Sunderland vs Southampton match report: Dusan Tadic consigns Sam Allardyce back to the drawing board

Sunderland 0 Southampton 1

Southampton's Dusan Tadic celebrates his goal (Getty Images)

“We like to enjoy football.” They were the words of Ronald Koeman, after his side continued their unbeaten record away from St Mary’s, in a victory far more comfortable than the scoreline suggests. “We have potential, we have qualities,” he added. “If we reach European football it is like we won the title. Of course, it’s possible. Why not? Why not? Do you think it’s possible?”

Anything seemed possible if you were from Southampton. Nothing seemed enjoyable if the red and white you wore was of Sunderland. It was trudge in and a trudge out. The misery has been going on for years, save for victories against Newcastle and dramatic end of season runs.

Even the Sunderland manager, Sam Allardyce, is putting little faith in another one of those miracles coming along.

Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce (Getty Images)

“That’s the last thing I want,” he said. Then his honest assessment told you of the depth of the crisis he has walked into. “The players have to produce more,” he added. “They all know that. It’s not easy to keep the players’ chin up. We have to keep that bit of fire in our belly to get out of this position. In training I see a lot of good things. I ain’t seeing it when we get on the field.”

A mistake did for Sunderland, but there were three fine saves from Costel Pantilimon to deny Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mané twice. There was the territorial and possession statistics that showed you the size of the visitors’ superiority.

When Tadic played in Ryan Bertrand in the 70th minute, there was no need for Yann M’Vila to come flying over and go to ground, but he did. Bertrand waited, fell under the challenge and then Tadic blasted in the penalty.

“We have a squad to fight for Europe,” said Koeman. “It’s very good and positive and we will see what happens at the end of the season."