SAINTS Under-23s are through to the knockout stages of the Checkatrade Trophy after their group rivals Charlton Athletic and Colchester United played out a 1-1 draw at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

It means that Martin Hunter's side will be through to the last 32 no matter what the result of tomorrow night's final Southern Group E game against Crawley Town at St Mary's is.

However, a victory for Saints at St Mary's, will take them through as group winners.

Nicky Ajose gave Charlton the lead before The U's levelled through Macauley Bonne.

The home side went onto beat the Addicks 4-3 on penalties to gain a bonus point.