Father Christmas came early for beleaguered Southampton as they cruised to a comfortable 3-1 victory away at Aston Villa.
Although the home side were allowed an unlikely opportunity back into the game after Jack Grealish’s stylish volley, the result never really looked in doubt as a Danny Ings brace and Jack Stephens’ calm finish secured a valuable three points.
Saints were assisted by some poor defending from an average Villa side but that should take nothing away from the industry and intensity displayed by Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men. Following the disappointing defeats to Newcastle and West Ham, supporter’s hopes were not high as the South Coast side travelled to the midlands in search of victory against their relegation rivals.
In spite of the recent fragility, the players showed positivity from the outset and were rewarded for their efforts by going two goals to the good just after the half hour mark. An added bonus for Hasenhuttl is the fact that Southampton will not sit in the bottom three on Christmas Day, which the Austrian will hope to be a good portent for the rest of the season.
Here are the three key players for Saints at Villa Park: