OneFootball
Richard Buxton·15 July 2023
OneFootball
Richard Buxton·15 July 2023
Southampton avoided back-to-back defeats in their latest pre-season friendly against Göztepe.
Scorers: Kayan 26âČ; Alcaraz 64âČ
Russell Martinâs side had suffered a midweek loss to Benfica prior to making the trip to face the Turkish second-tier outfit.
The Saints were forced into an early change as Kamari Doyle had to replace Moussa Djenepo before kick-off due to illness.
Matters worsened early in the first half as Yalçın Kayan handed the hosts the lead by beating Gavin Bazunu at his near post.
A potential lifeline appeared after the interval at the Doganlar Stadium when SĂ©kou Mara was tripped in the penalty area.
But James Ward-Prowse spurned his ensuing effort from the spot horribly off target after slipping during his run-up.
Southampton would later pull level through Charly Alcarazâs half-volley within moments of coming on as a substitute.
The Championship returnees take on Reading, Bournemouth and AZ Alkmaar before their 4 August season opener at Sheffield Wednesday.