GOALSCORER Finn Azaz was left with a “mix of emotions” following Saints’ cruel 2-1 FA Cup semi-final defeat to Man City.
Republic of Ireland international Azaz scored the opening goal at Wembley, crashing into the top corner from the edge of that box, with 11 minutes to go.
But Saints were unable to hold on to reach the FA Cup final for the first time since 2003, as Man City scored twice to turn the game around.
While Azaz was disappointed to suffer a defeat that ended Southampton’s 20-game unbeaten run, he could not hide his pride at their performance.
“I’m feeling a mix of emotions, to be honest. I’m gutted to go out, with 10 minutes to go, we had something to hold onto,” he told the club.
“Mainly, I’m proud of how we performed as a team. The mentality has been there for a long time with this group. That starts with the manager.
“We came here with a plan to win the game, and we almost did. We will take this mentality into the rest of the season.
“For 20 games it’s worked, but today they had a deflection and an unbelievable strike to win it.”
Azaz’s goal, which flew into the top corner, sent the Saints fans behind the net into a frenzy, and it will be a moment they will not forget in a hurry.
The summer signing admitted his strike was based on instinct, and thinks it is the best moment of a career that could yet bring promotion to the Premier League.
“I can’t actually remember what was going on. I know it broke out and I thought, ‘Oh my God, I’m free here’,” he added.
“And then it was instinct from there – there was no thinking about it. It was an amazing moment. It was crazy. It’s probably the best of my career.
“I just connected with it, it was amazing to see all the fans celebrating, the noise, it was everything. The yellow wall was pretty intimidating.
“It was amazing support. We knew it was going to be good, but that was another level. Thanks to all the fans for coming – I hope we gave them a performance to be proud of.”
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