Brighton 0-1 Southampton: Premier League – Three Match Takeaways
By Joe Mcindoe
Saints Toil To Grind out the Result
To describe the match as an exhibition of footballing excellence would be a gross overstatement. Brighton held their shape while Saints looked for a way through.
For most of the match, SFC utilized the ball better than Albion, but could only muster half chances and the occasional near miss. The seagulls defended resolutely to stifle what would otherwise have been a serious threat to Mat Ryan’s goal.
Both sides worked hard but neither could find top gear. While the goalkeepers were rarely tested, the visitors found the crucial breakthrough after capitalizing on an errant pass from their hosts.
Højbjerg seized upon possession, Stuart Armstrong managed a neat ball to set Nathan Redmond away, and the Englishman didn’t disappoint. The number 22 raced into the box, before picking out the accompanying Dane who coolly slotted home.
The goalscoring captain not only deserves praise for finding the net, but also for having the instant foresight to make the vital supporting run.
Statistics from BBC sport indicate that the two teams could only muster three shots on target combined.
Under previous managers, this type of performance would only have brought a disappointing draw. Under Ralph Hasenhüttl’s tenure, his charges have found a more aggressive and proactive attitude, which is making all the difference.
The latest outing has proven that Southampton can claim victory, even while not at their sparkling best.
Perhaps more significantly though, it seems the club has finally set about defeating its biggest challenge in recent years. That being its lack of consistency.
Back to back wins may not feel like a lot, but they have been a rarity this season.#