A strong start to 2007–08 saw Cambridge United establish themselves as one of the favourites for the Conference National title and promotion back to football league. Unfortunately Cambridge missed out on the title to Aldershot Town who won the league and the sole automatic promotion place. Despite making it to the Conference play-off final, the U's were beaten 1–0 by Exeter City who subsequently took the second promotion place. The following season, United again finished runners-up, this time to Burton Albion and by only two points. Once again they made it to the play-off final, only to be beaten for the second year in succession - Torquay United running out 2–0 winners.