Hero Cesay struck in the 117th minute after the Mariners overturned a 2-1 first-leg deficit with two second-half goals in four minutes to force extra-time.

Karl Robinson’s side have never played in English football’s third tier but victory over Notts County or Chesterfield at Wembley on May 25 will cement an historic promotion.

Striker Daniel Udoh looked to have eased Salford to a third trip to the national stadium and first since beating Portsmouth in the 2021 EFL Trophy final.

Eight minutes into the second half, the former Shrewsbury striker notched his 11th goal of the season with a low right-footed shot.

But Grimsby gave themselves hope when Kieran Green headed them level on the night after 74 minutes.

The Town skipper then set up substitute Jaze Kabia to make it 2-1 for the visitors, despite a suspicion of offside.

However, Salford had the last word and Cesay, who scored the opening goal in the first leg, netted an even more important goal to send his side to Wembley.