Everton's keeper Tim Howard shouts instructions during
their English Premier League match against Southampton at
St Mary's Stadium in Southampton. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino has begun his
reign at the struggling Premier League club with an impressive
0-0 draw against fifth-placed Everton, three days after taking
over from the sacked Nigel Adkins.
Southampton were much the better side in the first half as
in-form striker Rickie Lambert hit the woodwork with a
bending free kick and narrowly failed to score with two
trademark headers.
Everton improved in the second half but also failed to
convert chances as the home side clung on for a valuable
draw.
Everton moved to 38 points, within three of fourth-placed
Tottenham Hotspur and four ahead of Arsenal and Liverpool
while Southampton edged further away from the relegation zone
to 23 points, four above the drop.
Former Argentina international Pochettino was controversially
appointed manager despite Southampton's improved recent form,
including a 2-2 comeback draw from two goals down at European
champions Chelsea on Wednesday, Adkins's final game in
charge.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.