Che Adams believes that there is still reason to be positive despite a 1-0 defeat to Ipswich Town at St Mary’s.
Omari Hutchinson opened the scoring in the first half and this was enough to secure the Tractor Boys an away win.
The Saints had 58% possession and had more shots than their opponents but failed to capitalise on that domination.
With 13 shots and 0 big chances created, it just goes to show the quality of play that Russell Martin’s side was exhibiting.
By comparison, the away side had two big chances from fewer attempts, but that didn’t stop Southampton from racking up more xG.
Adams had the pick of the chances for the home side but had a close-range effort saved by Vaclav Hladky.
What has Che Adams said?
Although the defeats are frustrating, being just seven games in, allows plenty of time for recovery.
This isn’t lost on Adams, who said: “It’s tough to take, but I think we need to stay positive.
“It’s a long, long season and we’ve just got to keep going. Keep being brave on the ball which, when they got the goal, we just came off a little bit and didn’t show for the ball as much.”
Once they got the goal, they were able to make the Saints suffer and reduce the number and quality of chances they had.
Adams believed this was the case: “When we go 1-0 down it makes it hard for us and easier for them.
“As I said I think we dominated the game, I had a chance I should’ve scored. On another day it goes in, but it wasn’t to be tonight.”
Although it is frustrating, the team has to acclimatise to Martin’s style of football, something which won’t happen overnight.
With an out-of-form Middlesbrough coming up next, it provides the perfect chance for the Saints to get back on their feet.