Faces of PON 22-23: Chesterfield at Wembley (POF)

On the day of the playoff final against Chesterfield, Notts County fans filled the stands at Wembley Stadium, singing songs and cheering on their team. Among them was Chris Buckley, owner of the independent fan site Pride of Nottingham, who captured the emotions of the fans in his Faces of PON fan gallery.

The atmosphere was electric, with fans feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as they watched their team compete for victory. Despite some quiet and cagey moments, it was always great to see Notts fill areas of stadiums and sing various songs, such as “I had a wheelbarrow.”

When Notts won on penalties after the game ended 2-2 in regular time, the reactions were mixed. Some fans couldn’t watch, while young fans cried with excitement and nerves at the same time.

Chris Buckley shared some memorable encounters and reactions from the day: “At a service station I bumped into some Forest fans, who I wished well with their game against Chelsea. The Forest fan turned around and said, ‘Yes you too. You better go up! After hitting what 107 points and leading the season as long as you did. Notts deserves to go up, mind you, better had because I have you on my bet and I will be buggered if you lose.’”

He also reflected on the Faces of PON gallery: “It was great seeing Notts County fans in spirit, hearing a good old ‘You Pies!’ which is something we need to keep as a tradition when seeing Magpie fans.”

One of the most memorable moments captured in the Faces of PON gallery was young Harry, who Pride of Nottingham first snapped as a young baby making his first trip to Wembley with his parents Jade Miller and Jeremy Putman.

After the game, there were also notable reactions from players and team officials. Chris Buckley observed that Aden Baldwin was struggling with cramp and couldn’t walk. 

Jim O’Brien came along and tried to help before determining that it would be easier to lift Aden and throw him over his shoulders. He carried him like a fireman to the promotion celebrations and to collect his medal. 

Jodi Jones also went to each section of the Notts County fans wrapped in a flag and clapping to thank them for their amazing support.

The Faces of PON fan gallery is a testament to the passion and dedication of Notts County fans. Thanks to Chris Buckley’s photography, these moments will be remembered for years to come.

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