During the 1976–77 Third Division season, in November 1976, the club found itself needing to raise £25,000 to pay off debts and so avoid bankruptcy. The money was partly raised from supporter contributions after a campaign led by the local newspaper "The News". With players having to be sold to ease the club's financial situation, and no money available for replacements, Portsmouth were forced to rely on inexperienced young players. They ended the 1976–77 season only one place and one point above the Third Division's relegation zone.