The most valuable game in the world is not being overshadowed by a spying scandal, it is a full solar eclipse. Southampton was caught (allegedly) with recording equipment, including audio, spying on Middlesbrough FC training just two days before the first leg of the playoff semi final.
This is against a rule which was specifically brought in after Leeds Utd was caught spying on pretty much every team in their division.
As the headline suggests I am a season ticket holder at the Riverside and went to my first Boro game in 1972.
This whole situation has left a horrible taste, that will take a lot to cleanse.
What should the punishment be for Southampton?
Well, my totally biased view is that they should be booted out of the playoffs, Boro should go on to play Hull at Wembley.
There should also be a points deduction for next season and any coaching staff involved should get a ban.
Putting aside my Boro allegiance, what should happen?
I don’t believe Southampton should be allowed to be promoted, cheating is not OK, and there has to be a serious penalty to ensure that this situation doesn’t happen again.
Promotion is worth two hundred million, so a fine would be the equivalent of a slap on the wrist, and would make it a risk worth taking in the future.
What do I believe the punishment be?
A points deduction to be applied next season. If promoted, an agreement with the Premier League would need to be reached.
However, I am confident that if this is the outcome, there will be a number of clubs wanting to litigate compensation. Middlesbrough and Wrexham to name two.
No matter what happens in the disciplinary hearing, someone will be raging.
As a football fan, I find the whole situation embarrassing, disgusting and disrespectful to Middlesbrough FC specifically and the football world in general.
Finally, back to being a Boro supporter…if Southampton is allowed to go forward to the playoff final, I hope that Hull City thrashes them.
