Manuel’s rearguard action proves in vain

Playing their first match since the end of November, Saints got straight back to winning ways with a comfortable bank holiday victory over neighbours Racing Club at Townsend Meadow.

After a scrappy opening 15 minutes, Saints took control with Tunde Ajibade a lively presence in midfield.

Dave Wilson put a 25-yard free-kick just wide and Jack Taylor’s left-foot shot in the 27th minute produced a fine save from Olly Manuel.

The former Southam keeper was again called into action seven minutes later, getting down low to his left to save from Adijabe, who had cut in from the wing at pace.

Ajibade was then denied by the referee’s half-time whistle after being put clean through.

Saints took a deserved lead within five minutes of the restart as Richard Robinson finally beat Manuel with a right-foot shot into the top corner.

Robinson could have had a second after Southam took advantage of some hesitant defending from Marco Ciuffini, but his effort was saved by the legs of Manuel.

Substitute Ross Jackson, who had earlier dragged a shot across goal when well placed, made the points safe for Southam in the 89th minute.

Jamal Wilson appeared to be fouled as he brought the ball out of defence and, presented with a three on one, Saints made no mistake, with Jackson producing a deft finish after a one-two with Robinson.

Reflecting on the win, which lifted his side to 12th, Saints manager Luke Fogarty said: “Although we looked a little rusty at times, we were pretty lively up front, playing three strikers in Andy Millan, Richard Robinson and Dave Wilson.

“We caused their defence a lot of problems, but found Oliver Manuel in top form and he made some good saves to deny us more goals. Mark Anderson was outstanding in midfield and, all in all, we deserved our win.”

Saints are now unbeaten in seven matches in all competitions, but that record will be put to the sternest of tests tomorrow at in-form Castle Vale.