After a long-awaited 31-year absence, Luton Town has made a triumphant return to the English Premier League. The journey was nothing but a fairytale as they were able to beat Coventry on penalties at the Championship playoff final, which took place in Wembley on Saturday.
Luton and Coventry had a foot-stomping match with both sides playing 1-1 after extra time. The victory eventually came when Luton won a 6-5 penalty shootout.
The end of season campaign was nothing short of thrilling for Luton Town. Financial analysts estimate that the club will receive a whooping £170 million ($210 million) after earning a promotion to the best league in the world.
Luton is the first club to climb the ladder from the fifth tier to the top level in the Premier League era since their last feature in the EPL 31 years ago. Midfielder Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu has had an exciting journey and becomes the first player to transition from the National League to the Premier League with the same club.
“I feel like I completed football. It’s been a journey. It’s going to be a party all summer,” said Mpanzu.
Some of Luton’s cash windfall will go to upgrading Kenilworth Road, the stadium with a capacity of just over 10,000 and situated among rows of terraced houses. They will be hosting a list of top teams with thousands of supporters.
Luton had to recover from an early shock when their captain, Tom Lockyer, collapsed on the field. He was stretchered off and taken to the hospital, where the club confirmed that he was responsive and able to talk to his family.
“I feel really good, but the only thing I’m thinking about now is Tom Lockyer,” said Luton Manager, Rob Edwards.
Lockyer played his part when Luton had the ball in the net after just five minutes when Gabriel Osho forced the ball in from close range, but Lockyer was flagged offside. Luton made a bright start which yielded results in the 23rd minute when Elijah Adebayo worked wonders down the left-wing and teed up Jordan Clark to strike home at the near post.
Coventry, who looked nervous in front of 85,000 people, was able to grow comfortable after the break, and Gustavo Hamer scored the equalizer 24-minutes from time after Viktor Gyokeres teed him up.
Fatigue and tension took over in extra time, however, Coventry had a huge let off four minutes to time. Joe Taylor charged down Jonathan Panzo’s clearance, and the ball struck the Luton man’s hand. Taylor slotted the ball home, but the ref ruled it out.
During the penalty shootout, all 11 players who were already under immense pressure converted their spot kicks.
Luton is undoubtedly ecstatic about the win, and their supporters are eagerly anticipating their debut in the Premier League after a 31-year absence.
