Sunderland did the unthinkable and staged a magnificent comeback win to end an eight-year wait to return to the Premier League.
Sheffield United’s play-off hoodoo continued after losing in the format for a ninth time in a row.
Tommy Watson’s stoppage time winner completed the comeback and sparked scenes of jubilation for one half of Wembley Stadium.
Anthony Patterson’s heroics in goal were one of the key factors in helping Regis Le Bris’ side get over the line while Enzo Le Fee, who is now a permanent Sunderland player, orchestrated the win from a deeper role.
However, there’s one Black Cat that went under the radar and deserves his flowers.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Dan Ballard stars for Sunderland again
Dan Ballard was the hero of the semi-final against Coventry City with his 120th minute goal.
Without Ballard, Sunderland wouldn’t have even been at Wembley and while Watson is the one who scored the £220m goal, the defender’s importance shouldn’t go unnoticed.
For large spells of the game, Sheffield United were on the front foot, leaving Ballard and the other defenders to deny them any joy.
In the full 90 minutes, Ballard was able to win 100 per cent of his ground duels and make 13 clearances, putting his body on the line whenever they needed him.
Dan Ballard stats vs Sheffield United
Minutes played – 90
Clearances – 13
Blocked shots – 1
Tackles – 1
Interceptions – 1
Ground duels won – 2/2
Aerial duels won – 9/12
Dan Ballard stats vs Sheffield United via Sofascore
It’s those sorts of those performances that get you over the line and one he can look back on with pride.
Daniel Ballard will finally get his Premier League chance
Unable to make it at Arsenal as a youngster, Ballard needed to find somewhere that he could call home and it seems like he’s found it at Sunderland.
Rejected by Arsenal, the centre-back first came to prominence during a loan spell with Millwall before joining Sunderland in 2022.
Three years in now, the Northern Ireland international is part of the furniture and after getting so close last time, will finally have a shot at the big time.