Sekou Mara set up Southampton’s FA Cup fifth round trip to face Premier League leaders Liverpool after the forward’s second half double saw off Championship rivals Watford.
Mara struck twice in five minutes shortly after the break to ensure Russell Martin’s promotion-chasing side carried their impressive league form into the cup.
Che Adams made up for a first half miss when he volleyed the third from Joe Rothwerll’s cross to kill off Watford’s resistance in the 76th minute
And the reward for extending their unbeaten run to a club record 23 games in all competitions was a high-profile visit to Anfield.
Saints assistant boss Matt Gill had pointed out before this game that the club would play eight games in February if they made it past Valerian Ismael’s side at St Mary’s – but the prospect of a meeting with Jurgen Klopp’s side will help ease concerns about a crowded schedule.
Sekou Mara scored twice as Southampton booked tie with Premier League leaders Liverpool
Mara was sent clear of the Hornets defence and converted with a low finish in the 52nd minute
After a 1-1 draw in the first meeting, it looked as though the two sides could face a long evening during a dull first half.
Adams was presented with the best chance when he fund himself unmarked eight yards out but was unable to steer his shot past Watfod keeper Daniel Bachmann.
But Saints finally sprang into life seven minutes after the restart when Joe Rothwell and Adams combined to send Mara clear behind the Hornets defence and the forward converted with a low finish.
The second followed five minutes later when Mara fired off an unstoppable 20-yard drive before Adams wrapped things up.
Mara doubled the home side’s advantage with an unstoppable 20-yard in 58th minute
Che Adams sealed victory for Russell Martin’s promotion-chasing side on Tuesday night
Saints forward Adams volleyed the third from Joe Rothwerll’s cross in the 76th minute
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