Louie Barry turned the tide at Edgeley Park, curling a 14‑minute opener that gave Stockport County a 2‑0 win over Stevenage and sealed a 3‑0 aggregate victory. The 22‑year‑old described the moment as “unbelievable”, having previously lifted the club into a second Wembley appearance after a Vertu Trophy final loss.

Barry’s journey began at 16 when La Masia beckoned, but after ten youth outings he returned to England, with Aston Villa paying roughly £880,000 for his services. Despite a perfect first‑team record – a goal against Liverpool in the 2021 FA Cup – senior opportunities have been scarce, prompting a string of loans across the lower leagues.

In three spells with the Hatters, Barry has netted 29 goals, dwarfing the nine he scored elsewhere, and his recent form has convinced manager Dave Challinor to sign him again in February. With a Wembley final looming against either Bolton or Bradford, Barry’s confidence and the team’s momentum suggest Stockport are primed to secure promotion this season.

Barry’s next challenge will test whether the consistency praised by Bristol Rovers boss Steve Evans can translate into a Championship campaign. Should Stockport triumph at Wembley, the 22‑year‑old will have completed a remarkable rise from La Masia hopeful to a pivotal figure in a promotion‑winning side.