DIRECTOR Martin Byrne believes Wednesday's McAlpine occasion will be a celebration of Town achievement this season - win, lose or draw.
The Elland businessman who was instrumental in saving the club this time last year has been delighted with progress under Ken Davy and Peter Jackson.
And whether Town go up or not, Mr Byrne believes the re-building of his lifetime favourites will gain still more momentum in 2004-05.
"Considering where we were a year ago we have made giant strides and, whether we go to the Millennium Stadium and go up or not, we've got a fantastic amount to be positive about," said Mr Byrne, who watched Saturday's 2-1 first-leg victory at Sincil Bank.
"When you look back and think we started out with only eight players, an enormous amount of effort has gone in both on and off the field and the season has been marvellous.
"It was understandable that everyone should feel deflated after the Cheltenham game because we hadn't gone up automatically after being so close, but we do have another chance after Saturday's win and everyone will be doing their utmost on Wednesday.
"The fans have been truly wonderful this season, as is shown by the amount of season-ticket sales we've already made for next season, and I believe they recognise that we've achieved a hell of a lot this season. They were brilliant at Lincoln and I'm sure they will be again on Wednesday."
Guest of Mr Byrne at recent games has been Chris Wood, the Paddock man and former Emley player who was hands-on at the McAlpine for administrators Begbies Traynor and assisted in keeping the club running.
"Chris helped to see us through some very dark days with his understanding and knowledge, not to mention his support for the club, and I'm delighted he's been back to join us," added Mr Byrne.
"Peter and Ken have done a marvellous job to bring the club around - backed by all the players, commercial and office staff - and it would be wonderful if we could go through against a very physical Lincoln side and then win at Cardiff.
"The players have all stuck together superbly and it would be great to see the McAlpine packed to the rafters on Wednesday to roar the lads on.
"To have had 18,000 down for the final League game was magnificent and I'm sure there will be another huge crowd for this.
"It will be a massive celebration if we win through, not just because we'll be going to the final but because of how far we've come. We are all passionate about the club, we have come a very long way in a short space of time and fair play to Ken Davy, he has been top class."
