AFC Wimbledon Overcomes Adversity with Support from Newcastle United and Fans
London, Oct. 1, 2023 – AFC Wimbledon fans have banded together to support their club following a devastating flood at Plough Lane, raising over £85,000 to help facilitate repairs. The grassroots fundraising effort, spearheaded by Graham Stacey, a former board member of the Dons Trust, has garnered impressive support from fellow football enthusiasts, including a significant donation from Newcastle United.
The severe flooding, which struck South London overnight, caused unprecedented damage to Plough Lane, leading to the postponement and relocation of AFC Wimbledon's Carabao Cup third-round tie against Newcastle United. The match, originally set to be played at a sold-out Plough Lane, will now take place at St James' Park.
Stacey's Just Giving page has seen an influx of donations from the football community, amassing £85,876. Among the contributors, Newcastle United stepped up with a £15,000 donation, demonstrating solidarity in the face of AFC Wimbledon's plight.
Despite the generosity of Newcastle and its fans, Stacey maintains a playful competitive spirit, saying, "Even better when we beat them. I should apologise because they’ve been so generous and if we do [win], I’d almost feel bad...but it’s incredibly generous of them."
Managing Director James Woodroof shared his initial disbelief at the extent of the damage, describing images sent by the stadium's security team as so surreal he thought they were AI-generated. “We didn’t realise it was going to be to this extent... It’s been 60 years since the water had reached this level and essentially we were totally overwhelmed by it,” Woodroof explained.
The extensive flooding led to more than 100,000 litres of water being pumped out of the ground. Crucial infrastructure, including the club's offices, dressing rooms, and tunnel area, remained affected several days after the incident, illustrating the substantial repair work needed.
Woodroof expressed hope for a financial uplift from the rearranged fixture at St James' Park, with expectations of a fair revenue share from the cup tie. "I think we get 40%, 45% of the revenue share. I'm really hoping that Newcastle fans come out in force... and we make that a great occasion," he stated. With the League Two match against Crewe Alexandra postponed, AFC Wimbledon will be aiming to return to their home ground by October 12 for their match against Carlisle United.
The disruption has entailed logistical challenges and a strain on resources, but the combined spirit of football fans and the support from Newcastle United has provided a much-needed boost. Refunds for Newcastle fans, who had tickets to attend the originally scheduled fixture, have already been processed, while a ticket ballot ensures fair distribution for the rearranged match.
As the club commences excavation and repairs, Woodroof remains in awe of the community's resilience and the overwhelming support received. “It typifies the spirit of this football club, this relentless resilience and community spirit is extraordinary,” he remarked.
Despite the setback, AFC Wimbledon, currently fifth in League Two with 13 points after six matches, continues to illustrate their robust community ethos. With substantial repair work underway and continued support, the club looks to weather this storm and return stronger.
Source: Noah Wire Services