Villa vs Southampton: Key Players in Saints Victory

Southampton's English midfielder James Ward-Prowse (R) scores their third goal directly from a free kick during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Southampton at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on November 1, 2020. (Photo by Michael Steele / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MICHAEL STEELE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /

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Southampton’s English goalkeeper Alex McCarthy warms u /

Alex McCarthy

In a match with seven goals, it might seem odd to single out a goalkeeper for his performance, but Alex McCarthy was in impressive form against Aston Villa. Although he will be disappointed not to have secured another clean sheet, he made a series of eye-catching stops to preserve his side’s lead.

Whilst no-one doubts his shot stopping ability, McCarthy is often criticised for his reluctance to come off his line or to claim crosses. However, he did well to deal with the crosses flooded into the box by Aston Villa and was a reassuring presence amongst the chaos of the last 20 minutes.

Watkins gave him no chance with his smartly taken penalty, whilst Southampton’s defence should have done better after allowing Tyrone Mings a free header. As for the final goal in the 97^th minute, McCarthy appeared to be unsighted for Jack Grealish’s late drive.

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