Nottingham Forest return to Premier League after 23 years in the shadows
Nottingham Forest has gained promotion to the Premier League after defeating Huddersfield 1-0 in the Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley.
It was a cagey opening half in the capital, as both sides attempted to eclipse each other in the opening stages.
Yet it was the Tricky Trees who took the lead on the stroke of half-time, as Chelsea loanee Levi Colwill diverted James Garner’s cross into his own net.
The Terriers sprung out of the traps in the second half and dominated the ball — but struggled to create any clear-cut chances.
Carlos Corberan’s side had a late shout after Harry Toffolo was brought down by Jack Colback, yet it was waved away following a lengthy VAR check.
And Steve Cooper’s side held out to gain promotion to the top-flight, marking the end of an incredible rise up the Championship table for the East Midlands outfit.
The Reds sat bottom of the Championship when Cooper was appointed in September and their ascendence has been nothing short of remarkable as they return to the Premier League for the first time in 23 years.
The Welshman has captured the hearts of Forest fans and knew exactly what promotion meant to the club.
Speaking to the media, he noted: “I’m really pleased for the players and the supporters. Everybody connected with the football club deserves this today and we’re now really looking forward to a positive future.
“It’s relief and pride – this isn’t about me but it’s changed my life, potentially anyway.
“We’ve brought Nottingham to Wembley today, we’ve taken over the place and here we are in the Premier League.”
The Terriers meanwhile, are now set for another season in the Championship — and manager Corberan was graceful in defeat.
He said: “When I can’t change the consequences of the actions, I try to forget it. I have frustration with the result, but I cannot criticise my players – they competed really well.
“The determination was clear to go for the game. I am proud of the year they have done.
“I am sorry for the fans that we couldn’t achieve the result today – they supported us a lot.”
