Saint Aribo's first goal in eight matches not enough as Southampton crash

Nigeria Super Eagles forward Joe Aribo celebrated a goal for the first time in eight matches for his Championship side Southampton at Cardiff City. 

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Aribo and Southampton are battling for an immediate return to the Premier League but suffered a setback at Cardiff on Saturday.

The 27-year-old has endured a turbulent campaign but had something to celebrate when he fired the Saints ahead as early as the 12th minute in the derby. 

Southampton could have ended the game after Aribo’s early lead with several begging chances that came their way.

However, they were wasteful with main man Che Adams also coming close when he struck the post and paid dearly for their misses in the end.

Their hosts, Cardiff, found their rhythm after the break and fought back to take all three points at home with two goals including a remarkable late winner. 

Famara Diedhiou kicked off the comeback when he came off the bench to score the decisive equaliser seven minutes after he replaced David Turnbull. 

And just when Aribo and his Saints teammates thought they had done enough for a share of the spoils, Cian Ashford broke their hearts with a 98th-minute winner. 

But despite the defeat, the Super Eagles man and his Southampton side remain in contention for a playoff spot as the Saints sit fourth on the table with three games to go. 

Aribo will travel to the King Power next to face compatriots Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho, who are also in the hunt for an immediate promotion to the Premier League.