THE beauty of supporting a non-league football club was clear for all to see on Saturday when a team of loyal fans took on the Basingstoke Town senior side in a unique match that raised £900 for the Camrose coffers.

The game was organised as a fundraiser by Basingstoke Town Limited vice-chairman Steve Murfitt, with supporters paying for the privilege of lining up against Ernie Howe's side.

And the response was overwhelming, with playing entries totalling £775 and revenue from spectators through the gate adding another £125.

It ensured a welcome financial boost to the club, but community spirit, fun and enjoyment were the over-riding qualities to emerge from the occasion.

Murfitt, who was able to play alongside his two sons - Stuart, outstanding at centre-half, and William, who for a 14-year-old more than held his own - said: "The club is absolutely delighted. It's been a wonderful day and to have raised £900 is just brilliant. I'm really tired now - I've not played in 15 years - but it was worth it."

Town boss Howe said: "It's definitely been something different, a bit of fun and a very worthwhile exercise all round.

"The day's been excellent for all the lads who've turned up to play, and I'm pleased with my players for their efforts after a tough two-hour training session before the game."

Town assistant boss Pete Peters, match referee, said: "We certainly weren't expecting to make that amount. It's superb."

After taking an early lead through Stuart Murfitt, the fans went on to rely on some superb stops by their goalkeeper, Rob Paul, to keep the tally to single figures.

Although the fans lost the 60-minute game 6-2, as their opponents' superior fitness and ability took over, and a post-match penalty shoot-out 4-3, they didn't care.

Nothing could spoil it for them and all said it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play against their heroes on the Camrose turf.

John Gray, who captained the fans' team, was gutted to have missed his penalty - it came back off the left hand post - but delighted to have played.

He said: "It was an absolute joy to be part of a full game which encourages rapport between the fans and players.

"We have to be grateful to Ernie and Pete for allowing us to play the game and raising money for the club in this way. It's been a great day."

Supporter Lee Burns said: "I'd give the day 20 out of 10. It's been tremendous to play at the place I consider home - the Camrose."

Big Town fan Richard "Midgers" Midgley said: "It's the equivalent of playing at Old Trafford against Ruud van Nistelrooy and Roy Keane.

"Supporting your local team is the only way you'd ever get to experience something as great as this.

"The best part of the day, though, is that we've helped the club financially at the same time."

The fans revert back to their normal duties tomorrow when Town play their first proper pre-season friendly at the Camrose when Farnborough are the visitors. Kick-off is 7.45pm.