To say it has not been an upside down season for Saints so far, would act as a massive disservice to recent red and white campaigns.

But Saturday’s late away day comeback served as a timely reminder the club’s newly installed resilience and belief is key to a promotion charge this season.

In an encounter, whereby Notts County dominated for large periods and looked well set for a 1-0 home victory, Saints despite having lady luck on their side when the hosts were reduced to 10-men allowing Rickie Lambert to equalise from the penalty spot, kept endeavouring to claim three precious points in a 3-1 win – even though their performance as a whole did not meet the expectations set by manager Nigel Adkins.

Paul Ince’s first game in charge clearly buoyed the Nottingham sides fan base and rejuvenated the club’s players, but Lee Barnard and Adam Lallana strikes titled the scoreline favourably into the South Coasts clubs stride in a victory Saints did not deserve overall, but on merit and belief, three points were there ready and waiting to be had.

Housed ninth in the League One table, winning ugly and when it matters are two instalments of purpose Saints need to carry with them if they are expectedly or not ready to pierce the promotion foil.

Four wins out of five and a near return to form for Saints’ Rickie Lambert, who has endured an uncharacteristic start to the campaign, could prove crucial.

The task in hand for the St Marys outfit is to stay consistent on the road, and to utilise St Marys as a home fortress. If Saints are to do this, the players need to maintain their belief in their ability to now push on and realize the clubs pre-season ambitions.

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