Source: Northern_Echo
Toast of the town
THOUSANDS of Darlington fans turned out to celebrate with their heroes last night.[LNB] Buy match and fan photos from Darlington's trip to Wembley and market square celebrations[LNB] Jubilant supporters gathered in the town's market place as the team paraded the FA Trophy, won on Saturday in dramatic style against Mansfield Town at Wembley.[LNB] Despite the joy, though, the homecoming was a bittersweet moment for striker Chris Senior, scorer of the last-gasp goal, but who was released by the club only minutes before they took to the stage.[LNB] [LNB] Speaking to the crowd about his strike, he said: Those chances might come along once in your career, but sometimes it counts for nothing, which it has about an hour ago.[LNB] Despite this, the mood remained triumphant as the players acknowledged their long-suffering fans.[LNB] In a rallying cry, club chairman Raj Singh said: Thank you for the brilliant turnout.[LNB] We've done the town proud, let's build on this now.[LNB] Darlington mayor Brian Thistlethwaite, who oversaw proceedings, which were organised by Darlington Borough Council and sponsored by Teesside University, said: What a magnificent turnout.[LNB] Club captain Ian Miller paid tribute to the fans, saying: It's a boyhood dream. We've had a torrid couple of years, but this was a highlight.[LNB] [LNB] There might have been more Stags (Mansfield fans) at Wembley, but I could hear more black and white fans out there.[LNB] On leaving the market place, the players moved to a civic reception at the Dolphin Centre with dignitaries from across the borough.[LNB] Welcoming the players was incoming leader of Darlington council Councillor Bill Dixon.[LNB] He said: I do not know a great deal about football, but I know you left it late.[LNB] Seriously, though, well done. I think what happened out there shows what Darlington can do at its best.[LNB] You have brought a real lot of pride and pleasure to the people of this town.[LNB] There cannot now be an argument about why the people will not support the football team after that kind of result.[LNB] Fans were equally as enthusiastic.[LNB] Making reference to the trophy being broken during celebrations at Wembley on Saturday, Stan Stannard said: Good to see the lads, and the trophy was fixed.[LNB] Jamie Russell said: Brilliant turnout for Darlington. It was good to see the team.[LNB] David Walker said he expected to see a better attendance at games as a result. He said: I've put my name down for a season ticket.[LNB] Maureen Cosgrove said she was still elated from Saturday, and added: They were wicked Wembley was the best. Darlington's the best. All the fans are here to celebrate. We love you Darlo.[LNB]
