Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl praised his side’s second half display as they came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Neal Maupay took advantage of some poor defending to fire the Seagulls in front in the first half, but Danny Ings continued his great season in front of goal to equalise midway through the second period.

The Saints had chances to win the game, but were made to settle for a point in this south coast derby.

Reflecting on his team’s performance, Hasenhuttl told the media: “It was a disaster in the first half and a very good second half.

“I think we made the right changes at half time and I think we could have scored five or six times in the second half, but we didn’t deserve more because of how we started.

“We were a little bit slow in our minds and there was a lack of automatism because of all the changes, which is normal.

“We had to do it because it’s quite tough at the moment.”

Landmark Occasion

The Saints boss was also keen to praise striker Ings after he notched his 20th Premier League goal of the season.

It is the first time a Southampton player has hit the landmark for 17 years, since James Beattie did it in 2002/03, with the striker also being denied by the woodwork in the second half.

The Austrian added: “If there is one striker out there that deserves to score 20 goals then it’s him because he works unbelievably hard.

“We know how important he is for us, but I always try and say that the team is working hard for him.

“The team prepares everything for him to score and he prepares everything for the team. He’s a team player.”

Premier League Debutant

The Saints boss also handed praise to Jake Vokins, who made his full Premier League debut having come through the club’s academy ranks.

And the 20-year-old almost marked the occasion with a goal, but saw his low drive from 25 yards whistle just past the post.

“I think he did absolutely ok,” commented Hasenhuttl. “In the first half he was coming in deep and it didn’t work so good.

“But in the second half, he showed some fantastic passes, especially the one to Reddy (Redmond).

“He took risks and was calm on the ball. He made a big shot on the goal and nearly scored. It was a brave performance.”