Manager, Goalkeeper, and Defenders
Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager – 8
The Southampton manager decided to go with a 4-3-3, making five changes from the Friday night game against Bournemouth. A plethora of experience was put into the side with McCarthy, Bertrand, Soares, Yoshida, and Ings all playing their part. The boss let the team fight through the tough periods, did not change the shape, and as always, believed in his team from start to finish.
Alex McCarthy, Goalkeeper – 7
Maybe the surprise addition of the evening, but made a lot of sense because of his experience over Gunn. Made a huge save on a Brett Pitman header diving down to his right, but was nearly beat on his near post 15 minutes in on a quick Portsmouth strike. Not a lot to do in the second half other than a massive punch out. Was overall decent in possession and used often.
Ryan Bertrand, Left-Back – 5
Restored to the starting eleven after a questionable absence from the Saints’ side. Had a rough opening 30 minutes, giving away a counter-attack opportunity which Pompey nearly capitalized on. Turned the ball over far too much in the first half and did not make a difference going forward. Took a silly yellow in the second half, and overall was just an OK performance in a game he should have relished playing in.
Maya Yoshida, Centre-Back – 8
Many fans expected to see Maya in the derby and they were not wrong. Partnered with Bednarek and was forced into a lot of possession early. Came to life after getting elbowed in the stomach in the second half, and was a man possessed from there on out.
Jan Bednarek, Centre-Back – 8
Was busy from the start and made his first impact poking a ball off the Southampton goal line. A couple big blocks as usual, timely tackles, pressed the Pompey strikers nicely, and once again proved Mark Hughes was clueless.
Cedric Soares, Right-Back – 7
Took a lot of heat from the Pompey fans on the right side all night. Found himself in a very unnatural position building up to his goal, but he took his chance. His stare down of Curtis in extra time was a great memory. Did enough again to keep Valery on the sidelines for the weekend.