Southampton vs Manchester City: Three Key Moments from a tight affair

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 19: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton applauds the fans as he walks to take a corner kick during the Premier League match between Southampton and Manchester City at St Mary's Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Southampton, England. A limited number of fans are welcomed back to stadiums to watch elite football across England. This was following easing of restrictions on spectators in tiers one and two areas only. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 19: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton applauds the fans as he walks to take a corner kick during the Premier League match between Southampton and Manchester City at St Mary's Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Southampton, England. A limited number of fans are welcomed back to stadiums to watch elite football across England. This was following easing of restrictions on spectators in tiers one and two areas only. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
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Bernando Silva of Manchester City and Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City, Moussa Djenepo of Southampton (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Bernando Silva of Manchester City and Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City, Moussa Djenepo of Southampton (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Close but No Cigar

Five minutes from time Southampton were still very much in the fight and looking to take a share of the spoils.

Nathan Tella began his day on the bench but received an early introduction to proceedings replacing the injured Ings. The youth academy product had a largely quiet match, but almost proved the crucial difference maker in the dying moments.

Jannik Vestergaard stole the ball away from Manchester city and looked to set a Southampton attack in motion. With neat quick passes the ball found its way to Tella out on the wing.

The Englishman looks to pick out Theo Walcott, who was made a run in between two City defenders. Sadly, the ball is slightly over hit and runs through to a grateful keeper.

The move might not have panned out as hoped, but it does hint at good vision and footballing IQ from Nathan Tella.