West Brom 1-2 Southampton: Three key takeaways 17/2/2018

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WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 17: Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Southampton celebrates with teammates after scoring his sides first gocelebrates scoring his sides first try during the The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round between West Bromwich Albion v Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 17, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

A morale-boosting victory at the Hawthorns, sees Southampton reach the quarter-final stage of the FA Cup for the first time since 2005.

An 11th minute goal by Wesley Hoedt from the first Southampton corner set the tone of the game. Two defenders broke with Jack Stephens to the near post, leaving Hoedt all alone, showing beautiful touch, although with more space than you could imagine.

West Brom finished the game with an amazing 22 shots attempted to just 4 for Saints. However, many of those opportunities came through a couple scrappy moments inside the penalty area.

Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy was man of the match for many. Making two standout saves, pulling a ball off the goal line on one occasion which prompted a shout for VAR.

Against the run of play, Dusan Tadic finished off a quality counter attack that would prove to be the game winner.

Salomon Rondon produced the highlight of the match on a left-footed volley that is worth a look if you have not seen it.

Southampton stood strong and held a 1-2 lead, earning them a trip to the winner of the Wigan/Manchester City game on Monday night.

Here are three takeaways from the match with West Brom.