Oxford United narrowly defeat Peterborough to secure their spot in the final against Bolton Wanderers.

WANDERERS secured their spot in the Wembley final after maintaining a one-goal advantage to overcome Peterborough United in the League One play-off semi-final.

Despite holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg, Des Buckingham’s team saw their advantage erased by Josh Knight, who netted from Harrison Burrows’ cross just before half-time.

However, Oxford quickly regained their lead in the tie with a penalty converted by Cameron Brannagan, his 10th successful spot-kick of the season, following a handball by Burrows.

While Peterborough threatened from wide positions, they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities for most of the second half.

Oxford came close to extending their aggregate lead when Marcus McGuane narrowly missed the target with a shot from outside the box.

Posh launched a late offensive after introducing taller players upfront, with Sam Long clearing Jonson Clarke-Harris’s effort off the line and Emmanuel Fernandez heading over the bar.

In the dying moments of the game, goalkeeper Jamie Cumming made a crucial save, denying Knight’s header and Malik Mothersille missing the rebound.

Having reached Wembley five times in the last 14 seasons, Oxford aims to redeem their 2019/20 play-off final loss to Wycombe. Brannagan believes their resilient defensive display against Peterborough can inspire them to a positive outcome against Wanderers.

“It feels incredible. It was a grueling match, and we had to dig deep towards the end. Our focus is now on the final,” said Brannagan.

“I always remind myself that missing a penalty is not the end of the world. I stay calm and practice a lot. That penalty was crucial and probably the most important one of the season.

“The priority tonight was winning, and we managed to achieve that over two legs. Hopefully, we can take another step forward.”