Goals from Steve Cook and Benik Afobe have given Bournemouth a 2-0 victory over south coast rivals Southampton, a result which sees the Cherries move eight points clear of safety.

Steve Cook celebrates scoring during the Premier League game between Bournemouth and Southampton on March 1, 2016 © Getty Images

Bournemouth could have taken the lead as early as the second minute, but Fraser Forster was well placed to divert a half-volley from Matt Ritchie behind for a corner.

In a high-octane start, Southampton had an opportunity of their own, but Charlie Austin placed the ball wide from 10 yards after being found by Cedric Soares.

Chances were few and far between until the half-hour mark when Bournemouth finally made their possession count through Steve Cook, who volleyed home from eight yards after Ritchie's free kick had been fumbled by Forster.

Simon Francis and Oriol Romeu in action during the Premier League game between Bournemouth and Southampton on March 1, 2016 © Getty Images

The Cherries looked to extend that advantage as the first half drew to a close but Max Gradel - making his first start since the end of August - curled over from 20 yards.

In the second half, neither side were able to create anything in the final third, and it took until the 73rd minute for a shot to be registered on goal when Graziano Pelle fired wide from distance.

Oriol Romeu and Harry Arter in action during the Premier League game between Bournemouth and Southampton on March 1, 2016 © Getty Images

However, six minutes later, Bournemouth made sure of the three points through Afobe, who got ahead of Forster to nod into the net from six yards for his fourth Cherries goal.

Southampton had a late chance through Saido Mane, but after he had an effort smothered by Artur Boruc, Bournemouth were able to celebrate a crucial win and leave the Saints in seventh place.