We will conclude our 2024/25 Sky Bet League Two campaign against Gillingham at Vale Park Stadium on Saturday 3rd May (3pm kick-off) and a positive result could see us take the League Two title.
At the final stage of our campaign, it goes without saying that everyone associated with the club is hugely thankful for the support received from the stands this season, both in large numbers at Vale Park and whilst away from home across the country.
The noise and atmosphere created has played a fundamental part in the team achieving promotion and Carol, Matt, Darren, his backroom staff and all the players are hugely appreciative of the fantastic support they have had.
Whilst Saturday will deservedly be an opportunity for everyone associated with the club to celebrate, we must remind all supporters, in the interests of safety for everyone inside Vale Park, that the pitch is for managers, coaching staff, players and match officials, while the stands are there for supporters to play their part in backing the team.
Pitch incursions are dangerous and the club will be expected to identify and sanction supporters who try to enter the pitch at the end of the game, regardless of how many try. This could include a ban from attending matches at Vale Park and across the country as well as police action.
It is a criminal offence to enter the pitch and the real-life consequences for these actions have been felt by many, with some fans receiving criminal records which can on impact employment, education prospects and international travel.
The club wishes to urge supporters to keep the pitch for players and the stand for spectators and avoid any unnecessary disruption to the celebrations, trophy lift and end-of-match activities.