Survival joy for Rangers

Ecstatic Stafford Rangers fans bolted for the pitch to hug their heroes after a nail-biting clash which saw them come perilously close to relegation.

The team lost 1-0 against Forest Green Rovers leaving their fate in the hands of rival clubs all fighting to retain their place in the Nationwide Conference.

It led to an anxious finale, but just before the final whistle sounded at Marston Road, a huge cheer from the 1,791 crowd signified the 'Boro's survival.

News filtered through that Altrincham's goalless draw with Aldershot had proved to be Stafford's saviour.

Rangers manager Phil Robinson said: "We are really proud of what we have achieved this season. Considering we are a part-time team in a full-time league it is a great achievement.

"The standard in the Conference is the highest its ever been and for us to have gained promotion and stay in there a lot of credit has to be given to the players for their commitment to the club and their employment."

Phil said he also wanted to thank the supporters who turned out in force.

He said: "There was a big noisy crowd which was fantastic to see."

Speaking moments after the final whistle, Rangers chairman Jon Downing said he felt "elated."

He said: "Words cannot describe the emotion I'm feeling. It was such a big game for us. It felt like a repeat of last year yet it was a fight to stay up rather than go up.

"We are obviously disappointed in the result but thankfully Altrincham are our friends on the day."

Mr Downing said the club has got "lots of plans for restructuring" before next season which he says needs to be finalised before any announcements are made. He said: "We've done our apprenticeship in the Conference this year and have to build on that. It's been a good learning curve."