Southampton 1-0 Leicester City: Saints dream of unlikely escape via Alcaraz

Carlos Alcaraz's first-half goal gave Southampton a lifeline as they secured three crucial points in a 1-0 win over fellow relegation fighters Leicester.

The Saints had entered the game without a win in eight Premier League home games, a run dating back to Chelsea's visit to St Mary's in August.

However, January's signing of Alcaraz's second goal in as many starts ended that run and dampened the significance of the James Ward-Prowse's earlier failure to convert a penalty.< /p>

Saints boss Ruben Selles has made changes and his gamble, including a rare departure for Theo Walcott, has paid off as they left the foot of the table, albeit on goal difference. It also provided a welcome boost after the shock midweek FA Cup loss to League Two Grimsby.

Leicester must have regretted a number of missed chances, their defeat leaving them just three points above the relegation zone.

Walcott, named in the starting lineup for the first time since before the World Cup, had half a chance early on after being chosen by Ainsley Maitland-Niles, but his last effort lacked power.

Leicester had their own half chance in the 20th minute as Kelechi Iheanacho got the end of a free-kick from Harvey Barnes but he n was unable to direct the head towards the goal.

The majority of the first half had been largely devoid of quality and chances, but Southampton were given a lifeline in the 30th minute when referee Robert Jones pointed the penalty spot after Walcott's cross hit Timothy Castagne's hand.

However, Ward-Prowse had his kick stopped by Danny Ward, who guessed the correct path. The midfielder, known for his free-kick prowess, has missed both penalties he has taken this season for the Hampshire club.

In the 35th minute, however, Southampton found the breakthrough, when Che Adams beat the offside trap to spot Alcaraz and he passed the ball in front of Ward.

There was a long VAR check for offside, but the goal was cleared.

Alcaraz also appeared to be injured during the celebration slide, but after receiving treatment he was able to continue, although he did not did not last beyond the 50th minute.

Iheanacho was given another header after being spotted at the far post, but he could only guide the balloon.

Brendan Rodgers' men looked to get back into the game, dominating possession and chances. Another opportunity came to Iheanacho, who took a throw-in outside the area before firing over.

The visitors had another opening with almost the finishing touch of the match, with defender Harry Souttar beating goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu – only to nod above the bar.

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