EFL Cup 3rd Round Portsmouth Away Won 0 – 4
True to his word, Ralph picked a strong team at Portsmouth for his first real south coast derby despite his unfortunate experience with injuries during the last round of the Carabao Cup. It still meant a change in goal and if McCarthy may have left a gap at his near post that Marquis almost found, he made up for it with a tip over and then a reaction save before scrambling for the loose ball, Pitman denied on both occasions. Questions were being asked of the Saints back four but when play eventually began to even itself out, the home defence showed its vulnerabilities with MacGillivray saving from Ings and then being beaten by the same player before the ball had been properly cleared. Almost immediately Danny had another opportunity saved and Naylor just managed to get back to clear as Højbjerg followed up. Shortly before half time, though, Ings (one of our own, remember) put the ball in the net again after being set up nicely by Obafemi and the tie had unquestionably swung in favour of the good guys. Pompey’s second half opening didn’t have the passion of their first effort although I think everyone knew things would suddenly get very awkward had they just got a first goal. In truth, McCarthy had things much easier in the second 45 and time was beginning to run out for the Blue Few anyway when Saints scored again: a sort of assist for Ings as TV suggests it was a heavy touch rather than a pass that picked out Soares for a rare strike. Redmond had replaced Obafemi and from the moment he looked up when in space, a fourth Southampton goal seemed inevitable, and the ball was duly despatched past MacGillivray. A wet Tuesday night at Fratton Park is when professionals earn their money and if you’re wearing a red and white shirt, really go unto the breach: our band of brothers showed themselves to be up to the challenge to record a first victory in South East Hants since 1984 – yes, that cup tie. Quest TV say it’s our biggest win down there, but those who remember when this fixture could be used for testimonial friendlies know better.
LSSC Man of the Match: Danny Ings, the win maybe meaning more to him than the non-local lads.
Become a Member
Become a member of London Saints from as little as £5.