Crewe reached the League One play-off final after an impressive comeback in the second leg, beating Doncaster Rovers on penalties.
After falling behind 2-0 in the first leg, Crewe quickly launched a counterattack, with Mickey Demetriou and James Maxwell’s own goals bringing the total score to a 2-2 tie.
Goalkeeper Max Stryijk then saved two penalties and Alexandra sealed the victory 4-3 in the shootout.
Crewe will face either Crawley or MK Dons at Wembley on Sunday 19 May for a place in the First Division next season.
Crewe return to final after penalty shootout
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Mickey Demetriou headed in the back post for Crewe as they trailed Doncaster 2-1 on aggregate in the League Two play-off semi-finals
Despite the doubts, Crewe boss Lee Bell is confident his side can get back on level terms and they proved they can do so in the early stages of the second leg.
Demetriou took just six minutes to open the attack, with Maxwell heading into his own net in the 16th minute from a Chris Long cross. Somehow the tie became square.
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James Maxwell’s own goal gave Crewe a 2-0 lead at Doncaster and they also led 2-2 on aggregate in the second leg of the play-off semi-finals
Crewe then basically decided to hang on rather than turn the tables and the game eventually went into extra time and then penalties.
Striek, who arrived on emergency loan less than a month ago, proved to be the hero, stopping Zain Westbrook and Hakib Adelakun in the shootout to lift the Crew to Winchester. Bully.
Bale: I’m proud of my players
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Crewe Alexandra coach Lee Bell has shared his emotional reaction after a dramatic win over Doncaster, which saw the Railwaymen reach the League Two play-off final after winning on penalties.
Crewe coach Lieber:
“My players, they’re a credit to me. When they left the hotel I said to them I’m proud to be associated with all of them and all the staff.”
“We knew what we had to do. Some players shouldn’t have played. What a night.
“We had so much character and character. We couldn’t control the game at all but we’ve done so much this season and we have to show that mentality again. I’m really happy for those who scored the penalties.
“I hope they really enjoyed it tonight. I can’t put it into words. It’s a lot of emotion and the players deserve it.”
McCann: This is disgusting
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Doncaster Rovers boss Grant McCann has shared his thoughts on his frustration after losing to Crewe on penalties in the League Two play-off semi-finals.
Doncaster manager Grant McCann:
“Credit to Crewe first. They stopped us in the first half and we struggled. It cost us in the end.
“From the second half onwards we looked more like ourselves. We created some really good moments and chances but unfortunately we didn’t score.
“Our fans are amazing and it’s just disgusting for us. We’re very frustrated. Now it’s my job to try and pick this team for next season.”
“The excitement of going to Wembley is special”
Stockport manager Dave Challinor said on Sky Sports Football:
“Everything went against them. The play-offs are always amazing. They have to enjoy tonight because the excitement of getting to Wembley is really special.
“I know from experience, I was in a position last season where we got to the final on penalties and then lost on penalties at Wembley. There couldn’t be a better way to qualify but also There is no worse place to be than losing a football game.
“They will enjoy tomorrow but quickly turn to the final and try to find a way to win. That’s the most important thing.”
What’s next?
clone Advance to the Sky Bet League Two play-off final where they will face MK Dons Held at Wembley on Sunday 19 May.
doncaster It will remain in the fourth tier in the 2024/25 season.
