Fans caused stir— Corney

CHAIRMAN Simon Corney said the atmosphere generated by Athletic’s travelling army of fans took even the home directors aback.

Despite being defeated 3-1 at Goodison Park, the visitors’ supporters were in good voice throughout in the FA Cup fifth-round replay and the likes of Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright made their feelings known to their Boundary Park counterparts.

“The whole way through, the fans have been incredible,” said Corney, who flew back in from New York for the game.

“And so many of the Everton officials commented on how amazing our fans were.”

Corney admits he enjoyed the Cup adventure; Athletic, the lowest-ranked club still in the competition, finally bowed out with pride intact.

“It has been fantastic and I have enjoyed every minute of it,” he added.

“It had to come to an end and this was a great place to do it.

“Everton were unbelievably hospitable towards us, just as they were the last time we played at Goodison Park. “Days like that make it all worthwhile. It was a shame to lose — but we did so with a good performance, which was great.”