Sawt Falasteen - Southampton avoid Premier League 'worst-ever' tag with Man City draw

The goalless draw at St Mary's took the already-relegated Saints to 12 points, one more than Derby mustered in the 2007/08 campaign.

City dominated possession and had 26 shots to Southampton's two but were unable to find a way past Saints goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

"Delighted. We're not happy about how the season has gone but we're happy we've avoided that record," said Ramsdale.

"We're under no illusions that it's not a great points tally. The fans are happy in the sun smiling.

"Everyone knows it's been a difficult season for us. That one was for the fans and also the lads who have given everything. A lot of Mondays coming in after heavy defeats. Today is a relief."

Pep Guardiola's men, dethroned as English champions by Liverpool, would have moved level on points with second-placed Arsenal had they won.

But third-placed City remain well-placed to finish in the top five, which would secure qualification for next season's Champions League.

With two games to play they are four points clear of sixth-placed Nottingham Forest, though their rivals have a game in hand.

Even Erling Haaland, back for his first match since late March, could not find a way to break the deadlock against Saints, who have won just two league games all season.

Stoppage time proved agonising for home fans, with City substitute Omar Marmoush denied only by the crossbar, before the full-time whistle ensured Southampton would not be making unwanted history.

W.AbuLaban--SF-PST