‘Remember, if we win tonight, we’ll be just one game away from the area final and with it the prospect of a trip to Wembley.’Those were the words from Wycombe Wanderers manager Gary Waddock before his side’s encounter with Bristol Rovers at Adams Park, so what were the home fans’ thoughts about the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy before kick-off?
Since winning the trophy’s team of the round award recently, the competition was intrigued to see what all the fuss was about at one of League Two’s form teams.
Matthew Biggs and Harry Styles, both lifelong fans, said: “We’ve never been to Wembley before so the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy does mean a lot to us, as it should do for every fan.”
Steven Rogers and Adam Hayward were quick to chat before taking their positions on the terrace.
“We are doing well so far this season after a slow start but we prefer it this way. We were nine points clear after Christmas a couple of years ago, so perhaps it is best to keep under the radar.”
Jeff Childs with children Barry and Marion said: “The trophy offers a great incentive to everyone. We are doing well at the moment under Gary Waddock. He says that it is good to keep a low profile and that there is less pressure when the team isn’t right at the top, and I agree with him.”
As for Liam Rimmer, Tom Ford, Andrew Gee and Lewis Chakabvapaski, they were just happy to be at the game.
“We’re students at the nearby university, so we have come along to get behind the lads and enjoy a good game of football.”
Unfortunately for the home fans and the young lads, the game of football was a good one for Bristol Rovers supporter, after the Pirates put the Chairboys to the sword in style, winning 6-3.
Chris Hughes and his mother Shirley Hughes will be particularly happy with the result, having travelled more than 100 miles from Weston-Super-Mare to be at the game.
Not that they were too confident beforehand!
Chris said: “We’ve been to the final twice before, so the competition does mean a lot to us. We wouldn’t have travelled all this way otherwise!
“We have had a fairly average start to the season. We need a goalscorer who can put the ball in the back of the net.”
Maybe a rejuvenated Jo Kuffour will be the answer to Chris’s prayers after his hat-trick and menacing display helped Rovers to the area semi-final stage.
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