Southampton
2-1
Chelsea

Rodriguez (23'), Lambert (35')

FT(HT: 2-1)

Terry (33')

Build-up

Southampton triumph over Chelsea

By Callum Mulvihill, Reporter | 30 March 2013

Goals from Jay Rodriguez and Rickie Lambert seal a 2-1 victory for Southampton against Chelsea.

Southampton earned a vital win in their bid for Premier League survival with a 2-1 triumph over Chelsea at St Mary's Stadium this afternoon.

The hosts started impressively, with both Jay Rodriquez and Rickie Lambert testing Petr Cech in the early stages.

Jay Rodriguez slots the ball past Petr Cech to score the opening goal against Chelsea on March 30, 2013 © PA Photos

It was Rodriguez who opened the scoring when he exchanged passes with Steven Davis before slotting the ball past Cech from inside the box.

Despite dominating possession for most of the first period, Southampton conceded an equaliser when John Terry was given too much space to head home from a Chelsea corner.

John Terry is congratulated by team mate Oscar after scoring the equaliser against Southampton on March 30, 2013 © PA Photos

However, the Saints regained the lead just two minutes later thanks to a free kick from Lambert.

Artur Boruc was forced off at half time but substitute goalkeeper Kelvin Davis earned praise from his teammates when he tipped a Victor Moses shot against the crossbar and to safety.

Chelsea enjoyed more possession as the second half progressed but Southampton looked comfortable in defence.

Frank Lampard was inches away from claiming a point for Chelsea but his free kick flew wide and Southampton survived some late pressure to secure a crucial victory.