On a day of high drama and not a little emotion, Charlton were promoted for the third time at Brunton Park.
The vocal away following waited patiently at the end and refused to leave until their heroes returned. After nearly 25 minutes the team and staff returned for a well deserved ovation.
The ‘We Are Going Up’ flags were brought out, the players performed Klinsmann-esque style dives and even though Chris Powell in the air.
At the final whistle, some fans broke through the police cordon to celebrate with Scott Wagstaff and Yann Kermorgant who came over to share the fans joy.
The afternoon was interspersed with news from Colchester and Sheffield United. First, Colchester took an early lead against Sheffield Wednesday, then Kevin Lisbie fired Leyton Orient ahead to crank the noise up a decibel or two.
The Blades came back to win and Miguel Llera – who else – levelled for the Owls just after the break. Wednesday even had a 90th minute effort ruled out for offside. The game at Brunton Park was an open affair with both sides creating chances. Dany N’Guessan had the best chance for the Addicks but blazed wildly over.
Charlton had a narrow escape early in the second period when a Liam Noble effort came back off the post with Ben Hamer rooted to the spot.
Then the decisive moment. After 77 minutes Johnnie Jackson took an inswinging corner on the right. The ball found its way to Bradley Wright-Phillips who stabbed the ball home from close range.
Cue mass hysteria from the Charlton fans which continued to the final whistle. When confirmation of the draw came through from Colchester, the celebrations started in earnest.
As was to be expected, plenty of tears were shed. A wonderful day, a wonderful result. The comeback has begun.
Carlisle line up: Collin, Simek, Livesey, Murphy, Michalik, McGovern (Welsh 82), Taiwo (Beck 81), Cook (Madden 74), Noble, Berrett, Zoko.
Subs not used: Robson, Thirlwell.
Booked: Michalik (94).
Charlton line up: Hamer, Morrison, Wiggins, Solly, Cort, Jackson, Stephens, Pritchard, Wright-Phillips (Taylor 86), Kermorgant, N’Guessan (Wagstaff 63).
Subs not used: Sullivan, Hughes, Haynes.
Goal: Wright-Phillips (76).
Booked: Cort (70), Wright-Phillips (76).
Referee: Mr Webb
Attendance: 6,625