Southampton in playoff final after freak winner settles Middlesbrough grudge match

Southampton advanced to the Championship playoff final against Hull City after Shea Charles scored a freak winning goal in the 116th minute of extra time, with the ball appearing to be a cross that went directly into the net past Middlesbrough defender Dael Fry. The match, which lasted over 130 minutes in total, was overshadowed by alleged foul play in the buildup to the second leg, with Middlesbrough threatening to seek punishment for Southampton if the allegations are proven. Charles, managed by Tonda Eckert, has now scored several crucial late goals this season, including a winner against Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals and a goal in a 4-3 comeback win against Leicester in February.