Cardiff City has clinched a promotion to the Championship following a decisive 3-1 win over Reading. The outcome was sealed when Exeter City's goalkeeper, Jack Bycroft, scored an equalizing goal in the 96th minute against Stockport, ensuring none of Cardiff's rivals managed a win. This remarkable turn of events has enabled Cardiff to make a swift return to the second tier after being relegated in the previous season.
Head coach Brian Barry-Murphy expressed his delight, stating that it 'means the world' and attributed the team's success to the players' exceptional ambition and skill. The match saw Cardiff take the lead with a back-post header from Rubin Colwill in the 40th minute, followed by Omari Kellyman doubling the advantage in the second half. Although Daniel Kyerewaa reduced the deficit for Reading, defender Perry Ng sealed the victory with a well-placed shot. The result was further confirmed by Exeter's dramatic equalizer, solidifying Cardiff's promotion.
The team's journey has been remarkable, and according to Barry-Murphy, this is only the beginning of their success story.