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Sir David Beckham endured a disappointing return to Wembley as Notts County defeated Salford City, the club he co-owns, with a comprehensive 3-0 victory in the League Two play-off final.

The former England skipper looked far from pleased in the stands as first-half goals from Alassana Jatta and Lucas Ness, followed by a second-half strike from the brilliant Jodi Jones, secured County’s long-awaited return to League One after an 11-year absence.

Founded in 1862 and one of the original members of the Football League, Notts County were the superior side throughout the contest. Their dominance ensured that Salford—who only entered the Football League seven years ago—would remain in the fourth tier for at least another season.

It was also a frustrating afternoon at Wembley for fellow Salford co-owner Gary Neville and former Manchester United and England teammate Nicky Butt, who no longer holds shares but continues to be involved with the club.

Both teams began cautiously in sweltering conditions, with temperatures nearing 37 degrees Celsius. However, County soon took control of possession and fashioned the first real opportunity of the match.

Jones, after using his pace and skill to beat two Salford defenders on the left flank, delivered a fine cross, but Jatta’s header from about 12 yards sailed over the bar.

Matt Butcher registered Salford’s first effort of note, though his shot took a deflection and went over. Moments later, Notts County capitalised from a Salford corner to break the deadlock in the 32nd minute.

Goalkeeper James Belshaw claimed the ball cleanly, and County swiftly transitioned from defence. Jones, from just inside his own half near the left touchline, played a perfectly weighted through-ball that split two Salford defenders, allowing Jatta to calmly side-foot past goalkeeper Matt Young from the left of the six-yard box.

Over 20,000 Magpies fans erupted in celebration as Jatta marked his 17th goal of the season for the club.

Salford, who had beaten Notts County 2-1 in both league meetings earlier in the season, saw Haji Mnonga cautioned just before the interval for a reckless challenge on Jones.

County made the most of the resulting free-kick, which found its way to captain Rod McDonald in space beyond the far post. McDonald’s cushioned first-time pass looped dangerously into the area, and Ness rose highest to head in County’s second goal.

Salford nearly responded within 30 seconds of the restart, but Belshaw produced a courageous save at the feet of Kallum Cesay, who had scored the extra-time winner in the semi-final against Grimsby to send the Ammies to Wembley.

Ryan Graydon later forced another save from Belshaw after Salford’s appeals for a penalty were dismissed. Substitute Ben Woodburn’s cross had struck Jacob Bedeau’s elbow, but referee Tom Reeves was unmoved.

Notts County’s dominance was finally sealed in the 70th minute when Jones added a third. Conor Grant surged forward on the right, and as Mnoga and Jatta battled in the box, the substitute cut the ball back for Jones—arriving ahead of Graydon—to slot home and complete a memorable triumph.