Franca strikes late to deny Southampton rare victory

Substitute Matheus Franca struck in stoppage time to deny Premier League bottom side Southampton a rare victory, as Crystal Palace snatched a 1-1 draw at St Mary's Stadium on Wednesday.

Looking to avoid a 10th successive home league defeat, Southampton edged in front in the 20th minute through Paul Onuachu, an advantage they could thank goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale for preserving with a fine save later in the opening period.

The hosts looked like they had done enough to seal all three points, only for Franca's header in the 92nd minute to break home hearts at the death.

Southampton must wait for that second league win since early November as they remain bottom on 10 points, needing one more to avoid setting a record for the lowest Premier League points return – 11 – set by Derby County in 2007-08.

FA Cup semifinalists Palace remain 12th in the standings on 40 points.