Two Championship giants return to the Premier League after dominant seasons

TDT | Manama

Email: hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Double Delight on Promotion Day

Burnley and Leeds United have secured automatic promotion to the Premier League after a dramatic Saturday in the Championship. Burnley’s 2-1 win over Sheffield United at Turf Moor not only sealed their own top-flight return but also confirmed Leeds’ promotion after their earlier 6-0 demolition of Stoke City.

Leeds now sit atop the table with 94 points, level with second-placed Burnley but ahead on goal difference, with two matches remaining. For Sheffield United, who are third on 86 points, the path now leads to the playoffs.

Burnley’s Defensive Steel and Unbeaten Run

Burnley, managed by Scott Parker, extended their unbeaten league streak to 31 games. Midfielder Josh Brownhill was the hero, scoring twice to counter Tom Cannon’s temporary equaliser. “We’ve been written off so many times, people calling us boring, but we’ve bored our way to the Premier League again,” Brownhill said.

The Clarets boast the league’s best defence, conceding just 15 goals in 44 matches. “This one feels more special,” said Parker, who previously guided Fulham and Bournemouth to promotion. “I decided to take a year out and come in to this knowing there was a big challenge ahead. I’m relieved and happy.”

Leeds Light Up Elland Road

At a roaring Elland Road, Joel Piroe put on a clinic, scoring a hat-trick in the first 20 minutes and adding a fourth before halftime. Leeds led 5-0 at the break, cruising to a 6-0 win. It marks their return to the Premier League after relegation in 2023.

“Very proud,” said captain Ethan Ampadu. “We've worked all year for this… We’re going to enjoy tonight and then we’re going to try and do the full thing.”

Playoff Race Still Wide Open

Sunderland, Bristol City, Coventry, Middlesbrough, Millwall, and Blackburn remain in contention for the final playoff spots. Despite losi