STAND-IN captain Michael Jackson has praised the travelling support for their backing during Tuesday's cup defeat at Sheffield United.

Jackson said: "As always, the fans were great. They always get behind us.

"We may have given away two goals with some poor defending but are not out of this cup tie yet. We played some good football, but we didn't make the most of our chances.

"If we can get an early goal next week then we can go through.

"We are looking forward to Gillingham on Saturday. We just need a good result to get us going again."

OFF the field, PNE have announced their financial results for the 12 month period ended 30 June 1999. Turnover at the club has increase by 25 per cent to £5.1 million. The club's operating profits before transfers is £233,000, an increase of more than £400,00 from the previous year.

After transfers the loss for the period was £761,000 compared to £1.4 million in 1998.

Chairman Bryan Gray said: "Ultimately, PNE enjoyed it best season for many years. The team occupied one of the top spots throughout most of the season and played attractive, entertaining football.

"However, there are no prizes for finishing outside the top three in the division."

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