Goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse arrived in heart‑shaped sunglasses and became the focal point as Charlton faced Leicester City in the first ever promotion play‑off. After 120 minutes of defending, the tie went to penalties. Whitehouse saved four spot‑kicks, including Noemie Mouchon’s decisive attempt, sealing Charlton’s WSL promotion. A crowd of 3,979 watched as she consulted a water‑bottle marked with penalty spots, retrieved by staffer Billy.

Charlton’s rise defied expectations. In a league dominated by clubs with larger budgets and men’s‑team backing, they posted a 27‑game unbeaten run and boasted the best defensive record. Manager Karen Hills, executing a five‑year plan to return to the top flight, praised her side’s resilience after a season‑ending 2‑0 loss dropped them to third but still into the play‑off.

Whitehouse capped a stellar campaign with the Golden Glove, awarded for eight clean sheets, and celebrated with champagne beside Hills. The promotion places Charlton alongside Birmingham City and Crystal Palace in the WSL, fulfilling Hills’ ambition to put the club back on the map. Charlton now prepares for top‑flight competition with a squad confident after the dramatic victory.