PLAYER RATINGS: Super Southampton Stun Premier League Fulham As Ross Stewart Seals FA Cup Win | OneFootball

Ross Stewart’s late penalty has secured Southampton a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals after defeating Premier League side Fulham at Craven Cottage — a promising display for the Saints as the critical stages of the season come up.

There was little to separate the two teams before Ross Stewart’s late winner, with neither looking out of place or scraping their way through. From Daniel Peretz’s heroics to Finn Azaz’s well-rounded performance, here are the Southampton player ratings from their bout against Fulham.

Starting XI

Daniel Peretz — 9

Claiming crosses, catching low-drilled shots and bailing out the defence were just a fraction of Peretz’s contributions today. Since coming in, he’s already tallied five clean sheets with several man-of-the-match-worthy displays. The 25-year-old was composed on the ball, knowing exactly when to direct it long or play short.

James Bree — 7

In what feels like a new signing, James Bree’s return to Southampton has proven crucial. Today was no different. He limited Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze to just one attempt on target, resulting in their attacks often originating from the opposite side.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis — 9

The Englishman gave everything today, constantly putting his body on the line and leading by example with the captain’s armband. Playing alongside Nathan Wood, Bellis was pivotal as an outlet, playing seven passes into the final third and without being dispossessed once.

Nathan Wood — 7

Returning to the starting lineup, Wood delivered one of his best performances this season. He stuck tight to Muniz, sometimes fouling him, but ultimately limiting the Brazilian striker to zero shots on target. His role was to support Harwood-Bellis with physicality and pace — a task he carried out effectively.

Ryan Manning — 6

Without Welington, Ryan Manning has been the only natural option at left back. On the ball, the Irishman was comfortable picking out players and playing forward. He created one big chance and won 67% of his ground duels.

However, as a result of Fulham’s overload on the left, he was often put under pressure. As Manning was dragged out of position, Fulham created chances through overlaps or by finding an extra man in the half-spaces.

Flynn Downes — 8

Playing with an aggressive and physical nature solidified the central areas for Southampton — and Downes did just that. Acting as a sweeper, punishing loose passes and touches, he was just as important on the ball, helping Southampton break Fulham’s press.

Caspar Jander — 5

Making his second start in a row, Jander has begun to find himself back in the side. The German kept up to speed, but his overall performance left a lot to be desired, making no tackles and being substituted off after 70 minutes.

Tom Fellows — 6

It’s been a rough patch for the English winger. Goal contributions have dwindled, and so have his minutes. Receiving a start today was a pivotal opportunity, but one he didn’t take.

He offered a lot defensively, though. Out of possession, he and Scienza would drop back, forming a four in the midfield and being key in the 4-4-2 shape. He constantly tracked his man (Ryan Sessegnon), winning 4/6 of his ground duels and providing support with Bree on the right.

Finn Azaz — 9

Almost every attack went through Finn Azaz. His ability to drop deeper, receive and play forward provided Cyle Larin and Scienza with goalscoring opportunities. While previously criticised for his work rate, he proved those doubts wrong once again. Playing the full 90 minutes and constantly pressing Fulham’s defenders showed it.

Leo Scienza — 7

The Brazilian was back to his best. Despite missing a massive chance, he dribbled past defenders with ease and was a constant threat on the left flank. Before being substituted in the 82nd minute, he impressed both offensively and defensively, accumulating four recoveries and clearances. However, he, alongside Ryan Manning, would often get dragged out of their position, leaving space open.

Cyle Larin — 7

The Canadian’s hold-up play was beyond impressive today. An almost perfect performance that would’ve been elevated had he scored. His physicality has given Southampton a reliable long-ball outlet, relieving pressure on the defence and helping launch attacks.

Substitutes

Cameron Bragg — 6

A brief display, but even more minutes in the tank for the academy graduate — 642 in total. The 20-year-old was calm and, bar one misplaced pass, had a smooth outing from the bench.

Ross Stewart — 8

The Scotsman had a brief cameo but took his penalty brilliantly. A powerful strike that, despite fingertips from the goalkeeper, was destined to find the side netting.

Samuel Edozie & Kuryu Matsuki — N/A

Both wingers came on and were positive. However, just 10 minutes weren’t enough for either to leave their mark on the pitch.

What Now?

It was another impressive outing for Tonda Eckert and his men. Their unbeaten run extends to 10 matches now, and Southampton must push on if they are to make anything of this season. They sit 8th in the Championship and now enter the quarter-finals of the FA Cup — a promising position as the season draws to a close.