Southampton 4-1 Everton: Three match takeaways

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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 26: Charlie Austin of Southampton celebrates scoring the 2nd Southampton goal with Dusan Tadic of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton and Everton at St Mary’s Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Clinical Charlie Austin

Charlie Austin had come under fire of late, with Saints fans criticising his lack of impact in a wealth of substitute appearances this season – citing his lack of pace and poor all-round play. But Mauricio Pellegrino chose to include the £4 million man in his starting line-up for the first time in the league this season, so Austin had a point to prove.

He hit the post in the 11th minute as The Saints mounted a charge for an opener, and looked overly dangerous in the first half in general as Southampton looked to banish their low-scoring reputation.

In the second half, however, The Saints exploited Everton’s frailties on the right-hand side to feed Austin for two wonderful headers which gave Southampton clear daylight in the game, and a much-needed win.

Austin was withdrawn on 80 minutes for Shane Long, and will have surely cemented his place for the trips to Manchester City on Wednesday, and Bournemouth on Sunday