Richie Barker: “I would like to thank the CTSA for their efforts in helping our medical staff in this way.”

Crawley Town have perhaps the smallest squad in League One and as the season progresses, wear and tear, coupled with the onset of winter and heavy pitches, may begin to take their toll. The CTSA have decided to do what they can to keep the players on the pitch and off the treatment table, recognising that this may well be a deciding factor in how well we perform this season.

Every Saturday home game CTSA volunteers sell 50/50 half-time draw tickets. After paying out substantial cash prizes, the remaining 50% of the funds are split between CTSA community projects and agreed club/CTSA initiatives.

We have recently handed over a cheque for £2,300 to cover the cost of three items: a ‘Gameready Kit’ designed to reduce swelling and contain damage during the early stages of injury, a ‘Dynometer’ which calculates muscle weakness after injury to aid rehabilitation, and a set of ‘IAM Tools’ that detect the breakdown of scar tissue.

CTSA chairman Ian Townsend said: “We agreed unanimously that it would be sensible to invest in equipment which would help the medical team to keep our talent on the pitch and off the treatment table.

“We’re now looking to raise cash towards an ultrasound machine designed to repair ligaments, ease pain and speed up healing. We would like to thank all supporters who regularly purchase 50/50 tickets and encourage those who don’t normally buy them to start, as this demonstrates that even if you don’t win a cash prize your investment could directly benefit the success of your club.”

The players and staff appreciate the CTSA’s generosity. Manager Richie Barker said: “Anything the club and the fans can do to keep my players on the pitch is going to be beneficial and I would like to thank the CTSA for their efforts in helping our medical staff in this way.”

If you have an hour to spare before Saturday games to help sell 50/50 tickets please contact Joe Comper and Carol Bates at community@ctfcsa.co.uk or visit the CTSA cabin. The CTSA- and those who pull on that red shirt each Saturday- would be extremely grateful for any help you could give.