Luca Connell has major say for Barnsley as ex-Celtic kid provides key assist to book Wembley final

Luca Connell had a major say as he helped Barnsley book their ticket to Wembley.

The former Celtic kid provided a stunning assist for Liam Kitching as they defeated Bolton by a single goal on the night to claim a 2-1 aggregate win and set up a winner takes all clash with Sheffield Wednesday in a bid to return to the English Championship. His key contribution came against his former club who will now face another season in England’s League One.

The 22-year-old made the move to Barnsley in the summer on a three-year deal after leaving the Scottish champions without making a top team appearance but he’s established himself as key first team member at his new club and stepped up in the big occasion to help his side edge to within potentially 90 minutes of promotion.

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It was a ninth assist of the campaign for Connell, who has also chipped in with two goals from his 46 games in all competitions. He will be aiming to make it lucky 47 when his side walk out at Wembley on Monday, May 29 against the Owls.

Barnsley finished the regular 46 game season in fourth spot – 10 point behind Sheffield Wednesday who pulled off arguably the greatest play-off comeback of all time.

Trailing by four goals to Peterborough from the first leg, Scotland international Liam Palmer forced the game into extra-time with a 98th minute leveller in the tie as Wednesday won 4-0 in normal time to spark wild celebrations in the stands.

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But they suffered an extra-time set back with the visitors taking the lead in the tie before Callum Paterson levelled once again to force penalty kicks.

Darren Moore’s men emerged victorious to spark further emotions between the players, management and supporters on an incredible night of play-off drama.

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