Stanley finally sealed promotion following a 1-0 win over Woking. | "In the words of Gabrielle - dreams can come true!" | | Accrington Stanley manager John Coleman |
Despite still recovering from a neck injury - Paul Mullin provided Accrington with the winning goal in the 38th minute that clinched their historic promotion into the League next season. John Coleman was delighted to secure the return to the League.
He said: "It's brilliant - the players are going bananas and the fans are going bananas! It's been a great day and a great game and thankfully we're over the line." The team dedicated their Conference win to Anthony Cavanagh - Peter's brother - who was tragically killed six months ago. Peter made him a promise when he was in a coma that they would win the League for him.
Coleman said: "Thankfully the lads delivered that." Although Stanley held a 1-0 lead until the final whistle there was still stomach churning drama for Stanley when Woking were awarded a penalty. Justin Richards' penalty was saved by Robert Elliot - but then the referee to order a retake. Woking failed to find the net for the second time but not without a scramble! Assistant manager described the scenes at Kingfield as 'unbelieveable'. Bell said: "I'm still shaking. We were really under the cosh in those last few minutes - there was everything - penalties and scramables - the lot but it just added to the occasion." He praised the players for sticking at it in the agonising final minutes against Woking. Bell said: "They done us proud!" Coleman added: "It was always my dream to play in the League. I never fulfilled it as a player but thankfully I have as a manager. In the words of Gabrielle - dreams can come true!" Stanley Special on BBC Radio Lancashire... - Listen to a special programme presented by Chris Rider on Accrington Stanley's promotion on Sunday 16 April at 12.30am on BBC Radio Lancashire followed Alex Worsick reporting live from the ground from 1.00pm.
Tony Livesey presents the BBC Radio Lancashire Breakfast show on Tuesday 18 April live from the ground.
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