Smallbone: The run speaks volumes
Southampton’s Will Smallbone was full of praise for his teammates and support staff as his side made it 17 games unbeaten following victory over Plymouth Argyle.
Second half goals from Charly Alcaraz and Ché Adams were enough to make it a seventh home win on the bounce, despite a late Ryan Hardie consolation for the visitors.
For Smallbone, victory number 15 of the season highlights the bond between the group, particularly with manager Russell Martin making four changes to the starting line-up.
“I think that speaks volumes about us as players, staff and and fans,” said the 23-year-old. “I think we've all stuck at it the whole time. And I think that's the only way we can continue now. It’s been a very positive period for us.
“It was important [to have a fast start]. The lads coming in provided the energy and I think we had to be patient at times. But once we got the goal, I think we could have gone on to maybe get a few others on another day.
“Like you say it’s really important we start 2024 on a positive foot. When we’re in the groove that we are, we’re winning games, we just want the next game to come. With it being in just a few days time that can only help us.
“I’m loving it, it’s been really good for me to come back and play. I think there’s a lot more to come from us as a team and myself. We’re slowly and surely getting into our groove and I think, hopefully, we can have a positive end to the season.”
