THREE Saints fans have been banned after invading the pitch on a night when their team slumped to a damaging defeat.

Saints took the lead through a goal from striker Shane Long, his first in 11 months, but eventually lost 2-1 to Crystal Palace at St Mary’s on Tuesday night.

The defeat means that only a superior goal difference to Stoke City is keeping the club out of the relegation zone, and some supporters could not contain their dismay.

Three angry fans invaded the pitch at the final whistle and were subsequently arrested and banned.

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.”

Witnesses said the supporters ran onto the pitch to “have a go at” players following the disastrous defeat.

A Hampshire Constabulary officer has now confirmed that action was taken against the trio.

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

The force confirmed in a statement yesterday: “They weren’t charged.

“They were dealt with by way of the bans from St Mary’s.”

The account added: “Southampton Football Club issued a club ban in conjunction with the police to educate and deter to avoid a criminal record.”

The Daily Echo approached the club for comment but they had not responded at the time of going to press.