This is the moment thousands of Saints fans greeted their team outside St Mary's this evening ahead of their crucial match against West Bromwich Albion.

Russell Martin's side arrived on their team bus shortly before 6.30pm, an hour and a half before kick-off, as red smoke filled the air outside the stadium.

They were given raptuous applause and a hero's reception as they arrived ready to fight for a place at Wembley in the play-off final.

Fans had gathered for more than an hour beforehand as the atmosphere built before their arrival.

Supporters were chanting songs, letting of flares and smoke bombs, and beach balls were being thrown.

The Reds need to win tonight's match to keep their hopes of a return to the Premier League at the first time of asking alive.

The score is 0-0 on aggregate after the first leg last weekend, meaning a win tonight will set up a tantalising play-off final against Leeds at Wembley a week on Sunday.

The winner will secure an immediate return to the Premier League, while the loser will remain in the Championship again next season.