St Mary’s Special between Spurs and The Saints

Article by Sana Jeewa

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6th and 7th were the positions Spurs and Southampton held at the commencement of this match and on the evidence of the intriguing battle that ensued, it was perfectly clear that both teams were evenly matched, fighting for the same objectives. The Saints were also eager to get one over their old manager, Pochettino who left them for the greener pastures of Spurs last summer.

Despite the fact that it took 25 minutes for the first shot to be registered, the game was progressing at a satisfying pace, entertaining for all those who were viewing it. Schniderlin’s shot from a corner was dealt with superbly by Lloris, who looked like he had never been away. Having our undisputed number one goalkeeper back behind the sticks was certainly reassuring but even he couldn’t control the diabolic defending that resulted in Southampton’s first goal.

With the ball at the feet of Mason, assumptions were naturally made that he would successfully negotiate it out of the danger area. His resultant slip, however, put the defence under unnecessary pressure and Davies failed to deal with the ball when he could have easily put it over for a corner. Instead, however, Pelle’s persistent determination next to him resulted in a goal and we were 1-0 down with 29 minutes on the clock, with our defensive once again to blame. After the initial goal, it seemed Southampton would go on to get another, with Davies and Vertonghen both receiving yellow cards for trying to stop the potent, and now confident Southampton attack.

However, against the run of play in the 43rd minute, Dier cleverly played a ball into the area, a ball which was pounced upon by Lamela. Replays showed that he was rather fortunate to be given the goal considering it came off his elbow but we had scored our equaliser nevertheless. We went into the break at 1-1 with all still to play for in this enthralling contest. Ending the half on a high, we all hoped that we would come out with more of the same, and showcase more of our attacking quality.

For the 1st 20 minutes of the 2nd half, however, it was almost all Southampton with bot Ward-Prowse and Davis missing glorious chances to put their side ahead. So when Pelle expertly guided his header into the net from Long’s cross in the 65th minute, it was no less than Southampton deserved for all their dominance. His header was simply brilliant, leaving Lloris with no chance, and providing him a well-deserved brace. It must be noted, however, that the opportunity was created from Davies’ inability to clear the ball, showing us how much the recently stellar Rose was missed.

Again, though, a mere 5 minutes later, Chadli managed to deliver a superb equaliser, taking advantage of a great pass from Dier (who performed admirably throughout the game). With 20 minutes to go and both teams on level pegging, it was anyone’s game from there. Davies’ rather torrid afternoon became significantly worse when he was stretchered off with a dislocated shoulder on 72 minutes. Chiriches was subbed on in his place and we played the remainder of the match with 4 centre backs in defence.

While Southampton had a few opportunities towards the end, the most significant taking place in the 97th minute on the cusp of full time, it ultimately ended in a draw, leaving both teams engaged in battle for a Europa League spot. On the evidence of this match, both teams are similarly matched and the question of who finishes higher will probably only be answered on the final day of the season. A draw keeps both teams far out of the realms of Champions League qualification but still hot on Liverpool’s heels for a 5th place finish.

Ultimately though, it was a pleasing point at St Mary’s. It was rather refreshing to see Lamela and Chadli come up with the goals rather than Kane or Eriksen (who were largely absent). Our defence, though, still leaves much to be desired and that is what must be improved significantly in the forthcoming transfer window. With a few tweaks, this squad can certainly mount a greater top 4 challenge next season.

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