EPL: Bruno Fernandes helps Manchester United beat Southampton 1-0

Bruno Fernandes’ second-half strike helped Manchester United beat Southampton 1-0 and record their second Premier League win of the season.

 Both sides failed to break the deadlock in the first half despite a number of presentable chances, with both Gavin Bazunu and David de Gea called into action in the first 45 minutes.

Early into the second period, however, United took the lead, as Fernandes volleyed Diogo Dalot’s right-wing cross into the bottom corner.

The Saints pushed for an equaliser but the Red Devils — boosted by Casemiro, who made his debut off the bench — held out for the three points.

United goalscorer Fernandes urged his team-mates to channel the momentum of their victory into their upcoming games.

He said: “We knew playing against Southampton is not easy. We have experienced that already.

“Sometimes you have to suffer. Every game is tough. Well done to us. Massive three points for us. Now we have to carry on.

“It’s important because one win or two wins don’t make the league. We have to carry on this sacrifice for the rest of the season. It is what this club demands. After Liverpool everyone could feel it. We set the standard so we have to carry on now and if we can, improve it.

“It was a great ball [for the goal], even great play from behind. Everything was perfect. Someone runs, someone gets the space behind. We did it well, so well done to everyone — not just me.

“We did two or three seasons ago not losing [away] from home but we want to win every game — that’s what it’s about to play for Manchester United.”

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, meanwhile, lamented his side’s inability to score despite producing a performance to be proud of.

He said: “I’m very proud of what the guys did today. They did a really good job from the first minute. We had good moments and chances, we really stretched them. We deserved more but sometimes football is like this.