Southampton 1-3 Bournemouth: Premier League

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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 20: Che Adams of Southampton reacts to Bournemouth scoring there second goal during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and AFC Bournemouth at St Mary’s Stadium on September 20, 2019 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) /

As the referee blew for full time following a pulsating and absorbing encounter between Southampton and Bournemouth, the disappointment was audible amongst the home support.

Although the fans could reflect upon an exciting and improved second half performance, it was a case of what might have been but for some questionable tactical decisions from Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.

No manager should be exempt from criticism and the bizarre decision to play Cedric at left back and Kevin Danso at right back left Southampton utterly exposed in the first half at St Mary’s.

Despite the 1-3 scoreline in the Cherries favour, it was a distinctly tight affair with Southampton’s South coast neighbours prevailing after displaying a more clinical edge.

In fairness, there were some strong individual performances for the Saints and with Southampton’s real derby coming on Tuesday, there was sufficient reason to be hopeful of achieving a favourable result at Fratton Park.

Here are three key Southampton performances from the defeat:

Southampton 1-3 Bournemouth: Premier League – Three Key Players

By Alastair Case | Sep 21, 2019

As the referee blew for full time following a pulsating and absorbing encounter between Southampton and Bournemouth, the disappointment was audible amongst the home support.