Cambridge United 2-3 Burton Albion
- Published
Ten-man Burton Albion secured the League Two title with a superb comeback victory at lowly Cambridge United.
The Brewers, knowing a win would ensure top spot irrespective of how second-placed Shrewsbury fared, led through Stuart Beavon's header but Tom Elliott headed the hosts level.
Robbie Simpson's penalty put the U's ahead after Harrison Dunk was fouled by goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin, who saw red.
But a stunning Phil Edwards strike made it 2-2 and Kevin Stewart's shot won it.
Nearly 1,900 Brewers fans celebrated a thrilling victory in style, but they seemed to be celebrating almost from the off after hearing Shrewsbury trailed to a third-minute goal at home to Plymouth.
As it transpired, Burton boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink would have led his side to the title even had they lost, something that seemed likely when their 10 men trailed 2-1 with 20 minutes left.
Away-day success |
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Burton Albion lost only twice in their last 15 away matches on their way to becoming League Two champions and managed a total of 12 league wins away from the Pirelli Stadium. |
It had started well for the side already assured of promotion to League One for the first time in history, with Beavon's clever header from Damien McCrory's fine left-wing cross deservedly putting them ahead.
But Elliott headed the hosts level on 25 minutes and the U's began to get on top after the interval, as Simpson, Liam Hughes, Tom Champion and Sullay Kaikai all had chances.
And the pressure told when a poor header by George Taft led to McLaughlin bringing down Dunk and Simpson just about beat replacement keeper Scott Shearer from the penalty spot.
However, the Brewers regrouped and right-back Edwards equalised with a stunning 30-yard strike.
Stewart then sent the travelling support crazy with two minutes left, hitting an unlikely winner with a fine left-footed shot.
- Published20 June 2016
- Published7 June 2019