Southampton began their Europa League journey tonight with a home fixture against Sparta Prague.
It was a big day for the Saints, and was an excellent chance to show the continent how far they’d come as a club.
But when their chance arrived, it all got a bit embarrassing.
It's a good job @chazaustin10 scores the penalty after a disagreement with Tadic. #UEL https://t.co/mlFzqRCpvY
— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) September 15, 2016
And although Charlie Austin scored (phew), fans were less than impressed.
Although fuming with tadic and austin grow up the pair of ya
— Connor collins (@Southampton99) September 15, 2016
Surely these things are decided before the game? Dusan Tadic certainly seemed to think that was the case.
People criticising Tadic for arguing with Austin there. Glad to see it go in, but what was Austin doing? Play to the plan, man! #SaintsFC
— Ian Davis (@Iananities) September 15, 2016
And while Austin was the calmer of the two, some believed Tadic’s actions were justified.
Who is this idiot commentator on BT Sport? Tadic is always on penalties and he is slagging off Tadic for wanting to take it! #Southampton
— Darren Plant (@Dazman5) September 15, 2016
Why is it poor professionalism from Tadic and not Austin? Because Austin had the ball first?
— Aaron McGinn (@AaronTRMcGinn) September 15, 2016
In the end though, all was well, as Austin slotted the penalty home to put the issue to bed.
GOAL! PK awarded for handball after lengthy delay. Charlie Austin & Tadic wrestle over it, Austin slams it home & St Mary's erupts. 1-0!
— Joe Prince-Wright (@JPW_NBCSports) September 15, 2016
Don't like to see any team arguing over who takes a penalty! But great to then see Tadic celebrate with Charlie. Thankfully. #saintsfc
— Ben Stanfield (@BenStanners) September 15, 2016
Although Austin may have to watch himself in training.
Dusan Tadic is a good lad, no hard feelings after the penalty – might give Charlie Austin a boot up the arse in training though.
— Michael Hughes (@MagicMikeTips) September 15, 2016
