Rebels' promotion charge

1/ 5/2008

FC UNITED kept their hopes of a third successive promotion alive by beating Bamber Bridge 3-2 in a thrilling play-off semi-final at Gigg Lane.

Karl Marginson's side will now face Skelmersdale in the final on Saturday.

United took a 2-0 half-time lead thanks to Adam Carden and Rory Patterson. But two goals from Neil Zarac ensured a second-half full of tension.

Ultimately Jerome Wright's 68th-minute strike proved to be decisive, sending the crowd into raptures.

After riding their luck early on with Ryan Salmon clipping the bar and Zarac firing narrowly wide, United took control.

Their opening goal, on 22 minutes was a move of real quality as Patterson's first-time pass completely opened up the defence for Carden to put the Rebels ahead.

Carden turned provider on 32 minutes when he unselfishly squared to Patterson who had the easiest of tap-ins.

Zarac popped up to ensure it wouldn't be a stroll for United but then Wright sewed it all up.