Following their Europa League defeat against Inter Milan, the South Coast club – Southampton – finally have something to cheer about, as they managed to hold a well-drilled Manchester City side for a 1-1 draw at the Etihad stadium. The new signing from Norwich City, Nathan Redmond, opened the scoring for the Saints, which was later denied by Manchester City’s young lad Kelechi Iheanacho.
The Citizens had all the possession in the game, but Saints were deadly in their counters. Besides, their Dutch centre-back, Virgil Van Dijk, had a busy afternoon, but the 25-year-old coped with the pressure with ease. Southampton will surely be a happy side and they well and truly have frustrated Pep Guardiola, who will be challenging Manchester United for the second time in the league (for the EFL cup tie).
So here is how the Saints fared in the game:
SOUTHAMPTON (4-3-1-2)
Fraser Forster– 7
He made a string of fine saves throughout the game. Was instrumental in keeping City down to one goal.
Cucu Martina- 7.5
A very solid performance from the Curacao international. Did everything in his hands to keep Manchester City at bay.
Virgil Van Dijk – 8
A dominant performance from the Dutch stopper. He was the one who was filled with swagger, style and composedness.
Sam Mcqueen– 7.5
Did really well on his full debut for the club. Had the opposition winger in his pockets all game and did well going forward.
Jose Fonte – 7
Southampton’s European Championship winner did really well to keep out several attempts. Put in a usual rugged performance.
Oriel Romeu – 7
A very rock-hard performance from the former Chelsea man. Seems to have understood his role at Southampton to perfection. Perfect enforcer.
Jordy Clasie– 6.5 ( Pierre- Emile Hojberg 66, 6)
Did well to spray passes around and kept things ticking in midfield. Was taken off after the hour mark.
Steven Davis – 6
An industrious performance from the Northern Irish man. He is an ever-willing runner and this showed today.
Dusan Tadic – 6 (Boufal 69, 6)
The Serbian had a quiet game altogether. Was impressive enough in possession but could not find the needed final passes.
Nathan Redmond – 7
Finished expertly after Stones gifted him possession. Was a threat throughout the game and looked very sharp.
Charlie Austin- 6 (James Warde Prowse 82, N/A)
Tested Bravo at every given opportunity and put in a good shift. Was replaced with 10 minutes to go.