With one game remaining, Leeds United holds the power to decide their own promotion path, while Southampton was unable to take advantage of their opportunity. If Saints had defeated Hull City tonight, Russell Martin’s team would have moved back up to second place in the Championship.
However, Southampton lost 2-1 at St Mary’s, their second defeat in the previous three games. The home crowd was taken aback by goals from Anass Zaroury and Fabio Carvalho in the first half.
To breathe new life into his team, manager Russell Martin made three substitutions at halftime: Joe Aribo, David Brooks, and Che Adams. Aribo was late to register, but it was too little, too late. The Tigers return to the play-off positions as a consequence of the outcome.
After a thrilling victory over Rotherham United, the bottom team, at home, Ipswich Town overtook Southampton in the standings. After goals from Wes Burns (2) and Kieffer Moore, the Tractor Boys turned the game around, with Tom Eaves putting the Millers ahead in the second minute. Although it appeared that goals from Cafu (penalty) and Hakeem Odoffin had given the visitors a point back, Omari Hutchinson had the last say by scoring a stunning winner far into additional time.
Due to tonight’s results, United and Town are tied for second place in terms of points, but United has advanced automatically due to goal differential. With 13 games remaining, Southampton is two points behind United in fourth place.
Daniel Farke’s side has won eight straight games, making them the best team in the division. They will play again at Elland Road on Friday when they host table-topping Leicester City.
