Southampton pulled off a thrilling 2-1 comeback against Middlesbrough, securing their spot in the Championship play-off final amidst the ongoing ‘spygate‘ controversy.
Shea Charles netted a fortunate extra-time winner in the 116th minute, as his attempted cross found the back of the net, sealing the victory after a tense match that was headed towards penalties.
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This dramatic win sets up a showdown at Wembley against Hull on Saturday, May 23.
Middlesbrough entered St Mary’s with grievances, alleging that Southampton had spied on their training before the goalless first leg on Saturday.
On the field, Riley McGree gave the visitors an early advantage, but a header from Ross Stewart equalized for Southampton just before halftime, ultimately leading to extra time.
The match also saw rival managers Kim Hellberg and Tonda Eckert separated during the first half due to tension sparked by an incident involving Middlesbrough defender Luke Ayling.
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Southampton faced a pivotal day as they sought time to review the circumstances surrounding the ‘spygate’ allegations after being charged with breaching EFL regulations.
Tension was evident even before kickoff, with Middlesbrough’s team bus met with projectiles upon arrival at the stadium, and traveling fans displaying a banner claiming that Southampton was on a “20 game cheating run,” referencing their unbeaten streak in the Championship since January.
Southampton’s players celebrate at full time (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Early on, it looked like Southampton’s unbeaten run was at risk as Middlesbrough matched their strong start from the previous match.
Middlesbrough’s full-back Callum Brittain provided a low cross that McGree finished well, sending the away crowd into raptures.
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Southampton had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 12th minute, but unmarked striker Stewart missed a volley from close range after Ryan Manning‘s delivery.
Stewart later sought a penalty for a shirt pull by Brittain, leading to heated exchanges on the touchline when referee Andrew Madley intervened after a sideline incident involving Ayling.
Just as the match seemed to favor Middlesbrough, Southampton equalized in stoppage time of the first half.
After Brittain committed a foul on Leo Scienza, Manning’s free-kick was parried by Boro goalkeeper Sol Brynn, allowing Stewart to head home from close range.
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Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier called on home supporters for support at halftime, criticizing Madley for allegedly seeking the limelight.
The referee turned down penalty appeals from both sides – one for a potential handball by Saints midfielder Kuryu Matsuki, and another for a foul by Ayling on Scienza – with Manning’s deflected shot narrowly missing Boro’s post.
As tensions rose towards the end of regulation, another flashpoint occurred with Boro midfielder Aidan Morris trying to retrieve the ball from a ball boy.
Southampton’s substitute Cyle Larin was also denied a potential winner in the closing moments of regular time.
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The tense extra time appeared to be heading for a stalemate until Charles delivered a left-footed cross that found its way into the net, bringing Southampton one step closer to an immediate return to the Premier League.