Paul Onuachu was substituted midway through the second half as Southampton secured a 1-1 draw away to West Ham United in Saturday’s Premier League clash.
The Nigerian international, making his 23rd appearance of the season, began the match in Southampton’s attack but was taken off in the 68th minute, replaced by Cameron Archer.
Onuachu has netted four goals and provided one assist this season, and his performance on the day was considered steady if unspectacular.
West Ham broke the deadlock shortly after the break, with Jarrod Bowen finishing off a swift counterattack in the 47th minute.
It was the English forward’s 10th goal in all competitions this season and came at a crucial moment as the Hammers looked to consolidate their mid-table position.
However, despite their relegation fate having already been sealed, Southampton showed determination and refused to go down quietly.
The visitors pushed forward in the dying moments of the game and were rewarded deep into stoppage time when Lesley Ugochukwu fired home an equaliser, salvaging a late point for the Saints.
With the draw, Southampton moved to 11 points in the standings, matching the all-time lowest Premier League points total set by Derby County in 2008.
While that dubious record offers little consolation, the late goal provided a moment of defiance from a side enduring a tough campaign.
Onuachu, 29, had limited chances in the final third but was active in his pressing and hold-up play during his time on the pitch.
His contribution helped keep West Ham’s defence alert, but ultimately he could not add to his tally before being withdrawn.
Southampton’s season has been marked by inconsistency and underwhelming results, culminating in their confirmed relegation weeks before the end of the campaign.
The club’s return to the Championship now appears imminent, and questions remain over the future of several key players, including Onuachu, who may be among those eyed for a transfer in the summer.
Meanwhile, West Ham will view the result as two points dropped, especially after holding the lead until the final moments.
Bowen’s goal had put them on course for victory, but a lapse in concentration allowed Southampton back into the game.
With only a few matches left to play, West Ham remain in the mid-table mix, while Southampton continue to close out what has been a disappointing campaign.
Their remaining fixtures now serve primarily as preparation for next season, as the club looks to rebuild and challenge for promotion from the second tier.
Despite the draw, Saturday’s fixture highlighted the resilience still present in the Southampton squad—something they will hope to carry into life in the Championship.
For Paul Onuachu, the focus will now be on finishing the season strongly and weighing up his next steps as the summer transfer window approaches.
