FANS FORUM

Each week we will give a fan of either The Colls or our opponents the chance to discuss their team and what they love the most about Non League Football. This week we will speak to Gareth Athorn (Pontefract Collieries Supporter).

Gareth tell us first of all why you follow Pontefract Collieries and when you started your affinity with the club?

I started following the Colls in the late 80s, my first game was the official floodlight turn on against Hull City, I'd been pestering my dad to take me and watch leeds but he doubted I would actually watch the game so he wanted to test me out with this we both got the Colls bug and Leeds didn't happen and we stayed watching Ponte

What is it about Non League football that you enjoy the most?

I feel watching football at this level as a supporter to can make a difference and really help the lads, when your at a league game your just one of thousands but at this level the lads know who you are and appericate your support as we've seen many times with goal celebrations and also how the club rallied around my son when he had big op last year. The family feel is the best thing about it

Can you tell us about your favourite experience or match in non league (so far)?

It's hard to pick one moment really we've had so many over the last few seasons with FA cup runs and promotions but if I had to pick one it would be winning NCEL Premier division by a mile, unbelievable season. The away trips with our gang are a really treat I'm lucky with share these trips with good friends and couple of crazy dogs!

Finally, We’re well into the season now, what’s your verdict on our season so far?

Been a strange season in some ways good start but hit a sticky patch around Christmas due to injuries and suspensions but after lasts weeks outstanding win at Stockton with the Gaffer and the boys will make a really push for the play offs and who knows maybe another end of season celebration.