Spalding United were meant to be finishing the season at home this weekend, but instead the only action they’re hoping for is money to drop into the JustGiving appeal they’ve created.
Regular supporters are being asked to donate the money they would have otherwise spend on watching the Tulips in the abandoned game as they look to stay afloat during the current coronavirus crisis.
That’s prematurely ended the BetVictor Northern Premier League South East division and left Spalding without the match day income they would be expecting.
The JustGiving page has been set up by manager Lewis Thorogood and is aiming to raise £2,500, though he stresses the club isn’t in immediate trouble.
“All football clubs are in a similar boat and some are luckier in others in that they might have more directors and support to help them,” he said “We’ve lost five home games, including the Easter Monday derby with Wisbech which would have been a big crowd for us.
“We’ve lost a four figure sum, possibly even a five figure sum because this has coincided with a run of games we had at home.
“There’s nothing we can do about it as every club has a run like that in the season.
“There’s no obligation to donate as we know many are being furloughed or their income is diminished and they have to put their families first.
“What we’re saying is, for those lucky enough to have a bit of money they could donate a bit of what they might pay for their admission.”
Thorogood also said that the 200 Club initiative the club had already set up was proving popular and that the club shop had been doing well in recent weeks with a number of orders.
“For all sports clubs it’s going to be an interesting time in the future.
“We want to start next season on an even keel financially.”
The JustGiving page can be reached at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/tulips fundraising
* Michael Duggan has been named the Tulips’ Player of the Season after an online vote.
The goalkeeping stalwart claimed 55 per cent of the votes to take the title.
Defender James Hugo was second with 32 per cent and midfielder Kegan Everington third with 13 per cent.
Thorogood said: “I think by his own admission Michael was struggling with a long-standing injury at the start of the campaign and he’s been frustrated at missing a few games.
“But he’s also made some fantastic saves that have won us games.
“He’s one of the best keepers at step four across the board and is very influential.
“The honour is well deserved.”
Thorogood also praised the Young Player of the Year award winner Elliott Burrell who amassed 45 per cent of the votes.
“That’s well deserved and it’s great he’s already committed to us for next season,” the manager continued.
“He’s a really good prospect and if he keeps learning he’s got a lot of potential going forward.”
In second place was Benjamin Richards with 35 per cent.
The Clubman of the Year award was shared between match day secretary and press officer Ray Tucker and treasurer Jenny Gay.
