Stockport County boss Dave Challinor has urged fans to “do better” after some supporters were seen leaving Edgeley Park before the end of the club’s dramatic play-off semi-final shoot-out defeat.
The Hatters fell short of a place at Wembley after losing on penalties to Leyton Orient, but the manager insists his side are ready to go again next season.
Challinor Frustrated by Fan Reaction After Penalty Heartbreak
In a hard-fought tie at Edgeley Park, the Hatters went behind early but levelled the second leg 1-1, taking the aggregate score to 3-3 and forcing extra time. With no breakthrough in the additional 30 minutes, the tie was settled on penalties—where Orient held their nerve to win 4-1.
However, it wasn’t just the result that left Challinor frustrated. Speaking after the game, the 49-year-old coach voiced concern about the visible number of fans leaving during the penalty shoot-out.
“They deserved better,” he said, referencing the squad’s resilience. “If the players gave up the way some of the fans did, we wouldn’t be in the position we are.”
Challinor noted that such behaviour had been seen before during the season and called for greater belief and patience from the terraces. “It’s tough to see people walk away at that moment. That’s when we need everyone the most.”
Challinor remains defiant
Despite the disappointment, Challinor remained defiant, insisting the club will regroup quickly. His backroom staff are already preparing for next season as they look to build on an impressive first year back in League One.
“We had big chances near the end—including one for Isaac Olaofe—but maybe it just wasn’t our time,” he told BBC Radio Manchester. “We’ll be back.”
Orient progressed thanks to a composed winning penalty from Ethan Galbraith, formerly of Manchester United, after Josh Keeley had saved from Jack Diamond and Ryan Rydel struck the post.
County, who narrowly missed out on automatic promotion, were one of the division’s standout performers for much of the season. But their campaign ends in disappointment—albeit with a clear platform for 2025–26.
Writer’s View
Dave Challinor has every right to be frustrated. His Stockport County side have pushed boundaries all season and fought until the very end in a gripping play-off tie. For fans to leave mid-shootout is a rare blemish on what has otherwise been a season full of mutual respect between team and supporters. Still, one moment shouldn’t define the wider story.
County are a club on the rise, and Challinor remains a manager capable of pushing them forward. With a summer to reset and a strong squad already in place, they will be among the favourites for promotion next time around—and perhaps with even stronger unity.
