Notts County are heading back to League One after a dominant 3-0 win over Salford City in the League Two play-off final at Wembley.
The Magpies produced a composed and clinical display in the London heat to secure promotion to the third tier for the first time in 11 years, completing an impressive rise just three seasons after returning to the Football League from the National League.
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Salford started brightly enough but struggled to cope with County’s movement and control in midfield as the game wore on. The breakthrough arrived after 32 minutes when Jodi Jones clipped a brilliant pass over the top for Alassana Jatta, who calmly raced through and finished low beyond Matt Young.
County struck another huge blow just before half-time. A clever free-kick routine caused problems in the box and Lucas Ness climbed highest to power home a header and double the advantage.
Salford attempted to respond after the break and Kallum Cesay wasted a huge opportunity moments into the second half, but Notts County never looked rattled.
The result was wrapped up with 20 minutes remaining when substitute Conor Grant burst down the right and squared for Jones to slot home after an outstanding performance.
For Salford, watched on by co-owners David Beckham and Gary Neville, the wait for promotion from League Two goes on.
