SOUTHAMPTON, England: Southampton duo Kyle Walker-Peters and Joe Aribo nullified a brace from Leeds United’s Rodrigo as the home side roared back after two goals and a 2-2 Premier League draw on Saturday (13 August). saved.
Leeds looked set for the three points before Walker-Peters and Aribo turned the game upside down with two fine strikes to ease the pressure on manager Ralph Hasenhuettl after Saints’ grueling defeat at Tottenham Hotspur in the opening weekend.
Leeds dominated the ball in the early changes but it was Southampton who looked more dangerous with Stuart Armstrong and debutant Armel Bella-Kotchap close.
The visitors were dealt a blow in the 28th minute when striker Patrick Bamford, who missed much of last season through injury, made way for Daniel James and the Welshman almost had a dream introduction as he forced a fine save from Gavin Bazunu.
Leeds made Southampton pay for a sloppy start to the second half when Rodrigo converted Jack Harrison’s cross from the left with a clever finish in the 46th minute, before adding another with a close-range header on the hour.
Aribo pulled one back in the 72nd minute as he finished off a deft team move before Walker-Peters completed the comeback with a low, powerful shot past Illan Meslier.