Southampton 3-2 West Ham United: Three key players
By Erik Franzo
Manolo Gabbiadini
Manolo Gabbiadini may not have had a lot of the ball Saturday, but he was a clear difference maker.
He broke the ice, and a nine-hour goal-drought at home with his strike in the 11th minute. The Italian started the play in the middle of the park and blew by former Saint Jose Fonte before tucking home the opener.
The impact of Manolo’s goal broke the tension on the south coast and allowed the team to play the free-flowing football their fans desire. That contribution alone changed the face of the game and potentially the season ahead.