Southampton’s Martin labels West Brom win ‘best of the season’

BOSS Russell Martin hailed Southampton’s 2-0 victory at West Brom as their “best win” of the season.

On Friday night, the Saints moved back into second place in the Championship thanks to the play of starter Ryan Fraser and backup David Brooks.

 

They responded on Tuesday, ending a club record 25 games without a loss, and are currently one point clear of Leeds United and eleven behind leaders Leicester.

 

The Saints were spared because manager Carlos Corberan was sent out for

misconduct after just seven minutes of play for kicking the ball while it was still

in play. The Baggies were furious after Jack Stephens’ handball in the box

during first-half injury time went unpunished.

But Martin believes his side proved their worth after Tuesday’s 3-1 defeat at Bristol City.

 

He said: “It’s our best win of the season.

“After the questioning on Tuesday, fans at home and the teams in hotels were watching to see how the squad responded, and they were outstanding. It’s an important time for us.

In contrast to Tuesday, there was an extreme increase in hostility. I felt worse about it after the game than I did when I saw it back on Tuesday.

“I was hungover from Saturday and didn’t make a big enough thing about being aggressive. We’ve done really well overall when we’re not at home.

 

“The supporters have been incredible; even though we didn’t play well and lost 3-1, they cheered us on until the very end. Tonight should demonstrate to the guys that they are truly ready for battle.

 

From the beginning, Saints showed dominance and, following Corberan’s

dismissal, seized the lead in the 14th minute when Fraser, a winger for

Newcastle on loan, volleyed in Stuart Armstrong’s cross after a brief corner.

Nevertheless, despite their dominance, the Saints were unable to extend their

lead before to halftime, which gave Albion hope for a comeback.

 

After Conor Townsend’s shot struck Stephens’ arm in first-half injury time,

the hosts were incensed that their appeals for a penalty were denied, and John Swift fired wide.

 

But the hosts were unable to rally, and with 17 minutes remaining, Brooks

sealed the victory with a drilled in basket following a brilliant move that split the

Baggies along the lines including Armstrong, Sam Edozie, and Joe Aribo.

 

Soon after, Okay Yokuslu’s free header was turned over by Gavin Bazunu, dashigning their hopes.

The fifth-place Baggies’ defeat spoiled Thursday’s announcement that Florida-based billionaire Shilen Patel is expected to complete his acquisition next week.

 

There’s a great deal of optimism over the takeover. Townsend stated, “Hopefully

we can use that in the final 14 or 15 games to push ourselves into the play-

offs. Corberan was unable to talk to the media following his red card.

 

“We had some strong home form going into game, so we’re sorry to lose.

“It appears comprehensive in the end, but we have to take risks while we’re winning. We thought one significant choice didn’t work out for us.

 

“The referee appears to be having trouble calling the penalty because he is searching through bodies, but the linesman’s assistance is meant to be provided.”

 

“We’re disappointed, but we had opportunities, so we can’t blame the referee for our inability to score.”