BUOYANT chairman Dean Hoyle has called on fans to “raise the roof” and roar Town into the League I play-off final.
Lee Clark’s side go into Wednesday’s semi-final second leg at the Galpharm (7.45) tied 1-1 with Bournemouth and bidding to reach the Old Trafford showpiece on Sunday, May 29.
Hoyle looked on as Kevin Kilbane gave Town a 22nd-minute lead in Saturday’s first leg at Dean Court, where Ian Bennett saved a penalty by Danny Ings before Bournemouth equalised through on-loan Manchester City man Donal McDermott on the hour.
Town had 1,283 fans in a crowd of 9,043 on the South coast, while a 16,000-plus turn-out is expected for Wednesday’s West Yorkshire decider.
“Our fans have a huge role to play, especially in a night match at the Galpharm,” said Hoyle.
“They’ve really got to raise the roof because they can make the difference by becoming our 12th and 13th man.
“There are bound to be spells where we need a lift and that’s where the supporters have to make their biggest impact.
“Our fans have been magnificent all season – in fact they have been throughout my 35 years supporting the club – and we want to reward them with Championship football.
“The players want it, the management want it, the staff want it, the directors want it and I know the fans want it – so we need everyone pulling together on Wednesday night to help the lads get us into the final.”
Commercial director Jarvis echoed chairman Dean Hoyle’s comments when he said: “We’re desperate to get to the final – and win it.
“There’s certainly no complacency, because in our three games against Bournemouth so far this season, we’ve seen they are a good side.
“That’s why we have to do everything in our power to win on Wednesday, and creating that special cup-tie atmosphere will certainly help.
“We’ve had terrific support home and away all season, and I know it will be the same on Wednesday.
“But my message is the more the better, and if anyone is thinking of coming down, please do, or if any existing fans have friends who want to experience a big match, then wear some blue and white and get behind the team – you’ll be more than welcome!”
Town’s best attendance so far this season is the 14,900 figure for the home game against Sheffield Wednesday in January, when Lee Clark’s side won 1-0 through Anthony Pilkington.
That figure looks certain to be topped, with tickets available on-line, over the phone or in person at the stadium.
“Night games always seem to have that extra edge in terms of atmosphere and drama,” added Jarvis.
“You look back to last season, when we beat Millwall in the league in a Friday night game.
“It would be great to replicate that kind of occasion, and this match has all the makings of a cracker – two teams who want to win and will have a real go in front of a passionate crowd.
“It could be a special night for the club and the town, so don’t miss out!”
