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Oldham Athletic Secures Return to Football League After Dramatic Play-Off Win

Frank Rothwell’s free Boundary Park celebration ushers in a revived academy alongside community regeneration initiatives

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Vimal Yoganathan of Oldham Athletic lifts the National League trophy (Photo: Getty)

Overview

  • Oldham Athletic overturned a 2-1 deficit to beat Southend United 3-2 in extra time at Wembley on May 31, sealing promotion to League Two after a three-year absence
  • The National League play-off final drew a record non-league crowd of more than 53,000 supporters to Wembley, reflecting renewed local enthusiasm
  • Over 8,000 fans gathered at Boundary Park on June 2 for a free promotion party featuring music, entertainment and fireworks organised by the club’s owner
  • Frank Rothwell’s £12 million investment since 2022 rescued Oldham Athletic from near collapse and has underpinned its on-field resurgence and wider regeneration drive
  • The reinstated academy will strengthen ties with grassroots football and support a Sports Town educational project backed by a £5 million government grant