THREE fans were arrested for invading the pitch as Southampton FC took on Crystal Palace last night.

Saints took the lead through a goal from striker Shane Long eventually lost 1-2.

The defeat means that only a superior goal difference to Stoke City is keeping Saints out of the relegation zone.

Fans at the stadium took to social media to report the incident.

Jack Watson wrote: "Full time at St Mary's.

"Southampton fans boo then three fans run on the pitch to confront the players."

As reported by the Daily Echo, fans ran on the pitch after the game to "have a go at" players following the disastrous defeat.

A Hampshire Constabulary officer has now confirmed that action was taken against those on the pitch.

SaintsFC Cop wrote on social media: "Three arrests tonight for entering the field of play and banned from St Mary's for three years."