Southampton boss Ronald Koeman: 'Poor first half cost us against Everton'

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has claimed that a poor first half cost his side following their 3-0 defeat at home to Everton.

The Saints conceded twice during the opening 45 minutes at St Mary's Stadium on Saturday as the Toffees denied them their first win of the season.

While insisting that his players improved after the break, Koeman has admitted that there is still plenty for them to learn.

"I think we lost the game in the first half," the Dutchman told the club's official website. "We maybe had one or two good chances, but the team was not compact like we normally are.

"We had difficulties in that and we gave them too much space to play football and to control the game. The pressing was not as normal. You know if you are 1-0 down you have time to come back, but 2-0 is very difficult.

"After half time we had a good team reaction. We know there is time to react and we have the same points as last season, but we have to learn - that's the message to everybody."

Southampton are back in Europa League action on Thursday when they host FC Midtjylland for the first leg of their qualifying playoff.