Finn Azaz’s first-half finish proved decisive as Southampton beat Norwich 1-0 to climb into the Championship play-off places for the first time since the opening weekend.
The goal arrived from a quick throw-in; James Bree lofted the ball, Kyle Larin nodded it on and Azaz volleyed into the roof of the net at St Mary’s. The Republic of Ireland midfielder celebrated his 10th goal of the season the day after St Patrick’s Day. It was also the first goal Norwich had conceded away from Carrow Road since late January.
Southampton goalkeeper Daniel Peretz was crucial to the win and to the club extending an unbeaten run to 13 matches. The on-loan Bayern Munich keeper produced a season-high seven saves, including a remarkable double stop in the second half to deny Ali Ahmed and Kellen Fisher from virtually point-blank range. Peretz also made key saves from Anis Ben Slimane and Kenny McLean, finishing with his fifth clean sheet in 12 league appearances — more than Gavin Bazunu and Alex McCarthy managed between them before his arrival.
The match started cagey. Peretz did well to get down to his right to block a powerful effort from Slimane, while Norwich keeper Vladan Kovacevic pushed away a Bree half-volley that led to an offside ruling on Sam Edozie moments earlier. Norwich had several threats themselves: Mathias Kvistgaarden almost met a dangerous Paris Maghoma cross, and late on Jack Stephens saw a deflected touch clip the crossbar in stoppage time. In the 98th minute Peretz produced one final stunning save to keep out Ruairi McConville.
Norwich remain nine points shy of the top six despite a run of 11 wins in 14 matches. They are yet to win away this season after going behind. Substitute Shea Charles came close to sealing the victory for Southampton, but his low effort was tipped away by Kovacevic.
Southampton manager Tonda Eckert described it as a hard-fought encounter against a team in strong form, stressing the need for humility and focus on the next game rather than getting carried away by results. Norwich boss Philippe Clement said he refuses to dream about standings, preferring to concentrate on performance; he praised his players and acknowledged that Peretz’s saves were decisive, expressing pride in his side despite the defeat.