SKYSPORT: Southampton boss Russell Martin’s verdict after Middlesbrough encounter

Russell Martin’s annoyance with Middlesbrough’s penalty and his ‘passive’ attitude Southampton

Russell Martin was left even more angry after Middlesbrough defeated Southampton 2-1. In addition to his displeasure with his own team’s performance, the Saints manager was enraged by the penalty decision that finally separated the two teams.

Thanks to goals from Riley McGree and Jonny Howson, Boro earned their first win of the season and climbed off the bottom of the table. However, Michael Carrick’s side had to come from behind to win after falling behind again in the 17th minute to Adam Armstrong’s goal.

Boro’s winner came from the penalty spot when Taylor Harwood-Bellis dragged Josh Coburn to the ground as the Boro striker attempted to reposition himself to get on the end of a cross. However, Martin

Martin later commented on it, saying, “Both of them were pulling each other.” Taylor [Harwood-Bellis] stated he was pulling his shirt as well, which I’ve only seen once. I believe the referee guessed correctly. It may have turned out other way.”

Southampton’s defeat was their fourth in a row, but it was the first time they had trailed in a game. Boro exemplified the character of coming from behind, whilst Martin was dissatisfied with his team’s mental shift after gaining the lead.

“I thought we were actually better than we have been,” he continued. We got off to a good start in the game. We did a great job stealing the ball, and Che (Adams) should have scored. Our goal was excellent.

“We couldn’t keep the ball.” If you are not going to press, you must protect the ball. We didn’t do any of those things. That is ultimately what caused us harm. I think we had a lot of control in the second half until the last 15 minutes, when it became a little helter-skelter because we were chasing the game.

“In the middle of the pitch, we looked really creative, and then they won a penalty six or seven seconds later.” After that, it becomes more difficult to produce when a team is fighting for their lives. The enthusiasm in the stadium was palpable, and the audience was cheering them on. We didn’t do enough to disassemble them.

“At the time, we were chasing the game.”