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    David Beckham’s little-known link to Nottingham Forest hero Brennan Johnson with Man Utd legend following his career

    BRENNAN JOHNSON got the Wembley seal of approval from Golden Balls himself.The Nottingham Forest forward, 20, starred once again by scoring his 19th goal of the season in the play-off semi-final penalty shootout triumph over Sheffield United.
    Brennan Johnson found the net yet again as Nottingham Forest reached the Championship play-off finalCredit: PA
    David Beckham enjoyed what he saw from the Welsh internationalCredit: Splash
    Brice Samba was the hero in the 3-2 pens victory but Johnson also showed his nerve by slotting home a spot-kick as Forest reached the May 29 final with Huddersfield for a place in the Premier League.
    Johnson was beaming with delight afterwards.
    His Instagram post ‘Off to Wembley with my family’ – accompanied by a pic of the Welshman sitting between team-mates Djed Spence and Alex Mighten – was liked by David Beckham.
    Johnson’s dad David, who was at the City Ground on Tuesday night, is a close pal of Beckham having both come through the Manchester United youth ranks as members of the Class of ’92.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The 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    And former England captain Beckham takes a big interest in the progress of the highly-rated Wales international, who is destined for the Prem either with Forest or elsewhere.
    Johnson has excelled in the Championship this term and was named the division’s Young Player of the Season last month.
    The nine-cap star was the subject of a £15million bid from Prem side Brentford in January but Forest rejected the offer.
    As a result of reaching Wembley, Johnson as well as Huddersfield’s Sorba Thomas will miss Wales’ training camp in preparation for their World Cup play-off final against Scotland or Ukraine on June 5.
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    Dragons captain Gareth Bale will also miss out due to his club commitments with Real Madrid ahead of the Champions League final versus Liverpool in Paris on May 28.
    Wales’ non-Premier League players start their preparations in Cardiff on Thursday with Robert Page’s side expected to travel to Portugal next Monday for a week-long warm-weather camp.
    The striker celebrated the shootout win with penalty hero Brice SambaCredit: PA More

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    Billy Sharp attack latest – Sheff Utd star needs stitches after fan attack, manager calls for prison sentence

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST beat Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties to book their place in the Championship play-off final.But the triumph was soured by a disgraceful fan attack on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp during the post-game pitch invasion, which left the player needing stitches.
    Furious Blades boss United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
    “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”

    Result: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheff Utd (3-3 on agg; Forest won 3-2 on pens)

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    EFL: Pitch invasions under investigation
    The English Football League have released a strongly-worded statement following events that marred both Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield’s play-off semi-final wins this week, not least the incident in which Billy Sharp was assaulted.
    It reads: “Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and Play-Off Semi-Final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.
    “These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities and the EFL condemns in the strongest possible terms the reckless actions of individuals who have brought the game into disrepute with this unacceptable behaviour. The League is working closely with the Police and Clubs, offering its full support to the ongoing investigations.
    “Supporters are reminded that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time and could result in a Club ban and criminal record. More importantly it puts the safety of players, coaches, managers and match officials at risk. It is vital that those playing the game can do so safe in the knowledge that they will not be subjected to violent, threatening or anti-social behaviour going forward.”
    Sharp: Idiot ruined unbelievable night
    Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp has spoken out following his assault at the end of last night’s play-off semi-final with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
    The Blades captain was attacked by a home supporter as he watched on from the sidelines following his team’s penalty shootout defeat.
    The shocking incident marred what had been a brilliant game, one in which United had fought back from 3-1 down on aggregate to level the tie.
    However, the South Yorkshire side were unable to get the better of Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba in the shootout with the hosts’ victory sparking a mass pitch invasion.
    Sharp tweeted this morning: “One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football.
    “Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on victory and good luck in the final. As an ex Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
    “Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident.”

