IT WAS a day they never thought would come.

But Sophie Wilkinson was back supporting her beloved Saints from the stands at the weekend for the first time since a horror crash last year.

Despite the team being unable to provide a winning performance, it proved to be a perfect day for the 18-year-old who has not been to St Mary's since the accident which left her in a coma last October.

And it was Chris Perry's first-half goal that got the passionate fan smiling from ear to ear, as she watched her team take the lead from the Itchen stand with her family.

Sophie was able to make the emotional journey after waking from her coma and reaching a level of consciousness that made travelling possible.

However, although her fighting spirit has never failed, the teenager still has a long way to go, still requiring round-theclock care in hospital and has limited awareness.

The day ended with Saints losing but Sophie was treated to a special reception where she was reunited with her favourite player David McGoldrick, head coach Jan Poortvliet and others who offered her their best wishes.

Throughout her battle Sophie has received support from scores of celebrities including Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp.

Dad Andy said: "It was a very emotional day for all of us. In the early days after the crash we never dreamt we would be able to take her to another Saints match.

"Now we have finally been able to bring her back to St Mary's and watching the team which she loves so much. It was a perfect day apart from the result.

"She had a beaming smile when Saints scored. It was brilliant to see."