Manchester United 2-2 Southampton: Premier League – Three Key Players

Southampton FC grabbed a late equaliser via Michael Obafemi to earn a 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Stuart Armstrong opened the scoring in the 12th minute as Nathan Redmond found him at the far post.  The Scottish International continued his torrid form by cushioning the cross before connecting from six yards out.  More impressive was the press which led to the goal, as Danny Ings caught Paul Pogba in possession shortly after receiving the ball from David de Gea. It was a classic Hasenhuttl tactic and Southampton were so good at disrupting United’s passing from the get go, something Ole Gunnar Solskjaer praised the Saints for in his postmatch interview.

A ten minute period undid all of Southampton’s early work.  Anthony Martial was involved in both goals, assisting the first and scoring the second.  The conceded goals came down the Saints’ right side which appeared vulnerable and under constant attack from United.  The goals themselves were just three minutes apart and one has to wonder what could have been if not for this soft spell from Southampton.

The Saints ended up with 52% possession in an away match at Old Trafford.  United were playing with 10 men for the duration of stoppage time as their substitute Brandon Williams received treatment for a head injury. Although, those closely watching the competition would have recognized Southampton had took over the match while pressing for a late equaliser.  Ralph Hasenhuttl decided to use just three of his five allotted substitutes once again, but one would pay off significantly, as Michael Obafemi nicked a goal at the back post.

There were plenty of impressive performances throughout the Southampton side, but three key players had a great affect on the game. Here are the Saints who made a difference in the final decision with some interesting talking points as the team has just three games remaining in the 2019-20 Premier League season.