PREVIEW: Manchester City v Southampton

Southampton couldn't have been given a tougher start to their first Premier League campaign in seven years.

The Premier League champions will want to get their season off to a hot start - and will see Southampton as the easiest of opening day fixtures.

Last season, City dismantled Swansea in their first Premier League game, and today could be no different.

WIth a lack of top quality signings arriving at St Mary's, Nigel Adkins is under pressure to show his squad are good enough to compete in the Premier League.

Jay Rodriguez has arrived for a whopping £7million from Burnley, but with Rickie Lambert and Billy Sharp already on the books, Rodriguez is unlikely to turn any heads this season.

Southampton's biggest struggle this season will be their defence. A good marker of how good their back line is will come today against City.

With the likes of Carlos Teves, Sergio Aguero, Mario Balotelli and David Silva on show - Kelvin Davis is likely to have a busy return to the top flight.

Saints should not read too much into a possible heavy defeat. It may take Adkins' side a few weeks to find their Premier League feet, and also face Manchester United and Arsenal within their first four games.

Jack Cork will miss the opening game with an ankle injury, while City will be without Gareth Barry and Micah Richards. There are doubts also over the fitness of Mario Balotelli, Jack Rodwell and Joe Hart.

Although such a daunting prospect, an opening day visit to Manchester could be the best time to play City. Despite beaming with confidence from last season's dramatic clinch of the Premier League title - City won't be their best, and with with Saints having nothing to lose - they could cause an upset.

Saints don't have a great track record on the opening day of the season. Last year's win against Leeds was the club's first win since 1999. Although Southampton won't expect a good start, the team will learn an incredible amount in their first 90 minutes of Premier League football.

Southampton return to Premier League after seven years

After seven years, Premier League football returns to Southampton.

The Saints haven't had the easiest of times in recent seasons, but their patient reward is a place in the top flight.

Back-to-back promotions means confidence is high, but questions have been raised over Nigel Adkins' summer signings.

The Saints boss splashed £7million on Burnley's Jay Rodregiez, and he has brought in Nathaniel Clyne from Crystal Palace, Steven Davis from Rangers and Paulo Gazzaniga from Gillingham.

These signings would have been treasured in the Championship, but may struggle to make an impact in the top flight.

Team spirit and youth prospects are once again going to be key for Saints this season, but they still remain favourites for the drop.

The club have been linked with a £12million swoop for Uruguayan midfielder Gaston Ramirez from Bolognia. If the deal goes through, if would be a fantastic signing. However, Southampton have a real lack of Premier League experience.

Kelvin Davis and Adam Lallana are the only squad members to have played in the Premier League for the Saints, and only a handful have played in top divisions.

However, Southampton will look at Norwich and Swansea's performances last season if they need any more motivation.

Southampton are likely to struggle in the Premier League without bolstering their defence. However, today's return to the top flight should be a fitting celebration to the club's struggle over the past seven years.

In 2009, Saints started their League One campaign on minus 10 points after going into administration. Since hitting rock bottom, Saints have gone from strength to strength - and expect confidence to still be high. The club's future is secure, and the Hampshire club get to test themselves against some of the best teams in the world.

BLOG: Why Saints and Pompey need each other

It's hard to know which big club will be the next to struggle to balance the books.

Last month, Glasgow Rangers chairman Sir David Murray angered rivals Celtic after claiming the Hoops would struggle if Rangers were to go bust.

However, there is a lot to be said for local rivalries which set British football above other European leagues.

Across the continent and the world, derby games are the biggest games of the season. However, the Southampton-Portsmouth rivalry is rarely discussed outside of Hampshire.

This weekend's Solent derby showed both red and blue supporters in Hampshire the importance of the fixture.

The game had everything you would expect from a gritty derby game, with both clubs fighting for their lives. Southampton would be favourites against any opposition in the Championship, but form really does fly out the window when local pride is at stake.

Saturday's exhausting game had brilliant goals, late drama, controversial decisions, a potential red card and more passion than a honeymoon.

Portsmouth and Southampton are clearly heading in different directions. The red half of Hampshire are on the cusp on promotion to the Premier League. Meanwhile, Pompey look set for the drop to the third tier of English football.

It is still unclear what the future holds for Pompey. Financial heartache has troubled Portsmouth for several years, and has culminated in administration and a ten-point deduction.

It Portsmouth are to remain in existence after the summer, they should take inspiration from an unlikely source.

