Southampton 3-0 Vitesse: Saints make winning return to Europe

Europa League third round qualification match, St Mary's - Southampton 3 (Pelle 36, Tadic 45+1, Long 84) Vitesse 0

Southampton made a winning return to European action as they recorded a one-sided 3-0 victory over Dutch side Vitesse at St Mary’s in the Europa League third round qualifying match.

Playing their first match in Europe since 2003, it took just 36 minutes for Southampton’s top goalscorer last season Graziano Pelle to get on the score-sheet as he latched onto a fantastic pass from Sadio Mane to finish into the top corner. Dusan Tadic doubled the home side’s advantage from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time after Sadio Mane was caught just inside the box.

A mistake from Lewis Baker, on loan from Chelsea, gifted Southampton possession in a dangerous position and substitute Shane Long added a third six minutes before the end after latching onto a cross from debutant Juanmi.

The Saints were expecting a tough match against boss Ronald Koeman’s former club but it couldn’t have been much easier for the Premier League outfit who controlled the match from almost start to finish.

Koeman will be particularly pleased with the contribution of new boy Cedric who constantly threatened from full-back as well as the attacking performance of Sadio Mane.

Southampton travel to Holland for the away fixture next Thursday before taking on Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Sunday on the opening day of the Premier League.

Follow Joy Sports on Twitter: @Joy997FM. Our hashtag is #JoySports