Charlie MacDonald today urged Crawley fans to turn Broadfield Stadium into a fortress.

The Reds striker wants a bumper crowd for tonight's first Conference home game against Hereford United.

MacDonald gave Crawley a dream debut in non-league's top flight by scoring twice in a 2-1 win at Leigh RMI on Saturday.

Now he is looking for the supporters to play their part as Reds attempt to bring down the title favourites.

He said: "I am asking the fans to come out and get behind us because these are the games when we need big crowds.

"It gives the player a lift, especially when things are going badly, which is what we want against the big full-time teams like Hereford.

"It's a massive game and the lads are ready for it but it is going to be very tough. We need the fans to help out by making the stadium an intimidating place for the other team to come to."

MacDonald was not impressed with attendances last season, when Crawley completed the Dr Martens League double.

Reds averaged 1,381 for home games but did set a league record when 4,522 spectators turned up to see the 2-1 win against Weymouth.

MacDonald said: "Last year we were on fire and the crowds were quite disappointing.

"I expected at least 2,000 for most home games, but we averaged only about 1,300. They came out for the big games, like against Weymouth, but not week in, week out. We need that to happen this season because every game is going to be big. From what I have learnt, in the past the team has needed to do well to pull in the crowds.

"I didn't experience it last year because we did well but, from what the other lads have said, if we struggle then the fans don't come. That can't happen this year. If we are going to do well we need the crowd with us, not against us."