Strikers and Substitutes
Adam Armstrong, Striker – 6
Everything he tried in the opening half hour was disconnected. Attempted a couple half-hearted shots, but was crowded out by the Newcastle low block. Flat-footed too often and dare we say, looked a bit nervous in his hometown club. Spent too much time floating balls to the back post instead of getting involved in the box. Gets a tick in the right direction for the slip run and winning the PK.
Che Adams, Striker – 5
Impact moment was his relentless pressure on the left side to create a shot for Elyounoussi. Although Southampton dominated the first half, he never looked likely to score. Ralph realized his hold up play was not deemed necessary and brought on Broja for a different look.
Nathan Redmond, Substitute Attacking-Midfielder – 7
30 plus minutes for Redmond today on the left wing. Created the first goal with a great left-footed cross to find Elyounoussi at the back post. Lost the ball twice in critical position just five minutes later, but his team saved him. Slipped Armstrong in for the PK, which is an assist that won’t find its way on the scoresheet.
Armando Broja, Substitute Striker – 6
Arriving for Che Adams in the 70th minute, the Chelsea loanee was handed his first Southampton Premier League performance. Nearly got his head on the cross of Elyounoussi’s goal, dragging his defender to the near post in the process. Not too many touches on the field, but you can see his instinct in and around the box.
Ibrahima Diallo, Substitute Centre-Midfielder – N/A
Probably should have started this match with Newcastle’s negative tactics, but he showed late on he may be strong with the ball, but doesn’t understand how to manage a game. Diallo was running an overlap inside the 18 with Livramento just before the Newcastle counter attack and second goal. He must learn from this!