Home » Football » EFL Championship » Southampton F.C.

‘Defend our city’ – Saints legend Dennis issues south coast derby rallying cry

Southampton legend Mark Dennis has urged the current crop of players to understand the significance of Sunday's south coast derby against Portsmouth.

By Alfie House · Daily Echo

Published: Saturday, 10 October 2026 at 2:30 AM

Key Things to Know

Mark Dennis urged Southampton players to recognize the importance of the south coast derby against Portsmouth.
The former defender stressed the need to defend their city in Sunday's match at St Mary's.
Dennis is scheduled to speak to supporters pitchside ahead of kickoff to build the atmosphere.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Southampton legend Mark Dennis has urged current players to grasp the magnitude of Sunday's south coast derby against Portsmouth. Speaking to the Daily Echo ahead of the clash at St Mary's, the former defender emphasized the need to defend their city and called the fixture one of the two biggest games of the season.

Dennis, who featured in Southampton's 1984 FA Cup victory at Fratton Park, will address supporters pitchside prior to kickoff. He highlighted the lasting impact of derby results on bragging rights and urged the home crowd to create an intimidating atmosphere for John Mousinho's visiting side.

Read the full article on Daily Echo

‘Defend our city’ – Saints legend Dennis issues south coast derby rallying cry

More Southampton Fc News

Never Miss a Sports Update