On behalf of myself and all Conservative councillors in Crawley, I congratulate Crawley Town Football Club on their promotion to League One.  Ending on a high, this is the best possible end to the football season which has had its ups and downs.

Crawley’s success was a prime example of the margins between success and failure being small, which can apply to so much in life.  On the last day of League Two, Crawley won their last match and secured the fourth play-off spot by one point, aided by closest rival Barrow being held to a draw at home.  To qualify for the play-offs was a huge achievement in its own right, especially given that Crawley had only just managed to avoid relegation the season before and were tipped by many to be relegated this year.

The two-legged play-off semi-final against MK Dons was a thumping 8-1 aggregate score and secured Crawley Town’s first ever trip to Wembley for the play-off final. After what has been a tough few years for the club, Sunday at Wembley was a day that 17,000 Crawley Town fans won’t ever forget.  A great performance was very deserving of the 2-0 win over Crew Alexandra and promotion to League One.

Next season will see Crawley facing some bigger clubs both home and away, clubs like Birmingham City, Charlton Athletic, Bolton Wanderers and Wigan.  With it being nine years since Crawley Town spent three seasons in League One, there will be much to look forward to next season.

This welcome success while good for the club and fans, is of course also good for our town as a whole.  It can only be helpful for our local economy to see increased match attendance from both home and away fans, as well as greater corporate and merchandising opportunities.  There is also something about a feel-good factor for the town as well as greater recognition and status from outside.

I am especially pleased for those long-standing and dedicated fans who have stuck with Crawley Town through the low points as well as the highs.  They deserve this success.            

 

Councillor Duncan Crow, Leader of Crawley Borough Council Conservative Group

22nd May 2024