CHAIRMAN Chris Pinder wants Malvern Town’s rollercoaster homecoming to inspire fans to back a push back up the non-league pyramid.

The Hillsiders marked the opening of a new 3G pitch, floodlights, changing facilities and hardstanding around the whole ground with a thrilling 5-4 extra-time victory over Loughborough University in the FA Vase on Tuesday.

The twice-postponed clash had been due to take place at Stourport Swifts on previous dates but rain-offs teed up the perfect return to headquarters.

“Your £6 entry got you value for money, that’s for sure,” said Pinder.

READ MORE | 3-1 up, 4-3 down and the lights went out but Malvern win 5-4 in epic homecoming

“Nine goals, extra-time and the floodlights going off, there was lots of drama, toing and froing, in an amazing first fixture.

“There was lots of interest from the local footballing community who came down to see what it was all about, which was great, and I think we will see increased attendances.

“It was worth the wait, 100 per cent. I think the overall delay was five weeks which was down to Mother Nature, there is a brook that overflowed for the first time in 20 years with all the rain.

“Now we have a fabulous place to play and watch football, the surface allows for proper matches to be played which was shown in this first game.

“There was quick passing and great phases of play, from both sides in fairness, and that should be rewarded through attendances moving forward.

“The feedback at the end was very positive and some were even surprised at the standard of football so I am chuffed.”

On what the development could do for on-field fortunes, Pinder added: “We never set specific targets, my philosophy is to have a tight group of players who enjoy playing for Malvern. We have a lot of fun here and enjoy every aspect of being involved at the club.

“We have a loyal bunch of players and what that has led to is the performances we have seen of late, punching above our weight and exceeding expectations.

“That said, if we don’t get promoted this season it would be a massive disappointment because of the anomaly of four teams going up. That’s not going to happen again for a while, if ever.

“I know we want to take full advantage of that, the facility we have can certainly sustain a higher level, right up to step three (Southern Premier Central standard) I believe.

“With new developments in the town and a growing population, the ingredients are there for a team to be successful and supported at a higher level.”