    Suspect arrested after Sharp assault
    Police have confirmed that they have arrested a 31-year-old man following the assault on Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp at the end of last night’s play-off at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground.
    Sharp was left needing stitches after being aggressively knocked to the floor by a supporter that had run on to the pitch to celebrate Forest’s penalty shootout success.
    The shocking incident marred a thrilling Championship play-off semi-final, and has brought calls for both police and internal club investigations.
    Striker Sharp had not been involved in the encounter due to injury, and had been stood on the touchlines when the attack occurred.
    Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident. He remains in custody and will be questioned by officers.
    “Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. We have spoken to the player concerned and we are working with both clubs who are supporting us with our investigation.”
    Billy Sharp latest
    Nottingham Forest beat Sheffield United via a thrilling penalty shootout to reach the Championship play-off final.
    But the victory was soured after a fan shockingly attacked Blades star Billy Sharp in the post-match pitch invasion.
    Sharp needed stitches after the attack and Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom said Sharp was shaken, bleeding and angry.
    Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    Nottingham Forest released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
    It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
    “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
    “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”

    Billy Sharp attack
    Furious Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    “There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attack
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Latest – Sharp needing stitches
    Billy Sharp has been left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    Nottingham Forest statement
    Nottingham Forest have released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
    It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
    “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
    “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”
    Latest on Sharp’s condition
    Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has said Billy Sharp is shook up and bleeding after the attack.
    Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Credit: Sky Sports
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    More from Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom: “How can you come to a place of work minding your own business and be assaulted in that fashion?
    “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
    “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attacked
    Sheffield United star Billy Sharp has been viciously attacked by a Nottingham Forest pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    The evening was soured by a disgraceful attack on striker Sharp, who was standing watching the celebrations.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the floor.
    It is not yet clear if Sharp suffered any injuries.
    United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “There’s a prison sentence there for sure.”

    Master tactician
    Steve Cooper took over from Nottingham Forest when they were bottom of the league.
    He’s just got them to the final of the play-offs.
    The King of City Ground.
    .Credit: PA
    Cook: “I hated every minute”
    A surprisingly calm Cook does the honours, gifting Samba the man of the match award. One of the easier decisions today.
    But Cook was quick to say how difficult he found the game:
    Horrendous. I hated every minute of the second half and extra time… The dressing room is an emotional place.Steve Cook, Nottingham Forest defender
    Both players were quick to acknowledge the task ahead; Huddersfield Town at Wembley.
    Pitch party
    Nobody is leaving the field at the City Ground, soaking up every second, every emotion.
    There are hugs, tears, and a lot of skin on show. After such a tense and enthralling 140 minutes or so, you can understand the need to remove a layer or two.
    .Credit: Getty
    Forest’s hero
    The Red wall!
    Samba more than rose to the occasion this evening, saving 3 of 5 penalties. A penalty saving masterclass.
    He stepped up when they needed him most.
    .Credit: PA
    Heartbreak for The Blades
    Sheffield United gave it everything today. Most people would have written them off after Johnson’s goal, but they stuck at it, finding a way to get back in it. They fell short in the most brutal fashion, but they should be very proud.
    The scenes!
    The players are being escorted off the field through a sea of Forest supporters. There are flares and an awful lot of singing. It’s oddly beautiful.
    NOTTINGHAM FOREST WIN – Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Gibbs-White stutters, and Samba reads him, diving down low to his right.
    The fans are on the pitch celebrating! What a game!!
    Wembley waits Nottingham Forest.
    .Credit: PA
    Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Lolley skies his penalty way over the bar!
    What a twist in this extraordinary story.
    Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Ndiaye scores to keep his side in it! Samba went the wrong way.
    Nottingham Forest 3-1 Sheffield United
    Cook is cool as a cucumber, firing the ball into the top left, before pumping up the fans.
    Sheffield united have to score… Ndiaye to take.
    Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sheffield United
    Berge scores The Blades’ first penalty, cooly slotting it into the top left corner.
    Nottingham Forest 2-0 Sheffield United
    Foderingham gets a hand, but Cafu’s spot kick has enough power on it to beat him.
    Load more entries… More

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    Billy Sharp attack latest – Sheff Utd star needing stitches after fan attack, manager calls for prison sentence

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST beat Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties to book their place in the Championship play-off final.But the triumph was soured by a disgraceful fan attack on Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp during the post-game pitch invasion, which left the player needing stitches.
    Furious Blades boss United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
    “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”

    Result: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheff Utd (3-3 on agg; Forest won 3-2 on pens)

