Crawley Town captured the imagination of the football world on Saturday as they made mighty Manchester United fight all the way for their FA Cup win at Old Trafford.

The little Red Devils lost 1-0 to the all-conquering Premier League Red Devils – but that was only half the tale.

You would have expected Crawley to go and park the bus – they didn’t.

And at times they pushed United all the way in a brave effort and deserved a goal. Indeed, Alex Ferguson said Crawley deserved a replay.

But for all the guts and glory, many non-league fans refused to offer Crawley any sort of support on what was a truly great day for football outside the league.

Crawley are not liked because they spend a few quid and have a manager who is an acquired taste. But who really cares?

Table-toppers Halifax and Chester are spending bid money in the Evo-Stik League, New Mills are not skint in the Vodkat League either.

If the club has the money they have every right to spend their way to success.

It may not be everyone’s cup of Earl Grey – but to wish them bad luck smacks of jealousy.