Ipswich have secured an immediate return to the Premier League after beating QPR 3-0 at Portman Road.
The Tractor Boys knew a win would see them join Coventry in automatic promotion to the top flight, and they made light work of the Rs, going 2-0 up inside nine minutes through goals from George Hirst and Jaden Philogene. Kasey McAteer’s late goal ended the contest and started the promotion party.
Kieran McKenna has now led the club to three promotions in four full seasons, transforming their fortunes after over two decades in the lower leagues.
Ipswich’s win means both Millwall and Middlesbrough’s hopes of promotion are left to the lottery of the playoffs.
Millwall’s 2-0 home win over relegated Oxford United sees them finish in third place, while ‘Boro slipped to fifth place behind Southampton after a 2-2 draw with Wrexham that had massive implications in the battle for the final playoff spot.
The Red Dragons had started the day in sixth but were overtaken by Hull City, who came from behind to beat Norwich City 2-1 and keep their dreams alive of a Premier League return.
At one point, Derby were in pole position for the playoffs but eventually fell to a 2-1 defeat against Sheffield United at Pride Park.
The final day results mean Millwall and Hull meet on side of the playoffs and Southampton and Middlesbrough on the other.