Soccer: Saints to open up against Espanyol

Southampton have announced that their first ever game at their new £30m St Mary's Stadium will be against Spanish side Espanyol on Saturday, August 11.

Southampton quickly lined up Espanyol as the first opposition at their new 32,000-seater ground after midfielder Matt Le Tissier was forced to cancel plans to play his testimonial at the stadium last month.

Le Tissier was due to stage the first game on August 8 as reward for 16 years loyal service to Saints but is now looking for a new date after police voiced their concern at the match being played at night in unfamiliar surroundings.