West Brom 1-2 Southampton: Three key takeaways
By Erik Franzo
![WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Mario Lemina and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Southampton challenge James McClean of West Bromwich Albion during the The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round between West Bromwich Albion v Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 17, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Mario Lemina and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Southampton challenge James McClean of West Bromwich Albion during the The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round between West Bromwich Albion v Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 17, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/76df8330410e053b14ad634856bfadc4a75abee4fd7a7fd8a7458dac82e2cc5d.jpg)
Josh Sims needs a chance to play
When a young player gets just a few minutes at the end of a close game you don’t expect much.
Josh Sims was thrown into that scenario, entering in the 85th minute, with a 2-1 scoreline, and the home team threatening. However, he made a real impact.
Sims displayed intent to go forward, something the Saints side continually lacks. He showed ability to change pace and take players on. Burning the West Brom left-back before setting up Jame Ward-Prowse for a chance to put the game away. Sims even closed the game out with a defensive block on James McClean cross.
Yes, he started the season injured and had to work himself back to fitness, but now he looks 100% healthy and just awaiting his chance.
The competition ahead of him is tough, and it looks like Nathan Redmond is ready to make an impact again. However, Sims is a player who’s mentality has not been affected by the season thus far, and could be just the spark the Southampton attack needs.