As Steven Schumacher’s men prepare for our crucial two-legged play-off encounter against Bradford City on Saturday (kick off 8pm), club legend John McGinlay has issued a direct appeal to the fanbase: replicate the intense atmospheres of the past and propel the current squad towards success.
Looking back at the famous 1995 play-off semi-final victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Burnden Park, the former striker recalled how a hostile, fiercely supportive home crowd transformed the tie. That night, the stadium became a true "cauldron of passion," and he believes the current supporters can generate that exact intensity this weekend.
"I wish everybody could step inside the players' shoes and to know what they're witnessing because it does make an unbelievable difference. It really does," McGinlay explained.
He specifically highlighted the play-off semi-final against Barnsley in 2024 as proof of the modern stadium's capability to intimidate opponents and uplift the home side.
Arriving early and generating noise during the warm-ups, he noted, establishes the tone before a ball is even kicked.
The Scot maintains absolute faith in the Wanderers' dressing room. Praising the squad's talent, defensive bravery and habit of securing late victories, he stressed that they are ready for the occasion.
"These boys, it's time to write their own history now," he stated. "Rather than looking back at former glories, this weekend presents an opportunity for a new generation to go on and secure their place in the club’s history."
His final message to the supporters is simple: "Keep believing in us. We've got the talent."
Click here to view the interview in full.
Saturday sees the return of the Boxoso Premier Suite Fanzone which will be open from 5pm. Another Wanderers legend, Ricardo Gardner, will take to the microphone at 6:30pm for a Q&A in front of the fans. Make sure you get down to the Toughsheet Community Stadium early to get in matchday mode ahead of the big kick off.
If you haven’t yet purchased your tickets, make sure you do so today by clicking here.