Newly-promoted Wrexham were left heartbroken at St Mary’s on Saturday as Southampton snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory with two goals deep into stoppage time, denying the Welsh side a dream start to life in the Championship.
The Saints, fresh from relegation out of the Premier League, looked set for a chastening afternoon in Will Still’s first match as manager. With six of their eight summer signings in the starting line-up, Wrexham appeared more than comfortable at this level and took a deserved lead midway through the first half. Josh Windass coolly converted from the spot after Kieffer Moore was bundled over in the box by Ronnie Edwards, capping a bright spell for the visitors.
Wrexham might have doubled their advantage before the break. Windass rattled the crossbar with a fierce effort, while Conor Coady and Lewis Brunt both squandered golden chances. At the other end, Jay Robinson went close for the hosts, thumping an effort against the post in a breathless opening 45 minutes.
After the interval, the tempo eased but Southampton began to assert their authority, dominating possession and pushing Wrexham deeper into their own half. The introduction of Mateus Fernandes – one of several Saints players attracting Premier League interest – gave the hosts added impetus, and the pressure eventually told.
With the clock ticking into the 90th minute, substitute Ryan Manning produced a moment of brilliance, curling a stunning 25-yard free-kick beyond the despairing dive of Arthur Okonkwo. The home crowd sensed blood, and six minutes into injury time, Jack Stephens bundled home from close range after Manning’s low cross found its way through a crowded penalty area.
The late turnaround sparked wild celebrations among the Southampton faithful and handed 32-year-old Still a memorable first win in English football. For Wrexham, it was a cruel lesson in the unforgiving nature of the Championship – but with performances like this, they’ll believe there’s plenty more to come.
