Full Breakdown
Notts County Secure Promotion with 3-0 Win at Wembley
5/26/2026, 12:36:10 PM
The Final at Wembley
Notts County defeated Salford City 3-0 in the League Two play-off final on 25 May 2026, securing promotion to League One after an 11-year absence. Goals came from Alassana Jatta (32´), Lucas Ness (just before half-time) and Jodi Jones (70´).
Recent Histories of the Clubs
Notts County, a 1862 Football League founder, climbed from the National League to League Two in three seasons and aimed to return to the third tier. Salford City, owned by former England internationals David Beckham and Gary Neville, missed automatic promotion by one point and sought their first League One berth.
Key Players and Stakeholders
Notts County’s standout was winger Jodi Jones, named Man of the Match, supported by Alassana Jatta, Lucas Ness and substitute Conor Grant, under manager Martin Paterson. Salford were led by manager Karl Robinson, goalkeeper James Belshaw, with owners Beckham and Neville in attendance.
Timeline of the Play-off Campaign
Season end – May 2026: County finished one place below automatic promotion. Play-off semi-finals – County beat Chesterfield; Salford beat Grimsby. 25 May 2026 – Wembley final.
Match Statistics
The final took place in near-37 °C heat, with attendance reported as over 20 000 (BBC) or 25 000 (The League Paper). Salford managed two shots on target; Notts County held dominant possession, scored three goals and kept a clean sheet. Tom Reeves refereed.
Why It Matters
The win restores Notts County to League One, reviving a historic club and supporting the local economy, as noted by council leader Neghat Khan. For Salford, the defeat postpones promotion ambitions despite investment from owners Beckham and Neville.
Official Statements & Responses
Paterson called the display “phenomenal” and said he felt relief at meeting the season’s goal. Robinson apologized, admitting his side “let people down” and were outplayed. Council leader Khan congratulated the club, its staff and supporters on the promotion.
Criticism & Opposition
Robinson later said Salford “were beaten in all areas today,” highlighting a lack of quality. Salford supporters expressed disappointment, describing the result as a missed opportunity.
On-the-Ground Reports
Supporters faced sweltering heat, many wearing hats and sunscreen. Over 20 000 County fans traveled from Nottingham, outnumbering Salford supporters and dominating the vocal atmosphere.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Attendance figures differ: “over 20 000” (BBC) versus 25 000 (The League Paper). No source provides a precise count of Salford’s total shots beyond the two on-target claim, and player-level metrics are absent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I feel that we've let people down today,” — Karl Robinson, Salford City manager
- “It makes me really emotional,” — Jodi Jones, Notts County winger
- “I haven't spoken to any of the players,” — Gary Neville, Salford City co-owner
- “They turned up, they took their chances when they came along and, in all areas, they were the better team.” — Karl Robinson, Salford City manager
What’s Next
Notts County will compete in League One for the 2026-27 season; Salford will remain in League Two and plan a summer review. Nottingham City Council will host a civic celebration on 26 May.
