The Saints’ long unbeaten run came to an end at Bristol City, with Leeds United moving into second place.
Southampton boss Russell Martin understands how important it is for his team to respond after Bristol City broke their 25-match undefeated streak. Leeds United have now moved into second place in the Championship after a thrilling 4-0 victory over Swansea City, combined with the Saints’ setback.
Liam Manning’s City took a three-goal lead thanks to goals from Sam Bell, Rob Dickie, and substitute Harry Cornick, until Southampton’s Adam Armstrong converted an injury-time penalty. The Saints drop to third place, although they still have a game in hand on Daniel Farke’s team.
Martin insisted that he was extremely pleased of what his men had accomplished, and that, while he was philosophical about their run ending, the response from his side would be critical. The Saints visit to West Bromwich Albion on Friday night, and a win would see them retake second place before Leeds go to Plymouth on Saturday.
“I’m disappointed, but extremely proud of the players for the run we’ve had,” Martin remarked after Southampton’s defeat. “To go 25 games undefeated is incredible. Bristol City were really good, and we lacked the energy and quality that had won us games throughout our successful run.
“I’m annoyed by the goals we conceded, and we need to improve on it. They ran their socks off, worked extremely hard, and caused us problems. However, we had opportunities at 0-0 and 1-0 down that could have transformed things. We weren’t as neat with the ball tonight, but we did have periods of possession.
“Our supporters were fantastic, and I’m disappointed for them. However, the general feeling remains one of great pride in what we have accomplished recently. The incredible run was always going to end, and now it’s all about how we react.”
