Saints win secures Europa League

Southampton have claimed a spot in the Europa League after defeating FA Cup finalists Crystal Palace 4-1.

In a game that started quietly, Southampton took the lead through Sadio Mane in the 43rd minute before the Saints doubled their lead just under 20 minutes later through substitute Graziano Pelle.

Jason Puncheon found a consolation goal just three minutes later, but a Ryan Bertrand penalty and an 87th-minute goal from Steven Davis lifted Ronald Koeman’s side into the Europa League.  

After West Ham lost 2-1 away to Stoke, Southampton will finish the season in either fifth or sixth place, depending on what happens between the abandoned Manchester United versus Bournemouth match, meaning European football is guaranteed for next season.

Crystal Palace will finish the campaign in either 15th or 16th depending on whether Bournemouth get a win.

Southampton saw Sadio Mane recover from illness to start the game whilst for Palace, they made five changes to their team which beat Stoke City 2-1 last weekend ahead of their FA Cup final against Manchester United on Saturday.

The first half began slowly with neither side really to create any real clear-cut chances. Southampton began the game dominating possession, but despite their pressure, were unable to break through Palace’s resilient defence.

The first real opening of the game landed at Dwight Gayle’s feet in the 17th minute, he rifled a shot at England international Fraser Forster but he was able to palm the attempt away.

But for the rest of …

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