Scienza improves as others struggle - Saints player ratings after West Ham defeat

Leo Scienza gave the hosts an early lead and they were good value for most of the first half until West Ham equalised through teen Josh Ajala.

Ajala scored again early in the second half before substitutes Taty Castellanos and Jarrod Bowen added goals as the Hammers dominated after the break.

Here's how we rated the Saints players on a poor night collectively...

(Image: Richard Crease)

Daniel Peretz - 5.

Usually outstanding, it was a disappointing night for the Saints number one.

After producing an excellent save to deny Joel Piroe, the goalkeeper was at fault for West Ham's first goal as he misjudged the flight of a corner.

James Bree - 5.

Produced a crucial intervention to deny what looked to be a clear goal before the corner which led to West Ham's first goal.

Struggled to get up the pitch in the second half, like many of his teammates.

Nathan Wood - 5.

After an excellent display on Saturday, the defender wasn't quite as colossal. Not specifically at fault for any of the four goals, but part of the defensive unit.

Jack Stephens - 4.

A tough night for the Saints captain, particularly up against Joel Piroe. Also excellent on the weekend but a failed clearance led to Ajala's second goal.

He wasn't the only bad player, but unfortunately finds himself as the scapegoat again after two high-profile errors at the start of the season.

Looked to get up and down the pitch. Created two chances and won half of his duels. The best of the four defenders on the night.

Cameron Bragg - 6.

Got himself booked in the first half but generally did okay, completing 65 of his 68 passes. Probably just was not enough of a presence overall.

Romeo Akachukwu - 6.

Plenty of energy on his first start. Read the game well and tried to get the ball forward in what Tonda Eckert noted is not quite his preferred position.

(Image: Richard Crease)

Tom Fellows - 6.

Involved in the build-up for Scienza's goal with his cross and tried to make things happen, but he was quieter in the second half. Not enough.

Lewis Dobbin - 5.

Made some smart runs and was unfortunate not to receive the ball at times. Didn't really do anything of note when he did have it, though.

The summer arrival offers much-needed depth, but he's clearly not quite ready to be a regular starter. Might be better as an impact option.

Leo Scienza - 7.

Seriously improved from a disappointing opening trio of displays. Looked to take his man on and was consistently positive. Lovely finish for the goal too.

Could have had another but hit the keeper after a good run.

Divin Mubama - 5.

Limited service but struggled to hold it up. Got on the end of one decent cross but misplaced his header. Impact substitute will likely be his role.

Flynn Downes - 6.

Didn't really get the chance to make anything happen for Saints.

Kuryu Matsuki - 6.

Saw a rare second-half chance for Saints fall to him but didn't really do anything to shout about.

Sam Edozie - 5.

Not great for West Ham's third goal as he misread the ball over him. Did get a shot on target though, which not many of his teammates can say.

Didn't get into the game at all and got skipped past once or twice. Would have personally kept him off the pitch, as he's far too important to risk.

Cyle Larin - N/A.

Came on too late to make any significant impact.