Checkatrade Trophy final: Pride in defeat for travelling Town fans
Thousands of Salopians were left heartbroken when a fourth Wembley final brought a fourth Wembley defeat for Shrewsbury Town in the Checkatrade Trophy final.
But the proud Shrews fans who travelled to Wembley today said they were determined to enjoy the day despite a narrow loss.
More than 11,000 Salopians enjoyed the trip to the national stadium, even though Lincoln City ran out 1-0 winners.
And after praising Paul Hurst and the players for an incredible cup run despite defeat, fans are now turning their attention to securing automatic promotion - or a return to Wembley for the play-offs.
Blue and amber flags, hats, scarves and the occasional wig could be seen in and around Wembley hours before kick-off, and as the start of the game approached the famous stadium’s concourse was filled with cries of “Salop, Salop” and “Paul Hurst’s barmy army”.
Though the Town fans were outnumbered by those of Lincoln City, their dedication to their team made sure their voices were heard before and during the game.
One of those Salop fans who knows something of commitment is Felix Forslund, a Swedish national who took a break from his studies in Stockholm to visit England and see his unlikely adopted team take on Lincoln City.
The 23-year-old explained his love affair with Shrewsbury Town FC.
He said: “It’s a funny story, I picked them on a game of FIFA once because I liked their colours.
“After that I followed them from afar in real life and one day I decided I just had to go and see them play. I visited the town with my friend and fell in love with the place.
“Then they made it to Wembley and I felt like I had to come here and see the game. I will enjoy the occasion and the atmosphere.
“Other people probably don’t agree with me but I am glad that it is raining. It all adds to the English atmosphere.
"Hopefully we get the win and it helps us push for promotion at the end of a great season.”
While Felix came from overseas to support Salop, other fans on the day had a connection much closer to home.
Three generations of the Hobson family were in attendance, all of them lifelong fans with Shrewsbury in their veins.
Shaun Hobson, 60, has fond memories of his uncle Norman who played and coached for Salop in years gone by.
Shaun was attending with daughter Linsey and grandson Mckenzie, and he said: “My uncle played for them and my dad played a bit too so I was born and bred Shrewsbury Town.”
