Chelsea have given title rivals Manchester City a chance to close the gap at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

The Blues were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw at fourth placed Southampton.

The Saints hit the front on 17 minutes when Sadio Mane got behind the Chelsea defence and slotted the ball past Thibaut Courtois.

With Southampton hoping to hold out until half-time, Eden Hazard breached their rearguard on the stroke of half-time.

Cesc Fabregas found the Belgian winger on the left side, before he cut inside, beat two men and found the corner of the net.

Southampton had Morgan Schneiderlin sent off late in the second half after a professional foul on Fabregas.

But Chelsea were unable to take advantage as both sides played out a 1-1 draw.