Watford 1-3 Southampton: Three Match Takeaway Thoughts

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Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl with Kyle Walker-Peters, Ryan Bertrand and Nathan Redmond of Southampton (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images) /

A Danny Ings double sets Southampton on cruise control as they sink Watford 1-3.

A pinpoint free kick from James Ward Prowse put the cap on an excellent evening’s work. A Jan Bednarek own goal looked to have given the Hornets a lifeline, but this was quickly snuffed out as Prowse sealed all three points eight minutes from time.

Defensively Saints put in their best performance of the season. Admittedly though this hasn’t exactly been a high bar to match this term

Statistics supplied by the Premier League official website highlights just how imperious the Southampton backline proved to be. During 90 minutes the hosts failed to manage a single shot on target.

Ralph Hasenhüttl’s men imposed themselves early on in proceedings. While playing the ball patiently. SFC made it difficult for the Hertfordshire side who offered very little in the first half.

The relegation candidates briefly rallied in the second period and found their reward as Jan Bednarek inadvertently turned in a José Holebas cross. In fairness to the centre-back had he not attempted to block the ball’s path Danny Welbeck would surely have turned in from close range.

Ultimately though Alex McCarthy didn’t have a save to make during the entire affair.

The result moves the visitors to the Premier League landmark of 40 points. The achievement sees the Hampshire outfit 13 points clear of the drop while giving the manager the breathing room to start warming up for next season.

The eighth away victory of the campaign brings with it plenty to be pleased about. With that said here are the three key takeaways from Watford 1 Southampton 3.