Stoke City 2-1 Southampton: Three match takeaways

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Sofiane Boufal of Southampton reacts during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Southampton at Bet365 Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Sofiane Boufal of Southampton reacts during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Southampton at Bet365 Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
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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.