Three years ago, Southampton were relegated to League One after entering administration. It has been a long journey, but the Saints have sorted themselves out financially, and are on the verge of rejoining the promised land. It has been a real role reversal in Hampshire. During Southampton's slump to League One, Pompey will finishing comfortably in the Premier League and were still holders of the FA Cup.

A passionate rivalry gives fans and players extra motivation when it is really needed. Had Portsmouth been playing another top team on Saturday, it is likely they would have faltered and come away empty handed.

Only against the Saints would the current Portsmouth team be able to hit a stunning strike, not once but twice - with the last gasp equaliser coming four minutes into injury time.

It looks like the two teams will not meet for a long time, particularly in the league. However, the potential being there for another Solent derby will mean an awful lot to both sets of fans and players.

Southampton have still not beaten Portsmouth in the league since 2004, and it looks set to remain that way for some time. The most passionate of Southampton fans will not want Pompey to go out of business, solely for the selfish reason of wanting to see their side beat their bitter rivals once again.

Match Report Crystal Palace 0-2 Saints

Crystal Palace 0-2 Southampton

Two goals from Rickie Lambert gave the Saints some breathing space at the top of the Championship - as they easily dispatched of Crystal Palace.

Fellow promotion-chasers West Ham were held at home by Birmingham City, meaning Southampton would all but seal promotion to the Premier League with a win over Reading on Friday.

There may have been some doubts about Lambert's fitness during the 2-2 draw against Portsmouth, but the striker showed why he is the Championship's top scorer by adding his 25th and 26th league goals of the season.

Lambert thought he had opened the scoring from a corner, but the striker's header was ruled out after Jose Fonte fouled a Palace defender.

Five minutes before the break the visitors did take the lead. Once again, Palace failed to deal with a good ball in from Danny Butterfield and Lambert was on hand to easily head his side in front.

Dean Hammond's long-range drive narrowly missed the target as Saints looked for a second goal before the break. However, a good counter-attack from the hosts nearly produced an equaliser, when Chris Martin blazed over after a good move from Wilfried Zaha and Sean Scannell.

Southampton had all but tied up three points ten minutes into the second half. Jack Cork laid on the ball for Lambert who turned outside a Palace defender before lashing a powerful shot home.

Palace came more into the game as Southampton sat back. However, the best chance of the closing stages fell to the away side. Some absent defending from the hosts allowed both Fonte and substitute Guly do Prado headed chances at goal, but both could not beat Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni.

In the end, Southampton cruised to victory in which could have been a banana skin for Nigel Adkins' side. Southampton need seven points from their remaining four fixtures to win promotion to the Premier League. The toughest game of their run-in comes on Friday against second-placed Reading at St Mary's.

Match Report: Saints 2-2 Portsmouth

Southampton 2-2 Portsmouth

A late, late strike from David Norris salvaged an important point for Portsmouth as Southampton returned to the top of the Championship in a thrilling Solent derby.

In what was a hugely entertaining match at St Mary's, Southampton took the lead when Billy Sharp scrambled the ball home just before the half hour mark.

The home side were by no means in control as Portsmouth frustrated the Saints and had their own opportunities.

The visitors did find an equaliser before the break. Chris Maguire stunned St Mary's as he drilled a perfect shot form the edge of the area into the top corner to tie up the scores.

Southampton piled on the pressure, and had several chances to go back in front before the break. However, a string of great stops from Portsmouth goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown kept the scores level after 45 minutes.

Portsmouth should have gone ahead within the first minutes of the second period. Maguire couldn't control his shot and blazed wide from close range.

The second half couldn't quite live up to the intensity of the first 45 minutes. The impressive Adam Lallana creates some great opportunities, but Ashdown was on top form.

Fonte found Lallana in the area and a great turn put him through on goal. Lallana tried to turn past the oncoming Portsmouth goalkeeper, but lost control of the ball.

With time running out, Southampton piled the pressure on the uneasy Portsmouth defence. A great ball in was headed on and Sharp was on hand to side foot the ball home for his second goal of the game.

Initially referee Neil Swarbrick had ruled out the goal for offside, but after consulting with his assistant - the ball has adjudged to have come off a Portsmouth player and Sharp's goal stood.

It looked like Sharp had won the game for Southampton, all but condemning Pompey to the drop. However, deep into four minutes of injury time, Norris unleashed a perfect volley past Kelvin Davis to secure a dramatic point for the visitors.

