Fans go into meltdown as Southampton topple European giants

Southampton produced an excellent second half performance to secure a famous 2-1 victory over three-times European champions Inter Milan in the Europa League on Thursday.

Claude Puel’s side fell behind at St Mary’s 12 minutes before half-time when Mauro Icardi turned home after the Saints failed to clear their lines.

The home side, unfortunate to go behind after a solid first half display, had a chance to level proceedings when they were awarded a penalty in added time, but Dusan Tadic saw his resulting penalty saved by Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic.

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

However, the hosts were not to be deterred and upped the ante in the second period, equalising after 64 minutes when the excellent Virgil Van Dijk reacted quickest to tap into an empty net.

And, just five minutes later, Southampton had completed the comeback when visiting defender Yugo Nagatamo turned Tadic’s cross into his own net.

It was a sensational night for the Saints, and victory over group leaders Sparta Prague in their next game could see them qualify for the last 32.

Unsurprisingly, Southampton fans have taken to Twitter to express their delight at their side’s performance last night…

Excellent 2nd half performance! 2-1! Never thought I would witness a result like that! #Saintsfc #EuropaLeague

— Ben Roberts (@BenRoberts_1993) November 3, 2016

You'll struggle to see a better 2nd half performance than that. #saintsfc

— JPM (@JackMainstone) November 3, 2016

Many fans also mentioned the journey the club have been on in recent years given that, six years ago, the club were in League One and won the 2010 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy…

A special night for @SouthamptonFC at St Mary's. A deserved win and another chance to reflect on our amazing journey. Loved it #saintsfc

— Martin Tooth (@Toothy73) November 4, 2016

We've come a long way. #saintsfc

— Dan Stead (@Steady__12) November 4, 2016

As if the 2010 johnstons paint trophy winners have just beaten the 2010 champions league winners #saintsfc

— will roberts (@will_roberts123) November 4, 2016

https://twitter.com/JusticeCraig/status/794324039598796800

Numerous fans praised the influence of centre-back Virgil Van Dijk and midfielder James Ward-Prowse…

Van Dijk is different class. Ward Prowse was immense. McQueen is improving. Romeu continuing his form.
I love Southampton FC #saintsfc

— Jordan Stevens (@JordanStevens92) November 3, 2016

Had feeling we were in for repeat of Milan away but tempo increased in superb 2nd half, @Prowsey16 VVD & @NathanRedmond22 the pick #saintsfc

— Si Randell (@SiRandelly) November 3, 2016

…while some rightly gave credit to manager Puel on a famous night at St Mary’s…

Puel's rotation policy passed its biggest test last night. The faith he has in every player in the squad is definitely paying off. #saintsfc

— MP (@hisnameispatch) November 4, 2016