A brace from centre-back Jose Fonte helped Southampton claim a point from their home encounter against Fulham this afternoon.

The Portuguese defender put the Saints in front with just four minutes played when he flicked a corner from Adam Lallana into the net.

Southampton, and in particular Rickie Lambert, had chances to double their advantage before the break, but they were unable to breach Mark Schwarzer's net for a second time.

Fulham came out for the second half with a greater attacking threat and almost levelled up proceedings when Steve Sidwell struck the post from close range.

They eventually claimed the equaliser with 70 minutes played when Southampton defender Jos Hooiveld diverted John Arne Riise's shot into his own net.

It then looked as though the visiting Londoners had stolen all three points as substitute Kieran Richardson sent the ball into the Southampton goal via a deflection off Hooiveld with just two minutes left.

However, from their very next attack, Southampton restored parity when Fonte flicked a cross from David Fox into the net.

The Saints looked the more likely to claim the victory during stoppage time but they were unable to score a third goal.