Dan Ballard’s dramatic late header in extra-time secured a 3-2 aggregate victory for Sunderland over Coventry City, sending them to the Championship playoff final.
After Ephron Mason-Clark’s late equalizer for Coventry forced extra time, Ballard struck in the dying seconds to spark wild celebrations at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland will now face Sheffield United at Wembley on May 24th for a Premier League spot.
Despite finishing 14 points behind United in the regular season, Sunderland’s remarkable late win keeps their top-flight dream alive after an eight-year absence.
Coventry, who had shown great improvement under Frank Lampard, were left heartbroken after coming so close.
The match followed allegations of Sunderland moving advertising hoardings in the first leg.
