Bristol City shock leaders Southampton

LONDON: Bristol City shattered Southampton's 24-match unbeaten home league record as Stephen Pearson's late goal clinched a surprise 1-0 win at St Mary's on Friday.

Pearson converted 11 minutes from time to give the Robins their first victory in six matches and deny Southampton the chance to extend their three-point lead at the top of the Championship.

Second placed West Ham and third placed Middlesbrough can now draw level on
points with Southampton if they win their matches on Saturday.

Nigel Adkins's side failed to convert possession into clear-cut chances and could have been further behind if Nicky Maynard's 53rd-minute effort had not been ruled out for offside.

The victory for Derek McInnes' side sees them move three points clear of the relegation zone, while Southampton's 2011 unbeaten home league record was ended in their 50th and final league match of this calendar year.

Adkins said: "It is a shame the amazing run has come to an end but we have to look onto the next game and hope we have another great run next year.

"I hope that we can get another string of results together at home and go unbeaten for the whole of 2012.

"It was a tough game for us as Bristol City defended very well and Derek has improved them immensely since he has come in as manager." (AFP)