The points were shared in the Solent derby for the second time this season. The St Mary's clash lived up to all the hype that the teams' first meeting at Fratton Park failed to do. Southampton were the better team, but a Saints win would have been harsh on Portsmouth, who still have a lifeline in escaping relegation to League One.

Southampton return to the top of the Championship table on goal difference against Reading, who Saints face next Friday. Before the crunch game, Southampton face Crystal Palace on Monday as they look for their first win in three attempts.

REPORT: Saints ease past ten-man Posh

Southampton 2-1 Peterborough

Two early goals from Richard Chaplow and Jos Hooiveld allowed Saints to saunter past Peterborough, who had Lee Frecklington sent off before the break.

The home side had more chances to extend their lead in the second half, but Paul Jones made some good saves to deny Rickie Lambert on several occasions.

Southampton got off to a flying start when Chaplow took advantage of some questionable Peterborough defending and beat Jones with a low drive.

Three minutes later, a quick free kick caught the visitors off guard and Hooiveld finished from close range. Posh were stunned and it got even worse when Frecklington was given his second yellow card, reducing the visitors to ten men before half time.

Southampton kept the pressure on Posh after the break. However, they couldn't find a way to extend their lead. Lambert could have had a second-half hat-trick but spurned several good opportunities.

A good move from Peterborough allowed Emile Sinclair to pull a goal back, but the home side didn't panic. Substitute Steve De Ridder turned the screw late on, and was unlucky not to score - but shot wide of the mark.

BLOG: Saints Still Cruising

Saints hardly broke sweat as they brushed aside Middlesborough.

Before Saturday's big clash between two of the best teams in the league, no-one could have predicted Saints winning so comfortably.

However, it was one of Southampton's most accomplished and confident displays of the season, and Boro were lucky they only lost by three goals.

Three factors seemed to produce the 3-0 win. Firstly, Southampton are incredibly comfortable at St Mary's. The last team to beat Southampton at home were Manchester United - who defeated Saints in the FA Cup in January.

It has been years since Saints had a belief that they can win every game. Even last season's promising campaign in League One didn't produce this sort of feeling throughout the whole squad.

That aside, the decision to play Guly Do Prado up front with Rickie Lambert worked wonders. The Brazilian is best used down the middle, and was effective in the air, scoring with two headers.

When Guly is confident, he is a completely different player - and hopefully he can go from strength to strength. His partnership with Lambert isn't an obvious one at first glance. Although Lambert couldn't find the net against Boro, he did everything but score. He played very important roles in two of his side's goals - and is looking hungry.

Boro's defending at St Mary's was almost laughable. I'm all for attacking football, but Boro neither looked solid at the back or produced much to trouble Kelvin Davis. When West Ham visited St Mary's a couple of weeks ago, they were playing for a draw.

OK, it didn't work as Saints scored before half time. However, they at least had a plan, and understood the threat Saints pose at St Mary's. Southampton will have to get used to teams sitting back against them at home, and will have to be at their best in every game.

It is still very early days, but Southampton are looking incredibly strong at home. The next team to try their luck at St Mary's is Peterborough. Posh shouldn't be under-estimated, though, and don't find goals hard to come-by themselves.

REPORT: Saints Thrash Boro

Southampton 3-0 Middlesborough

Saints eased to victory over fellow promotion candidates Middlesborough with an accomplished performance at St Mary's.

Two early goals from Guly Do Prado and a late strike from substitute David Connolly helped maintain Nigel Adkins' side's impressive home form.

Boro were expected to give Saints a stiff test, but in truth - the home side dominated from start to finish. It look only 15 minutes for Southampton to open the scoring. Do Prado, playing up front alongside Rickie Lambert - headed home after a pinpoint cross from Danny Butterfield.

It didn't take long for the Brazilian to double his tally as some questionable Boro defending allowed Lambert to head the ball across goal, and Do Prado was waiting to nod home to give the hosts a healthy lead.

Do Prado had a glorious opportunity to seal his hat-trick but his scuffed shot came back off the post and away to safety.

Saints continued their dominance with Boro's best chance falling to Scott McDonald but he shot wide of the mark. Jack Cork forced a good save from Boro keeper Jason Steele before good work from Ricard Chaplow set up Jose Fonte, but again Steele saved well.

A patient passing move and brilliant fake by Lambert set up Connolly in acres of space, who lashed a powerful shot into the net to end any chance of a Boro fightback.

BLOG: Is It Time To Start Thinking Of Promotion?

Last night reminded me of the good old days at St Mary's.

