Southampton avoid unwanted Premier League points record

Saints fans can breathe a sigh of relief after a 0-0 draw against Manchester City moved their team clear of Derby's all-time record low Premier League points tally.

Sorry we got your hopes up.

That was taunting message directed at Derby County from Southampton's 'X' account after they held onto a point against Man City.

Saturday afternoon's bore draw saw Simon Rusk's side reach the 12 point mark, eclipsing the measly total that Derby mustered during the 2007/08 Premier League season.

It was a performance that Rusk said took 'courage' and the interim manager took plenty of positives from what he saw:

"Going into the game, we wanted to make it clear that we wanted to finish the season as strong as possible with lots of pride. We delivered that really well.

"Delighted for the fans and the players. My job is to support the players as much as possible.

"The players stood up and it took a lot of courage to deliver that performance. It is important to build momentum for next season."

All-time low Premier League points totals

The 0-0 draw at St. Mary's could yet have serious implications for Manchester City in the tussle for UEFA Champions League qualification for next season.

Pep Guardiola's side have now provided a glimmer of hope to their top five rivals with the door to Europe's elite competition left somewhat ajar.

Victory on Saturday afternoon would've propelled the Citizens to second place and level on points with Arsenal.

Just a few hours later, Aston Villa took full advantage of the City slip up.

Ollie Watkins' record-breaking strike saw Villa over the line against Bournemouth in a win that secured European football at Villa Park for next season.

Even with the situation looking more precarious than it did 24 hours before the draw at St. Mary's, City still have a favourable run-in.

They host Bournemouth at the Etihad before a trip to Craven Cottage on the final day.

William Dobbie

• Southampton F.C.
• Premier League
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