It was a left-footed scorcher from the former England international to seal three more Championship points, after a sluggish first half.
Gavin Bazunu kept Saints level before the break with two vital moments, while it was the home side who were on top for the second period.
Gavin Bazunu – 9.
Strong save towards the end of the first half travelling across his goal to deflect a back-post header, denying Tommy Conway one-on-one shortly after.
Kyle Walker-Peters – 8.
Involved in Southampton’s positive play before the break before breaking the deadlock just after it. Excellent left-footed curler from the edge of the area.
Jan Bednarek – 8.
Visibly marshalling the backline again. Exemplary on the ball again and contributed to a first home clean sheet since March.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis – 7.
Getting used to his complete commitment to defending the box, which is refreshing paired with his ball-playing ability. Slightly less composed than Bednarek on this occasion.
Ryan Manning – 7.
Seamlessly slipped into spaces during the first half, having one powerful shot from inside the area well blocked. One wayward free-kick and later lost possession in a dangerous area, which could have been costly.
Flynn Downes – 8.
The midfielder’s best moment was getting across to the breaking Harry Cornick at the last minute before the shot came in across the Bazunu’s area, but he is an ever-present for Martin’s side.
Shea Charles – 8.
Turned the ball over in a really dangerous area for Armstrong to attack, typifying what the Northern Irishman does best. Was a standout all evening on and off the ball, before being replaced in the 82nd minute.
Stuart Armstrong – 7.
One of his quieter days creatively but still had flashes of quality. One of a few who slowed down play a bit too much at times after winning it back but Armstrong remains a key cog between midfield and attack.
Charly Alcaraz – 7.
Attempted three shots and was relatively tidy on the ball but not much to shout about. His role was changed by Adams coming on early and this may have helped conspire to see the game pass him by.
Adam Armstrong – 8.
Played a few different roles in the attack during the game. Regularly involved, often looking to speed up the moves, and it was his pass to Walker-Peters for the opener, although he cannot claim too much credit from the strike. Keeps going until the end.
Kamaldeen Sulemana – 6.
In behind for Southampton’s first chance but the finish was tame. Could see he was taking on Martin’s instructions better than at Huddersfield but still failed to create anything with speed. Injured and substituted after 35 minutes.
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