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    Billy Sharp attack
    Furious Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    “There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attack
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Latest – Sharp needing stitches
    Billy Sharp has been left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    Nottingham Forest statement
    Nottingham Forest have released a statement after the disgraceful attack.
    It read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground.
    “The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
    “The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club.”
    Latest on Sharp’s condition
    Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has said Billy Sharp is shook up and bleeding after the attack.
    Heckingbottom said: “It’s assault. We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
    “He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    The yob ran full speed at Sharp and sent him crashing to the floor with an apparent headbutt.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the ground in shocking scenes.
    Credit: Sky Sports
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    More from Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom: “How can you come to a place of work minding your own business and be assaulted in that fashion?
    “It’s just bang out of order and it’s everything that’s wrong. Too many times we hear people condemn it, but nothing’s done about it. We’re the ones that suffered.
    “It’s upsetting for a lot of reasons – I don’t want to say too much more about it. He’ll be dealt with.”
    Billy Sharp attack – latest
    Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “We’re seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players’ health and safety in danger and nothing’s ever done about it.
    “There will be something done about that. We’ve seen what’s happened, we know what’s happened.
    There’s a prison sentence there without a doubt.”
    Billy Sharp attacked
    Sheffield United star Billy Sharp has been viciously attacked by a Nottingham Forest pitch invader during celebrations at the City Ground.
    The evening was soured by a disgraceful attack on striker Sharp, who was standing watching the celebrations.
    Sky Sports video captured a man run full speed at Sharp before smashing him to the floor.
    It is not yet clear if Sharp suffered any injuries.
    United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “There’s a prison sentence there for sure.”

    Master tactician
    Steve Cooper took over from Nottingham Forest when they were bottom of the league.
    He’s just got them to the final of the play-offs.
    The King of City Ground.
    .Credit: PA
    Cook: “I hated every minute”
    A surprisingly calm Cook does the honours, gifting Samba the man of the match award. One of the easier decisions today.
    But Cook was quick to say how difficult he found the game:
    Horrendous. I hated every minute of the second half and extra time… The dressing room is an emotional place.Steve Cook, Nottingham Forest defender
    Both players were quick to acknowledge the task ahead; Huddersfield Town at Wembley.
    Pitch party
    Nobody is leaving the field at the City Ground, soaking up every second, every emotion.
    There are hugs, tears, and a lot of skin on show. After such a tense and enthralling 140 minutes or so, you can understand the need to remove a layer or two.
    .Credit: Getty
    Forest’s hero
    The Red wall!
    Samba more than rose to the occasion this evening, saving 3 of 5 penalties. A penalty saving masterclass.
    He stepped up when they needed him most.
    .Credit: PA
    Heartbreak for The Blades
    Sheffield United gave it everything today. Most people would have written them off after Johnson’s goal, but they stuck at it, finding a way to get back in it. They fell short in the most brutal fashion, but they should be very proud.
    The scenes!
    The players are being escorted off the field through a sea of Forest supporters. There are flares and an awful lot of singing. It’s oddly beautiful.
    NOTTINGHAM FOREST WIN – Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Gibbs-White stutters, and Samba reads him, diving down low to his right.
    The fans are on the pitch celebrating! What a game!!
    Wembley waits Nottingham Forest.
    .Credit: PA
    Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Lolley skies his penalty way over the bar!
    What a twist in this extraordinary story.
    Nottingham Forest 3-2 Sheffield United
    Ndiaye scores to keep his side in it! Samba went the wrong way.
    Nottingham Forest 3-1 Sheffield United
    Cook is cool as a cucumber, firing the ball into the top left, before pumping up the fans.
    Sheffield united have to score… Ndiaye to take.
    Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sheffield United
    Berge scores The Blades’ first penalty, cooly slotting it into the top left corner.
    Nottingham Forest 2-0 Sheffield United
    Foderingham gets a hand, but Cafu’s spot kick has enough power on it to beat him.
    Nottingham Forest 1-0 Sheffield United
    Samba saves again!
    The keeper stays where he is, and Hourihane strikes it straight at his arm!
    Nottingham Forest 1-0 Sheffield United
    Johnson scores!
    Johnson is composed and fires inside the right hand post.
    1-0 Forest
    .Credit: PA
    Penalty saved!
    Samba goes the right way, and gets a strong hand to brilliantly deny Samba.
    Advantage Forest!
    Nottingham Forest 1-2 Sheffield United
    One final word on the tie, before chaos ensues, it’s been brilliant. Both sets of players have put on a show to remember.
    Here we go then. It’s Norwood up first, who has put the ball on the spot before Samba is done chatting to Michael Oliver.
    Load more entries… More

