Southampton’s victory over Preston North End on May 2, 2026, at Deepdale secured them a crucial home advantage in the play-offs. The win also solidified Southampton’s position, finishing the season in fourth place in the Championship.
In the 12th minute, Taylor Harwood-Bellis opened the scoring for Southampton. His goal set the tone for the match. Just after halftime, Ross Stewart doubled Southampton’s lead with a goal in the 47th minute.
Preston North End responded with a goal from Lewis Dobbin in the 60th minute. However, Southampton regained control of the match. Cyle Larin scored the final goal during injury time, sealing a 3-1 victory.
The attendance at Deepdale was recorded at 20,085 fans. The atmosphere was electric, particularly in the away end, which celebrated enthusiastically despite Dobbin’s goal for Preston.
Key match events:
- 12th minute: Taylor Harwood-Bellis scores for Southampton
- 47th minute: Ross Stewart adds a second goal
- 60th minute: Lewis Dobbin scores for Preston
- 90+ minute: Cyle Larin scores final goal for Southampton
This victory means Southampton will host the second leg of their play-off semi-finals at home. The team finished fourth in the Championship table after this match.
As noted by observers, “It means Saints finished fourth in the table, the same position from which they were promoted two seasons ago, if positive omens are anything to go by.” The packed away end created a party atmosphere inside Deepdale that was not dampened by Lewis Dobbin’s very avoidable reply on the hour.
