Shea Charles scores late winner to send Southampton to play-off final

Shea Charles scored a decisive goal in the 116th minute to secure Southampton a 2-1 extra-time victory over Middlesbrough. The win at St Mary's ensures the Saints will compete in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final.

Boro took an early lead in the fifth minute through a goal from Riley McGree. Southampton responded before the end of the first half, with Ross Stewart equalising via a header from close range during stoppage time. Charles eventually settled the match with a cross-shot four minutes before the end of extra time.

Charles dedicated the winning goal to the home supporters, noting that the atmosphere was incredible. He described the pre-match scenes involving fans lining the streets as insane and credited the crowd for keeping the team motivated after conceding the opening goal. This victory marks the club's second trip to Wembley in a month, following a 2-1 FA Cup semi-final loss to Manchester City.

This result represents the second time in three seasons that the club has reached a play-off final. Charles is one of nine players currently in the squad who were part of the 2024 group that reached the Premier League, though he was an unused substitute during that campaign.

This late strike follows previous late winners from Charles against Arsenal and Leicester this season. His goal-scoring record also includes a 35-yard strike against Oxford, which has earned him an EFL Goal of the Season nomination.