Southampton boss Tonda Eckert praises side after they beat Blades

Southampton ended a seven-game winless run with a 1-0 victory over Sheffield United at St Mary's, Leo Scienza scoring a deflected first-half goal; manager Tonda Eckert praised the players' desire and more direct play.

Southampton ended a seven-game league run without a win by beating Sheffield United 1-0 at St Mary's. Leo Scienza scored a deflected first-half goal, which was his fourth of the season. The Saints then defended through the second half to keep a rare clean sheet. Manager Tonda Eckert praised the players' desire and said the team were more direct and got the ball forward quicker. Match facts: - Southampton beat Sheffield United 1-0 at St Mary's. - Leo Scienza scored a deflected first-half goal; it was his fourth of the season. - The victory ended a seven-league-game run without a win for Southampton. - Southampton kept a clean sheet and held on through the second half. - Manager Tonda Eckert told BBC Radio Solent the first win after a long spell is always the hardest and credited the players' desire and more direct play. Summary: The win halted Southampton's recent winless sequence and provided a defensive boost with a clean sheet. Tonda Eckert highlighted the squad's commitment and a more direct approach as important factors. Southampton's next match is at Fratton Park on Sunday for the second south coast derby of the season.