JACK Edwards scored the only goal to send Leamington into the play-off final following a 1-0 win against Redditch United in extra time.
Edwards headed home in the 106th minute to settle a tight affair at the Your Co-Op Community Stadium as the Brakes look to return to the National League North at the first attempt.
Paul Holleran’s side will play AFC Telford United in the Southern League Premier Central play-off final on Monday, May 6 with kick-off at 3pm at New Bucks Head.
Chances were at a premium in the first half as Henry Landers saw an effort saved by Reds goalkeeper Adam Harrison before Ewan Williams fired wide.
The visitors had their first meaningful attempt in first-half injury time as Aram Soleman shot over the bar from the edge of the penalty area.
And Redditch went close to taking the lead early in the second half as Ryan Wollacott headed narrowly wide from a corner.
The Reds spurned another chance later in the half when Johnny Johnston forced Callum Hawkins into a smart save at his near post as the game ended goalless after 90 minutes.
Brakes keeper Hawkins produced a stunning reaction save just six minutes into the extra period as he somehow tipped Alex Cameron’s shot from point-blank range onto the post.
At the other end, Harrison made an equally impressive stop as he tipped Tyrone Barnett’s powerful header over the bar.
However, the Brakes finally broke the deadlock in the second period of extra time when Edwards headed in on the line after Harrison could only tip Barnett’s initial effort onto the crossbar.
Leamington saw out the remaining minutes to reach the play-off final and are now just 90 minutes away from making an immediate return to the National League North.
