Soccer: Birmingham clinched automatic promotion to the Barclays Premier League with a 2-1 win over Reading, condemning their hosts to the Coca-Cola Championship play-offs in the process.
Royals goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann gifted the visitors the lead in the 19th minute when Keith Fahey's curled effort from outside the box squirmed through his grasp and over the line.
Kevin Phillips doubled their lead on the hour but seconds later Marek Matejovsky reduced the deficit.
The result ended Sheffield United's hopes of sneaking into the automatic promotion places as their goalless draw at Crystal Palace had little effect on the standings.
Burnley join them in the play-offs following a 4-0 win over Bristol City, thanks to two Graham Alexander penalties either side of Wade Elliott's thunderous volley and a late fourth from Joey Gudjonsson.
And Preston beat QPR 2-1 to grab the last play-off spot by virtue of having scored one more goal than promotion rivals Cardiff.
Sean St Ledger scored the crucial 74th-minute winner after Patrick Agyemang had levelled matters following Jon Parkin's first-half strike.
That ensured final day heartbreak for Cardiff, who lost 1-0 at Sheffield Wednesday with Jermaine Johnson's stunning half-volley putting an end to their Premier League dreams.
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