Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl apologised for snubbing Brighton boss Chris Hughton in the aftermath of a vital 1-0 victory at the Amex Stadium. Hasenhuttl initially failed to shake Hughton’s hand as he jubilantly celebrated a big three points in the battle for Premier League survival.
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The failure to observe etiquette appeared to upset Hughton and Hasenhuttl moved quickly to make amends in his post-match press conference. “It was such a big feeling (after the win) that I forgot to shake the other manager’s hand and that’s why I have to apologise,” said Hasenhuttl.
“I always forget everything when the final whistle comes – so please, sorry. “I was five seconds too late but then I came and shook the hand. For us in our situation it’s very important to take these wins, and against this type of opponent three points are very important.”
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s second-half strike earned Saints a deserved win which leaves the two south coast clubs level on 33 points and five clear of 18th-placed Cardiff. “Today was massive because the whole side behind the goal was full of our fans,” he added. “It’s an amazing moment if you go there and celebrate with them. Now they can go back and have a nice weekend.”
