Southampton boss Tonda Eckert has declared his squad "ready to make the last step" after securing a fourth-placed finish in the Championship and setting up a thrilling play-off semi-final showdown with Middlesbrough.

The Saints delivered a commanding performance at Deepdale, defeating Preston North End 3-0 with goals from Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Ross Stewart, and Cyle Larin. The victory not only sealed their top-six spot but also injected a surge of momentum heading into the postseason.

Next up is a two-legged semi-final: the first leg takes place at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium in a week's time, followed by the return fixture at St Mary's Stadium the following Tuesday. It's a familiar path for Southampton, who are no strangers to the play-off pressure cooker.

"It was very important to get back to winning ways," Eckert told BBC Radio Solent. "It's not easy to play the game like we did today, especially after the schedule we have had over the last few weeks."

The German tactician was full of praise for his team's all-round display. "The performance was excellent in every regard possible. The boys were fantastic today. We need to make the last step now, and we are ready to do that."

With the Championship play-offs offering a high-stakes route to Premier League promotion, Eckert is driving home the message that only the finish line matters. "No one cares if you go all the way then fall at the last step. The players are the best they have been all season right now. We are ready."