Ipswich Star readers have their say on Southampton 'spygate'

The Saints were dramatically kicked out of Saturday's Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley, and handed a four-point deduction for next season, over what has been dubbed 'spygate'.

Middlesborough first alerted the EFL (English Football League) of spying allegations when a Southampton analyst was spotted filming the training session from behind a tree.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert (right) embraces Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna. (Image: PA)

Ipswich travelled to Hampshire to take on Southampton and trained at non-league side Eastleigh's training base the day before with The Athletic reporting that the Saints spy 'dressed in Eastleigh kit as a disguise'.

An appeal was organised for Wednesday, May 20 but a senior judge dismissed the appeal, with Southampton also set to be docked four points for next season.

A reader of the Ipswich Star said: "Probably the correct decision for once, but you have to feel sorry for the Southampton supporters as they have done nothing wrong here. I think heads need to roll at Southampton after this [charade].

Southampton were thrown out of the play-off final as a result of spygate (Image: Ross Halls)

Another reader agreed saying: "The EFL have finally found a set-good decision."

The subject of cheating in the Premier League has also been brought into question, notably players overreacting and simulation.

One reader said: "At last football's administrators show some teeth. (What they can do about the constant cheating which is now the norm on the pitch is another question entirely)."

With one replying: "Watched the Arsenal game last night and the amount of times, players threw themselves to the ground after the slightest touch was disgraceful. Nice to see Cherki (Man City) riding certain tackles and trying to stay on his feet!"

The winner of the play-off final, Hull City or Middlesborough, will join Ipswich Town and Coventry in the Premier League next season.