Russell Martin inflicted play-off heartbreak on his former manager as Southampton saw off Leeds to win promotion back to the Premier League.
The Saints settled their nerves following a strong Leeds start when they took the lead courtesy of Adam Armstrong in the 24th minute.
In the end, that 1-0 scoreline was all Southampton needed to win the play-off final and seal promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
That’s despite losing key man David Brooks to injury in the first half.
Martin shook his former Norwich manager Farke’s hand at full-time as the red and white side of Wembley erupted at the final whistle.
The Saints boss had been playing for the Canaries in 2017 when Farke arrived, but he soon departed after falling out of favour with him.
Now, facing him in the dugout, he’s beaten him in the richest game in football under the arch.
If history is anything to go by, Leeds had a big task on their hands after going 1-0 down.
Excluding 0-0s, the side scoring first has gone on to be promoted in each of the last 12 Championship play-off finals, with Cardiff being the last to go 1-0 up and fail to be promoted in 2010 with a 3-2 loss to Blackpool.
Leeds had also lost all five of their attempts at the play-offs, their latest against Doncaster in the League One finals in 2008.
Dan James rattled the cross bar in the dying minutes, summing up what was a frustrating day for the Yorkshire outfit who will now have to compete for promotion again next term.
Farke and his Leeds player could only stand with their hands on their heads and covering their faces as they watched their opponents celebrate with their fans.
The Saints faithful danced along with their winning-side as they all soaked in their victory in the club’s first ever play-off final.
Southampton last won promotion to the Premier League in 2011/12 when they finished as Championship runners-up.
News Summary:
- Russell Martin beats former boss to seal Southampton Premier League promotion as Leeds’ play-off heartbreak continues
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