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Accrington boss boss John Coleman hits out at club's 'missing' support

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Accrington Stanley manager John Coleman has criticised the lack of support at the club's EFL Cup second round match with local rivals Burnley

Accrington Stanley boss John Coleman has questioned whether the town even wants a Football League club after they recorded one of the most memorable wins in their recent history.

The League Two side, reformed in 1968, beat their more illustrious Lancashire neighbours Burnley in their first ever competitive meeting on Wednesday night - but only 1,346 home supporters were present at the Wham stadium.

The rest of the 3,170 crowd was comprised of travelling fans, who were left deflated as Matty Pearson claimed a dramatic late winner.

Accrington Stanley's Matty Pearson (right) celebrates
Image: Accrington Stanley's Matty Pearson (right) celebrates his decisive goal

"I've been critical of the numbers and I think rightly so," said Coleman, who takes his sie to West ham in round three. 

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, it's never happened in anyone's lifetime. You're wondering what everyone wants.

"The chance to cash in a little bit, get a little bit of that back and generate more money towards the playing side, it's been snubbed by the people of Accrington. We can build something special here.

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Highlights as Accrington Stanley faced Burnley in the 2nd round of the EFL Cup at the Wham Stadium

"I'm flabbergasted with the gate tonight. The people who've turned their back on us tonight have missed an unbelievable night in Accrington Stanley's history.

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"If you're complaining that you're not coming because of £20...I think it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support your club. We've got to ask ourselves does the town want a Football League club?"