Former Carlisle Goalkeeper Tomas Holy Reflects on Wembley Play-Off Final as Career Peak

Tomas Holy, who played 73 games over two seasons with Carlisle United, has declared that the club’s play-off final triumph at Wembley in May 2023 will forever remain the most significant moment of his career. Holy secured the victory by saving a penalty from Ryan Rydel, as Carlisle defeated Stockport County 5-4 in a penalty shootout to achieve promotion to League One. The Czech player departed the club following their relegation last season and has since returned to his home country to play for Banik Most-Sous. “At this moment and I think it will stay that way, beating Stockport in the way we did it, will be the top thing of my football career,” he said. Holy arrived at Brunton Park in the summer of 2022, shortly after manager Paul Simpson had successfully steered the Cumbrians away from relegation to the National League. While promotion from League Two was not an immediate objective, Holy, aged 32, who joined after his contract with Ipswich Town had expired, noted that a combination of factors contributed to a memorable season. Speaking to The Carlisle Social, he stated, “Other teams had been individuals, but we had probably one of the best team spirits or team ethic in that league.” He added, “It was one of the best changing rooms I’ve been involved in. That spirit and chemistry got us promoted.” After 46 games, Carlisle finished fifth before dramatically overcoming Bradford City over two legs, decided after extra-time at Brunton Park, to reach Wembley. An equalizer from Omari Patrick was crucial for Simpson’s side, pushing the final into extra-time and then penalties, where Holy cemented his place in club history with his decisive save against Rydel. He commented, “After that save, it was probably the biggest self-control I’ve ever had.” He continued, “I wanted to explode but I couldn’t because it wasn’t finished. I had to calm down and relax. But I knew it was going to help at least.”