Southampton 1-1 Brighton: Premier League – Player Ratings

Southampton conceded a 98th minute equaliser to spoil an otherwise solid performance at St. Mary’s.

Ralph Hasenhuttl made only two changes from the 2-2 midweek draw with Leicester.  Jan Bednarek was forced out of the side with a calf injury, inserting fan favourite Lyanco into the starting eleven.  The Brazilian left-footer held out pressure from Jack Stephens who has returned from a long spell on the sidelines, likely a decision of fitness alone.  Armando Broja was the second change, taking over for out-of-form striker Adam Armstrong.  Broja certainly offers a different type of striker and the power paired with Che Adams is a potential dangerous partnership for Premier League defences.

Southampton controlled the opening half hour, creating incredible chances to score.  Brighton failed to play out of pressure and the Saints were given multiple opportunities through Broja, Adams, and Tella.  Armando Broja, after two early misses, would break the deadlock with a deft flick from Nathan Redmond.  The Albanian striker is the first name on most fan team sheets, but now he may be on Ralph’s.

Saints pushed for a second, but it never came.  Broja missed the best chance of the bunch, but Southampton otherwise looked toothless when opportunities came their way.  Brighton were further reduced to 10 men, leaving the Saints to manage the match out, but again they were unable to complete this rather simple task.

Neal Maupay’s 98th minute equaliser was a dagger in an all-around dominating team performance.  The fact that the late mistakes arrived from Senior players James Ward-Prowse and Oriol Romeu put the knife straight in the fans’ hearts.  Another 2 points lost and 71 in total under Ralph’s control.  What may get lost is all the leads the team has taken, but it will when match management is absolutely woeful.

Here are the Saints’ player ratings. for the disappointing draw with Brighton & Hove Albion.