Armando Broja scored the only goal as Southampton claimed their first win of the Premier League season against an injury-hit and off-colour Leeds in a largely uninspiring game at St Mary’s.
The Slough-born Albanian international striker, on loan from Chelsea, fired his first English top-flight goal high into the net after he was set up by Nathan Redmond at the end of a swift counter-attack in the second half.
The Saints had been the better side and looked far more likely to break the deadlock throughout, but also suffered from a familiar lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Prior to the goal, their best chances came from corners, with Broja glancing one header wide and flicking on a second that Mohamed Elyounoussi was inches from converting at the back post.
Leeds, who were missing a number of senior players, including Patrick Bamford, Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, only had two shots.
Jack Harrison’s drive – deflected over by Mohammed Salisu – was the closest they came but Daniel James also put a good chance past the post after he had nipped in to claim the ball off Salisu in the box.
In Other News – Watford 0 – 5 Liverpool
Roberto Firmino scored a hat-trick as rampant Liverpool condemned Claudio Ranieri to a miserable start to life as Watford manager in a one-sided game at Vicarage Road.
The home side had no answer to Liverpool’s fluid attacking play.
Sadio Mane became the third African player to score 100 Premier League goals before Roberto Firmino struck either side of the break and Mohamed Salah finished a brilliant individual goal with a smart shot beyond Ben Foster. learn more