Southampton were on the brink of a third consecutive win on Saturday, but a 96th minute Watford equaliser meant the Saints had to settle for one point rather than three.
Russell Martin’s side were not at their best but it looked as though they would grind out a win against another play-off chasing side when the game entered its final stages. That was until Taylor Harwood-Bellis misjudged a long ball and Gavin Bazunu was caught off guard by a tame Rhys Healey strike.
Watford had the better chances in the game, with Che Adams scoring Southampton’s only big chance whereas Watford missed two before scoring their late leveller. Bazunu has gained praise for his recent performances and pulled off a number of good saves on Saturday, but ultimately the game will be remembered for his error which cost Southampton two points.
As expected, Martin opted to play with the 4-4-2 diamond system that he has used since Kamaldeen Sulemana came off injured against Bristol City, however there was one notable absentee.
Flynn Downes absence felt in Southampton midfield
When the Southampton line up was announced an hour before kick-off, Southampton fans were shocked to see Flynn Downes not in the squad.
The man on loan from West Ham United has been in inspired form of late and his absence had Saints fans rightly concerned. Joe Aribo was the man given the opportunity as Downes’ replacement, having performed well off the bench against Cardiff City, lining up alongside Shea Charles and Stuart Armstrong.
Although Southampton had 60% of the ball, without the influence of Downes anchoring the midfield they struggled to grapple any meaningful control of the game in a congested, scrappy battle in the middle of the pitch.
Martin revealed after the game that Downes absence was due to illness rather than injury which is reassuring news for fans who may have feared the side would be without the 24-year-old for a prolonged period.
Southampton reporter Alfie House explained on ‘X’ that Downes had been sent home from training in the last few days of the week and drove up to Watford separately to be in the squad. However, the midfielder woke up ill again on Saturday morning and subsequently had to miss the game.
The good news is that House stated that: “Martin hopes he (Downes) will be available Wednesday”. Southampton will certainly hope so, with a tricky midweek trip to Coventry City next up.