Southampton’s midfield efforts were led by Mateus Fernandes, one of the few positives in a game where the Saints failed to produce a single shot on target. Wolves claimed a crucial 2-0 victory, with goals from Pablo Sarabia and Matheus Cunha, pulling ahead of Southampton in the standings.

Controversy struck when Ryan Manning thought he had equalized, only for the goal to be ruled out due to a foul by Fernandes in the buildup—a decision that drew frustration from Southampton’s camp.

Here’s a look at how each Southampton player performed in what became a challenging day at Molineux.

Aaron Ramsdale – 5

Ramsdale had a mixed afternoon, facing difficulties but also showcasing his shot-stopping ability. He was left exposed as Pablo Sarabia bypassed him to net Wolves’ first goal. Shortly after halftime, Ramsdale made a crucial save to prevent Joao Gomes from doubling the lead, keeping Southampton in the contest momentarily. However, he could do little to stop Matheus Cunha’s powerful strike that sealed the game. Ramsdale’s distribution nearly cost Saints another goal, as his stray pass went straight to Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, who fortunately lifted the ball wide.

Kyle Walker-Peters – 5

Walker-Peters had a challenging game, contributing to Wolves’ first goal by heading the ball into their possession during the buildup in the opening moments. He struggled defensively, particularly against Matheus Cunha’s counterattacks, and was unable to fully contain Wolves’ advances. On a positive note, he showed some intent going forward, beating his marker but often lacked a decisive final ball to create real danger. His efforts were evident as he completed the most passes into the final third, though they didn’t lead to significant opportunities.

Jan Bednarek – 5

Bednarek was arguably the steadiest in Southampton’s backline, offering some resilience amidst the pressure. However, he narrowly escaped punishment when Jean-Ricner Bellegarde missed a golden chance from Rayan Aït-Nouri’s delivery to the back post. Despite his solid positioning and awareness, Bednarek’s performance couldn’t fully stem the tide of Wolves’ offensive efforts.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis – 5

A disappointing showing for Harwood-Bellis, especially after earning his first England call-up. He was caught out of position for Wolves’ opening goal, leaving Southampton exposed at the back. While he posed some threat during corners, his defensive lapses ultimately overshadowed his contributions, underscoring a performance that fell short of expectations.

Jack Stephens – 5

Stephens struggled with the hybrid role, highlighting his limitations when shifting between defense and midfield. He left a significant gap between himself and Manning, allowing Pablo Sarabia to exploit the space, receive the ball, and round Ramsdale for the opening goal. His positioning issues contributed to Wolves’ control and revealed vulnerabilities in Southampton’s defensive structure.

Ryan Manning – 6

Manning’s afternoon was tinged with frustration. He thought he had leveled the score after a powerful finish, only for his goal to be disallowed due to a foul in the buildup. Despite showing attacking intent, he was subbed off at halftime, possibly unlucky as he seemed one of Southampton’s more proactive players.

Adam Lallana – 4

Lallana endured a tough game, frequently caught in possession and unable to keep pace when Wolves countered. His failure to close down Cunha gave the Wolves forward space to score the second goal, summing up a difficult outing.

Joe Aribo – 5

A late addition to the lineup, replacing Flynn Downes, Aribo struggled to make his mark in midfield. He missed a crucial opportunity when he couldn’t connect with Manning’s ball at the back post, which could have changed the game’s momentum.

Mateus Fernandes – 6

Fernandes was one of Southampton’s few positives on a disappointing day. He was influential on both sides of the ball, winning key tackles and initiating forward moves. However, some of his passes could have used a bit more precision. Still, his drive and commitment were a rare highlight for the team.

Adam Armstrong – 4

Armstrong couldn’t extend his scoring form in this match. He took an early shot after Wolves’ opener but struggled to make an impact otherwise. None of his crosses, dribbles, or tackles succeeded, leaving him largely ineffective in the attack.

Cameron Archer – 4

Archer had minimal involvement, with only 12 touches and five passes in his 73 minutes on the field. Isolated in the attack, he rarely saw the ball and struggled to get involved. He was fouled in the lead-up to Wolves’ second goal, though it did little to shift the game’s outcome.

Tyler Dibling – 5

Brought on at halftime for Manning, Dibling aimed to inject some energy into a stagnant Southampton attack. Though he faced limited support when trying to create in tight spaces, he managed to complete more dribbles than any other Saints player, showing his willingness to take on defenders. Despite his efforts, he struggled to fully connect with his teammates in the final third.

Yukinari Sugawara – 5

Unable to replicate his impactful performance against Leicester, Sugawara struggled to make a difference from the bench. Positioned himself in various spots as Southampton’s structure faltered, but he couldn’t provide the spark needed.

Lesley Ugochukwu – 5

The Chelsea loanee continued his struggles, earning a yellow card for a clumsy late tackle. Though brought on to add energy, his decision-making was slow, and he didn’t have the desired influence in midfield.

Paul Onuachu – 5

Introduced with 20 minutes remaining, Onuachu found himself isolated in attack. Limited service saw him touch the ball just once in the Wolves box, unable to make any meaningful impact on the game.

Ben Brereton Diaz – 5

Entering the game with Onuachu, Brereton Diaz found it tough to make his mark on an attack needing a breakthrough. He had a half-chance but let the opportunity slip as he miscontrolled a difficult dropping ball, allowing it to run through to Jose Sa.