Barnsley beat Oxford United in Wembley final

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The Johnstone's Paint Trophy Final at Wembley looked like being a shock with League 2 Oxford hoping to be the first side from that level since Luton in 2009 to lift the trophy. But a fabulous comeback from Barnsley left those dreams in tatters.

Barnsley's victory, their first ever win at Wembley, was their season in microcosm.

The Tykes were 23rd in League One in November but a wonderful upturn in form since then has lifted them up to seventh, four points from a play-off spot.

Previous boss Lee Johnson, who left Oakwell for Bristol City shortly after Barnsley had secured their spot in the final, was a guest of the club at Wembley and watched caretaker manager Paul Heckingbottom demonstrate his credentials to take the role on a more permanent basis.

Barnsley trailed to a Callum O'Dowda header in the first half but recovered to lead 3-1. A late goal from Oxford wasn't enough.

Oxford United head coach Michael Appleton told BBC Radio Oxford: "We got off to a good start and got our noses in front, but that second goal did for us really.

"That's something we've tried to avoid this season - conceding too many close together and a strong 20 minute spell for them in the game has done for us.

"We went up a gear once we got a second goal, but we fell a bit short today sadly."

Posted on 3rd April 2016