Nigel Adkins hailed a “massive” win for his side in the battle to beat the drop.

Saints secured a 1-0 victory over fellow strugglers Aston Villa to give themselves breathing space above the drop zone and send their opponents into it.

“It’s a massive win for us away from home against a team close to us in the division,” said a delighted Adkins.

“We were able to get three points and keep a clean sheet which is very pleasing.

“It’s only two defeats in 11 and we have shown a growing maturity after, let’s face it, a baptism of fire in the opening fixtures for a newly promoted club."

Full story in today's Daily Echo