Fans heading to watch our match this Saturday are being urged to celebrate from their seats if the team gains promotion.
The request comes from Manager Paul Cox, who has been liaising with Nottinghamshire Police to ensure fans enjoy the game but remain safe.
Cox’s side face Wrexham at the One Call Stadium in a 5.15pm kick off, which could see us gain promotion from the Blue Square Premier back to the Football League.
If successful, a presentation of the promotion trophy will take place – but only if fans do not encroach on the pitch.
Tickets for the match sold out this morning. Allocated seating has again been introduced in the stadium. The game has also been selected on Premier Sports for live television coverage.
Said Paul Cox: “There’ll no doubt be much passion amongst our supporters this Saturday in the home ends for the final game of the season. We want our supporters to enjoy the whole day but remember not to encroach onto the pitch at the end of the game. We must adhere to league rules at this very important time.
“No one wants to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm, but we must abide by league stipulations to ensure the safety of everyone inside the stadium on Saturday.”
Supt Mark Holland, Nottinghamshire Police’s match commander for the fixture, said: “This is potentially going to be a great celebration for Mansfield Town and all its fans after a wonderful season, and we want people to come along to enjoy the game. Whatever the outcome, we are appealing to the fans to remain in their seats at the final whistle.
“We have been in discussions with the club and if they are successful at winning promotion, there will be a presentation, but only if we don’t see any pitch invasions. We know people will be excited if the Stags get promoted, but we need to ensure the safety of all those attending and so need to provide strict policing measures.
“We will be working with the club’s security team who will be on the lookout for anyone who thinks it is a good idea to run on the pitch. Not only will they face arrest as this is a criminal offence, but it will ruin the opportunity for everyone else watching the celebrations by stopping it from happening.
“We ask that everyone remain in their seats, and experience the game in a sensible and responsible fashion that makes the day thoroughly enjoyable for all.”
Supt Holland continued: “With the game starting later on Saturday it does give people a chance to drink more alcohol. We have been liaising with local licensees and I would ask people to drink responsibly and know that if they are drunk they won’t be allowed into the ground. While we want to see everyone enjoying themselves, spectator safety is paramount.”
