Joe Aribo scored a 96th minute winner for Southampton on Saturday as his former employers Rangers went down 2-1 at home to Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership.
As Philippe Clement’s side found themselves banging on the door with an increasing sense of desperation – stunned at Ibrox as the Premiership title race takes an unexpected twist – Rangers certainly could have done with even a shred of the composure their former number seven showed as the ball dropped loose to him in the Birmingham City penalty area.
Joe Aribo had scored only two goals in 25 games this season before Southampton travelled to the Midlands. But what a time to get number three, slamming in with one of the final kicks of a thrilling game as the clock struck 96.
Joe Aribo is Southampton’s stoppage time hero
“What an ending!” was the dazed response of former Saints defender Jo Tessem, speaking to BBC Sport. “I can’t believe what I’ve seen. It’s absolutely mental.”
Aribo has endured a tough time of it since leaving Rangers on a free transfer during the summer of 2022. The stylish Nigeria international – who scored in that Europa League final defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt – suffered relegation in his first season at St Mary’s and has struggled to force his way into Russell Martin’s starting XI in the Championship.
In fact, Saturday was the 16th time he has come off the bench in England’s second tier during the entirety of 2023/24.
Rangers slip up against Motherwell
Aribo’s stoppage-time heroics, however, could yet prove the spark his Southampton career needed. Lighting the fuse on a promotion pursuit which appeared to have extinguished during a run of three defeats in five games.
Rangers, meanwhile, are now in danger of being overtaken by Old Firm rivals Celtic in top spot. Brendan Rodgers’ side need a win away to Hearts on Sunday to overhaul the Gers.
