SAINTS squandered the lead as Norwich registered their first Premiership win of the season.

Two goals from Damien Francis gave the Canaries a 2-1 win at Carrow Road after James Beattie had earlier put Saints ahead with a wonderful volley.

But it proved to be a frustrating afternoon as Steve Wigley's men failed to build on the momentum created by last week's 2-1 derby win over Portsmouth.

Norwich, spearheaded by Darren Huckerby, started like an express train and had a strong penalty appeal turned down by referee Mike Riley on 12 minutes.

Huckerby had got past Jason Dodd and his cross appeared to have been blocked by the Saints captain's outstretched arm.

Beattie then put Saints ahead against the run of play, but the lead was to last just four minutes when Francis equalised with a low drive.

Saints were denied by the woodwork on the stroke of half-time when Francis headed against his own crossbar.

And, on 52 minutes, it was Francis who scored what proved to be the winner with a close-range header.

Wigley brought on Kevin Phillips, Mikael Nilsson and Peter Crouch as he searched for an equaliser.

Phillips had a penalty appeal turned down but Saints were ultimately let down by their final delivery.

Full Time

Norwich City 2 - Saints 1

Bournemouth 0 - Chesterfield 0

Portsmouth - Man City Late kick-off

Don't forget to pick up your copy of tonight's Pink for a full report from Carrow Road..