GUTTED boss Rob Edwards shared tears with Luton fans after relegation was all but confirmed.
Edwards and his players spent 15 minutes clapping and interacting with travelling fans after West Ham’s 3-1 comeback win at the London Stadium.
Luton’s tireless spirit and enterprising play has won over many neutrals this season after they sneaked up to the Premier League in the play-offs.
But their slim survival chances virtually died after failing to hold onto Albert Sambi Lokonga’s early opener.
James Ward-Prowse drilled the Hammers level, 54 minutes into David Moyes’ final home game in charge.
Tomas Soucek then thundered a stunning volley and 19-year-old George Earthy pounced for the third just 67 seconds after coming off the bench.
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After the final whistle, Edwards put his hand to his face and wiped away tears as defeat surely condemned Luton and guaranteed the safety of fourth-bottom Nottingham Forest.
He said later: “I was emotional at the end with the way our supporters reacted.
“I can only say thanks to the players, the staff and our fans. We haven’t got over the line but we’ve done it before and we can be back here again.
“It’s a world all about results but our fans have shown understanding, compassion and total support. There is a connection and a bond that you can see. That doesn’t happen very often.
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“We have grown so much, this club is only going in one direction. The growth this team have shown makes me really proud. In the end it’s just been too much for us.”
Hatters’ fans had earlier appeared to be “fighting stewards” in shocking scenes during the match.
But that was in sharp contrast to what happened once it ended.
Observers were touched to see Edwards join his team behind the goal to swap applause with their supporters in a lengthy exchange.
The ex-Watford chief and his players were then clapped off the field by West Ham fans when they finally departed the pitch.
Edwards, 41, is a hero at Kenilworth Road after taking over last November and earning instant elevation to the Prem.
And taking their survival fight to the second-last weekend of the season has won the Englishman many more admirers.
Fans on social media queued up to praise his achievements and “class act” personality, despite his agony at the London Stadium.
One posted: “He’s been great, conducted himself very well for a manager trying so hard to stay up, and Luton has played some good football. Hold your head high Rob, you’ve done great.”
Another said of the post-match scenes: “Superb communication between Luton Town fans and their players and Rob Edwards… Fans have been clapping and celebrating their players for 15min now. Rob Edwards in tears.”
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And many hailed the home following for adding their appreciation of Edwards’ efforts.
One wrote: “Lovely moment at the London Stadium. West Ham fans are now clapping for Luton… Sums up just how good Luton has been all season long, fighting for every single point. Respect.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
