Everton's chances of Champions League qualification were dealt a severe blow on Saturday as they were beaten 2-0 at Southampton.
The visitors went behind inside the opening minute as Rickie Lambert's cross was headed into his own net by Antolin Alcaraz.
Everton then scored a second own goal 15 minutes later when the helpless Seamus Coleman nodded the ball beyond Tim Howard.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two teams at St Mary's Stadium.
Match statistics
Southampton
Shots: 14
On target: 4
Possession: 53%
Corners: 4
Fouls: 13
Everton
Shots: 9
On target: 2
Possession: 47%
Corners: 7
Fouls: 12
Was the result fair?
Despite the fortunate nature of Southampton's two goals, the hosts fully deserved their win. Mauricio Pochettino's side were more creative, ambitious and dominant throughout, while Everton looked tired and lacklustre.
Southampton's performance
The Saints looked like a team free of any stress and worry as they returned to their free-flowing game following a winless run of three matches. The home side passed the ball around confidently and showed no fear going forward, something which they have struggled to do in recent weeks. They used the width of the pitch brilliantly and stretched Everton numerous times. Southampton had to show their defensive qualities a bit more during the second half as Everton tried to get themselves back into the match, but the back four stood firm to keep out their opponents.
Everton's performance
The Toffees will be the first to admit that they performed well below par on what was a bad day at the office. Conceding two goals early on did not help their cause, but they struggled to show any spark after that as they attempted in vain to salvage something from the match. Their trademark style of dynamic, passing football was nowhere to be seen, while a lack of organisation in defence highlighted the importance of the missing Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin. Roberto Martinez's team are still in with a shout of finishing in the top four, although it is looking very unlikely now after this result.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Nathaniel Clyne: The Southampton right-back was a model of industry for the hosts as he bombed up and down the flank both in defensive and attacking mode. His cross led to Seamus Coleman's own goal, while he also made light work of keeping the usually tricky Gerard Deulofeu under control.
Biggest gaffe
Everton's misery started as early as the first minute when Antolin Alcaraz headed the ball into his own net from Rickie Lambert's cross. The defender could have been given a shout from goalkeeper Tim Howard to help him out, but the centre-back's mistake was a costly one that the visitors found difficult to get over.
Referee performance
Michael Oliver had one or two difficult penalty decisions to deal with, though he looked to have got both of them correct. The first saw John Stones handle in the area, but Oliver waved away with Southampton appeals because thew Everton defender was too close to the ball for it to be deliberate. The second saw Leon Osman take a tumble under a challenge from Dejan Lovren, with the Everton midfielder booked for diving. Despite that one potentially going either way, it is hard to begrudge Oliver for showing the yellow card.
What next?
Southampton: The Saints return to Premier League action next Saturday when they make the trip to Swansea City.
Everton: The Toffees continue their Premier League campaign next Saturday at home to Manchester City.
Jack Prescott
