Manning crucial, Edwards appalling – Southampton player ratings v Wrexham
Southampton struggled to break down a plucky Wrexham side yet two late goals sealed the three points on Will Still’s debut in the Championship.
The Saints marched to three points after eventually finding a way past an organised Phil Parkinson side, winning 2-1 at the death.
The Welsh outfit came out guns blazing in their long-awaited return to the English second-division as Josh Windass converted from the spot after Ronnie Edwards’ clumsy challenge on Kieffer Moore.
After huffing and puffing for much of the match, it looked like St Mary’s was set to suffer on the first day of the season in a bid for promotion.
But an unbelievable free-kick from Ryan Manning and a poacher’s winner from captain Jack Stephens sent the south coast side wild as they eventually prevailed.
Of particular note was the absence from the match day squad of Tyler Dibling who could move to Everton, after requesting to leave the club.
Stephens leading by example, Edwards with a day to forget
Gavin Bazunu – 8
The Irishman had very little to do but when called upon produced a superb save to keep out the opponents from notching a second and putting the game to bed which proved to be a turning point in the tie. Very dependable in between the sticks and couldn’t do much to stop Windass’ penalty.
Yukinari Sugawara – 5
Ran like a mad man up and down the right-hand side with little attacking impetus to get into the box, not given the time to concern the Wrexham defence apart from a few wayward crosses.
Ronnie Edwards – 3
After giving away the penalty the 22-year-old looked panicked and was too obsessed with his man on a regular basis rather than the ball. Has much learning to do to fix his clumsiness.
Jack Stephens – 9
Smashed in the winning goal off-the bar to snatch a vital set of three points for his side whilst not putting a foot wrong throughout the game, inspirational captain performance.
Joshua Quarshie – 8
The 21-year-old looks a shrewd buy from Hoffenheim as he won practically every battle he faced as well as carrying the ball out from the back expertly. One to watch for the season for sure with his hardened characteristics.
Welington – 5
Similar to his Japanese counterpart, worked his socks off but couldn’t test the Welsh outfit’s defence with his crosses. Will need to work on finding men in the box on the training ground for sure.
Fraser winded back the years, Downes ill-disciplined
Flynn Downes – 5
Terrier-like running and forceful tackling but with little effect throughout the match, picking up an unnecessary yellow card in the process. Did provide two key passes but will need to step up to better control counter-attacks going forward.
Shea Charles – 7
Every time Southampton got anywhere near the box, Charles would always pop up in and around the 18-yard area to threaten the Wrexham backline. Defensively was also dominant and contended for every duel that came his way.
Ryan Fraser – 8
The Scotsman was the glue between the midfield and up front, often initiating the high-press on the backline of the Welsh side. He found numerous pockets to pop the ball into, combining that with his tireless running.
Robinson promising, Armstrong wasteful
Jay Robinson – 7
Exciting prospect who got the crowd on their feet every time he picked up the ball, popping shots off for fun including hitting the post in the first half. He needs to work on his finishing but I am intrigued to see how Robinson’s season progresses at only 18-years-old.
Adam Armstrong – 3
Pushed hard to press the ball but snatched at the limited opportunities he had which increased as the game went on. His manager has both Cameron Archer and Ross Stewart waiting in the wings who could knock the forward off his perch going forward.
Substitutes
Mateus Fernandes – 5
I’m a huge fan of Fernandes who has been linked with a move to West Ham, but not given enough time to make a significant impact today. Bright whenever he gets on the ball and surprising he was not in the starting XI, likely due to transfer speculation.
Damion Downs – 4
American prodigy who is destined for big things and made a respectable first impression off-the-bench by teeing up Stephens to smash the ball home. I expect we will see much more from the 21-year-old this season but he will need to show more to push into first team.
Ryan Manning – 10 – Player of the Match
An outrageous free-kick from more than 27-yards-out and a pivotal pass to set up Stephens’ winner on a plate? Take a bow Manning who was instrumental in the Saints comeback after playing just 19 minutes – super sub.
Cameron Archer – 3
Came on for 19 minutes and only managed to touch the ball twice, the Englishman provided very little impact off the bench.
Ross Stewart – 4
On for just 11 minutes, the Scotsman came on to a roar of cheers from the Saints fan who are great admirers of his heart and work rate. After Armstrong’s performance today he will be looking to push into starting XI.