RORY DELAP was head boy as Steve Wigley's class of 2004 showed they have the fight to get themselves out of any relegation scrap.

Delap headed home twice in five minutes - after scoring only once in his previous 79 league and cup matches - as lowly Saints went agonisingly close to embarrassing champions Arsenal at Highbury.

Only an injury-time equaliser from sub Robin van Persie robbed head coach Wigley of his first Premiership win at the ninth attempt.

Saints remain in the relegation zone - indeed they have only won once in 16 league matches - but the point ensured everyone with Saints' best interests at heart enters the crucial month of November with renewed confidence.

Games in the next four weeks against West Brom, Norwich, Pompey and Crystal Palace could help define Saints' 2004/05 season.