Saints 2, Leeds 1

SOUTHAMPTON boss Gordon Strachan claimed his side were lucky to hang on to victory against debt-ridden Leeds on Saturday.

The Saints won through first-half goals from Brett Ormerod and Kevin Phillips to send Leeds to the foot of the Premiership.

After Fitz Hall hit the bar with a header early on, David Prutton fed Ormerod to fire past Paul Robinson in the 36th minute.

Phillips took advantage of a Zoumana Camara defensive mistake just before half-time to deservedly double the Saints lead.

Defender Matthew Kilgallon headed his first senior goal from Ian Harte's cross in the 75th minute to give Leeds hope - but they were unable to find an equaliser.

Strachan said: "Between 2-0 and 2-1 we should have had a lot more goals but, after that, we were probably fortunate to hang on.

"I was delighted though with the general level of our play and the chances we made - much more than in the last few months' games."

Strachan rested striker James Beattie until the last five minutes.

He said: "I've sent Beattie off for a week's holiday. He's dog-tired and needs a rest because he's been magnificent, a real chief for us, but Ormerod and Phillips took their chances well."

Strachan spared a thought for his old club, Leeds, who had reportedly been interested in him making a return as manager until he announced he would be taking a break from football this summer.