Phil Parkinson’s Wrexham fell to a 2-1 defeat on the South Coast, with Josh Windass getting a debut goal.
Wrexham surprised many early on by taking the game to Southampton, and whilst Southampton retained the majority of possession, Phil Parkinson’s side looked the stronger.
The Red Dragons were testing Will Still’s side, with Kieffer Moore and Josh Windass notably causing trouble, and it was the pair who were to thank for Wrexham’s opening goal.
Moore did very well to draw in a foul inside the box, and Josh Windass was called upon to convert the spot-kick, which he did coolly.
Wrexham’s top performance continued into the second half, which saw Parkinson’s side soak up pressure from the hosts.
Unfortunately, while Wrexham were on track for a famous win, Ryan Manning levelled up the score for Southampton with a brilliant free kick. Then Wrexham conceded in the final minute, which saw Southampton win it at the death
After the defeat, here is how we rated each Wrexham individual…
- READ MORE: Official statement made as Wrexham confirm two-time promotion winner has agreed new contract
Danny Ward
Did well to deny Jay Robinson’s effort in the 18th minute before the Wrexham defence defended vigilantly to block the successive efforts from the Southampton attack. A top stop to deny Adam Armstrong. Could not do much from Ryan Manning’s brilliant free kick. 6/10.
Max Cleworth
Handed an early yellow card after being turned by Saints youngster Jay Robinson. Arguably got away with one after the ball struck his hand early in the second half, but a penalty was not given. 7/10.
Conor Coady
Should have opened the scoring in the 7th minute, was expected to do far better. Managed an incredible double-block to deny Southampton an equaliser. 8/10.
Lewis Brunt
Came close to doubling Wrexham’s lead after his free header sailed over the bar. 6/10.
Ryan Barnett
It was a difficult test pitted against Southampton winger Ryan Fraser, who got the beating of Ryan Barnett on numerous occasions. 6/10.
- READ MORE: Wrexham drop huge hint Paul Mullin will never play for club again with decision before Southampton
Liberato Cacace
Did well to spread the play and provide a threat on the left flank. 7/10.
Matty James
Defensively sound in midfield and did not put a foot wrong. Worked very well alongside George Dobson and Lewis O’Brien. 6/10.
George Dobson
An assuring performance in the centre of the park, and helped Wrexham defend when they were against the cosh. 7/10.
Lewis O’Brien
Looked deadly from set-pieces and helped Phil Parkinson’s side tick by successfully moving the ball around. Never stopped covering ground and putting pressure on the Saints when Wrexham were out of possession. Took way too long in his one-on-one opportunity, could have wrapped up the game for Wrexham. 7/10.
- READ MORE: Wrexham fans are ‘shocked’ by Phil Parkinson decision vs Southampton, say it’s ‘insanity’
Josh Windass
Proved to be a potent threat in the final third, coming close when his effort struck off the woodwork. Calm from the spot to give Wrexham the lead. 8/10.
Kieffer Moore
Showed his aerial presence from early on, giving Ryan Barnett and Liberato Cacace a target for their crosses. Successfully drew in fouls from Southampton. Stunning run and did brilliantly to win a penalty. 9/10.
Sam Smith
Came on for Kieffer Moore after he picked up a knock. Saw very little of the ball as Wrexham defended in the second half. 6/10.
Ryan Hardie
5/10.
James McClean
6/10.