Southampton left it late to secure a 1-1 draw from their trip to Manchester United in the Premier League this afternoon.

The home side took the lead during the first half through Robin van Persie.

It appeared that the Dutchman's goal was going to be enough to secure all three points, but in the last minute Adam Lallana drew the Saints level.

Below, Sports Mole has looked back over the contest to determine if the result was a fair one.

Match statistics:

Man United:
Shots 12
On target 5
Possession 46%
Corners 4
Fouls 10

Southampton:
Shots 18
On target 7
Possession 54%
Corners 4
Fouls 19

Was the result fair?

It would have been rather unjust had Southampton made the long trip home without at least a share of the spoils. They had more of the possession and even after they had fallen behind they refused to panic. Both sides had chances, though, which made for an entertaining encounter and when all is said and done, it was probably the right result.

Man United's performance

It was the type of display that United supporters have become accustomed to under David Moyes's guidance. Yes, they carved out a handful of good opportunities, but they lost the midfield battle from the first minute and needed goalkeeper David de Gea to bail them out on occasions. It was another indication that the fear factor no longer exists at Old Trafford.

Southampton's performance

Carrying on from that assessment of United, Southampton arrived at the home of the champions and refused to lay down. The Saints played the better football of the two teams and at times they had their opponents chasing shadows. What's more, they were also unlucky to concede because Artur Boruc had initially done well to thwart Wayne Rooney. All in all, though, manager Mauricio Pochettino has every right to be pleased with his team.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Adam Lallana: He may have scored a fortunate goal in the closing stages when the ball rolled over the line off his knee, but Lallana was a constant menace throughout the 90 minutes. He grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck from the first whistle, making numerous challenges, while he also kept possession on virtually every occasion that he had the ball.

Biggest gaffe

In a game where there was no glaring errors, this award goes to the United defence for the way that they dealt with the corner that resulted in the Southampton equaliser. Dejan Lovren was braver than any member of the United rearguard and nobody was protecting De Gea, who had goalscorer Lallana standing unmarked in front of him.

Referee performance

There were a few fouls for Michael Jones to deal and to be fair to him, he did well. The yellow card came out on a few occasions, but only when the offence warranted it. With two teams who like to pass the ball on show, Jones played a part in allowing the game to flow.

What next?

Man United: Next weekend the champions will look to return to winning ways when Stoke City visit Old Trafford.

Southampton: It's back to home comforts for the Saints, who will play host to Fulham.