Southampton defeated Stoke City 3-1 on Sunday at St Mary's stadium. Stoke City took an early lead. But Southampton managed to respond. They struck three goals. Two of those goals came late in the match. Stoke City found it hard to reply. The victory placed Southampton higher in the league table.
The match drew in a lively crowd. Eckert spoke after the game. He remarked the crowd gave the side a lift. Fan energy spurred the players in the final minutes. That support helped them lock in the win.