Southampton’s fight for survival received a much-needed boost as Joe Aribo and Paul Onuachu both found the net in a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road.
The Saints, languishing in the relegation zone, had not won a Premier League game since November 2024.
But on a day when every point mattered, their Nigerian duo delivered the decisive moments to hand Ivan Juric’s side a lifeline.
Aribo strikes first, but Ipswich respond
Ipswich started brightly, controlling possession and forcing early saves from Gavin Bazunu. Julio Enciso, in particular, was a constant threat, testing the Southampton goalkeeper three times in the opening 18 minutes.
Yet, against the run of play, Southampton took the lead. A loose ball fell kindly for Aribo, who showed composure inside the box to lash home a first-time volley in the 21st minute.
It was a rare moment of incision from the visitors in a half where they spent much of the time on the back foot.
Ipswich, however, quickly restored parity. Just ten minutes later, Liam Delap found space in the box and drilled an effort past Bazunu to make it 1-1. The home side continued to dominate proceedings but lacked the cutting edge to reclaim the lead before the break.
Onuachu delivers late drama
The second half unfolded with far fewer chances, both teams struggling to carve out clear openings. But with the game seemingly heading for a draw, Onuachu stepped up in the 87th minute.
The towering striker reacted quickest after Arijanet Muric failed to hold a shot, prodding home the rebound to snatch all three points for the Saints.
The win, Southampton’s first in over two months, still leaves them eight points adrift of safety, but it offers a glimmer of hope. Onuachu, who now has two goals this season, and Aribo, with three, will be key figures as Juric’s men continue their fight for survival.
Franco-Nigerian midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu also featured, playing 81 minutes before being substituted.
