Saints-sational ADAMS LIGHTS THE FUSE ON EMOTIONAL AFTERNOON

RUSSELL MARTIN hailed his devastating Southampton historymakers on a poignant afternoon – but still wants more.

The Saints ripped Sheffield Wednesday apart to equal two records from more than 100 years ago – 19 league games unbeaten, and 20 in all competitions in the 1921-22 season.

Goals from Che Adams, Adam Armstrong, Ryan Fraser and sub Sekou Mara secured the win after news emerged that Mel Blyth, one of the famous 1976 FA Cup winners, had passed away.

But Owls boss Danny Rohl suffered a miserable return to St Mary’s, where he was No.2 to Ralph Hasenhuttl in the Premier League – and this was a big blow for relegation-haunted Wednesday.

Martin said: “The history has never been a real conscious focus. But I really want them to go and break it now and make new history next week – and be remembered for that.

“That would take some beating and they deserve it. What they have done and the way they have done it is just an incredible achievement.

“I got told this morning we would be wearing black armbands in memory of Mel, I am aware of his importance here as a player, and I am glad we could have a day like that.

“You must recognise the past. My thoughts are with Mel’s family. “The win today and run are rewards for the work the players have put in, and keeps us in the hunt and the race. I really enjoyed the game, I thought the guys were brilliant.”

Saints took the lead on 35 minutes when Adam Armstrong hooked the ball into the area from the right. And Adams took advantage of Bambo Diaby’s mistake to bury the chance.

Josh Windass wasted a glorious chance to level – and Wednesday were made to pay for that miss, Saints going straight down the other end to double the lead.

Stuart Armstrong slipped the ball to namesake Adam, and his shot beat the efforts of Di’shon Bernard to clear.

And

Fraser got the goal his display deserved on 75 minutes after being picked out by Adam Armstrong.

Substitute Mara, teed up by Adam Armstrong, then completed the rout.

Rohl said: “Southampton played well – in such a game against a good team you have to make no mistakes and that wasn’t the case.

“They are in a different league to us when you look at their players.”