The script could not have been written better for Spalding United on Saturday as they ended a run of 14 games on the road by playing their first home game of the season at their newly-revamped Sir Halley Stewart Ground.
A crowd of almost 800 were present to see the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central club make Emirates FA Cup progress at the expense of higher-level Alfreton Town of The National League North courtesy of a commanding 3-0 victory.
Redevelopment works have included a new state-of-the-art artificial playing surface, improved floodlighting and modernised dressing rooms plus general maintenance and spruce-up around the ground, which will benefit the various teams affiliated to the club and the community as a whole.
"As Directors, we can be custodians of the club and the Chairman can drive us from the top, but nothing happens without the countless hours that a number of volunteers have put into this project,” said the Tulips’ Chief Executive, Leigh Porter. "There is a very small core group of volunteers who have gone over and above the call of duty and, without them, this developments wouldn't have happened, it's as simple as that.
"You can have all the plans and funds in place but if you haven't got anyone to be part of this one big team which we're trying to create, then we will fall at the first hurdle.
“This is big for the town and our local community and those that have been involved in this project can be extremely proud of what they have achieved. They have been an integral part of the next chapter for Spalding United FC.
"Everyone at the club has pulled together superbly and created something which is great for the town.
"The Chairman has invested heavily in the facility because he wants to create something which is not only for the benefit of the football club but also for the whole community. We want as many people to come along and be part of what is happening here.
“Things have already grown immensely and now it’s time to really drive things forward. These are exciting times and Saturday was just a fantastic day on and off the pitch for the club. It’s an occasion that will be remembered for a long time to come.”
Alongside Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup success, the club has suffered just one defeat from their opening seven League games, even more impressive as they have all come away from home.
They are back on their travels on Saturday as they head to Banbury United.
IMAGE: Spalding United FC
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