A third round FA Cup tie against League Two Walsall had real banana skin potential for Southampton, but they comfortably despatched of their opponents with a 4-0 win.
As expected, Russell Martin rotated his side heavily for the cup clash, with a blend of young talents mixed with more experienced players who needed game time.
Ryan Fraser stole the headlines with two goals and an assist, showing that he can step up in the absence of Sam Edozie. Sekou Mara also took his starting opportunity as he scored and linked up well with his team mates. The final goal was scored by Che Adams off the bench, who could be on the move this month with his contract set to expire in the summer.
Despite talks of a potential return to parent club Everton, Mason Holgate deputised at right-back to give Kyle Walker-Peters a much needed break and Jack Stephens started in central defence as he completed his first 90 minutes since returning from injury.
It was a good day for the Southampton academy, as 17-year-olds Sam Amo-Ameyaw and Jayden Meghoma both started and fellow youth team talents Tyler Dibling and Cameron Bragg came off the bench.
However, manager Martin was quick to praise a more experienced debutant who has had to patiently wait for an opportunity after joining in the summer.
Joe Lumley impresses in Southampton debut
Joe Lumley joined in the summer as free agent, with the 28-year-old last having played for Reading on loan from Middlesbrough. His experience was undoubtedly a factor in the move, with over 150 Championship games under his belt meaning he can be a good back up for first choice Gavin Bazunu.
In truth, Lumley had a very comfortable afternoon as Walsall only managed two shots on target in the game and Southampton had 66% possession. However, it was what the ‘keeper did with the ball at his feet that impressed his manager.
The goalkeeper is very important in a Martin side, as he must take a lot of responsibility in the build up and be comfortable sweeping high off of his line at times. Bazunu is very good at this, but it does not come without risk and mistakes can be made as we saw against Plymouth.
Speaking on Lumley’s debut performance, Martin said: “He was amazing.”
He went on to add that: “His footwork is why Dean Thornton was so keen on bringing him here. Joe hasn’t had a chance to show what he can do because he hasn’t played for teams with that style.
“If you look at Jason Steele at Brighton, nobody would have thought he could do what he does, but he is incredible.
“Then (Roberto) De Zerbi turns up and he is number one because of what he can do with the ball at his feet.”
It is a comparison that Lumley will undoubtedly be pleased with and, with Bazunu to remain first choice, a cup win means Lumley should get another chance in the fourth round at the end of January.
It was widely anticipated that Lumley would be third choice when he joined the club in the summer, with Alex McCarthy expected to provide back-up for Bazunu. Against Walsall, though, Lumley started with McCarthy on the bench which shows he has impressed Martin enough to overtake McCarthy in the pecking order.
The fourth round FA Cup draw takes place on Monday evening and, after securing the cup goalkeeper role, Lumley will have a keen eye on who Southampton get in the next round.