A sell-out for a big game on a Tuesday evening brought much of the city's roads to a standstill. The passion at the club hasn't been stronger in years, and with Saints sitting five points clear at the top of the table, is it time we start forgetting about survival and turn our heads towards promotion to the Premier League?

The Saints have made a perfect start to their return to the second tier of English football. Southampton's form isn't utterly surprising, given the financial situation and the stature of the club. However, the Championship is one of the toughest leagues in Europe - and Saints are certainly turning some heads. With six straight home wins, and another eight points on the road - things are looking bright for the Saints.

However, we shouldn't get carried away. It is only October. It is great to see Saints topping the league, but we're only a quarter of the way through a very demanding season.

Southampton are likely to pick up a few injuries along the way. Although Saints lead the league in goals scored, there is a notable lack of depth up front. Rickie Lambert looked tired against West Ham, as did David Connolly. Saints have a lot of games before Christmas, and it is only going to get tougher for the front two.

Nigel Adkins tried to sign a striker before the transfer window shut, and he will surely look to add some fire power in December. Southampton's midfield is fairly strong. Although Adam Lallana has missed the last two games, Saints continued to dominate in midfield with Richard Chaplow and Jack Cork stepping up. Lallana is injury-prone, and with Saints' depth in midfield, Adkins will not have to overuse the 23-year-old.

Saints have a tough fixture list up until the Christmas break. Games against in-form Crystal Palace, Middlesborough and Peterborough are mixed with big games against Reading and Brighton. The next few weeks will be a big test for Saints.

It is far too early to be even thinking about promotion. However, if Southampton can weather a harsh run up to Christmas, they can maybe start thinking about promotion. Just maybe.

Saints Go Five Points Clear

Southampton 1-0 West Ham

A headed goal from Jos Hooiveld sent Southampton five points clear at the top of the Championship table.

Hooiveld's goal came just before half time, and West Ham's 'Route One' style was unable to beat Kelvin Davis in the second half.

The Hammers made the brighter start and Matt Taylor forced an early good save from Davis. Saints dominated possession and territorially in a gritty first half, but produced very little to test Manuel Almunia.

Baldock forced another good save from Davis, and the defensive scare seemed to rally Saints. Rickie Lambert and David Connolly found it hard to make an impact - with Richard Chaplow pulling the strings in the absence of Adam Lallana.

Saints' persistence paid off when Hooiveld leapt to meet a corner and his thumping header was too strong for the visitors to stop. It was a big blow for West Ham, coming just before the break.

Sam Allardyce didn't give up on his preferred direct method of play. The Hammers were reliant on John Carew winning arial balls, but with little support and a strong centre-back pairing of Hooiveld and Jose Fonte - West Ham were short on ideas.

Southampton created several chances to increase their lead as they grew in confidence. Guly do Prado wasted several good opportunities, and Connolly shot wide from a tight angle.

A slip by Fonte allowed Baldock to race though on the Southampton goal, but his shot crept agonisingly wide. A good ball in by Mark Noble, deflected onto the post and away to safety, and despite a few nervy minutes late on - Saints hung on to record their 8th win of the season. Southampton have won all six home league games so far this season.

Lambert hat-trick sees off Forest

Southampton 3-2 Nottingham Forest

Southampton came from behind to extend their unbeaten home record to 12 games. Rickie Lambert's hat-trick sealed the three points which keeps Saints second in the Championship table.

It was the visitors to St Mary's who started brightly, and Forest went ahead when Matt Derbyshire prodded the ball home from close range. Saints responded moments later however, when Lambert grabbed his first goal - scoring on the rebound after Lee Camp had stopped David Connolly's shot.

Saints then forced themselves in front as Lambert headed home from close range after Adam Lallana flicked a good ball on.

Forest had the final say in a pulsating first half as Derbyshire set up Radoslaw Majewski for an easy finish to tie up the game.

Southampton came out positively in the second half, but they had to wait until the final ten minutes to find the winning goal. Danny Fox's perfect ball in was met by a powerful header from Lambert who sealed his hat-trick and the important three points for Saints.

Saints rode their luck at times, but will be more than happy with a big win - their first over Forest since 1997. Next for Nigel Atkins' side is a trip to Birmingham, where a win could turn Saints into true promotion candidates.

No new striker - but Saints sign Celtic defender

The transfer deadline passed with the Premier League top teams splashing the cash. However, at St Mary's, only one player arrived - Jos Hooiveld.

Southampton were linked with several potential strike partners for Rickie Lambert including Jermaine Beckford and Jay Rodriguez, but no deal could be struck.

