Southampton’s season so far

On Wednesday night Southampton FINALLY got their first win since Boxing day on what seemed to be an assured night all round. Visitors Watford simply had no answer with manager Quique Sanchez Flores proclaiming “It was the worst match we’ve played in the Premier League.”

As a self-confessed Saints fan however, it was not just the results getting me down until now, but the performances. Having seen Southampton’s last league game away at Norwich on the second day of this year I was particularly worried about the potential for two bad results during this 4 day period, especially against Watford. They have proved themselves so far to have a potent two-pronged attack in the shape of Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney which if not combated, could have spelled disaster on the night, with dire consequences for the rest of the season.

Funnily enough, Saints last league win to pass my eyes live was actually at home to Norwich once again, way back on 30th August. This, not just proof I’ve been to less games this season but that also Southampton wins have been much harder to come by. Having seen Wednesday’s game however, one was more than impressed with the way the team played defensively as well as up the top end. One example being Jose Fonte’s tackle on Odion Ighalo midway through the first half. It set up another break for Sadio Mane but it was not just the fact a chance came of it, more that a slight more tenacity was visible at the back than in recent months. Bravery and timing of the challenge by the skipper, not something seen in these parts for a couple or so months. A possible sign that soon the St Mary’s tide will turn. The chance though, squandered. Two though, were taken. A delightful and rare header from Shane Long, converting youngster Matt Targett’s cross after seventeen minutes. Then with his first touches, sub Dusan Tadic finished off a convincing move, shooting low to Heurelho Gomes’ bottom right corner.

Saints are now nine. points above the drop and theoretically should be safe with another ten of those, possibly even eight. West Brom at home awaits tomorrow. An as winnable game again but with the potential for home upset. The Baggies seem to possess a more solid defence than their North-West London conterparts as well as in midfield with the ever-evolving Darren Fletcher proving age is only a number. Can the Saints stop the Tony Pulis gang? Only time will tell.