Claude Puel says Southampton's sloppy start cost them against Chelsea

Claude Puel admitted Chelsea's early goal in their 2-0 win at St Mary's was the key moment as Southampton struggled to break down Antonio Conte's men.

Goals from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa ensured Chelsea picked up all three points on Super Sunday.

Conte's side now sit in fourth place in the Premier League - just one point behind leaders Manchester City, who are ahead of Liverpool and Arsenal on goal difference.

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Southampton boss Puel bemoaned Hazard's sixth-minute strike, with the early setback making it tough for his team.

"We conceded a goal after just a few minutes and [that makes it] very difficult against this team as they can stay behind with a good block and play on the counter-attack," Puel said. "We weren't clinical enough today and against this team it's difficult.

"They can do the damage with all these good players. It's a pity for my players because we tried to play good football and we had some chances and against Chelsea it's important not to concede an early goal. But that's life."

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Saints managed to muster nine shots at goal, but only found the target once - much to Puel's frustration.

"It was very hard - they defended very well every time," Puel said. "It's difficult to play against this team, because they have a good counter-attack and they are good defensively. We tried, but it was difficult to find a solution. Against great players it's difficult."