Sutton United are expecting a bumper crowd for AFC Wimbledon's first ever match on Wednesday night.

It promises to be one of the most momentous nights at Gander Green Lane since United's glorious FA Cup triumph against Coventry City in 1989.

TV cameras are scheduled to be at the game to mark the first moments of AFC Wimbledon, a club formed only five weeks ago by disgruntled fans of Wimbledon Football Club.

Gang

Supporters decided to set up their own club after Charles Koppel was given permission to take the former Crazy Gang to Milton Keynes.

They have acted quickly to secure a place in next season's Combined Counties League, and appear to have a fan base which will be huge for a non-league club.

While Sutton officials have publically predicted a crowd of around 1,000, they hope the hype around the new club's first match will bring in a crowd nearer the 3,000 mark.

Sutton secretary Dave Farebrother said: "If more people come to the game it won't be a problem because the ground can hold up to 6,000 people.

"It is likely to generate a great atmosphere and we are all looking forward to the game."

The priority for Sutton manager John Rains is starting their preparations for the season ahead.

"This will be a big game for us and it's nice to be involved in Wimbledon's first match," he said.

Publicity

"But although there will be a lot of publicity, the amount we will get will be minimal.

"It will all be about them.

"For us, it is simply a chance to play our first pre-season match five weeks before the start of the season."

The make-up of the AFC Wimbledon team is unclear.

The club, being managed by former Leatherhead boss Terry Eames, held trials at Wimbledon Common Extensions last weekend which were attended by more than 200 wannabes.

Admission for the momentous match is £7 for adults, £4 for OAPs and £2 for U16s.

l Sutton will be at home to Harrow in the first round of the FA Trophy on November 2.

July 9, 2002 13:00