SOUTHAMPTON grabbed a vital relegation point with a dramatic late equaliser against Derby at the Baseball Ground last night.
Ashley Ward's 10th goal of the season appeared to have given Derby all three points and almost certainly guaranteed their Premiership status for next season. But a bizarre own goal just a minute from time by the unfortunate Darryl Powell rescued Southampton, who lost Matt Le Tissier after 16 minutes.
After missing so many chances, Derby brought on Costa Rican striker Paulo Wanchope at halftime. Wanchope had an immediate impact by helping to set up the opening goal after 66 minutes. His cheeky backheel found Darryl Powell free in the penalty area and although his shot was well saved by Taylor, Ward was on hand toe steer in the loose ball.
The visitors refused to give up and were rewarded just a minute from the end in bizarre circumstances as the unfortunate Powell saw the ball bobble off his legs - after a goalmouth scramble and trickle over the line.
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