National League South side Eastbourne Borough can’t thank Blackpool FC enough after the League One team said they would not be requesting any payments for expenses or proceeds from last Sunday’s FA Cup tie.
This act of kindness is a big boost to the amount of money non-league Eastbourne Borough will make from the game which comes at a time when Blackpool, as well as Borough who have been financially struggling without any paying fans allowed into games.
Borough chairman David Blackmore wrote on a Blackpool FC forum: “On behalf of everyone at Eastbourne Borough FC I would just like to say a huge THANK YOU. The fundraising was brilliant and we will be forever grateful, however, our thanks go way beyond that. These forums always split opinion about every club but I can tell you that you support a club that oozes class”.
“Ordinarily the process is that all expenses are added together and deducted from any gate receipts and then any profit split between the two clubs. Their expenses would have been significant and this is a phenomenal gesture for which we are very grateful”.
Eastbourne Boroughs Priory lane ground.
“We tried our best to look after the players and directors of Blackpool during their short visit and treated them with the utmost respect they deserve, so to be recognised for our efforts with this goodwill gesture comes as a massive boost for everyone”.
“Blackpool played their part in a day that will live long in the memory of everyone involved with the club, both on and off the pitch, and we can’t thank them enough for their generosity, especially during this difficult time across the country.
“We wish Blackpool the best in their FA Cup venture and EFL League One campaign this season, and hope we have built a good relationship with the club on and off the pitch moving forward.”
Two goals from Gary Madine helped end Eastbourne Borough’s FA Cup run.
The big frontman helped his side to a 3-0 win at Priory Lane in the first round proper last Sunday in a game that was screened live on BT Sport.
Blackpool’s Gary Madine being congratulated.
But the Vanarama National League south side gave it a decent go against their League One opponents hitting the woodwork twice, but the tie was sealed when Yates was sent clear in added time to score the third.
This wonderful gesture by Blackpool shows how things have moved forward since the dark days of the Oyston families ownership of the club, hats off to you Blackpool the football family is still alive and kicking.
