Hero of EPL Matchday 18 – Shane Long

Hero of EPL Matchday 18 – Shane Long

0
SHARE

Shane Long played a crucial role in Southampton’s emphatic 4-0 triumph over Arsenal as the Saints ended a five-match winless run last weekend.

With talisman Graziano Pelle out with an Injury, manager Ronald Koeman was forced replace the Italian, making way for Long to lead the line.

But the forced changed proved to be a blessing in disguise, as the Republic of Ireland striker gave the Gunner’s defenders a torrid time all evening.

Debutant Cuco Martina thundered home the opening goal for the home side to give them a 1-0 lead at the break.

Southampton doubled their lead shortly after halftime as Long combined with Sadio Mane to double the Saints lead and score his first of the match

Jose Fonte headed home a third for the home side on 69 minutes, before Long rounded off the 4-0 win in stoppage time.

Southampton had only managed three goals in their last five Premier League games before the 4-0 romp and with Pelle out, it was hard to see where the danger would come from.

But Long was instrumental in the team’s attacks and proved to be the thorn in Arsenal’s side.

So for his two-goal display which helped the Saints end their five-match winless run, Shane Long is Outside 90’s Hero of Matchday 18.

What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.