Thomas's thunderbolt for Southampton proves too much for Ipswich

The plot of this absorbing tie followed the stories of these sides' seasons. For Ipswich the campaign so far has been a tale of promise unfulfilled and, after a dominant start at St Mary's, Roy Keane's team were ushered out of the Cup by League One side Southampton, who recovered from a rocky beginning to claim a reward they ultimately deserved. That is becoming a defining theme for Alan Pardew's men, whose progress into the last 16 mirrors increased momentum both in the league and Johnston Paint trophy. Keane's eagerness to advance in this competition was reflected in a strong starting line-up and the home goalkeeper, Kelvin Davis, was in constant action in the first half until Wayne Thomas changed the course of events in the 31st minute with a blast into the top corner of the Ipswich goal from 25 yards. It was only the full-back's second goal in four and a half years. "I'd like to say he does that every day in training but that's not true," said a pleasantly surprised Pardew. Thereafter Ipswich struggled to create chances. They did get the ball in the net in the 49th minute, but referee Andy Hall declined to award a goal on the basis that Carlos Edwards' throw-in had flown directly into the net. The Ipswich players protested and Pardew confessed: "I didn't see a lot wrong with it, to be honest." Keane refused to grasp at a ready excuse and said: "I've no issue with it." He did have an issue, however, with his team's inability to threaten again until it was too late. Southampton enjoyed the upper hand in the second period and went 2-0 in front in the 74th minute when Michail Antonio stabbed into the net after Arran Lee-Barrett spilled a Rickie Lambert free-kick. Lambert came close to adding a third himself before Ipswich substitute Pablo Couñago inflicted a nervous last few minutes on the hosts with a smart finish from close range. "It's easy to play when you're 2-0 down," said Keane. "I'm not going to get excited about that."