Donations to John Rudge statue fund flood in from grateful Reading fans
Reading fans have made dozens of donations to the John Rudge statue fund as a way of expressing gratitude to the travelling Port Vale fans.
The travelling Port Vale supporters had a wasted journey after the game was abandoned on 16 minutes. However, many showed solidarity with the Reading supporters who were protesting against their owner.
Over £3,000 has been added to the John Rudge statue fundraising page with comments such as “Thank you so much for your support yesterday. So much respect for you guys”, “You are true fans and thank you so much for your support” and “A true moment of the football community coming together and we won’t forget the part you played.”
What happened on Saturday?
Hundreds of Reading fans forced the game to be abandoned after sixteen minutes with their protests against owner Dai Yogge a result of deep concern about the future of their club. The club has seen a series of point deductions due to Yogge’s financial mismanagement. It was an understandable protest by a group of concerned fans. The protesters were applauded by many of the travelling Port Vale fans, who have seen their own share of protests against unsuitable owners at Vale Park over the years.
What has been the reaction?
The support from Vale fans has earned praise from the Sell before we Dai group who organised Saturday’s events. A statement said: “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks and apologies to the travelling Port Vale fans who showed us unwavering solidarity throughout today’s protest. We won’t forget it.” They were also acknowledged by Port Vale manager Andy Crosby who relayed a message via social media saying: “On behalf of myself, the players and the backroom staff I would like to thank all our supporters who made the trip to Reading this afternoon to support the lads.”
What is the John Rudge statue fundraiser?
The Port Vale Supporters Club are seeking to raise £100,000 for a statue of the club’s much loved manager John Rudge. Rudge is the club’s longest serving manager, current club president and winner of three promotions including the club’s first domestic trophy.
You can donate to the John Rudge statue fundraiser here
What are your views on the Reading protests?
OK, we don’t actually think anyone is actually asking that question but for the record… while we have every sympathy for the Port Vale players and especially the fans who paid good money to see this game, we support the loyal Reading fans fighting for the future of their club. While annoying for those wanting to watch this game, this is a bigger issue – the future of a fellow football club…