We take a look at the state of play in the Papa John's Trophy 2021/22 as the competition reaches its latter stages; Sutton reach final - scheduled for April 3 at Wembley - after penalty shootout win over Wigan; they will face Rotherham, who beat Hartlepool in second semi-final
Thursday 10 March 2022 11:38, UK
As the 2021/22 Papa John's Trophy reaches its latter stages, we bring you the state of play, upcoming fixtures and the schedule for the remainder of the tournament.
The competition was won by Sunderland in 2020/21 - they beat Tranmere Rovers 1-0 at Wembley on March 14 - and returned for the 2021/22 season, featuring clubs from League One and League Two, as well as 16 invited U21 teams from Premier League and Championship clubs with Category One academy status.
Lee Johnson's Black Cats, however, suffered a shock exit in round two this term, as League Two strugglers Oldham Athletic ran out 1-0 winners at the Stadium of Light on December 1, thanks to a goal from teenager Harry Vaughan.
Matt Gray's Sutton - who were only promoted to League Two last season - booked their spot in this season's final on Tuesday March 8 after a 7-6 penalty shootout win over former champions Wigan at the DW Stadium.
And Rotherham will join them in the final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday April 3, following their 5-4 shootout win over Hartlepool on Wednesday March 9.
Hartlepool 2-2 Charlton (Hartlepool win 5-4 on penalties)
Rotherham 1-1 Cambridge (Rotherham win 7-6 on penalties)
Tuesday March 8
Wigan 1-1 Sutton (Sutton win 7-6 on penalties)
Wednesday March 9
Hartlepool 2-2 Rotherham (Rotherham win 5-4 on penalties)
Sunday April 3
Sutton vs Rotherham
