Football: Redmond Puts Saints Within Touching Distance Of Wembley

SOUTHAMPTON, United Kingdom, , (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Jan, 2017 ) - Southampton edged one step closer to the League Cup final as Nathan Redmond's cool finish secured a 1-0 win over Liverpool in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Claude Puel's side went in front through Redmond's first half strike at St Mary's and only a strong display from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius prevented Southampton from winning by more. Southampton haven't reached the League Cup final since 1979 when they were beaten by Nottingham Forest.

But by ending a run of four games without a win in all competitions they are now within touching distance of facing Manchester United or Hull at Wembley.

"We are deserving this result with all the many chances we had.

It was important to win with the clean sheet," Puel said. "Liverpool had just the one chance. We were unlucky at the end because we know the second leg will be very difficult." With United having won the first leg against Hull 2-0, Liverpool would love to face their old rivals at Wembley, especially after losing to Manchester City on penalties in last season's final.