DEFENDER Jan Bednarek was a monster at the back for Southampton despite suffering a 3-1 defeat at Premier League title contenders Arsenal.
The Polish international made countless blocks and tackles to keep Mikel Arteta's Gunners at bay until just before the hour mark.
His defensive actions were ultimately in vain. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli struck twice to turn the game around - after Cameron Archer had given Saints the lead - before Bukaya Saka killed the game.
Here's how we rated every Southampton player's performance in North London...
Aaron Ramsdale - 6.
Got a nice reception from the home supporters on his return to Arsenal. Played some loose passes but kept Saints in the game while under the pump. Conceded another three goals, although none were his fault.
Yukinari Sugawara - 5.
A difficult afternoon for the Japanese international. He left Gabriel Martinelli free at the back post for Arsenal's second before dribbling into Bukayo Saka for the third. Could have had an assist at 2-1 when he fired in a good low cross.
Jan Bednarek - 8.
A behemoth at the back for Saints. Hardly put a foot wrong and unlucky to be a part of a defence that allowed three goals. Made countless interventions and blocks in important moments.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis - 7.
Similarly brilliant despite the three goals conceded. Kept Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus quiet before they were withdrawn. Headed off the crossbar. Another step in the right direction.
Kyle Walker-Peters - 6.
Came back into the starting lineup having been an unused sub in the last two games. Kept Saka out of the game in the first half before the England international wrestled control after the break.
A solid performance marred by his error which led to Arsenal's equaliser. Should have played safe but his pass was pinched leading to Kai Havertz scoring.
Joe Aribo - 7.
Came back in from the start after a positive showing against AFC Bournemouth from the bench. Delivered another good performance, popping up with tackles and blocks.
Mateus Fernandes - 7.
Another statement performance. Showed real tenacity to win back the ball and matched it with a quality ball to find Cameron Archer for his goal. Dinked onto the crossbar, denying him a first league goal.
Another mature performance from the teenager. Had an entertaining battle with Ricardo Calafirori. Good run to set up Fernandes for an effort onto the crossbar. Saw a good effort touched behind for a corner.
Ryan Manning - 7.
Came back in from his first start of the season and his Premier League debut. Played a role which was a cross between wing-back and winger. Doubled up on Saka.
Ross Stewart - N/A.
Saw his first Southampton start and Premier League debut bitterly cut short when he pulled up with an injury on 27 minutes. A gutting afternoon.
READ MORE: 'Gutted' - Martin issues Stewart update after striker goes off injured
Cameron Archer - 7.
Came on for Stewart in the first half after a very short warm-up. Gave Saints a different option up front. Took his chance brilliantly having been played in by Fernandes. An important first league goal for Saints.
Archer x away end = 😍 pic.twitter.com/UKfBT5sviT
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) October 5, 2024
Adam Armstrong - 6.
Came on for Manning in an attacking change as Saints searched for a way back into the game after falling behind. Played a role in a move which saw Sugawara in down the right. Can be something in the Premier League
Paul Onuachu - 6.
Made his first league appearance under Martin. He impressed and proved he can be an option. Looked good with the ball at his feet, making the ball stick, giving Saints an outlet.
Charlie Taylor - N/A.
Came on in additional time after Sugawara went down injured following Saka's goal.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here