Goalkeeping Shake-Up: McCarthy Seizes His Moment
Alex McCarthy‘s resurgence between the posts has become the talking point at Southampton. The 28-year-old goalkeeper, who joined Saints in 2016, delivered a commanding performance against Manchester United last weekend, earning a clean sheet that might just cement his place as Mauricio Pellegrino’s first-choice keeper. Fraser Forster’s dip in form opened the door, and McCarthy stepped through with authority.
Pellegrino’s philosophy on squad rotation was clear: “In football, nothing is fixed. I try to use the moment and give opportunities to players who deserve it.” McCarthy now faces his former club, Crystal Palace, in what could be a defining match for his Southampton career.
Saints’ Struggles & Palace’s Resilience
Southampton’s eight-game winless streak is a growing concern, especially after the £75m departure of Virgil van Dijk. Their defensive solidity against United was a rare bright spot, but creativity in attack remains an issue—they’ve failed to score in 48% of their last 33 competitive matches.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are quietly building momentum. With just one loss in their last 10 Premier League games, Roy Hodgson’s side nearly toppled Manchester City, denied only by a late penalty save. Luka Milivojević’s leadership and Christian Benteke’s scoring form (5 goals in his last 6 games vs. Saints) make them a threat.
Key Tactical Battles
Midfield Control vs. Counter-Attacks
- Southampton’s Oriol Romeu must disrupt Palace’s rhythm, particularly targeting Loftus-Cheek (if fit).
- Palace’s wide players, Zaha and Townsend, could exploit Saints’ full-backs, especially if Bertrand remains sidelined.
Defensive Fragility vs. Set-Piece Strength
- With Palace missing Sakho and Dann, McCarthy’s distribution could trigger Saints’ press.
- Benteke’s aerial dominance vs. Southampton’s center-backs will be decisive.
Six6s Match Prediction
Paul Merson’s analysis leans toward Palace: “They were comfortable against City and could’ve won. Saints’ confidence is fragile.”
Final Score Prediction: 0-2 to Crystal Palace (20/1 with Six6s Bet)
Stat Spotlight
- Saints are unbeaten in 8 home PL games vs. Palace (7 wins).
- Pellegrino’s 19% win rate is among Southampton’s worst in Premier League history.
Will McCarthy’s heroics continue, or will Benteke haunt his old rivals? Share your thoughts with Six6s!
