Larin stars again and Azaz keeps firing - Saints player ratings from Bristol City win

Goals from Cyle Larin (two), Kuryu Matsuki and Finn Azaz made it a comprehensive winning score line for Saints, where in truth they were made to work hard by a City side that lacked a clinical edge.

Head coach Tonda Eckert said post-match that the victory "belongs to the players", so here's how we rated them on the day...

Daniel Peretz - 7

Still waiting for that elusive first league clean sheet of the season but probably had his busiest match at home this campaign.

Made a good save from Jason Knight early in the match and was alert to potential danger frequently as City showed their threat from set-pieces.

Was thoroughly involved with 54 touches on the day. Worked hard, producing nine defensive contributions. Could have had an assist.

Nathan Wood - 7

Also given a busy afternoon and did well. Won 100 per cent of his ground duels, 75 per cent of his aerial battles and put in a big shift.

Keven Schlotterbeck - 7

Probably close to an eight as the more impressive of the two centre-backs on the day. Standout moment with a goalline clearance. Remarkable how well the German has settled in. Just needs that clean sheet now.

Ryan Manning - 7

Did well to block a handful of crosses on that left flank. Raced up and down his side and was a threat going forward, creating two chances. Arguably the Irishman's best defensive display so far this campaign.

Flynn Downes - 6

Unfortunate to score lower than in recent matches as the midfielder has been excellent. Seemed to struggle through most of the first half with an issue that led to him being substituted at half-time. Hopefully nothing to worry about.

James Ward-Prowse - 7

Once again covered a ridiculous amount of ground. Anyone who was concerned about the midfielder's fitness when he signed have their answer. Saints' metronome in the middle of the park who kept things ticking.

So unlucky not to score his first goal since returning to the club but it still led to a goal.

Kuryu Matsuki - 7

A lovely finish for his first goal of the season at a perfect time for Saints in the match. Helped out with the defensive effort too.

⚽️ Kuryu Matsuki 🅰️ Finn Azaz Winning combination 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ldYN495bp0

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) September 12, 2026

Was having one of his quieter games but that's why the playmaker is so good. Showed his quality more in the second half and scored a well-taken goal to secure the three points. Also came away with two assists which bumps up his score.

Leo Scienza - 6

One of the players who looked fatigued before coming off but produced one of the best tackles of the match to stop a counter-attack. Got up and down the wing and put in the initial delivery that led to Larin's second goal.

Running out of superlatives for the Canadian talisman. No individual has scored more goals in the top four leagues than Larin this season as his brace took the 31 year old's tally to seven league goals.

GIVE HIM THE KEYS TO OUR CITY TOO 🔑 pic.twitter.com/I2OFuRg4jN

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) September 12, 2026

The midfielder should be pleased with his second-half display after coming on for Downes. Filled big shoes, keeping Saints solid.

Divin Mubama - 7

Much better off the bench this week. Got an assist and caused the City defence issues. Pleased for the young Man City loanee.

Tom Fellows - 6

Buzzed around and helped Saints keep the ball at a crucial period in the match.

Lewis Dobbin - N/A

Came on late in the match.