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    When are EFL play-offs 2021/22? League One final date, Championship and League Two semi-finals confirmed

    THE EFL has reached its business end as teams look to secure those promotion places.And as every year, in each of the three divisions – Championship, League One and League Two – four teams compete in the play-offs with only one earning promotion in the Wembley finals.
    Brentford were last year’s Championship play-off final winnersCredit: Getty
    Brentford were last year’s Championship play-off winners after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Swansea at Wembley.
    When are the EFL play-off finals?
    The dates for each of the EFL play-off finals have been confirmed and will take place across two weeks.
    The League One final will be played a week before the League Two and Championship finals as Wembley is unavailable on the Bank Holiday Monday of May 30.
    The reason for this is the Uefa-Conmebol Finalissima, which will see European Champions Italy take on Copa America winners Argentina at the national stadium on Wednesday, June 1.
    EFL play-off final dates
    League One

    Wycombe vs Sunderland (3pm) – Saturday, May 21

    League Two

    Saturday, May 28 (4pm)

    Championship

    Huddersfield vs Nottingham Forest (4.30pm) – Sunday, May 29

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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FUL FOCUS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Liverpool to sign Carvalho with Fulham to replace winger with Manor Solomon
    When are the EFL play-off semi-finals?
    Dates for the EFL play-off semi-finals are as follows:
    Championship

    League One

    Wycombe 2-0 MK Dons
    MK Dons 1-0 Wycombe (1-2 agg)

    League Two

    Mansfield 2-1 Northampton
    Northampton vs Mansfield (7.45pm) – Wednesday, May 18

    Swindon 2-1 Port Vale
    Port Vale vs Swindon (7.45pm) – Thursday, May 19

    Do the EFL play-offs have away goals?
    The EFL play-offs do NOT have away goals.
    The rule was scrapped in 1999 after third placed side Ipswich were beaten by sixth placed Bolton on away goals.
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    Nottingham Forest 1 Sheffield United 2 (3-2 on pens): Brice Samba saves THREE penalties to send Forest to Wembley

    BRICE SAMBA saved THREE penalties to ensure Nottingham Forest survived a Sheffield United comeback to seal a place in the Championship play-off final.The hosts got off to the perfect start when goal machine Brennan Johnson scored the opening goal with less than 20 minutes on the clock, slamming home a Sam Surridge cross.
    Brice Samba saved THREE penalties to send Forest to WembleyCredit: PA
    Samba was mobbed by his Forest team-mates after saving the crucial kickCredit: PA
    Forest are now just one game away from the Premier LeagueCredit: PA
    But after tempers flared shortly before half-time between Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom and Forest stars Johnson and Djed Spence, the visitors came out for the second period a different animal.
    Morgan Gibbs-White pulled one back two minutes after the break, stabbing home a Sander Berge cross from close range.
    And John Fleck levelled things up on aggregate after Forest’s 2-1 win at Bramall Lane in the first leg, scoring in almost identical style with 15 minutes left to play.
    Neither side could force a winner in normal time, so on it went for another half an hour.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}’WELL PLAYED’ .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Jake Daniels receives support from football world including Lineker and Kane
    Still there was nothing to separate them after extra-time.
    That was until Brice Samba made his mark on proceedings, saving THREE Sheffield United penalties to send his team to Wembley.
    Brennan Johnson backed up his goal in the first-leg with another strikeCredit: PA
    Cue the pitch invasion from jubilant Forest fans.
    The two-time European champions know they are now just one game away from a spot back in the big time after 23 years away.
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    The Blades’ first two takers Oliver Norwood and Conor Hourihane were both brilliantly denied by Samba.
    But when Joe Lolley blazed one over for Forest things began to get interesting.
    Samba though stepped up once again to deny Gibbs-White and book Forest a first-ever trip to the new Wembley.
    Forest, bottom of the second tier after seven games when Steve Cooper took charge in September, held the upper hand after the first leg although they conceded late on at Bramall Lane and were pushed all the way.
    The hosts were initially tentative, pushed back into their own half as rain lashed down at the outset.
    John Egan fired a warning shot as his bullet header narrowly missed the target.
    Samba saved superbly soon after, rushing out of his goal to smother Ndiaye’s shot after he was put through one-on-one by Gibbs-White.
    Then from nowhere Forest reclaimed their two-goal cushion.
    Scott McKenna’s long ball was collected on the left by Surridge, whose square pass allowed an outstretched Johnson to send beyond Wes Foderingham.
    But any thoughts the visitors were becoming desperate were extinguished as this time they punished Forest for again being slow out of the traps two minutes after the resumption to bring the tie to life.
    Gibbs-White provided the finish, sweeping across Samba from Sander Berge’s low ball to the near post, moments after Cook had produced a last-gasp tackle to thwart Ndiaye as he ran through on goal.
    Morgan Gibbs-White started the comeback for Sheffield UnitedCredit: PA
    Nerves around the ground heightened as Sheffield United enjoyed a spell of sustained pressure, with Forest unable to mount much in response.
    And they were rewarded in the 75th minute as George Baldock’s cross after an excellent run down the right was turned in by Fleck to level the scores on aggregate.
    Matters nearly worsened for Forest when McKenna overhit a backpass past a scrambling Samba and both players were relieved to see the ball drift harmlessly wide.
    Sheffield United had the first chance in extra-time as Gibbs-White fired at Samba from an acute angle.
    Then Forest substitutes Lolley and Keinan Davis combined, the latter thrusting a leg at a cross which Foderingham kept out.
    John Fleck levelled things up on aggregate with 15 minutes left to playCredit: Reuters
    Sheffield United might have won it late on but Samba produced an astonishing point-blank save to deny Ndiaye from six yards.
    Although the keeper’s heart would have been in his mouth at the death when former Forest defender Jack Robinson went down under his challenge.
    Oliver did not point to the spot or issue Robinson what would have been a second booking as the game went to penalties.
    Samba guessed right to deny Norwood then tipped Hourihane’s effort on to the bar before saving in the corner from Gibbs-White to spark frenzied scenes on a memorable evening for Forest. More

