After last night's friendly to raise funds for local NCEL side Clipstone, Cobras' vice-chairman Andy Sumner has this morning penned an open letter to Mansfield Town Football Club.
The full letter is as follows...
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for what you did for us last night. We had over 400 spectators and a lot of the local community and Stags' fans came out in force to support.
It was great seeing our youth teams being able to lead the teams out as mascots and make a guard of honour, whilst raising funds for the club. It made their night.
Paul Raynor and the team were absolutely magnificent. They showed professionalism to the end which was so appreciated (even though we'd conceded seven by half-time!).
All of the backroom staff were a pleasure to deal with and we cannot thank them enough. As the game was abandoned, I'm technically calling it a draw!
The power failure at half-time was devastating! It has never happened before, but sometimes it's just not your luck. However, everyone who was there knew what we were trying to do and were very accepting of the situation and were there to help raise funds. We thank everyone for their understanding.
Mansfield Town also helped us bring the community together. This has been our aim since we took over the club earlier this year; to make it more aligned to the community, be sustainable and aim to play at the best level possible whilst giving our local talent a chance.
It's been tough on the field this year, to be honest, but last night made something good out of something bad and spurs us on to keep going on our journey.
Mansfield Town has a big heart and I for one and many others are appreciative of that. Thanks for what you are all doing on and off the pitch. It's a club that people in the town should be so proud of.
Whilst it came to an abrupt end, I am reflective of the fact that so much was achieved for us as a club and your support will always be appreciated.
As always, we look forward to hosting the next Mansfield Town U19 and youth games at the club and continuing to work together.
Thanks again.
Andy Sumner
Vice-chairman
Clipstone FC
