Fans have told of their delight as Bury FC experienced its biggest crowd since the resurgent football club was reformed three years ago.
Katie Maken, 18, who joined excited supporters at the Staff of Life pub ahead of the crunch FA Cup qualifier against Harrogate Town earlier, said: “This means everything to the club – the fans coming back who we’ve not seen for years.”
The Shakers were expelled from the English Football League in 2019 following financial struggles, before the club was eventually reformed in its current format in 2023.
And the loyal hordes of supporters were rewarded for their efforts as Bury secured a replay after a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Gigg Lane.
Bury took on Harrogate in the fourth qualifying round as the club bids to reach the FA Cup first round for the first time since their expulsion.
The Northern Premier League side produced a spirited performance against the National League high-flyers and even had chances to win it – with fans left delighted.