Sir David Beckham experienced a disappointing return to Wembley Stadium as Notts County triumphed over the Salford team he co-owns, securing a 3-0 victory in the League Two playoff final.
The former England captain was less than pleased from the stands as first-half goals from Alassana Jatta and Lucas Ness, along with a late strike from the impressive Jodi Jones, helped County reclaim a spot in League One after an 11-year absence.
Founded in 1862 and a charter member of the Football League, County proved to be the superior team, forcing Salford, which has only recently escaped the non-league ranks, to remain in the fourth tier for at least another year.
The day was also forgettable for Salford co-owner Gary Neville and his former England and Manchester United teammate Nicky Butt, who, although no longer a shareholder, remains involved with the club.
Both teams had a cautious start in sweltering temperatures close to 37 degrees, but it was County who took control of the match early on, creating the first opportunity.
Jones showcased his skill by beating a Salford defender and delivered a cross from the left, but Jatta’s header from 12 yards sailed over the bar.
Salford’s initial effort came from Matt Butcher, whose shot was deflected over the bar, but it was a corner kick that prompted County to take the lead in the 32nd minute.
After goalkeeper James Belshaw collected the corner, County initiated a quick counterattack, with Jones threading a through-ball that sliced through two defenders, allowing Jatta to side-foot the ball past Salford’s goalkeeper Matt Young from close range.
Over 20,000 Notts County supporters erupted in celebration as the Gambian forward netted his 17th goal of the season.
Salford, who had claimed victory in both regular-season encounters against County, saw Haji Mnonga receive a yellow card just before halftime for a reckless challenge on Jones.
Notts doubled their advantage from the resulting free kick, which found captain Rod McDonald in space at the back post. McDonald’s cushioned header into the danger zone allowed Ness to rise highest and nod home.
Salford nearly replied just 30 seconds into the second half, but Belshaw made a crucial block against Kallum Cesay, whose touch let him down as he broke through.
Ryan Graydon had a shot saved by Belshaw after Salford’s claims for a penalty were dismissed when a cross from substitute Ben Woodburn hit Jacob Bedeau’s elbow.
It was ultimately County’s day, with Jones sealing the win in the 70th minute. Conor Grant burst down the right flank, and as Mnoga and Jatta battled in the area, he cut the ball back for Jones, who slotted it home ahead of Graydon.