Southampton 1-1 Brighton: Three match takeaways

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Guido Carrillo of Southampton is challenged by Gaetan Bong of Brighton and Hove Albion during the Premier League match between Southampton and Brighton and Hove Albion at St Mary's Stadium on January 31, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Guido Carrillo of Southampton is challenged by Gaetan Bong of Brighton and Hove Albion during the Premier League match between Southampton and Brighton and Hove Albion at St Mary's Stadium on January 31, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Players, fans and officials remember ex-footballer Cyrille Regis who passed away earlier this week prior to the Premier League match between Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur at St Mary’s Stadium on January 21, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Players, fans and officials remember ex-footballer Cyrille Regis who passed away earlier this week prior to the Premier League match between Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur at St Mary’s Stadium on January 21, 2018 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

St. Mary’s is losing home field advantage

Southampton fans need to recognize the energy they bring to each game is critical throughout a relegation battle.

The crowd began the game in strong support, but the penalty kick changed the atmosphere entirely.  With the team showing nerves from kick off, this just made the game that much more difficult.

With each and every back pass, or negative play, the fans groaned.  At times in the first half, all you could hear were Brighton fans from the live feed.  Their were positive moments of applause mixed in, but the half time whistle was followed by boos.

In the future, if you plan to boo at St. Mary’s, just don’t go.  The team has enough pressure on them already, and you are simply compounding it.

The additions of Guido Carrillo and Sofiane Boufal at half time lifted spirits briefly.  However, the lack of attack, and missed connections throughout the second half created tension you could cut a knife with.  Jack Stephens goal was not enough to temper it, but did give the fans hope.

It is impossible for passionate Southampton fans to control their emotions.  Especially when heading into the stadium with so much disdain.  However, unquestioned support of the team and players, from each and every member, is the only way we can make St. Mary’s a difficult place for visitors.