Half-Time Report: Jose Fonte puts Southampton ahead against Arsenal

Southampton are holding a 1-0 advantage over Arsenal in the Premier League this evening, thanks to a first-half header from Jose Fonte.

The Saints dominated the opening exchanges of the game and almost took the lead when Jay Rodriguez found 18-year-old striker Sam Gallagher, but his effort was saved at the bottom corner by Wojciech Szczesny.

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Morgan Schneiderlin was next in for the hosts as his right-footed shot from the centre of the box flew wide of the left post, with the midfielder having picked up the knockdown from a corner.

Saints grabbed the lead their early play deserved in the 21st minute. Luke Shaw delivered a teasing ball into the box that was met by Fonte, who leapt highest to head home from six yards out.

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Gallagher could have doubled Southampton's lead as Arsenal looked shaky, but the youngster flashed his shot from the centre of the box wide after being found by Calum Chambers.

Arsenal attempted to force a comeback late on in the half as Serge Gnabry tried an enticing through-ball, but Olivier Giroud was ruled out for offside as he made his way towards goal.