Shrewsbury Town fans were today urged to “keep the faith” as club officials eyed a big away following for their play-off crunch at Northampton.

Paul Simpson’s side head to Sixfields on Saturday with the winner prolonging their hopes of reaching the play-offs into the final two games.

Town have an allocation of 900 for the all-ticket League Two clash, with around 550 sold by the start of business today.

And general manager Jon Harris has issued a rallying call to Shrewsbury supporters to continue their backing for the final three games as they aim to upset the odds and reach the top seven.

“The fans have travelled in great numbers all season and it’s vital now that everybody keep the faith,” said Harris.

“We know that nine points from the last three games will give us a chance – and sixth and seventh spots are still up for grabs.

“Northampton are expecting a big crowd. Their capacity is 7,800 so they will probably be looking at about 6,500 home fans being there.

“We need a typically strong Shrewsbury away following to be our 12th man.”

Town fans must purchase their Northampton tickets before 5pm tomorrow from the Prostar Stadium as none will be available on the day.

Meanwhile, forward Nathan Elder – on loan to AFC Wimbledon since January – has suffered a fresh injury setback ahead of his return to Town next week.

Elder was stretchered off on his penultimate appearance for Wimbledon on Tuesday with what was thought to be a dislocated knee in the 1-0 Blue Square Premier loss to Tamworth.

The injury places in doubt his potential involvement in Town’s final two games after Wimbledon’s season finishes on Saturday.

“There were initial fears there was damage to the kneecap but the tests done yesterday suggested the injury wasn’t as bad as first feared,” said boss Simpson.

“He’s having treatment in London and then will be assessed by us on Monday.”

By JAMES GARRISON