Hasenhüttl hails match winners

By SFC Media time Sun 01 Dec Saints v Watford
Photo by Matt Watson | Ralph Hasenhüttl

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl has praised his attackers’ influence on the 2-1 comeback victory over Watford on Saturday night.

Trailing to Ismaïla Sarr’s strike at the halfway stage, Danny Ings’ equaliser and James Ward-Prowse’s stunning free-kick secured a vital three points in the Premier League.

Claiming a first home win of the season at St Mary’s the Saints boss was full of praise for his attacking outlets, notably half-time substitute Sofiane Boufal.

“Sofiane was important because he carries the ball very well, is good one-on-one dribbling and gets into the box.

“That gives you a mental lift and gets the crowd behind you and this is what we needed in that moment.

“When you have both sides with good one-on-one dribbling it helps you massively to get into the box to do something.

“Moussa [Djenepo] really tried to make the last step to bring the ball to Ingsy because he’s so positive and really wants to win. That’s fantastic for us.”

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 30: Djenepo, Valery and Boufal during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Watford FC at St Mary's Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chris Moorhouse/Southampton FC via Getty Images)
Djenepo, Valery and Boufal celebrate at full-time (Photo: Chris Moorhouse)

With Djenepo providing the assist for Ings’ equaliser, the stage was set for the latest Ward-Prowse free-kick masterclass.

Securing the three points inside the final 10 minutes, Hasenhüttl highlighted the midfielder’s importance to the side.

“Against Everton he was unlucky because the goalkeeper made a good save, but this time it was 2-1 which gives us the maximum lift.

“He’s always there for such moments and that’s why he is so important for the team.

“It’s always a very big moment for us and we know he is very strong.”

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