Southampton claimed a memorable 3-1 victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City at St. Marys yesterday.

The Saints took the lead with just five minutes on the clock, Jason Puncheon scoring from a rebound after Joe Hart had denied Jay Rodriguez.

The second goal will be one to forget for Hart. The England keeper Hart fumbled Rickie Lambert’s effort and midfielder Steven Davis scored from close-range.

City got a goal back just before half-time. Pablo Zabaleta broke down the wing and found striker Edin Dzeko, whose mis-hit effort found a way past Artur Boruc.

City’s hopes of a comeback were dealt a blow just three minutes into the second half. Rickie Lambert’s cross was put pass his own keeper by England midfielder Gareth Barry. City had a few late chances, but never really looked like rescuing anything from the game.

The victory moved Saints six points clear of the relegation zone. City meanwhile are nine points behind bitter-rivals Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title.

Elsewhere, Chelsea gained a much-needed victory as the Blues hammered Wigan 4-1 at Stamford Bridge. The home side took the lead through a well-taken effort from Brazilian midfielder Ramires. Eden Hazard doubled the home sides lead from Cesar Azpilicueta’s cross.

Wigan looked to have got themselves back in the game shortly afterwards. Scotland international Shaun Maloney rounded Petr Cech and found the net from a difficult angle. Wigan’s hopes of taking anything from the game finished with four minutes remaining.

Veteran midfielder Frank Lampard fired home, after Juan Mata had dummied an Eden Hazard pass. Chelsea confirmed the victory in the last minute, substitute Marko Marin pouncing on a rebound after Ali Al Habsi had saved a Cesar Azpilicueta effort.

Other Premier League results:

Tottenham 2-1 Newcastle

Norwich 0-0 Fulham

Stoke 2-1 Reading

Swansea 4-1 QPR

Sunderland 0-1 Arsenal

Who will finish in third place in the Premier League this season?