Russell Martin makes a point about Gavin Bazunu and then commends a “outstanding” Saints player.

Southampton rescued a point at Deepdale on Wednesday night as Preston North End striker Ched Evans diverted the ball into his own net during the sixth minute of stoppage time

Russell Martin has praised Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu and full-back James Bree after both stepped up with big performances against Preston North End on Wednesday night.

Saints drew 2-2 at Deepdale after Preston striker Ched Evans diverted the ball into his own net in the sixth minute of stoppage time under huge pressure from Bazunu, who came up for the final play of the game with the visitors trailing.

In the immediate aftermath of the equaliser, it was unclear how the ball had gone in, with many supporters and players (and Martin himself) thinking it was Bazunu who had managed to get the killer final touch.

The 21-year-old keeper, who was making his 50th appearance for Southampton, was also integral in keeping Preston at bay for long periods in the first half, producing some excellent saves including denying Will Keane from point-blank range.

“All of their chances came from set pieces and the second phase because we had to defend too many,” said Martin when asked about the performance of his goalkeeper.

“It’s a strength of theirs with the size and power in their team. Gavin was outstanding when called upon. Then he scored which was obviously amazing. He asked to go up so we gave him permission and told Wee Man (Ryan Fraser) to wait to take the corner.

“He’s a brilliant young man with a great mentality. He shouldn’t concede two goals tonight, we have to help him. Nobody showed enough for him in the 10 minutes on either side of halftime. He is growing all the time, he has the mentality and courage. Now he’s got a goal as well.”

Martin was forced into making changes to his Southampton side for the trip to Deepdale, not least due to the suspension to left-back Ryan Manning after he picked up a fifth yellow card of the season against Hull.

It gave the Saints boss a decision to make, with left-back Kyle Walker-Peters capable of playing on the opposite flank but currently in excellent form in his more natural position.

He decided instead to hand James Bree – a natural left-sided defender – his first league start of the season and the move paid off. Not only did Bree impress Martin with his performance, but Walker-Peters opened the scoring after a trademark run down the right before cutting onto his left to fire home.

“I loved James Bree’s performance, I thought he was excellent,” Martin added. “I’m really proud of him. Gillingham away was his only game. Considering he’s not played, I thought he was outstanding. He’s trained really well.

“Unfortunately for him he’s got one of the best players in the division playing in his position. Kyle Walker-Peters was outstanding again tonight. Some people really took their opportunity and I think some will be quite frustrated. The subs had a huge impact on the game. I am really proud of them for keeping going and I’m really grateful to the supporters for travelling tonight.”