Supporters once again voiced their frustration at the players, who have now failed to win 47 of their last 51 league games.

Goals from Lewis Dobbin and Mads Frøkjær-Jensen left the St Mary's side 21st in the second tier, having won two league games at home in a year.

Here's how we rated every Southampton player's performance as they suffered their fifth Championship defeat in 13 games...

Alex McCarthy - 4.

Made one save and conceded two goals. Can hardly point the finger at him for the majority of Southampton's shortcomings, but he's crucially not keeping the ball out of the net.

Alex McCarthy conceded twice against Preston. (Image: Stuart Martin)

Mads Roerslev - 3.

Delayed when he could have shot inside the box before deciding to lift a poor cross to the back stick. Didn't offer enough attacking threat, especially in the first half. Replaced before the end.

Ronnie Edwards - 3.

Replaced at the break as Still ditched the five-back system. Gave Dobbin space to shoot - he thankfully fired over. Then failed to stop Dobbin again...