Young Leeds midfielder Jonny Howson broke Carlisle hearts with virtually the last kick of the game to snatch the Yorkshiremen - docked 15 points at the start of the season - a thrilling 3-2 aggregate win in the second leg of their semi-final at Brunton Park.

McAllister said: "I know what 40,000 of them sound like. I've been in front of them before and again they were fantastic and the Leeds fans know that."

He added: "That was for them. The players would be first to admit that. It was a bit of a damp squid on Monday night at Elland Road, but I think the fans got the reaction they wanted.

"I'm very proud of the players and pleased for the players. Everything that's been put in front of them they've dealt with and I've not heard one murmur of complaint.

"We move on again. Slightly closer to the Championship. I don't want to be a killjoy, but nothing's been achieved yet. We've still got to go and try and win a game at Wembley."

Carlisle manager John Ward had nothing but praise for his players, who had for long periods during the regular season occupied the second automatic promotion spot.

Ward said: "I've been really pleased with them all season because when I came in October they were third in the table and it was a question of I might mess it up instead of moving it on.

"Although we finished fourth and got beaten in the play-offs we showed a real togetherness.

"It's a small squad and that's probably cost us, but the desire and determination of this group of players is top drawer."