Claridge has last laugh against Saints

Southampton 0, Millwall 1 (half-time)

Steve Claridge had the last laugh as he silenced the Southampton boo-boys and fired Millwall ahead in this FA Cup fourth-round tie.

The 36-year-old striker was taunted because he used to play for, and is a fan of, local rivals Portsmouth.

But the veteran set Millwall on the way to an upset with his 12th goal of the season in the 17th minute when Steven Reid’s free-kick was nodded down by Paul Robinson and Claridge swept home from six yards.

Matt Oakley tried his luck from 25 yards with a rising drive but that was too high and Millwall’s luck held out.

There was a bizarre moment after 40 minutes as Ormerod clearly had his heels clipped, but he made such a meal of it with a theatrical dive that referee Matt Messias awarded Millwall the free-kick and booked the Saifans hailed their team’s performance in the third round, when they demolished Spurs 4-0 here, as one of their best for many years. In contrast, struggling to get into their stride against the First Division team.

Millwall defender Lawrence was booked a minute before the break for an unnecessary lunge at Benali, but nothing was spoiling the fun of the travelling fans who were jokingly chanting: “Claridge for England” as the half came to a close.