Russell Martin in Tears After Southampton’s Late Collapse: “We Deserved More”
Southampton manager Russell Martin was visibly emotional in his post-match interview following his side’s heartbreaking 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, a game in which the Saints conceded a last-minute equalizer, continuing their winless run in the Premier League.
With his team on the verge of securing their first victory of the season, Martin was reduced to tears as he expressed both frustration and anger at the outcome, which left Southampton languishing near the bottom of the table.
“We deserved more,” Martin said, his voice trembling. “The lads gave everything out there today. We dominated from the start, we were strong, we pressed well, and we created chances. It’s devastating to concede like that, deep into stoppage time, after all the hard work we put in.”
The Saints took an early lead through teenage sensation Tyler Dibling, and for much of the game, looked poised to secure all three points. However, Ipswich applied increasing pressure in the second half, and in the dying moments, Sam Morsy’s stunning volley broke Southampton’s hearts.
“I’m angry because this isn’t the first time,” Martin continued. “We’ve been in this position before, controlling games but not getting the results. It’s gut-wrenching. These boys have worked so hard, and we’re letting moments like that slip away. It’s unacceptable.”
Martin, who was under growing scrutiny from both fans and the club’s board, defended his players but admitted that the late collapse must be addressed. “The effort, the passion—it’s all there. But we need to learn to see these games out. We have to be stronger mentally in those critical moments. It’s my responsibility to make sure that happens, and it’s killing me to see these players not get what they deserve.”
The emotional response reflected the pressure building around Martin’s tenure at St. Mary’s. With the club still winless since their return to the Premier League, speculation over Martin’s future has intensified. Yet, despite the frustration, the manager remained defiant about his team’s potential.
“We’re not far off,” Martin insisted. “The results aren’t there yet, but the performance is improving. I believe in this group, I believe in what we’re doing, and we will turn it around.”
As Martin wiped away tears, his closing remarks carried a clear message to both his players and Southampton’s supporters. “I won’t give up on this team. They’ve got so much more to give, and so do I. We’re going to fight through this, no matter how tough it gets.”
With the pressure mounting and critical fixtures on the horizon, only time will tell if Martin’s belief in his squad can translate into the results Southampton desperately needs.
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