Huddersfield Town 0 Mansfield Town 0 (Huddersfield win 4-1 on Penalties)

Last updated : 01 June 2004 By Footymad Previewer

Huddersfield Town sealed promotion after beating Mansfield Town on penalties after the Nationwide Division Three play-off final had ended goalless after extra-time.

The Terriers won the shoot-out 4-1, netting all their spot-kicks while keeper Paul Rachubka saved Wayne Corden's penalty and Liam Lawrence missed the target.

In an even match Huddersfield created the first opening in the sixth minute but Andy Booth headed just wide after beating Stags keeper Kevin Pilkington in the air.

Mansfield's first chance in the 13th minute ended with Bobby Hassell firing an effort just wide before Rachubka saved Lawrence's shot.

Huddersfield edged the first half though and Pilkington was forced to save from Pawel Abbott while at the other end Adam Eaton dragged a shot wide after being set up by Hassell.

Peter Jackson's side created the first opening after the break and former Manchester United keeper Pilkington was forced to race off his line to dive at the feet of Abbott.

Lawrence then wasted a 52nd minute chance for Mansfield as the match opened up and as play swung to the other end only a last-ditch Rhys Day tackle denied Danny Schofield.

Pilkington than saved Efe Sodje's header before Booth's header went straight to the Stags keeper.

With 20 minutes left the unmarked Schofield looked certain to score until Hassell dispossessed him.

Mansfield then went close when Corden's cross just missed everyone and flew inches past the post with Colin Larkin closest to getting a touch.

Keith Curle's side ended normal time strongly with Lee Williamson firing high and wide and substitute Larkin again going close before Rachubka made a stunning save to keep out Corden's thunderbolt.

Deep into stoppage time Mansfield had a goal disallowed after Williamson had slammed a shot home.

Although both sides went close in extra-time the match was finally decided on penalties with Huddersfield sealing an immediate return to the second division.