Southampton 1-2 Crystal Palace: Three match takeaways

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Mauricio Pellegrino, Manager of Southampton gives his team instructions during the Premier League match between Southampton and Crystal Palace at St Mary's Stadium on January 2, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

4 of 4

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 02: Shane Long of Southampton celebrates after scoring his sides first goal with his team mates during the Premier League match between Southampton and Crystal Palace at St Mary’s Stadium on January 2, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

Shane Long on the scoresheet

If there is one positive to take away from a night of dejection, it’s that Shane Long finally scored a goal.

After a lengthy barren spell of 1320 minutes, the Irishman scored what should have been the goal that kicked off a win. Getting back on the scoresheet will hopefully be the platform he needs to kick on and increase his tally. And Austin’s injury combined with uncertainty about the future of Gabbiadini mean that Saints need this to happen.

However these hopes do further highlight the need for personnel changes during the transfer window. We simply can’t rely on a striker who is even capable of going 11 months without scoring a goal.

I’m trying to find positives to take away, but even they are tainted by reality!