Match

Winners and losers after Southampton vs Wrexham include Ollie Palmer and new signing

Add as preferred source on Google

The Red Dragons got their 2025/26 campaign underway on August 9 against Southampton.

Wrexham have been predicted a 21st-place finish in the Championship this season.

But a big statement win against a side who were playing in the Premier League last term would have lifted hopes that they can achieve a lot more than that.

Phil Parkinson shocked fans with his Wrexham team to take on the Saints, and when all was said and done, it ended it finished 2-1 to Southampton.

Here are the biggest winners and losers from the early kick-off.

Phil Parkinson before Southampton v Wrexham AFC - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Winners from Southampton vs Wrexham

Josh Windass

To the surprise of nobody who has watched EFL football in the last several years, Josh Windass is already proving a great addition.

Windass impressed fans in pre-season and was similarly solid on his competitive debut.

His creativity is a level above anyone else in the Wrexham squad, making several chances and coming close to scoring himself early on with a curling effort from deep that hit the bar.

He stepped up to take the penalty in the first half and converted with ease.

Kieffer Moore

A signing that was mocked by rival fans when it happened, Parkinson’s decision to sign Kieffer Moore looks very wise.

The manager has always favoured a big man in the front line, but with Steven Fletcher gone and Ollie Palmer a level below the Championship, fresh legs were needed.

And while it’s only early days, it’s clear Moore has fitted seamlessly into the eleven. He is the focal point of the Dragons’ attack and was excellent against Southampton. Moore was dominant in the air and drew plenty of fouls, including winning the penalty.

Josh Windass of Wrexham celebrates scoring his team's first goal from the penalty spot during the Sky Bet Championship match between Southampton and Wrexham
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Losers from Southampton vs Wrexham

Arthur Okonkwo

Arthur Okonkwo’s form for Wrexham during the 2025 pre-season was pretty mixed.

But it was still a big surprise to see the former Arsenal goalkeeper left out on Saturday.

Danny Ward was signed to be a back-up goalkeeper, but Parkinson seemingly felt he had to make a change for the opening day clash.

Ollie Palmer

When the team news was confirmed prior to kick-off, there was no room in the squad for Ollie Palmer.

The striker has not made a competitive appearance since January 28, 2025, which came against Stevenage.

Palmer could now leave Wrexham despite featuring fairly heavily for the club during their pre-season.