THE biggest fanbase in the third division again turned out in force yesterday to roar Saints a step nearer automatic promotion.

Over 24,000 Saints fans turned out at St Mary’s to bask in the Easter Monday sunshine.

They were in fine voice again as Saints rattled off a comfortable eighth successive home league victory against 10-man Hartlepool.

The fans stayed behind Nigel Adkins’ men despite a first half where Saints dominated possession but only created a few chances.

The game changed on a refereeing decision as Saints were awarded a penalty for a foul on Rickie Lambert five minutes into the second period with visiting captain Sam Collins seeing red.

After that Saints didn’t look entirely comfortable up against ten men, but again the crowd backed them.

“I thought it was phenomenal,” said Adkins of the support.

“The noise in this arena at kick off was phenomenal.

“Things are very good at this football club.

“Everyone is together as one, everyone is working very hard for each other.

“Everyone shares that common goal of where we want to get to.

“The supporters stayed with the players again.

“We want to play football quickly and zip it about and we have gone and got the victory.

“The supporters have stayed with us, which is great.”