Nigel Atkins said before deadline day that he would not be forced into panic buying, and perhaps the good form of David Connolly prevented Atkins from spending.

Hooiveld is an experienced physical centre-half, an ideal partner for Jose Fonte. The Dutchman has struggled to tie down a place in the Celtic first team, and spent time on loan at FC Copenhagen last season. The 28-year-old has signed on loan until January and is a welcome addition to a stretched defence. Saints fans should not worry about the lack of transfer activity. Jack Cork was a fantastic buy, and Atkins has held onto Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Jose Fonte and got a very good deal for Alex Chamberlain.

Although Saints currently sit second in the Championship table, they must not get carried away. Although promotion is the ultimate aim, survival is a must. With the team they have built, Hooiveld should be a great addition.

Di Canio row marrs Saints' Carling Cup win

Swindon Town 1-3 Southampton

Southampton eased to victory in the Carling Cup as they brushed aside a disappointing Swindon side. First half goals from Guly do Prado and Jonathan Forte gave the visitors an early lead, and despite a late scare - Ricky Lambert's strike sealed Saints' passage into the third round.

Paolo Di Canio is no stranger to controversy, and the Swindon boss' latest tussle took place after the final whistle as he was seen grappling with Swindon striker Leon Clarke.

The Italian appeared to be trying to diffuse an argument between Clarke and coach Claudio Donatelli. Di Canio grabbed Clarke around the back of his neck and seemingly wouldn't let go. The pair continued their scuffle as they moved down the tunnel, with Clarke left very upset by the ordeal.

It was a poor performance from Swindon, who couldn't repeat a 3-0 victory over Saints in last season's Johnstone's Painty Trophy.

Nigel Atkins made five changes to the side that lost to Leicester on Saturday, but Southampton looked very comfortable in the first half. It didn't take the Championship outfit long to open the scoring. A great ball in from Lee Holmes was headed home by Guly with sixteen minutes on the clock.

The Robbins were struggling to test Bartosz Białkowski and an upset looked even less likely when Swindon goalkeeper Phil Smith made a hash of a tame effort from Jonathan Forte, who doubled Saints' lead.

Swindon didn't really threaten until after the break as Southampton sat back. A perfectly struck free-kick from Mehdi Kerrouche gave the home side hope with five minutes left on the clock. However, Saints substitute Rickie Lambert slid the ball home in injury time to seal the win for his side.

Southampton will play either Charlton Athletic or Preston at St Mary's in the next round.

Carling Cup Preview: Swindon - Southampton

Southampton are likely to make several changes as they travel to The County Ground for their tricky encounter with Swindon Town.

Although Saints are flying high in the Championship, they know the threat Swindon possess all too well. During Southampton's two seasons in League One, Swindon beat Saints three times, with Nigel Atkins' side only defeating The Robbins on one occasion. Swindon also embarrassingly dumped Saints out of last season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy with a 3-0 win.

It will be a good test for several players trying to break into the Saints starting line-up. Morgan Schneiderlin, Jonathan Forte and Lee Barnard have all struggled to cement their place in the Southampton team.

They may get a chance tonight, but Paolo Di Canio's team will feel they can cause another upset after turfing out rivals Bristol City in the previous round.

Leicester 3-2 Southampton

Southampton's unbeaten start to the season came to a controversial end as Leicester City clung onto their first home win of the season.

The Foxes got off to a dream start as an early goal from Darius Vassell and a screamer from Richie Wellens gave the home side a commanding lead. Southampton finally woke up, and halved their opponents lead when great play from Adam Lallana set up Dean Hammond for a simple headed goal.

As Southampton searched for an equaliser, Leicester extended their lead in first half stoppage time. A dangerous ball in was headed into his own net by Southampton striker Rickie Lambert. However, Lambert appeared to be shoved in the back by Sol Bamba, but the goal stood.

The visitors came out for the second half with more determination, and got themselves back into the game when David Connolly continued his impressive scoring record with a close-range diving header.

Southampton pushed for the equaliser in a very open and attractive game. Lallana was denied twice by Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who also made a point-blank save in injury time to frustrate Lambert.

Leicester hung on for a much-needed win , while Saints learnt a valuable lesson that they won't have everything their way this season.

Ipswich 2-5 Southampton

Rickie Lambert made his mark in the Championship with two goals as Southampton brushed aside Ipswich at Portman Road.

Lambert struck twice in the first eleven minutes and David Connolly added a third to put Southampton comfortably ahead before half time.

