Southampton boss Russell Martin was fuming after his side lost a one goal lead in a defeat at Cardiff City which leaves their automatic promotion hopes hanging by a thread.

The Saints were right back in the top two mix after Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Leeds United all stumbled in the last few weeks.

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But, having taken the lead at Cardiff yesterday, they were beaten 2-1 thanks to a 96th minute winner from teenager Cian Ashford.

And Martin, who had branded the match as Southampton's 'biggest game of the season' wasn't a happy man, given his side largely dominated and mustered 21 shots on goal.

The result leaves them five points off Town in second, with three matches to play.

They travel to Leicester City on Tuesday night for what now looks like a must-win game - it's also a match in which the Foxes could be promoted.

East Anglian Daily Times: Southampton players trudge off after defeat at CardiffSouthampton players trudge off after defeat at Cardiff (Image: PA Images)
"It's unacceptable to lose a game with the amount of chances we had," Martin fumed.

"We should have been out of sight at half-time. By the way, the second half as well, so many brilliant chances.

"We played some amazing football but it won't matter one bit because we lost. If you're not going to be clinical in their box, then you defend your own.

"Today has done us a lot of harm in terms of chasing the automatic spot, but we have to react properly now. We've got three games left. We can still get more than 90 points.

"I expect a big reaction from everyone. If it means our season is going to be extended, so be it and we have to get ready for that."