The Owls starred in one of the most dramatic comebacks in play-off history when they overcame a four-goal deficit to overcome Peterborough in the semi-finals, winning on penalties after a 5-5 aggregate scoreline.
Monday’s final against Barnsley may have been lacking in goals, but it certainly was not short on drama.
After a goalless first 45 minutes, Tykes midfielder Adam Phillips was sent off for a poor challenge on Lee Gregory shortly after the break, which looked to tip the balance into Wednesday’s favour. But Barnsley were able to hold on through 90 minutes of regulation time and almost the entirety of the added 30, although Will Vaulk’s chalked-off effort in extra time will have given them an early warning sign.
However, with literally five seconds remaining before a seemingly inevitable penalty shoot-out, Josh Windass got on the end of Lee Gregory’s cross to put a diving header past Harry Istead.
Cue rapturous celebrations from the Owls faithful, and absolute agony for Barnsley players and fans alike.
If Wednesday’s performance was laboured, and light years from the semi-final miracle against Peterborough, their return to English football’s upper slopes is overdue.
Owls manager Darren Moore said: I’m pleased for Josh because he missed large parts of the season through injury and he through everything at that header to get the right contact.
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