Southampton reach Championship play-off final after winning fiery Middlesbrough clash

Southampton and Hull City will go head to head for a place in the Premier League after booking spots in the Championship play-off final. The Tigers became the first side to reach the final after overcoming Millwall on Monday. They were then followed by the Saints, who were victorious in a tense affair at St Mary's. Following all of the fall-out from the 'spying' drama between the two teams, it was Middlesbrough who enjoyed a dream start at St Mary's. Riley McGree tucked home via the help of a deflection. Ross Stewart scored in first-half stoppage time to ensure the tie headed into its final 45 minutes level once again. It took extra-time to decide a victor, with Shea Charles' cross going all the way into the net for Southampton, who will now take on Hull later this month, with the prize being a place in the top flight. Despite having had a sneak peek into Middlesbrough's preparations, Southampton did not see the Teesiders' fast start coming. Callum Brittain trotted down the right flank and picked out McGree, who swept home via the help of a deflection. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page Given the build-up, it was then not a surprise to see a flash point arrive soon after. Luke Ayling and Taylor Harwood-Bellis clashed, with it being reported that the Southampton man had used 'discriminatory remarks'. That saw both managers involved in a brief touchline scuffle. Tonda Eckert was out of his seat again right at the end of the first-half. Ryan Manning's powerful effort from a free-kick was tipped away, only for Stewart to nod the loose ball home from close range. Cyle Larrin had a wonderful chance to secure victory for the Saints late on but saw his effort stopped by Sol Brynn. The Boro keeper was then alive to keep out Sam Edozie's extra-time effort. Southampton were to have one last chance, though. As both teams tired, Shea Charles lined up a cross, only to see it touch no one and nestle into the far corner of the Middlesbrough goal. And while it was Southampton who booked their place in the final, there still appears to be some legs in this one yet. It was suggested before kick-off that Southampton could be forced to forfeit the tie and even face a points deduction next season should they be found guilty of spying. An EFL disciplinary board is due to come to a decision soon. In the meantime, attention will now turn to the Championship playoff final set to take on Wembley. Hull lie in wait for the Saints, with the Tigers having booked their place at Wembley with an impressive win at The Den. Mohamed Belloumi had put Hull in front, with fellow substitute Joe Gelhard also scoring late on. Join our new WhatsApp community! Click this link to receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.