So after a valiant and impressive display last week at Manchester City, Southampton would surely gain their first three points of the season against Wigan? Wrong. The Saints were firmly brought back down to earth as they were well and truly reminded of what the Premier League is all about.
Wigan stuck to their game plan magnificently. They dug in whilst facing a barrage of pressure and took their chances when they came, allowing them to comfortably close the game out. New boys Saints showed plenty of enthusiasm and attacking nouse once more, yet had no answer to the Latics passing or movement after falling behind.
Despite the result, captain Adam Lallana once again showed he is Premier League quality. First half he controlled the midfield, made one darting run after another and was unfortunate to see a thunderous shot tipped onto the bar. This is a player who played on the wing all of last season. A change in formation has seen Lallana pushed into the middle. Seemingly unfazed he is reveling in the new role, not afraid to shirk a tackle and providing incisive through balls to his team-mates. He will continue to be crucial to Saints’ success.
The goals conceded will provide a harsh lesson for Nigel Adkins’ defence. Franco di Santo managed to get in behind to finish well, whilst Jose Fonte’s dithering on the halfway line allowed Arouna Kone to seal Wigan’s victory. Yes you could argue Fonte was fouled, but one lapse of concentration in the top flight will ultimately be punished. They need to learn that and quickly.
Let’s put things into perspective however: you’re always going to get fans who think the Saints have a divine right to beat Wigan. Failure to do so sees the number of ridiculous comments accumulate. Adkins out. Jay Rodriguez, currently playing out of position, is a waste of money.
Yes the defeat was disappointing and in the scheme of things the Saints may well find themselves bottom after four games, as Manchester United and Arsenal follow in the next fortnight.
But new signings will be brought in this week – a winger and centre back being the priority. The team will grow in confidence and most importantly they will learn to adapt to the Premier League and its quality. They need look no further than their opponents yesterday to see how it’s done.
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