A goal from Jay Rodriguez has given Southampton a 1-0 half-time lead over Newcastle United in their Premier League match this afternoon.

© Getty Images

Rodriguez had the first chance of the match for the hosts, but after latching onto Jose Fonte's through-ball, he poked his effort wide of the post.

The striker came close again soon after as he met cross Calum Chambers's cross at the back post, before heading the ball into the side-netting.

Rodriguez was proving to be Southampton's biggest threat and forced Rob Elliot into a save from his glancing header, before James Ward-Prowse drilled a low shot just wide.

Elliot came to the Saints' rescue again as he rushed off his line to block Rickie Lambert's strike, and moments later Adam Lallana headed wide after he was picked out at the near post.

On the stroke of half time, Southampton broke the deadlock. Lambert latched onto a pass over the top and played the ball across the box for Rodriguez to tap in from close range.