QUEENS Park Rangers secured their place at Wembley as Charlie Austin’s brace put Wigan to the sword after a nail-biting finale.
Level after the first leg, Rangers made the worst possible start when James McClean crossed for James Perch to tap home in front of the Loft.
The home side rallied and peppered the Latics’ target from there on in, but despite hammering on the door, Rangers found ‘keeper Scott Carson and company in fine fettle.
A piece of wizardry from Junior Hoilett suddenly saw Gary Caldwell clumsily hack the wide-man to the ground. Charlie Austin dispatched the penalty and delirium ensued.
The fixture ebbed out into extra time with both sets of fans wincing with every missed opportunity – it was Rangers that pressed and got a just reward for their endeavour.
Substitute Bobby Zamora poked through to Austin who clipped home and sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Wigan pressed and provided moments of sheer panic, Martyn Waghorn’s deflected effort at the death flying carelessly wide of the left-hand upright and the sighs could be heard for miles around.
Mark Clattenberg blew the final whistle and the scenes were a joy to behold – a pitch invasion ensued – and now you’re gunna believe us, we’re going to Wembley.
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