford AFC tomorrow before Evesham United visit the HD Anywhere Commuinity Stadium on Boxing Day.
The Hillsiders have won four Southern League Division One South games in a row to climb the table but have not been in action since the 3-0 win over Willand Rovers on December 9.