Harrogate Town prepare for second game at Wembley without fans
The side are taking on Concord Rangers in the FA Trophy final
Harrogate Town are in action at Wembley today as finally compete in the FA Trophy final.
The final against Concord Rangers was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic, but the side will finally get chance to clinch the title this afternoon.
They will have to do it without an audience, however, as coronavirus restricts mean spectators aren't allowed into the stadium, which has caused upset for the team and fans all over again.
They missed out on seeing the side promoted to the English Football League, for the first time in the club's history, when they beat Notts County 3-1 in the playoff final.
Manager Simon Weaver told Greatest Hits it "sticks in the throat" knowing bigger clubs were chosen as test events.
He said: "It was hard to bear when we found out that the FA wouldn't back us. We wanted our fans there.
"Then to turn the telly on and see Spurs and Man City fans, 8000 fans in the stadium, it sticks in the throat a bit.
"There's absolutely no guarantee that anyone in the confines of that stadium will ever get to go to Wembley again. It's so sad that the supporters of both sets of teams know that fact and they've not been given the opportunity to cherish this moment.
"They've been our inspiration many a time to get us over that line. They really are the 12th man and I know that sounds cheesy but it's true. I'm just being honest because the fans are loved by the team and staff and we have a real connection with them.
"The large core of the players which were successful last time at Wembley fortunately are still with us and we're just as driven if not more to enjoy another trip down.
"It's going to be a marvellous occasion but it would have been so much better with the supporters."
We caught up with some supporters ahead of today's game, who shared their disappointment at not being able to make the trip to Wembley.
One young girl said: "I am upset because I can't go to see them play. But I think they're going to win 2-1 and Connor Hall is going to score."
Another fan added: "I'm really disappointed. I'm upset the FA made this decision. It's a shame when you can't go and support your local team."
Jordan Ford from Harrogate Town Supporters Club, said: "Another trip to Wembley which unfortunately our supporters can't go and watch.
"We'll certainly make the most of the occasion as it's such a massive game. I'd be very disappointed if we didn't win but if we did it'll be a huge achievement for the club."
The FA Trophy final kicks off at 5pm this afternoon (Monday 3 May 2021)