Notts County delivered a dominant display to defeat Salford City 3-0 in the League Two play-off final at Wembley, ending an 11-year absence from the third tier of English football. The Magpies' commanding performance in scorching 37-degree heat left their opponents and high-profile co-owners David Beckham and Gary Neville visibly disappointed in the stands.
The encounter proved one-sided from the moment Alassana Jatta opened the scoring in the 32nd minute. A clinical counter-attack initiated by goalkeeper James Belshaw saw Jodi Jones slip a perfectly weighted through-ball into the Salford defence, allowing Jatta to finish with composure for his 17th goal of the season. The 20,000-plus County supporters celebrated wildly as their side took control.
Second Half Dominance Seals Promotion
Notts County extended their advantage before half-time when Lucas Ness powered in a header from a set-piece delivery. A reckless challenge on Jones by Haji Mnonga had gifted County the opportunity, and captain Rod McDonald's cushioned assist proved too inviting to resist. Salford faced an uphill battle entering the second half, their earlier regular-season double over County now irrelevant.
Jones, the standout performer throughout, wrapped up the scoring in the 70th minute with a composed finish. Conor Grant's cutback from the right wing found the winger in space, where he showed superior positioning to slot home and effectively end the contest as a contest. Salford's appeals for a penalty when Ben Woodburn's cross appeared to strike Jacob Bedeau's arm fell on deaf ears from referee Tom Reeves.
The victory holds profound significance for County, the world's oldest professional football club and a founding member of the Football League. After more than a decade outside League One, the Magpies have reclaimed their rightful place in the third tier. For Salford—backed by United legends Beckham, Gary Neville, and Nicky Butt—another season awaits in the fourth tier despite their rapid ascent through non-league football.
