Southampton (Reuters)
Southampton took another step closer to returning to the English Premier League, with a 3-1 victory over its guest, West Bromwich Albion, in the second leg of the semi-final of the English second division playoff, which qualifies for the top flight.
The two teams tied 0-0 in the first leg, with Southampton reaching the final, winning 3-1 on aggregate.
The team faces rival Leeds United, who beat Norwich City 4-0, at Wembley Stadium on May 26 to obtain a place in the top flight.
After dominating the first half, Southampton took the lead four minutes into the second half, when Will Smallbone scored after a counterattack.
Adam Armstrong, who ranks second on the list of second-tier scorers, increased the score with a low shot in the 78th minute, before sealing the victory from a penalty kick, four minutes before the end.
Cedric Kepre scored a consolation goal for West Bromwich with a header in the last moments.
Leicester City and Ipswich Town were promoted directly to the English Premier League, after finishing first and second in the second division.
#Southampton #Premier #League #playoff #final