Newcastle 2-2 Southampton: Premier League – Player Ratings

James Ward-Prowse saved the day with an extra time penalty kick to earn Southampton a 2-2 draw at St. James Park.

Mohammed Elyounoussi scored a hattrick against Newport County and earned himself a spot in the first team at Newcastle.  The Norwegian overcame barrier after barrier to find his way back in the graces of Ralph Hasenhuttl.  A feat that deserves all the attention.  Kyle Walker-Peters found his way back to the starting eleven, taking Romain Perraud’s place on the left-side.  Perhaps KWP was better suited to deal with Allan Saint-Maximin, who always gives the Saints a challenge.

Southampton could not figure out the low block in the opening 45.  Creativity, confidence, and clinical finishing were all lacking.  Moussa Djenepo may never hear the end of his miss, but Tino Livramento could have been offside in the build up.  Djenepo overworked the second best chance of the match as well, and this will have many Saints fans clamoring for an alternative.  Nathan Redmond was his swap in the second half, contributing an assist and a key pass to Armstrong leading to the penalty.

James Ward-Prowse saved the day with an ice cold penalty.  Let’s not underplay the pressure loaded on his shoulders in that moment.  Southampton should have never been in this spot, but taking a point away at Newcastle when surely the game was lost is a huge relief.  Three points looked likely, but zero was almost inevitable.  Credit to the boys for not giving in.

Mohammed Salisu was massive and Mo Elyounoussi gained some followers today.  Nathan Redmond was an impact of the bench, but much of the team looked lost during a match they could have taken complete control in.  Here are the player ratings for Southampton away at St. James’ park.