Clinical finishing crucial as Southampton sink Newcastle

Southampton continued their majestic march on the top four after securing a vital 2-1 away win at St James’ Park, where Ronald Koeman’s Midas touch was in evidence yet again.

Exciting new loan signing Eljero Elia looks to be another inspired acquisition from the Dutch coach, as the speedy forward bagged a brilliant brace to catapult the south coast club back into third place.

A perfect foil for hard-working Graziano Pelle, Elia’s sharp finishing and performance summed up the Saints’ clinical showing, as Koeman’s men found the net twice from just three chances on target.

Pelle, who won the header that allowed impressive James Ward-Prowse to craft a fantastic first opening for Elia, continues to fall foul of the goal frame, as the Italy international sent a pinpoint cross from Nathaniel Clyne rebounding off the cross bar.

The poacher is struggling to recover his prolific early campaign form but, as long as he keeps dueling and contributing up top, there should be a place for him alongside Elia and wily Ward-Prowse.

Hosts Newcastle United could claim to have had the better of the clash at points, but wastefulness in front of goal cost them dearly, with the main culprit Remy Cabella, who spurned several fine chances.

It was Cabella’s compatriot Yoan Gouffran who benefited from a fortunate deflection to net the equaliser, which was a just reward for the home team’s early attacking intent.

Miscommunication between usually unflappable Fraser Forster and Florin Gardos saw the ball ricochet off an incoming Gouffran, who toiled hard throughout.

The Magpies’ backline struggled to contain a composed Southampton offence, though, as Daryl Janmaat allowed Elia to ease past him for both goals, and captain Fabricio Coloccini missed two key headers that allowed first Pelle, and then super substitute Shane Long, to spring decisive attacks.

Whilst Netherlands international Janmaat left a lot to be desired defensively, the Dutchman did offer a forward threat down the flank, as did left back Massadio Haidara, with the pair constantly pumping in crosses.