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    Watch Sheffield United boss Heckingbottom spark mass melee after bizarre clash with Nottingham Forest star Djed Spence

    SHEFFIELD UNITED manager Paul Heckingbottom sparked a mass melee just before half-time of the club’s play-off second leg with Nottingham Forest as he aggressively gave the ball to Djed Spence.Heckingbottom was the only recipient of a card following the melee as he saw his side crash out of the play-offs thanks to Brice Samba’s penalty heroics.
    The brawl came after Heckingbottom took issue with the length of time Forest were taking on throw insCredit: Alamy

    Tension was already high in the Championship play-off semi-final when Heckingbottom took the ball and tried to aggressively pass it to the Arsenal-linked Nottingham Forest defender.
    Brennan Johnson, who scored Forest’s opening goal, took offence to the over-zealous actions of The Blades manager and ran over to confront him.
    However, as a Sheffield United player pushed him back it then started a huge clash between the two sides players and benches.
    Morgan Gibbs-White levelled the scoring at the City Ground before John Fleck put the visitors ahead to drag the game into extra-time via a 3-3 aggregate scoreline.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}N FOREST 1 SHEFF UTD 2 (3-3) .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Keeper Samba the penalty hero as Forest book play-off final
    The first leg ended in a 2-1 win for Forest with Sander Berge’s 91st minute consolation halving the deficit created by Jack Colback and Johnson scoring either side of half-time.
    But after a full 30 minute’s of extra-time, it was Forest who managed to keep their bottle in the shootout with goalkeeper Samba saving three of The Blades penalties.
    Forest want to make their Premier League return after a 23 year absence, with their last season coming in 1999.
    From the other semi-final Huddersfield have already secured their spot in the final on 29 May.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The Terriers beat Luton Town to progress and will hope to make a return to the Premier League to reignite their love affair with England’s top division.
    They spent two years in the Premier League between 2017 and 2019 when they were relegated in last place having amassed a measly 19 points. More

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    ‘Absolute disgrace’ – Luton boss Jones fumes after he’s goaded by Huddersfield fans who stormed pitch after play-off win

    LUTON manager Nathan Jones tore into Huddersfield Town fans for abusing his players following their Championship play-off final win.Town fans invaded the pitch after booking their place in the Wembley final thanks to Jordan Rhodes’ 82nd-minute winner.
    “Huddersfield have won the battle of the underdogs!” 👏Jordan Rhodes’ late strike sends the Terriers to Wembley!! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/0HVq5yVL84— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) May 16, 2022

