Stoke City 2-1 Southampton: Three match takeaways

Following a better performance against Manchester United a week ago, Southampton failed to kick on against a solid Stoke side this week.

Once again haunted by ex-striker Peter Crouch, Saints were robbed of a draw when the lofty substitute tapped in an 85th minute winner following a scramble in the box.

Among the day’s talking points were the return of Virgil van Dijk to the starting lineup, Yoshida’s acrobatic finish, a penalty save, and an all-too-rare goal from open play.

Here are three key takeaways from the match.