Jan Poortvliet has told his players they must not let their stunning comeback win against Preston be a one off.

The Saints head coach saw his side lift themselves out of the bottom three and breathe some new life into their season with a remarkable turnaround at Deepdale.

The scenes of celebration from the players and fans were more akin to winning a World Cup than a Championship match but it showed how much it meant to everybody.

As well as three valuable points, Saints now have a real sense of renewed optimism.

Saints now go into a period without midweek games which should allow them to get the majority of their squad fit

Though their next three opponents are all challenging for promotion, the Preston comeback has given Saints a memorable win to build on.

Poortvliet said: “We have to build on this. At Sheffield you saw a team playing, against Coventry as well because I think we deserved to win there, also coming back from 2-0 behind which had not happened before.

“I have no words for this because it was emotional and I love to win for the fans.

“They have had a hard time, it’s difficult to believe in what we’re doing because they see young boys.

“That means we have to show them something and now I hope they will be behind us in more numbers next week.”