ASIDE from a few idiots, Oxford United fans can be proud of themselves this morning — and not just for yesterday’s 10,000 plus turnout.

They can be proud of the way they never gave up hope, even when the season looked to be going down the drain.

In January, who would have thought the U’s would have still been in with a play-off chance on the last day of the season?

Thousands evidentally did, as they continued to pour into the Kassam Stadium in the hope of lifting the team with their noise.

And let’s face it, times are hard, and football is not cheap these days.

But still, week in, week out, they braved the weather and showed the support for the players they placed their trust in.

The players paid them back.

They went on a terrific run, and yesterday only just came up short. What a turnaround.

Yesterday, thousands of fans were given their reward for keeping the faith.

A real party atmosphere, families decked out in jester hats and face paint, and something much, much more important — a sense of occasion.

How sad the U’s couldn’t make it all the way.

But at least this game brought the community together, and despite the pain of defeat, people still enjoyed it.

Something else lingers this morning too — a sense of optimism.

Despite yesterday’s deflation, U’s supporters almost to a man are still talking about Chris Wilder being the manager who will take them back to the Football League.

How about a summer signing or two to real get the excitement going?

As for the idiots – well, they know who they are.

Grown men running round with their trousers down — how very clever.

One can only hope they read today’s Oxford Mail with their heads hung in shame.