AFC Totton
SAINTS COME OUT VICTORIOUS AT THE SNOWS
AFC Totton welcomed a young Southampton XI to the Snows Stadium on Friday evening, with both sides looking to continue their preparations ahead of their respective league campaigns.
The Stags made the perfect start, taking the lead after just eight minutes. Dec Rose’s low cross from the right-hand side found Sol WANJAU-SMITH on the edge of the penalty area, and he curled a superb first-time finish beyond the goalkeeper and into the far corner.
Southampton responded quickly, levelling the scores just four minutes later. A slick move from the visitors was finished off by Sufianu Sillah DIBAGA, restoring parity. Wanjau-Smith then went close to adding a second with an effort similar to his opener, but this time his shot drifted narrowly wide of the far post.
The visitors took the lead in the 26th minute when Moses SESAY produced an excellent first-time finish to complete another well-worked Southampton attack.
Saints were beginning to assert themselves on the contest, and Dibaga was unfortunate not to add a second when he struck the post. However, the visitors did extend their advantage around 10 minutes before the break when Dibaga unselfishly squared the ball for Princewill EHIBHATIOMHAN, who had the simple task of converting from close range.
Half-time: AFC Totton 1-3 Southampton XI
Southampton’s defence remained resolute after the restart as Totton began the second half brightly but struggled to find a way through. As the half progressed, Sesay had a pair of free-kicks in promising positions but was unable to capitalise, with one effort striking the wall and the other sailing comfortably over the crossbar.
The Stags grew back into the contest during the final 20 minutes and were rewarded when substitute Luke Bennett surged forward before finding Christie WARD in a central position. Ward made no mistake, pulling a goal back and setting up a tense finale.
Totton pushed for an equaliser and came close when Wanjau-Smith was presented with a good opportunity late on. Unfortunately for the hosts, he got underneath his effort and scooped the ball over the crossbar.
Southampton saw out the remaining minutes professionally to secure a 3-2 victory and continue their pre-season programme with a win at the Snows Stadium.
Report by: Adi Rose
Photographer: Abby Reece