After finishing well from close range, Lambert doubled his tally after being sent through on goal by Adam Lallana. Connolly found the net after Guly Do Prado cut though the Ipswich defence with ease.

The home side created very little in the first half, but to their credit - they launched a comeback, helped by some complacent play from Saints.

A bullet from Keith Andrew gave Ipswich hope just after the break, and Jay Emmanuel Thomas scrambled the ball home to put his team within touching distance.

However, two late strikes from Adam Lallana settled Southampton's nerves. Lallana's first was crafted by a lobbed through ball by Morgen Schneiderlin. Lallana's second strike in injury time put the result beyond doubt.

Rickie Lambert has not played at the second tier before. However, he showed he has enough ability and confidence to score with ease. David Connolly's experience could be key to Southampton's success this season. Although Nigel Adkins is still in the market for a new striker, he has two very able players who are both playing very well.

Adam Lallana has been magnificent so far this season. He deservedly grabbed two late goals, but was instrumental in sending Lambert though on goal twice to help build a healthy lead for his side. Lallana is often prone to injury, but at the moment he is playing with a great deal of confidence as Southampton remain unbeaten.

Barnsley 0-1 Southampton

Southampton won their first away game of the season with a narrow win over Barnsley.

David Connolly's scrappy header was the only goal as Barnsley are still yet to score this season.

Substitute Richard Chaplow was sent off for Saints late on for a high tackle on Jay McEveley, but Southampton temporarily went top of the Championship after extending their club record of 8 straight league wins.

Although not a particularly polished performance from Southampton, Nigel Atkins' side will be pleased with their ability to grind out a gritty victory as their confidence grows.

Barnsley had good opportunities to equalise late on, but Kelvin Davis saved twice in stoppage time to deny Ricardo Vaz Te.

Connolly grabbed the only goal in the first half when a long ball was left by the unsure Barnsley defence, and Connolly headed the ball over hesitant Barnsley goalkeeper David Preece.

Why Saints need not worry about Chamberlain

Having one of your hottest prospects pinched by a top club is not the ideal start to a new season. However, Saints need not worry about the loss of Alex Chamberlain as their Championship season gets into full swing.

Chamberlain did not feature in Southampton's impressive 3-1 win over Leeds at the weekend. With a minimum of £12 million paid for the teenager, Southampton will think they have got a fantastic deal for a player who has played just one season in League One - and only a handful of goals to show for it.

Steve de Ridder looks like a natural replacement for Chamberlain. WIth experience of playing in the top Dutch Eredivisie, the Belguian winger is quick, scores goals and is a great crosser of the ball. Guly do Prado looked a little off the pace against Leeds on the wing, but de Ridder looked extremely comfortable against Torquay last night.

With a solid central midfield, de Ridder could be the missing piece for Southampton as Jason Puncheon looks set to make his inevitable departure from St Mary's. If some of the £12 million paid to Southampton for Chamberlain is used to bring in new faces, Nigel Atkins can build a solid squad to compete in the Championship.

There are still 45 games to play in the tough league season, so it is important not to get carried away. However, for the first time in a long while - Southampton appear to have some belief and a team spirit, which will be key in the tougher times this season.

Southampton 4-1 Torquay Utd (Carling Cup)

Nigel Atkins has a lot to be cheerful about.

Despite Torquay heralding from League Two, Southampton brushed aside the Seagulls with a polished performance from a strong team.

Steve de Ridder, making his first start for Saints - opened the scoring on 16 minutes. However, some lapse defending allowed Lee Mansell to level the scores moments after the visitors fell behind.

After a few nervy minutes, Southampton regained the lead with a textbook free kick from Rickie Lambert just before the half hour mark. The League Two outfit had chances in the second half to draw level once again, but Richard Chaplow put the result beyond doubt late on.

Jonathan Forte added a forth goal in injury time, striking on the rebound after Adam Lallana has struck the woodwork.

Although Torquay aren't the toughest opponents Southampton will face this season, Saints are playing with confidence and scoring goals.

Seven goals in their first two games by seven different scorers will give Atkins a lot to be hopeful about. Although teenage star Alex Chamberlain has finally left for Arsenal, Southampton are showing their team did not revolve around him.

Unlike the days of Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and even Matt Le Tissier, the current Saints team have several good players who have started the season full of confidence. With a long way still to go, things are starting to look up for Southampton - and with a potential £12 million to spend following Chamberlain's departure - there are high hopes for Nigel Atkin's side.

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.