Last Updated: Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:53
Saints boss Nigel Adkins insists that he was correct to leave Rickie Lambert on the bench as his side took a point from Chelsea.
The European champions looked to be in full control as they rolled into a 2-0 lead at Stamford Bridge, but the decision to introduce Lambert as a second half substitute paid off as he scored just three minutes later.
The big forward's goal sparked a fight back from Adkins' side and another goal from Jason Puncheon was enough to secure a valuable point for the Saints, helping them to leapfrog Newcastle into 15th.
The former Scunthorpe boss has come under fire over the last few weeks for a poor start to life back in the top flight but recent results have bought him more time in the hot seat.
"It's a big call to leave Rickie Lambert out at any time but we knew the impact was there and we wanted to make sure we were still in the game and to go from there." said Adkins
"There was the impact off the bench with Rickie Lambert coming off the bench to score the goal and what a fantastic second goal where Luke Shaw has driven on on the counter attack and a fantastic finish from Jason Puncheon."
Have you an opinion on this story? Put your money where your mouth is and claim a free £25 bet.
