Wembley promotion dream alive for ex-Portsmouth skipper Michael Doyle

The former Pompey skipper helped Notts County defeat Barnet 2-0 in Saturday’s National League play-off semi-final.

The Magpies will now meet Harrogate Town in the Wembley final on Sunday, August 2.

It’s a battle for a Football League place which takes place six days before Doyle’s 39th birthday.

And it represents a potential third promotion in four years for the midfielder who led Pompey to the League Two title in 2016-17.

Kristian Dennis and Callum Roberts were Notts County’s scorers against the Bees at Meadow Lane.

Captained by Doyle, Neal Ardley’s side also contained former Pompey triallist Richard Brindley, while ex-loanee Wes Thomas appeared off the bench in the 86th minute.

Barnet, who had finished eight places lower in the National League table, also fielded several faces familiar with Blues followers.

James Dunne occupied midfield, with former loan player Paul McCallum, who later found scoring success at Eastleigh, starting up front.

There was also a substitute outing for Alfie Pavey, the ex-Hawks striker appearing off the bench for the final 21 minutes.

However, it was Notts County who booked their place at Wembley as they attempt to bounce straight back from last season’s League Two relegation.

They will meet a Harrogate side which beat Boreham Wood 1-0 on Saturday.

Wood named Nathan Ashmore in goal, the keeper from Portsmouth who has also seen local service with United Service, Gosport and the Hawks.

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