David Moyes has pulled no punches after Sunderland's defeat to Southampton, admitting his side must do better.
Sunderland began the match brightly with Adnan Januzaj and Jermain Defoe combining well on numerous occasions inside Saints' box.
Claude Puel’s side rallied back, though, and sneaked in front when Manolo Gabbiadini got in front of John O’Shea to turn home Ryan Bertrand’s cross.
However, it turned from bad to worse before the break as Gabbiadini turned on a six pence and lashed home to double Saints’ lead and score his third goal in just two matches.
A trio of attacking changes saw Moyes throw everything at Southampton in an attempt to get Sunderland back into the contest, but Jason Denayer conceded a late own goal before Shane Long wrapped up the win in injury time.
Speaking post-match, Moyes held his hands up and admitting the lads must do better.
“I thought we started the game really well and I thought we played very, very well in the first 20-25 minutes,” he said.
“We probably didn’t create enough opportunities to score but we played well and with confidence.
“Unfortunately, they scored a goal which was handball and sometimes these things change the game.
“It wasn’t an easy decision for the referee to see but it was definitely taken in by hand arm which makes a big difference in the game.
“I think the first goal for Southampton was important as well, if we had got it then it might have been different because they have lost quite a few games recently,” he continued.
“I think whoever got the first goal was vital and now we have to hold our hands up and make sure we do things a lot better.
“We wanted to try and get back in the game but I didn’t think we deserved to be 2-0 down at half-time.
“The first goal went against us and unfortunately that made it difficult.”
