SHANE LONG POPPED UP with his fourth goal of the season as Southampton ensured their passage to the next round of the FA Cup after a 1-0 win over Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich at Portman Road.
The Irish international pounced after 19 minutes to sweep home after James Ward-Prowse’s imposing run was brought to an end by Tommy Smith’s challenge. But the ball broke perfectly for Long who finished expertly.
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It proved a comfortable enough evening for Ronald Koeman’s side, currently sitting third in the Premier League table, as the hosts rarely threatened. Jose Fonte was a commanding presence at the back while Long put in an energetic performance in attack.
Speaking afterwards, Long said:
It was a tough game. it was very windy and the pitch was cut up. Ipswich are third in the Championship for a reason and it was hard. When you are 1-0 up you have to work harder for the team, I tried to put pressure on their defence. Sometimes when you are on a good run the games keep coming and it’s what you want. We’ve picked up a few injuries but that will give some opportunities to some other players.”
The Saints will now face fellow top-flight side Crystal Palace in the next round.