Sunderland totally dominated the first half, goals from Ross Stewart and Charlie Wyke putting the Black Cats 2-0 ahead at the break, with the aggregate score level at 2-2 but a disappointing second half saw Lincoln City through.
It means the Black Cats are now facing up to a fourth season in the third tier.
Lincoln City will now face Blackpool in the League One Wembley final a week on Sunday, with Sunderland now rebuilding again this summer with several players out of contract.
Sunderland were backed by 10,000 fans at the Stadium of Light this afternoon.
It was an agonising afternoon on Wearside, but who starred and who struggled?
Our chief football writer Phil Smith has dished out his marks from the game – and here’s how each player fared:
1. Lee Burge...6
Made an excellent penalty save from Jorge Grant to keep his side in the game. Little he could do about Hopper’s excellent header. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
2. Luke O'Nien....7
Brought the ball out for his team well and that was a key part of the improved display in the first-half performance. An all-action display and one that didn’t deserve to come up on the losing side. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
3. Callum McFadzean...6
Got forward fairly well, just lacked a bit of conviction at times in his play. Defensively steadily enough but was fading when he suffered an injury that ended his afternoon. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
4. Bailey Wright...6
Really strong in the first half, stepping in well to snuff out any danger and get his side going. Tired considerably through the second half and Lincoln should ultimately have extended their advantage. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019