Elyounoussi: I wanted to take the opportunity
Southampton FC rescued a point at Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon, thanks in part to Mohamed Elyounoussi on his first Premier League start since 2019.
After a dominant Saints display in the first and early stages of the second half, it was the hosts who would score the opening goal. Callum Wilson firing home from close range ten minutes after the break.
Ralph Hasenhüttl’s side fought back, Elyounoussi turning in Nathan Redmond’s low cross to make it 1-1 before the Baggies thought they had sealed three points through Allan Saint-Maximin in the final minute.
Saints weren’t done yet, Adam Armstrong fouled inside the box and, after a quick VAR check, winning a penalty which James Ward-Prowse coolly tucked away.
According to the Norwegian, the performance highlighted some key qualities within the squad.
“We showed some togetherness and strong spirit within the team,” said the 27-year-old. “We carried on no matter what.
“It was a crazy game. I thought we started really well during the first 30 minutes, we dominated and created a couple of chances.
“We had more of the ball but we knew they were waiting for counter attacks. So I think the team showed character today to come back and get a well-deserved point.
“It’s been a decent week for me personally. It’s been a tough couple of years and personally I wanted to come back and show myself a better side.
“This time I came back with a full pre-season, I’m training with confidence and I appreciate the manager’s trust in me today. I just wanted to take the opportunity.”
