West Bromwich Albion secured automatic promotion to the Premiership with a 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace to consign Wolves to the dreaded play-offs yet again. Albion’s return to the top flight after a 16-year absence was booked thanks to goals in either half from Darren Moore and Bob Taylor. The win completed a remarkable end of season for The Baggies who were 11 points behind one time leaders Wolves at one stage.
Black Country rivals Wolves must now negotiate the play-offs if they are to end 18 years of Football League misery after their 2-2 draw at Sheffield Wednesday. Colin Cameron had given the visitors a dream start with a goal in the first minute, but Simon Donnelly equalised before the break for The Owls. Shefki Kuqi, who was denied a genuine penalty claim in the first-half, gave Wednesday the lead with a tap in, but Wolves responded immediately through Mohamed Camara.
Wolves will meet fourth placed Norwich who secured their play-off place with a 2-0 win over relegated Stockport, while Millwall and Birmingham will contest the other two-legged affair following 3-1 and 2-0 victories over Grimsby and Sheffield United respectively.
Barnsley and Crewe will join Stockport in the Second Division despite respective wins over Wimbledon and Rotherham, while champions Manchester City finished an exceptional campaign with a comprehensive 3-1 victory over Portsmouth.
Filed by Shane Murray
