Crucial points slip away

Coventry City's relegation fears deepened last night when they were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Southampton in the Premier League.

David Thompson raised Coventry's hopes of a much-needed win with a goal direct from a corner in the 33rd minute, but Jo Tessem headed Southampton level from Hassan Kachloul's cross after 51 minutes. Coventry substitute Ysrael Zuniga saw his shot come back off a post near the end.

Coventry broke the deadlock with an outrageous effort from Thompson. He sent over an inswinging free-kick from the touchline and the ball skidded into the corner of the net.

Gordon Strachan was forced to make a half-time substitution, bringing on Youssef Chippo in place of Cedric Roussel who appears to have picked up a hamstring injury.

Southampton needed only six minutes of the second period to get back on level-terms via Tessem's fourth goal of the season. The Norwegian international was unmarked as he sent a powerful header past the exposed Chris Kirkland.

Coventry remain 18th in the 20-team Premiership, just four points ahead of bottom club Bradford City who have played one game fewer. Southampton are 15th on 21 points.

Coventry CITY: Kirkland, Breen, Konjic, Williams, Quinn, Thompson (Eustace 75), Carsley, Telfer, Bellamy (Zuniga 69), Hadji, Roussel (Chippo 45). Subs Not Used: Edworthy, Hydlgaard. Booked: Thompson. Goal: Thompson 33.

Southampton: Jones, El Khalej, Lundekvam, Richards, Bridge, Tessem, Draper, Gibbens (Davies 69), Marsden, Kachloul, Beattie. Subs Not Used: Dodd, Rosler, Moss, Soltvedt. Booked: Draper. Goal: Tessem 51.

Referee: A Wiley (Burntwood).