Southampton 3-1 Leeds

Southampton got off to a perfect start to their Championship campaign with a comfortable 3-1 win over Leeds United. The result was the first season-opener won by Saints since beating Coventry on the opening day in 1999.

Two goals from Dean Hammond and Adam Lallana gave the home side the early advantage, and there was no way back for Leeds. David Connolly added a third shortly after half time, before Leeds grabbed a consolation goal from the penalty spot late on.

After a nervy start from Leeds, the first chance fell to the Yorkshire side - but Jonathan Howson shot straight at Kelvin Davis. However, a fantastic strike from Saints skipper Dean Hammond opened the scoring. The Leeds defence backed off and Hammond hit a sweet shot into the bottom corner of the net.

Max Gradel and Howson were trying their best to draw level, but Leeds couldn't find a decent final ball. A through ball from Rickie Lambert was pounced on by Adam Lallana. The midfielder produced a clever turn and perfect curling shot to give the hosts some breathing space.

Moments later Lallana nearly doubled his tally when Guly do Prado found the youngster. However, Andrew Lonergan smothered the shot to keep the score at 2-0.

Southampton sealed the three points seven minutes into the second half. David Connolly played a delightful one-two with Lallana before slotting the ball past the helpless Lonergan.

Leeds' best opportunity fell to substitute Billy Paynter, but Davis saved well as Southampton's defence scrambled the ball to safety. Richard Chaplow slammed a one-timer against the Leeds post as the contest fizzled out.

The visitors restored some pride after Aaron Martin has harshly penalised for handball in the penalty box. The ball appeared to hit Martin in the chest, but the penalty was awarded by the assistant referee. Gradel slotted home the spot kick but it was too little too late.

Adam Lallana showed he can make a name for himself this season if he can stay injury free and high in confidence. Southampton have depth in midfield, and adding an extra striker would give Nigel Atkins' squad real quality that could compete for the top places.

Jack Cork was not highly involved in any of his side's attacking dominance. However, defensively he frustrated Leeds from start to finish. If Cork can keep up the high level of commitment he showed on his debut, he could be vital to any success at St Mary's.