Stockport County took a significant step towards Wembley with a last-gasp 1-0 victory over Stevenage in the first leg of their League One play-off semi-final at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday. A calamitous defensive error in stoppage time gifted the visitors the win, leaving Stevenage with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
The match had been a tightly contested affair, reflecting the narrow two-point gap between the sides in the regular season. Chances were few and far between, with both defenses largely on top. The game appeared destined for a goalless draw until the dying moments of added time.
Substitute Benony Andresson had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock but slipped at the crucial moment. However, Stockport midfielder Ben Osborn kept his composure, continuing his run and capitalizing on a massive mix-up in the Stevenage backline to poke the ball home from close range.
“It's probably one of the ugliest goals the play-offs has ever seen, but it's valuable in that it puts us ahead in the tie,” Stockport boss Dave Challinor told Sky Sports. “Credit to Ben to follow the play up after 90-odd minutes and get that bit of luck. He showed you should never give up on anything.”
The goal was a bitter blow for Stevenage, who had defended resolutely throughout. Former EFL defender Luke Chambers described it as “disastrous” and noted that it matched the overall quality of the game. “There was some real sloppiness in the way that goal has come about,” he added.
Stockport now hold a slender advantage heading into the second leg at Edgeley Park on Wednesday night, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football. The match kicks off at 8pm, with the winner advancing to the play-off final at Wembley.
Based on reporting from SkySports | News.