Before converting the first-half penalty, Austin had a brief argument with Dusan Tadic about who would take the spot-kick.
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The 27-year-old made no mistake on his European debut, beating the keeper with power down to his right.
He then doubled that lead when he headed in a Cuco Martin cross.
The Saints defeated the Czech Republic outfit 3-0 at St Mary’s Stadium thanks to Austin’s brace – which included a penalty – as well as a stoppage time goal from Jay Rodriguez to put the result beyond doubt.
Click the video above to watch the highlights.
Charlie Austin scored his first goals in European club competition as Southampton beat Sparta Prague 3-0 in the Europa League.
Martina’s cross from the right was met with a downward header from Austin, which slipped under Koubek’s hand and into the net.
Firmly in control, Saints would create another chance off a corner, but Virgil van Dijk’s header was mis-hit and went over the bar.
“For many players it’s the first time and hard with the emotion of this game”.
Sparta Prague offered little going forward and their best opportunity fell to David Lafata midway through the second half but his fierce shot was saved well by keeper Fraser Forster.
Puel is still seeking his first competitive victory as Southampton boss as they have managed two draws and two defeats from four Premier League games to date.
“I think it’s a very good performance from my players, and I think also it was important to see the quality of all the squad for the next games”.
Inter host Hapoel Beer Sheeva in Group K of the UEFA Europa League at the San Siro. Once more, Zdenek Scasny’s men nearly failed to reach the group stages after coming back from two goals down to eventually win 3-2 against Danish side Sonderjyske Fodbold in the play-off second leg after a goalless draw in the first leg.
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The former Swindon and Burnley striker, who had scored just one Southampton goal before tonight, said: “I am really pleased to get the two goals, it’s a special night for me, but the most important thing is the win”.