    A pitch invasion followed Huddersfield Town’s play-off semi-final successCredit: Getty
    Thousands of Town fans celebrate as Luton’s Mick Harford consoles Danny Hylton (left)Credit: Rex
    Nathan Jones was upset with the behaviour of Huddersfield fans after their winCredit: Getty
    But Jones was not happy with the manner of celebration, labelling the actions of some supporters as “disgusting”.
    One fan slapped the back of Kai Naismith’s head as others taunted the 2,000 travelling Hatters crowd.
    An elderly Luton fan was also left bleeding after being struck by a coin, allegedly thrown by a Terrier.
    “The fans were an absolute disgrace…How one of us hasn’t been (injured).
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    “Stewards? I don’t know why they turned up… The fans were an absolute disgrace. But we won’t complain, football fans are like that. Some are idiots.
    “They didn’t paint Huddersfield Town as a good club in terms of how they were. They have won the game, go celebrate with your players. Go and celebrate something wonderful.
    “Instead they were more concerned with obscene gestures. I have seen a mother with a little kid… If that was my wife, I’d be disgusted.
    “They approached me and abused me. They have done stuff to me. Some were okay and congratulated us. But they all did not paint Huddersfield Town in a good light after that.
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    “But look, that’s individuals. Not everyone will be pure Huddersfield fans.
    “They have turned up tonight and that is probably the biggest crowd Huddersfield have had this season, so a lot of them might not be true Huddersfield fans, you never know.
    “I don’t understand. Go celebrate with your players, go celebrate something big. They were more concerned with taunting and abusing our fans and filming it. That logic I don’t get.
    “I literally saw a woman and some of the things she was doing. It can’t be ‘northern’, surely.” More

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    Bournemouth duo Kieffer Moore and Chris Mepham celebrate promotion by getting engaged to model wags in Dubai

    LOVE is in the air at Premier League newboys Bournemouth after Kieffer Moore and Chris Mepham both got engaged to their long-term girlfriends in Dubai in the space of 24 hours.Striker Moore, who scored the winner against Nottingham Forest on May 3 which clinched the Cherries’ return to the Prem, got down on one knee and proposed to Charlotte Russell on Sunday.
    Kieffer Moore got down on one knee in front of a big ‘marry me’ signCredit: Instagram @kieffermoore
    Moore and fiancee Charlotte Russell shared a celebratory kissCredit: Instagram @kieffermoore
    Chris Mepham’s fiancee Jodie Francis looked ecstatic with her ringCredit: Instagram @_meps
    Mepham romantically laid out rose petals and candlesCredit: Instagram @_meps
    Then Moore’s Bournemouth and Wales team-mate Mepham also announced yesterday that he had popped the question to Jodie Francis.
    It caps off a dream season for the pair, who are on holiday in the United Arab Emirates before they link up with the Wales squad next Monday for their World Cup play-off final against Scotland or Ukraine on June 5 in Cardiff as well as four Nations League matches.
    Moore revealed on Instagram that ‘she said yes’ accompanied by a wedding ring and love heart emojis.
    He added on his post: “The most incredible woman and I can’t wait to marry her!”
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    The 29-year-old shared a series of pictures from his proposal with the words ‘marry me’ spelt out in lights behind them.
    The couple have been together for more than nine years and the big forward received congratulations from Bournemouth and Wales pals including Mepham, David Brooks, Brennan Johnson and Jonny Williams.
    Defender Mepham, 24, also took to Instagram on Monday night when he posted: “She said YES!!!’ followed by a wedding ring and love heart emojis.
    He added: “Cannot begin to explain how grateful I am to have you in my life, I can’t wait to one day marry you and spend the rest of my life with you.”
    Russell has dated Moore for nine yearsCredit: Instagram @charlotteamyrussell
    Francis said she was the “happiest girl in the world” following Mepham’s proposal
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    More messages of congratulations poured in from the likes of Moore, Brooks, Johnson, Harry Wilson and Neco Williams.
    It is an amazing start to the summer for the pair which could get even better if they help Wales qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
    Wales are set to take on Scotland or Ukraine in the play-off final with the winner booking a place in England’s group at the World Cup. More