Victory over Everton was “massive” says Redmond
Nathan Redmond believes Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Everton was a “massive” win for Southampton, as Saints move three points clear of the relegation zone.
James Ward-Prowse gave Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side the lead five minutes into the second half with a brilliant finish from range, before a freak own goal from Lucas Digne doubled Southampton’s advantage.
Gylfi Sigurdsson struck last on to give the Toffees hope of a late comeback, but the home side held on for an important victory.
Victory over Everton extended Saints’ good run of form under new boss Hasenhuttl to 15 points from eight league games and means they have recorded back-to-back victories in the league for the second time since the Austrian took charge.
And Redmond, who was initially given the second goal before it was ruled an own goal, spoke of the importance of recording two consecutive wins.
It’s massive. Two completely different wins – today was about stamping our authority on the game and trying to hurt them where they’re weak. The last four games in the league, you can see the subtle changes that we’re making and the ones that are having a big impact.
The mood around St. Mary’s certainly seems to have been lifted since the arrival of Hasenhuttl, and Redmond believes the former RB Leipzig manager has given the players belief and allowed them to enjoy playing once again.
The nitty-gritty stuff that you see a lot of the boys doing – the tackles, the defending, winning the balls in midfield and chasing around up front – all becomes enjoyable for us now.
The gaffer has made us aware that if we enjoy that, it’ll make the game twice as easy when we’re trying to go forward. We’re benefitting from everybody working for each other.
Saints will be looking to make it three league wins from three when they host Crystal Palace in 11 days time.