Southampton’s victory over West Bromwich Albion delighted manager Ronald Koeman as the Saints look to have shaken off their poor run of form to make it back to back wins in the Premier League.

Following the midweek victory over Watford, Southampton manager Koeman urged his players to deliver more of the same, and they did just that at a canter against a lacklustre West Brom side who rarely threatened at St Mary's.

James Ward-Prowse produced an excellent display which saw the academy graduate score a sublime free-kick from a tight angle after just five minutes.

The youngster notched his second of the afternoon as the impressive Matt Targett won a penalty for the Saints, after being fouled by defender Craig Dawson, to which Ward-Prowse calmly sent Baggies keeper Boaz Myhill the wrong way.

The home sides’ victory was then sealed as second half substitute Dusan Tadic grabbed the third with a cool finish after good build up play from Steven Davis.

West Brom manager Tony Pulis looked on in frustration as his side made it a relatively simple afternoon for Saints goalkeeper Fraser Forster.

Return to form

In a season that has seen Koeman frustrated with his side, as they have struggled to gain the type of consistent form that they produced last season, which saw the south coast club finish in a commendable 7th place.

Early season disappointments have now seemingly been put to bed and their brand new striker is ready to grace the Premier League once again. Charlie Austin is Saints' latest recruit after signing from Queens Park Rangers and things now appear to be looking positive; that is, if they can keep hold of Graziano Pelle and Sadio Mane in the January transfer window.

Charlie Austin has signed for Southampton for £4 million | Photo: Southampton FC
 Charlie Austin has signed for Southampton for £4 million (Southampton FC)                                                                   

Looking up

The victory puts Southampton into 10th position in the Premier League, making it slightly easier reading for Saints fans who now fully expect the club to kick on for the rest of the season and climb further up the league.

The return to form has come at a very good time for Koeman as Southampton now travel away from St Mary’s for tough matches at Manchester United and Arsenal with his side now full of confidence.

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About the author
Ben Strange
Sports journalism at Southampton Solent University