Source: Team_Talk
Pardew: Connolly deserved to score
The Irish striker joined Saints as a free agent having been released by Sunderland following an injury-hit spell in the north east.
And Connolly's efforts to get fit and earn a contract with Southampton were rewarded when he came on as a substitute and hit his side's third goal in the 3-1 win at Oldham.
"It was so pleasing for Connolly, because if ever a player deserved a goal it's him," said Pardew.
"The work he has put in to rebuild his professional career is great. He got a booking for his celebration but it was something we could forgive him for."