Southampton and Leeds will fight for promotion to the Premier League

Southampton will play Leeds United in the Championship play-off final after beating West Bromwich Albion 3-1 in the second leg of the semi-finals.

After holding Albion to a goalless draw at The Hawthorns on Sunday, Russell Martin’s Saints made the most of playing in front of a home crowd on the south coast.

A wonderful goal from Will Smallbone gave Southampton a deserved lead four minutes into the second half, before Adam Armstrong doubled the lead 12 minutes from time with a drilled finish into the far corner.

Armstrong then stepped in to send Southampton’s third from the penalty spot – awarded after Ryan Manning was brought down in the area by a combination of Tom Fellows and Darnell Furlong.

A late consolation from Cedric Kipre did little to dampen spirits as Southampton booked a meeting with Leeds, who edged past Norwich City, who subsequently sacked manager David Wagner, on Thursday night.

Daniel Farke’s side were also held to a 0-0 draw away at Carrow Road, but their quality shone through in a superb home performance that saw Leeds 3-0 up before the break.

“We should have scored more goals if I’m really honest,” said Farke BBC Radio Leeds. “Norwich tried everything to turn the game around. Many compliments to my young lady. I was a bit worried because the pressure was on us a bit after the first game.

“I don’t know what the average age of our team was tonight, but the boys delivered in perfect fashion for such a young team.

“This place is second to none when it gets really rocking. The atmosphere is incredible.”

Ilia Gruev, Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter were on target in the first 45 minutes, with Crysencio Summerville adding the icing on the cake 20 minutes from time.

The winner of the play-off final will join Leicester City and Ipswich Town in the top flight, displacing Sheffield United, Burnley and, in all likelihood, Luton Town, barring a remarkable goal difference on the final day of the Premier League season.

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