Move over Barcelona, dismiss the tales of Charlton, Roma, and the miracle of Istanbul. Gas engineer Tom Atkinson and Yarm & Eaglescliffe FC might just be the new standard-bearers for football comebacks following a sensational non-league match in the northeast of England over the weekend.

Sunderland West End were comfortably leading 5-2 in the 92nd minute of their Northern League Division Two clash, and Yarm’s fans might have been excused for thinking the game was lost and heading for an early exit. However, an astonishing four-goal surge in the dying moments secured a most improbable victory for the visitors.

Atkinson completed his hat-trick to narrow the deficit before Ste Roberts scored twice in quick succession to level the score five minutes into stoppage time. But the drama in Teesside wasn’t over yet, as Atkinson struck again in the 97th minute to seal a thrilling 6-5 win.

Yarm’s manager, Stephen Jackson, told northeast community radio station Nova Radio: “This is the craziest game of football I’ve ever been part of, and I can’t see it being surpassed. We were outplayed and outfought by Sunderland West End for 90 minutes. We managed to pull one back at 5-2 down in the 92nd minute, which we were happy with as a consolation for goal difference. Then, in the 94th minute, we won a penalty, and with this group, you always feel there’s one more chance. We seized that chance from the kick-off, and a superb cross was converted by Ste Roberts.

“The lads regained possession and returned to the center, believing we could still win despite the incredible odds. From the kick-off in the 97th minute, we won the ball back immediately, and Ste delivered a rabona pass to Tom Atkinson, who took one touch and finished it – unbelievable.”

Jackson added: “It felt surreal at the time and still does. There can’t have been a more dramatic comeback in football history – four goals in the final five minutes to win the game. We experienced every emotion over those 97 minutes, showcasing the incredible character of the team – a fantastic group of lads I’m proud to work with.”

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