Hallam Appointed Referee for Middlesbrough vs Southampton Championship Play-off Semi-Final

Officials have confirmed the referee appointment for Southampton’s Championship play-off semi-final first leg against Middlesbrough, scheduled for May 6, 2026.

Hallam has been selected to take charge of the crucial fixture at the Riverside Stadium, as Saints look to secure their path back to the Premier League through the play-offs.

The appointment represents a significant moment for Southampton supporters, as the club seeks promotion after their relegation from the top flight. Play-off semi-finals are high-pressure encounters where officiating decisions can prove decisive in determining which teams progress to Wembley Stadium for the final.

Championship play-offs follow a two-leg format for the semi-final stage, meaning Southampton will have a second opportunity at St Mary’s Stadium to overturn any deficit from the first leg or build upon a positive result from Middlesbrough.

The referee selection process for play-off fixtures typically involves experienced officials being chosen to handle these high-stakes matches. With promotion to the Premier League worth an estimated £200 million in prize money and television revenue, the financial implications make these among the most valuable matches in football.

For Southampton fans, reaching the play-offs represents progress after the disappointment of relegation. The club finished in a play-off position following their Championship campaign, earning the opportunity to compete for an immediate return to England’s top division.

The winner of the semi-final tie between Southampton and Middlesbrough will face either the victor from the other semi-final pairing at Wembley Stadium. The Championship play-off final traditionally takes place on the late May bank holiday weekend and is often referred to as the richest game in football due to the financial rewards of Premier League promotion.

Saints supporters will be hoping Hallam oversees a fair contest that allows their team to demonstrate their quality on the pitch.