Spokesman Lewis Sale paid tribute to Bradford Park Avenue’s travelling army who made the long trek to Hampshire last weekend.

The club’s first appearance in the FA Cup first round proper since the late Trevor Storton led them into battle at Horsfall Stadium against Danny Wilson’s Bristol City did not go well.

But despite the 8-1 thrashing at AFC Totton and the prospect of long and draining journey back north, the Avenue faithful’s backing remained constant.

Sale said: “The fans were magnificent. We took two coach loads and lots of others made their own way down in their own cars or on the train.

“The attendance was 2,315 and at least 300 of those were our core supporters.

“It may have been grim viewing and not good reading in last Monday’s T&A but they made the most of it and were backing the team right until the final whistle, even though we were 8-1 down.”

Meanwhile, tickets for Avenue’s annual dinner at the Midland Hotel on November 24, with Stuart McCall as the guest speaker, are selling well but are still available at £50 per head.

There is also a programme and badge fair in the social club at Horsfall Stadium tomorrow (10am to 1pm) for viewing or buying. Refreshments will be available.