Southampton look on course for a return to the Premier League going into the half-time interval 2-0 against the relegated Coventry City.
Nigel Adkins's side suffered from nerves in the early stages, and failed to stamp any kind of authority on the game.
However, they edged their noses in front on 15 minutes when Billy Sharp drilled home from the edge of the box.
Jose Fonte headed a second just three minutes later to put the home side firmly in the driving seat.
Chances were few and far between after the second goal went in, but Adkins's men controlled the rest of the half and take a deserved lead into the second half.
