A lone second-half strike from Adam Lallana helped the Saints to a vital Premier League victory at St Marys Stadium. It was only the second win in 10 games for the Saints, a run that has seen their early high position slip in the table. However, 25-year old English international midfielder Lallana has been a revelation for the Saints this term, and his 66th minute strike after a cross from Gaston Ramirez ensured a much-deserved home victory for the Southerners. Artur Boruc had a relatively quiet game in goal, but he was called on to make a vital save from Irish international Shane Long in the dying minutes. Southampton dominated much of the game, but it's their on-target count that will worry boss Mauricio Pochettino; just 5 of 18 efforts on target. Incoming West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel watched from the stands; the loss means that they are now only 3 points above the drop-zone and a mere 4 points off bottom, with both Sunderland and West Ham winning today. He'll need to find a few Premier League wins if the Midlanders are to steer clear of the relegation mire. Southampton: Boruc, Clyne, Lovren, Fonte, Shaw, Schneiderlin, Cork, Rodriguez, Steven Davis, Lallana, Lambert. Subs: Ramirez for Cork (62), Ward-Prowse for Lallana (84), Do Prado for Rodriguez (91) West Brom: Foster, Reid, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Mulumbu, Morrison, Amalfitano, Long, Brunt, Anelka. Subs: Vydra for Amalfitano (86), Gera for McAuley(81), Berahino for Anelka (77). Referee: Howard Webb
Diarmuid is a freelance student and studious sports journalist operating out of the wilds of Dublin, Ireland. His specialist subjects include the English Premier League, the GAA, and track and field athletics.
