SOUTHAMPTON 3
Smallbone 1, Adams 20, Downes 90+9
WATFORD 2
Porteous 34, Kone 85
SOUTHAMPTON boss Russell Martin was left frustrated about his side’s “nonsense” performance despite a dramatic last-gasp victory over Watford.
Leicester and Leeds lost this weekend, while Ipswich dropped points to give Saints renewed hope of an automatic promotion spot and an immediate return to the Premier League.
They needed a 99th-minute winner from Flynn Downes to beat the Hornets after throwing away a two-goal lead.
And an annoyed Martin said: “It’s a good day for us in the end with the results elsewhere as well, but we can only focus on ourselves and I’m pleased we got over the line.
“I’m frustrated with how long it took and what it took, but I’m really pleased we won. We played some brilliant football with plenty of running and energy.
“The feeling at the end is amazing, but it just shouldn’t be that.
Watford were good, and they’re playing with freedom and they’re running so hard for Tom.
“We have five games now where we just can’t afford to play like that. Unfortunately for us, we’re not in the top two and having a nice time. We’re fighting and chasing for everything we have.
“I’m frustrated about some of it but really pleased with some of it. I’m delighted with the character and the grit and the willingness to win.
“You can’t concede two goals again at home after being two up – we have to stop that nonsense.”
Saints were rapid out the blocks as Small- bone headed in their quickest goal of the campaign after 57 seconds.
Adam Armstrong provided a perfect cross from the left to allow Ireland international Smallbone to celebrate his fift
