The 2005-06 campaign was an unforgettable season of high drama and ultimate triumph for Barnsley, culminating in a spectacular return to the Championship. Under the guidance of manager Andy Ritchie, The Tykes finished a competitive 5th in League One, setting up a thrilling play-off run that saw them overcome Yorkshire rivals Huddersfield Town in the semi-final. The season was clinched with an emotional victory in the play-off final at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, where they overcame Swansea City 4-3 on penalties after a dramatic 2-2 draw. Spearheading the charge was forward Marc Richards, whose 12 crucial goals proved vital in a campaign built on resilience and sealed by Nick Colgan's decisive penalty save that secured their place in the "big time" once again.