Chelsea held 2-2 by Southampton in EPL

LONDON (AP) -Chelsea capitulated in the second half against relegation-threatened Southampton by throwing away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 in the English Premier League on Wednesday.

Goals from Demba Ba and Eden Hazard gave third-placed Chelsea a comfortable halftime lead.

But Southampton substitute Rickie Lambert made an immediate impact early in the second half, heading past Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech.

And Jason Puncheon completed Southampton's comeback in the 75th minute when he volleyed in the equalizer.

As Chelsea missed a chance to strengthen its grip on third place, Southampton rose three points clear of the drop zone.